10 Must-Visit Towns in Switzerland With Fairytale Castles, Mountain Views, and Alpine Lakes

Switzerland is famed for its breathtaking landscapes, from snow-capped peaks to pristine alpine lakes and charming villages. While larger cities offer plenty to see, it’s the small towns and villages where Switzerland’s true charm shines. With over 2,000 municipalities, there’s no shortage of picturesque destinations to explore.

Planning a trip can be overwhelming, especially when you’re eager to experience it all. Travel expert Sofia Markovich advises against constantly changing hotels, suggesting travelers use a small town as a home base. From there, you can easily take day trips using Switzerland’s efficient public transport system. The Swiss Travel Pass is ideal for unlimited train, bus, and boat travel, simplifying your journey.

Switzerland’s rich cultural diversity is also a draw, with four national languages—German, French, Italian, and Romansh—each influencing the country’s architecture, cuisine, and local customs. Valérie Chételat, a hiking guide with Switzerland Trekking, encourages visitors to experience small towns in each linguistic region for a full taste of “Swissness.”

Whether you’re seeking fairy-tale castles, stunning mountain vistas, or serene alpine lakes, Switzerland has something for every traveler. From the German-speaking regions with their medieval charm to the Italian-influenced towns in the south, each area offers a unique glimpse into Swiss culture and history. Let Switzerland’s enchanting towns be the highlight of your next adventure.