Switzerland, the country known for romance, has many amazing and special things to do that are even better than what you’ve been dreaming of since the “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” days. You won’t just get to take a train ride like Raj and Simran to enjoy the beautiful views, but also create your own lasting memories. So, before you plan your trip to Europe, check out these top things to do in Switzerland for an unforgettable experience! This magical place has a lot of exciting things to offer to its visitors.
Here are some Things to Do in Switzerland
Switzerland is like a picture-perfect paradise with breathtaking views, and it has a lot of exciting and relaxing things for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the most interesting
things do in Switzerland:
1. Try out paddleboarding and experience the Hawaiian craze firsthand.
People visit Lake Geneva for various reasons, and one exciting thing you can do there is try stand-up paddleboarding. This trendy activity, which originally came from Hawaii, is also available in Geneva. It involves standing on a long surfboard and using a paddle to move yourself across the water. Even if you fall occasionally, it adds to the fun of this adventure sport, which is considered one of the top best things to do in Switzerland. It’s a unique and enjoyable way to explore the lake. Additionally, you can also try other water sports at this lake, such as windsurfing and wakeboarding.
Location: You can find this tropical paradise in Geneva at the Centre Nautique de Genève-Plage.
Best Time to Go: The ideal time for paddleboarding is between May and September.
Cost: The prices for paddleboarding vary depending on the type of tour you choose and range from INR 1,400 to INR 4,500 per person.
2. Experience an exhilarating adrenaline rush by going on a boat ride at Rhine Falls.
If you’re wondering what to do in Switzerland, here’s a great suggestion. The Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen are the biggest attraction and one of the top 10 things to do in Switzerland. This place is famous and offers thrilling adventures, which is why many visitors come here. You can get closer to the falls by taking a boat trip, visiting viewing platforms, or following an adventure trail. For an exciting view, you can even take a boat to the rock in the middle of the falls. Alternatively, you can simply sit on the platform with your loved ones or friends and enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of the rushing water.
Location: You can find the Rhine Falls at Rheinfallquai, 8212 Neuhausen am Rheinfall.
Timings: You can visit the northern banks of the Rhine Falls any time and day of the year. However, May is considered one of the best times to experience the Rhine Falls and enjoy it as one of the top things to do in Switzerland.
Cost: You don’t need to pay any entry fee to visit the falls on the northern banks. However, if you want to visit the falls on the southern banks, there is an entry ticket cost of INR 330 per person.
3. Explore Chillon Castle and discover its fascinating history, especially if you’re a fan of historical sites.
Chillon is a popular historic building and one of the top 10 things to do in Switzerland. Whether you’re with friends, family, or your partner, this water castle by Lake Geneva is a must-visit. It consists of 25 buildings, three courtyards, and is protected by two circular walls. More than 350,000 tourists visit it every year. Besides enjoying the castle’s beauty, you can even book it for special events like birthday parties or beach barbeques.
Location: You can find Chillon at Avenue de Chillon 21, 1820 Veytaux.
Timings: The castle is open all year round, except on Christmas and New Year’s.
Cost: The entry ticket to the castle costs approximately INR 750 per person.
4. Try sky dining for a unique experience because skydiving is too mainstream.
This is one of the most exciting activities to do in Zurich. Whether you’re on a family trip or a romantic getaway, if you love rooftop places with fancy atmospheres, delicious food and drinks, and stunning views of the lake and the city, you should visit the Sky Bar at Eden au Lac for lunch or dinner. It’s one of the best rooftop spots in the city and one of the top 10 things to do in Switzerland during the summer. Relax and enjoy the cool breeze and beautiful scenery of Lake Zurich while savoring your favorite drink and cuisine.
Location: You can find it at Bahnhofstrasse 54, Schaffhausen.
Timings: The Sky Bar is open from 11 AM to 12 AM on Tuesdays to Thursdays, from 11 AM to 3 AM on Fridays, from 3 PM to 3 AM on Saturdays, and from 3 PM to 12 AM on Sundays.
Cost: The average price at the Sky Bar ranges from INR 700 to INR 5,000.
5. Experience the joy of tasting local wines and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that comes with it.
Imagine sipping on a delicious glass of fine wine while enjoying stunning views of Lake Geneva. It sounds luxurious, doesn’t it? Well, you can make it a reality when you’re in Switzerland. Explore the vineyards and indulge in the best local wines the city has to offer. It’s considered one of the top 10 things to do in Switzerland in July. You can try wines made from Chasselas grapes found along the shores of Lake Geneva, taste Merlot from Ticino, or enjoy Pinot Noir from the Valais region. Treat yourself to the flavors of the local labels and have a delightful experience.
Location: To experience the local winery, you can visit Chateau de Mont in Vaud or explore the Swiss Alps.
6. Swiss chocolates are simply amazing. Need we say more?
Whether it’s your first trip or not, the love for Swiss chocolates never fades away. If it’s your first time, get ready for a fantastic experience. Indulge your sweet tooth with the renowned milk chocolates and try a variety of flavors. Switzerland is known for being the birthplace of milk chocolates, and it never fails to impress. Plus, bringing back Swiss chocolates as souvenirs for your friends and family is the sweetest gesture you can do!
