Switzerland has repeatedly ranked among the ten happiest countries in the world, its high median salary and safe environment are two aspects that have made the country stand out. While these attributes certainly make Switzerland an easy place to find happiness, there is something to be said for the impact our environment has on our outlook on life.
A strong sense of community, a rich history and a friendly culture make a trip to Switzerland a memorable experience anytime of the year. The country is cradled by enchanting alpine landscapes, with iconic mountains rising around beautiful waters at every turn. These colorful and historic Swiss towns serve as cultural hubs filled with sites straight out of a fairy tale book.
8 Locarno
Located in the south of Switzerland, the beautiful city of Locarno is only a short walk from Italy. The popular resort town clings to its historical roots, offering a Mediterranean flair alongside classic Swiss vibes. Part of Lucarno’s architecture dates back to the 13th century, most notably Visconti Castle, which contains an archaeological museum with medieval artefacts.
The cobbled streets of Piazza Grande, a town square decorated with pretty pastel buildings, are simply charming. The Cardada mountain offers a view of the highest and lowest points in Switzerland, respectively Monte Rosa and Lake Maggiore. In 2022, Locarno will celebrate the 75th anniversary of its film festival, which annually attracts thousands of moviegoers to 11 days of outdoor screenings.
7 Zurich
Zürich is the financial capital of Switzerland and is considered the most luxurious city in the country (and one of the most expensive places in the world!). Modern life comes alive in the streets, an interesting sight in a region colored by its pre-medieval history. A stay in Zürich will cost a pretty penny, however, so those looking for a more budget-friendly adventure may want to book accommodation elsewhere and visit the city for a day trip.
The Fraumünster is a must. It is an abbey founded for aristocratic women in 853 AD. The original 9th-century structure is surrounded by centuries of additions, including five visually striking stained-glass windows. Visitors should also visit the Swiss National Museum, which displays an array of artifacts showcasing Switzerland in its entirety.
6 Lausanne
Located on the waters of Lake Geneva, Lausanne, hilly, was the Olympic capital for 100 years. The International Olympic Committee opened a museum in the early 1990s to share the long history of the games and highlight the human bond that the event promotes on a large scale.
The medieval bell towers of the well-maintained Lausanne Cathedral, consecrated in 1275, stretch high above the surrounding buildings of the city. Over 400,000 people visit each year to marvel at the impressive work of Gothic architecture. Formerly the lively industrial center of the city, Flon is today the heart of the district, lined with warehouses converted into restaurants, shops and cinemas.
5 Geneva
There is not enough time in a day to capture all that Geneva has been and continues to be. The city is another reflection of Switzerland’s commitment to promoting a sense of international community. It serves as the headquarters of the United Nations in Europe, the World Meteorological Organization and the Red Cross, to name a few. The Swiss Alps and the Jura Mountains encircle the city, which means magnificent views in all directions.
Geneva is another Swiss city proud of its original architecture. Renaissance and medieval structures line the charming narrow streets, many of which serve as grounds for museums, science centers, and religious sites. Boat trips on Lake Geneva allow people to appreciate the artificial beauty of the city surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
4 St. Gallen
Located in northeastern Switzerland, St. Gallen is best known for its collection of ancient books and Abbey Library documents, some of which were manuscripts over a thousand years ago. The exterior Baroque architecture and the decorated interior are as impressive as the historical content inside. The fact that the library was founded in AD 719 makes it all the more impressive.
As well as being a history and art lover’s dream, St. Gallen is also a university town, which means it is full of the hip spirit needed to entertain the younger generations. There are trendy cafes and restaurants on every corner. Modern art decorates the streets, complemented by the medieval architecture of yesteryear. People can take a cable car above the clouds to the Säntis mountains, where they will have panoramic views of six countries.
3 Vevey
People will know they have reached Vevey when they spot the iconic fork protruding from Lake Geneva. It is normal that the city has a monument in the shape of a utensil since Vevey has several Michelin starred restaurants. The city’s adoration for food draws crowds to the Fête des Vignerons, the world’s largest wine festival that only takes place every 20 years.
After his exile from the United States, the legendary actor Charlie Chaplin made his home in Vevey. The city pays homage to comics with a statue near the giant pitchfork and an upscale museum showcasing his accomplishments. Like so many other Swiss cities, the historic architecture and surrounding mountains make it particularly beautiful from the deep blue waters of Lake Geneva.
2 Alfalfa
Lucerne packs a lot of oomph even with its compactness, and most travelers to Switzerland like to spend at least a few days exploring. Unsurprisingly, the city is surrounded by the Swiss Alps, teeming with impressive medieval architecture and home to various museums.
Walkers who make a stop in Lucerne must see the view from the top of Mount Pilatus. Folklore claims that healing dragons once lived on top of the 1,919-foot rock formation. Another popular attraction is the Old Town, a traffic-free cobblestone settlement of beautifully painted historic buildings. Guests are sure to feel the magic as they cross the Chapel Bridge. It is the oldest wooden truss bridge in the world, and its ceiling is painted to tell the stories of Lucerne’s rich past.
1 Neuchâtel
The way the setting sun illuminates the historic buildings of Neuchâtel is like a dream. The majestic 12th-century castle is open for tours during the month of April, but the views from the outside are reason enough to visit it any time of the year. The purest beauty of Neuchâtel can be found in the abundant nature reserves nearby.
Just west of town is the Creux du Van, a large natural crater and amphitheater that attracts tourists looking for hiking trails and lush landscapes. Visitors will feel like characters in a fantasy novel as they walk the narrow bridges and paths of the Gorges de l’Areuse, a nature reserve made up of steep cliffs and forests a short distance from Neuchâtel.
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