Switzerland is one of the most breathtaking countries in Europe, famous for its snow-capped Alps, crystal-clear lakes, charming medieval towns, and world-class trains. If you are planning your first trip in 2025, this guide will take you step by step through the top 5 destinations in Switzerland—with travel tips, best things to do, and practical information to make your journey smooth and unforgettable.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
1. Zermatt & The Matterhorn
Why visit: Zermatt is a car-free alpine village at the base of the world-famous Matterhorn (4,478 m). It’s perfect for skiing, hiking, and iconic postcard photos.
How to get there:
- By train: From Zurich/Geneva → Visp → Zermatt (Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn).
- By car: Park in Täsch, then take a shuttle train (12 minutes) because Zermatt itself is car-free.
Things to do in Zermatt:
- Ride the Gornergrat Railway to enjoy panoramic views of the Matterhorn.
- Hike to Riffelsee Lake for the legendary reflection shot of the Matterhorn.
- Explore the charming chalets and cafés in the old village.
- In winter: Ski across international slopes connecting Switzerland and Italy.
Travel tip: Buy a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited train rides including scenic journeys to Zermatt.
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2. Jungfrau Region & Jungfraujoch – “Top of Europe”
Why visit: Known as the heart of the Bernese Alps, the Jungfrau Region is home to the majestic trio of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. The highlight is the Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station (3,454 m), overlooking the UNESCO-listed Aletsch Glacier.
How to get there:
- From Interlaken, take the train or the Eiger Express cable car via Grindelwald Terminal to Kleine Scheidegg, then continue to Jungfraujoch.
Things to do in the Jungfrau Region:
- Visit the Sphinx Observatory for 360° views of the Alps.
- Walk through the Ice Palace carved inside the glacier.
- Explore the fairy-tale Lauterbrunnen Valley, with 72 waterfalls.
- Stay in Wengen or Grindelwald, two picturesque alpine villages.
Travel tip: Reserve tickets for Jungfraujoch in advance, especially in summer, as trains get crowded.
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3. Lucerne & Lake Lucerne
Why visit: Lucerne is one of the most charming cities in Switzerland, where medieval history meets stunning natural beauty.
How to get there:
- Just 1 hour by train from Zurich, Lucerne is an easy day trip or the perfect base for central Switzerland.
Things to do in Lucerne:
- Walk across the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), the city’s most iconic landmark.
- Visit the Lion Monument, a moving tribute carved into rock.
- Cruise on Lake Lucerne with mountain views of Rigi and Pilatus.
- Stroll around the Old Town, with colorful frescoed houses.
Travel tip: Take the Golden Round Trip – boat across Lake Lucerne, cogwheel train up Mount Pilatus, descend by cable car, then bus back to the city.
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4. Rhine Falls – Europe’s Largest Waterfall
Why visit: The Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen is the largest waterfall in Europe, about 150 m wide and 23 m high. In summer, over 600 cubic meters of water thunder down every second.
How to get there:
- 1 hour from Zurich by train (stop: Neuhausen am Rheinfall).
- Enter from Schloss Laufen, a castle overlooking the falls.
Things to do at Rhine Falls:
- Walk down to the Känzeli viewing platform, almost at water level.
- Take a boat ride to the central rock for an adrenaline rush.
- Capture panoramic photos from the pedestrian bridge.
Travel tip: Visit in June or July when snowmelt makes the waterfall most powerful.
👉 Book a guided day trip from Zurich to Rhine Falls see options here
5. Bernina Express Scenic Train
Why visit: The Bernina Express is one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys, linking Chur/St. Moritz in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy. It passes glaciers, turquoise lakes, and the famous Landwasser Viaduct—all UNESCO World Heritage landscapes.
How to get there:
- Board at Chur (2 hours from Zurich) or St. Moritz. Advance seat reservations required.
Things to see along the way:
- Landwasser Viaduct – the train curves dramatically over a 65-meter-high stone bridge.
- Ospizio Bernina – the highest point of the journey (2,253 m).
- Brusio Spiral Viaduct – a unique circular descent into Italy.
Travel tip: Sit on the right side when traveling south for the best views.
👉 Reserve your Bernina Express panoramic seat check availability here
Final Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors to Switzerland
- Best Time to Visit:
- Summer (May–September): Hiking, lakes, green valleys.
- Winter (December–March): Skiing, snowboarding, Christmas markets.
- Transport:
Switzerland’s rail system is the most scenic in the world. Consider the Swiss Travel Pass to save money on trains, buses, and boats. - Budget Tip:
Book hotels and train tickets early—prices in Switzerland rise quickly.
👉 Get your Swiss Travel Pass now and save on unlimited train rides click here
Conclusion
Switzerland in 2025 is a dream destination for travelers. From the mighty Matterhorn in Zermatt to the thundering Rhine Falls and the unforgettable Bernina Express, each place offers unique experiences for first-time visitors.
Whether you’re into nature, history, adventure, or photography, Switzerland will leave you speechless. Start planning your trip today and don’t miss these top 5 must-visit destinations in Switzerland!
👉 Ready to book your Switzerland adventure? Explore hotels, tours, and passes check best offers here
=> Suggested Blog: Switzerland Itinerary 7 Days (2025): The Perfect Guide for First-Time Visitors