Location: You have two options. You can either take a tour of Nestle’s Callier Factory or visit popular shops like Sprungli and Teuscher in Zurich, Martel in Geneva, or Poyet in Vevey to get your hands on delicious Swiss chocolates.
7. Experience the beauty of Switzerland on wheels with a ride on the Bernina Express.
While there are many ways to enjoy the stunning beauty of Switzerland, one of the most amazing options is taking a train ride. It’s a fantastic way to travel and admire the breathtaking scenery with your own eyes. Hop on the famous Bernina Express, known for its panoramic view windows and leisurely speed, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the sightseeing experience. This train connects Chur (or Davos) in Switzerland to Poschiavo in Switzerland and Tirano in Italy, crossing the Swiss Engadin Alps. It also travels along the Rhaetian Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Albula / Bernina Landscapes. You’ll have approximately four hours to sit back, relax, and enjoy the magnificent views along the way.
Location: You can find the Bernina Express at Bahnhofstrasse 25, 7002 Chur.
Timings: The Bernina Express operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Cost: The price for this 4-hour train ride ranges from INR 1,500 to INR 3,500 and above. The exact cost depends on the specific ride you choose.
8. If you love adventure, try a cable car ride.
One of the best things to do in Switzerland is taking a cable car ride to reach the stunning Matterhorn. It’s a great activity to enjoy with your family or partner, creating lasting memories. Once you reach Matterhorn, take in the peaceful atmosphere, and enjoy skiing back to the car-free village on one of the longest skis runs in Europe.
Location: You can find the cable car ride in Zermatt.
Timings: The cable car ride is available from 8:30 AM to 5 PM, so you can enjoy it anytime within that period.
Cost: The ticket for the cable car ride ranges from INR 750 to INR 4,300, depending on the specific tour you choose.
9. Attention all shopaholics! Don’t miss out on the exciting Freitag Shopping experience.
Just like every trip needs a visit to the most famous place in a location, shopping in Switzerland wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Freitag. Founded by Daniel and Markus, Freitag offers unique bags and accessories made from recycled colorful truck tarps that are resistant to water. If you’re someone who prefers eco-friendly shopping, this is the perfect place for you.
Location: You can find Freitag at Geroldstrasse 17, 8008 Zürich.
Timings: The store is open every day from 10:30 AM to 7 PM, except on Sundays.
Cost: There is no entry fee, it’s free to visit the store.
10. Experience the best of natural beauty at the Lakeside Promenade.
If you’re looking for affordable things to do in Switzerland, then taking a walk along Zurich’s lakeside promenade is a must-do. It’s one of the best things to do in Zurich (Switzerland). Hold hands with your partner and explore the local way of life. People come here to take leisurely walks, ride bicycles, skate, relax by the shore, and even swim in the summer. There are plenty of things to do here, like watching street artists create amazing chalk drawings, purchasing handmade jewelry from street stalls, or simply sitting on a bench and enjoying some delicious ice cream.
Location: You can find the lakeside promenade at Mythenquai 301, 8038 Zurich.
Timings: You can visit the lakeside promenade at any time of the day. However, for the best scenic views of the city, it’s recommended to visit either early in the morning or later in the evening.
Cost: It’s free to visit the lakeside promenade. No charges apply.
11. Downhill Hiking
If you enjoy trekking and hiking and love adventure, one of the top things to do in Switzerland is downhill hiking. It’s like going on a hike, but instead of going uphill, you’ll be going downhill. A great route for this is from Sunnegga to Findeln in the Matterhorn Mountain, and then continue down to Zermatt. The Matterhorn is a stunning mountain in the Alps with breathtaking views. This hike is usually done in winter and offers a picturesque experience.
Where: Sunnegga
Timings: You can go anytime.
12. Kayaking – It’s Awesome on Water
Lake Geneva in Geneva is not only one of the most famous lakes in Switzerland, but it is also one of the most stunning places to visit. Kayaking in Lake Geneva is a fantastic activity to do in Switzerland. The peaceful and tranquil lake, surrounded by breathtaking mountains and a castle on its shore, creates a picturesque setting. You can rent a kayak from the lakeside and have a great time paddling on the water. Just remember to follow the safety guidelines while enjoying this adventurous experience.
Location: Geneva
13. Skydiving – Enjoying the Beautiful Views from High Up
Here’s one of the most exciting activities you can do in Interlaken, Switzerland. It’s called skydiving, and it’s a thrilling experience that will get your heart racing! Imagine jumping out of a plane from a height of 14,000 feet and feeling the rush as you free-fall through the sky. As you descend, you’ll be treated to incredible views of the majestic Alps, sparkling lakes, and lush green valleys. Interlaken, a beautiful resort town in central Switzerland, is the perfect place to try this exhilarating adventure. After you’ve landed safely, you can explore more of what this amazing town has to offer.
Location: Interlaken
Operating Hours: The skydiving activity in Interlaken typically takes place from 9 am to 5 pm, although the exact timings may vary.
14. The Bear Park
Remember the teddy bears we used to play with as kids? Well, guess what? You can play with real bears too! It’s true! In Bern’s Old Town, there’s a special place called the Bear Park where you can interact with real bears. These bears are friendly and won’t harm you. The park has been around since 1513 and is one of the most incredible places to visit in Switzerland. It’s an opportunity you don’t want to miss!
Location: You can find the Bear Park at Grosser Muristalden 6, 3006 Bern, Switzerland.
Timings: Bear Park is open from 10 am to 6 pm, but please note that the timings may vary.
15. Skiing
In the center of Grindelwald, there’s a place called bodmiARENA that’s perfect for winter sports. It’s a safe and fun environment where you can enjoy activities in the snow. This is one of the most popular things to do in Switzerland. Skiing in bodmiARENA is a favorite among people visiting Switzerland. It used to be just for kids, but now adults can also join in. It’s an exciting experience to glide down the snowy slopes at high speed while skiing in Grindelwald.
Location: The location for skiing in bodmiARENA is Terrassenweg 104, Grindelwald, Switzerland.
16. Mountain Biking
If you’re looking for an exciting and adventurous activity during your Switzerland trip, mountain biking is a great choice. One of the best places to try it is in Rothorn, where you can start your bike tour and ride all the way to Zermatt. It’s a thrilling route that will make your travel experience in Switzerland even more amazing. Get ready for an adventure and create unforgettable memories to share with others!
Location: Rothorn is the place where you can start your mountain biking adventure in Switzerland.
Timings: It’s best to start your mountain biking adventure in the early morning.
17. Sledging
If you’ve always wanted to try sledging, Switzerland is the perfect place for it! Faulhorn is a great spot in Switzerland to enjoy sledging. It offers the longest toboggan run from Faulhorn to Grindelwald, with the route passing through Bussalp. Many people visit this place to experience the thrill of sledging. Faulhorn is also known as one of the most amazing places to visit in Switzerland. So, get ready for an exciting sledging adventure!
Location: Faulhorn
Timings: You can go sledging anytime you like.
18. Swimming – Experience will be Unforgettable.
If you’re in a city where the Aare River flows, like Bern, you’re in for a fantastic swimming experience! One of the best places to swim in Bern is Marzili’s public baths. It’s a popular spot, especially during the summer season. Dive into the cool waters, enjoy the sun, and have a great time swimming and relaxing. It’s the perfect way to beat the heat and make the most of your visit to Switzerland.
Location: You can find the swimming spot at Marzilistrasse 29, Bern, Switzerland. It’s a place where you can enjoy swimming and have a great time.
19. Cruising
Going on a cruise is one of the best things to do in Switzerland. You can do while exploring cities in Switzerland. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and get closer to the people living there. You can take a cruise on the River Rhine and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Don’t forget to bring binoculars and earplugs with you, and make sure to wear comfortable and sturdy shoes.
Location: River Rhine
Timings: It depends on the package deal you choose.
Cost: The price starts from INR 400,290 and may vary depending on the package.
20. Paragliding – Adventure & Fun at Once
Paragliding in Zermatt is a super exciting activity that you should try. Zermatt is surrounded by tall mountains, so when you go paragliding, you’ll get to see an incredible view of the Alps. The highlight of the experience is the breathtaking sight of the majestic Matterhorn Mountain. It’s a thrilling adventure that you won’t forget!
Location: Zermatt
Duration: Around 1 hour
Price: Starts from INR 14,000 and above
21. Take A Fun Tuk-Tuk Tour
Have a fun and unique experience exploring Zurich by taking a tuk-tuk tour around the city. With a friendly guide/driver by your side, you can visit all the famous places like the Great Minster, Old Town, the Swiss National Museum, St. Peter’s Church, and more. Your guide will share interesting stories and facts about each attraction, making your tour even more enjoyable and informative.
This eco-friendly way of exploring the city is the perfect way to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. It’s considered one of the best things to do in Switzerland, especially on a sunny day. You can soak in the beauty of the city while being kind to the environment at the same time.
Price: It costs around INR 3392.
Location: You can start your tour from the Swiss National Museum.
22. Attend the biggest techno party at Street Parade
Get ready for an awesome time with thumping music, lots of people dancing, and many DJs. It’s a huge techno party that takes place every year in Zurich during August. You won’t want to miss out on this exciting event!
Ever since it started in the 90s, the parade has also included different types of modern music like Dubstep and House. After the parade, there is a big overnight underground party called ‘Lethargy’. It’s a lot of fun and one of the coolest things to do in Switzerland.
Location: The parade begins at Utoquai and goes through Bellevue, Quaibrucke, and finally reaches Hafendamm Enge.
In addition to the top activities mentioned earlier, there are more fun things to do in Switzerland. You can enjoy a pool party at the famous Rimini bar in Zurich, have a luxurious stay in Graubünden, try skydiving and hiking, visit the Museum Sammlung Rosengart in Lucerne, attend the popular Basler Fasnacht carnival, and take a boat trip along the Limmat River. These are all cool experiences to have in Switzerland. Plan a trip to Switzerland and make the most of these exciting activities for a memorable holiday!
