Grand Tour Photo Spots

Europe's highest open-air cog railway has been transporting visitors from Zermatt to the summit of Gornergrat at 3,089 metres above sea level since 1898. Every second of the 9,339 metre, 33 minute-long trip is an incomparable delight. 29 peaks over four-thousand metres – from the Matterhorn to the Monte Rosa massif with the highest mountain in Switzerland (the Dufourspitze at 4,634 metres above sea level) – all lined up in a row. The viewing platform is open all year-round and offers the best view of the Matterhorn. It is also included in the ticket price.

Thun – the charming city on the Aare. The venerable 12th century castle of Thun, the Obere Hauptgasse with its elevated pavements and the picturesque old town are the ideal place to immerse yourself in the past. Mühleplatz and Aarequai are perfect spots for enjoying the Thun Riviera. Restaurants, bars and cafes invite you to linger over tasty food and drink. As the gateway to the Bernese Oberland, Thun is the ideal starting point for excursions in the region.

Opened in 1959, Swissminiatur is the largest open-air miniature museum in Switzerland. It is located in Melide on the shores of Lake Lugano. There are more than 100 models of the most famous buildings, monuments and means of transport in Switzerland, all at the unusual scale of 1:25. Traditional methods and innovative processes come together to create genuine miniature masterpieces. Admire precision craftsmanship, faithful to the original and executed with loving care.

Wyher Moated Castle is one of the finest historic buildings in the canton of Lucerne, with its earliest record dating back to 1304. For more than 350 years, its history was dominated by two families: the Feers of Lucerne and the Pfyffers of Altishofen. Later, the castle complex fell into disrepair, with a fire in 1963 marking a real low point. A foundation was set up to restore the castle with financial support from a group of benefactors. Today, the castle hosts numerous events and is a dream wedding venue.

The Mendrisiotto and southern Lake Lugano region are dotted with highlights. Take, for example, the narrow lanes in the heart of Bissone, home to numerous artists and Francesco Borromini (1599–1667), the “starchitect” of the Renaissance period. The green “pyramid” on the other side of the lake is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site: fossils of fish and species of reptiles have been found on Monte San Giorgio, testifying to life on Earth more than 200 million years ago.

With its picture-perfect location in the middle of a vineyard, the photo spot of Lavaux is a beautiful stop on the Grand Tour of Switzerland, a vast network of roads connecting around 40 iconic places throughout the country. A veritable invitation to travel and a fun way to capture where you stopped, complete with incredible views of Switzerland’s beautiful landscapes. Share the joy!

San Michele Park and its typical southern vegetation offer a breathtaking view of the city of Lugano. Its paths lead through typical southern vegetation such as wisteria, oleander, oak, elm, hornbeam, ash and laurel trees. From here, you can see Lake Lugano with its little harbours, the lido and the long lake promenade in their entirety. Monte San Salvatore also appears before you in all its splendour. In the distance, the Alps stand out in a variety of shapes and colours that are especially impressive at sunset. Experience the unique outdoor offerings of the Lugano region. Hikes, cycling tours, leisurely walks along themed hiking trails and even exciting MTB trails. The Lugano region – a region with a green heart.

Rapperswil-Jona is called ‘Town of Roses on Lake Zurich’ for a reason. More than 20,000 plants can be found blooming in four rose gardens as well as in public spaces. The picturesque old town with its medieval castle, as well as the marvellous lake promenade, lend the town an almost southern flair. Several historic buildings, numerous festivals and cultural events as well as the Knies Kinderzoo of the National Circus Knie shape the city’s atmosphere at Lake Zurich.

In the distance you can see the Rütli meadow, the historic place where the forming of Switzerland is said to have occurred in 1291. With its 2,928 m (9,606 ft), the pyramidal peak of Urirotstock can be made out even farther in the back. The village of Seelisberg lies on a sunny terrace at 850 m.a.s.l. (2.788 ft), beneath the two mountains Niederbauen and Oberbauen. Lake Lucerne, in German literally ‘Four Forested Settlements Lake’, got its name because it is embedded in the four forest cantons of Uri, Schwyz, Obwalden and Nidwalden, and Lucerne.

The abbey of Saint Meinrad in Einsiedeln has attracted pilgrims for over 1,000 years. It was rebuilt over the centuries and, today, the 18th century baroque-style monastery forms the impressive centre of Einsiedeln. Besides the ‘Chapel of Mercy’ with its famous ‘Black Madonna’, the complex includes a high school, winery and stables for horse breeding. Attracted by the beautiful scenery and a variety of concerts, many nature and culture lovers enjoy visiting Einsiedeln.

As high as it gets: with its 2,429 m a.s.l. (7,969 ft), Furka Pass connects the cantons of Uri and Valais, making it the highest alpine pass on the ‘Grand Tour of Switzerland’. The European watershed between the Mediterranean and North Sea also runs along here. In summer, a ride in the lovingly restored cars of the Furka Cogwheel Steam Railway or a walk to the famous Rhone glacier make for a special visit. As the name implies, the river Rhone – also known as ‘Rotten’ in Wallis – originates from here.

The Lindt Home of Chocolate is a unique visitor attraction on the site of the historic Lindt & Sprüngli chocolate factory. Chocolate, an important cultural asset for Switzerland, has been produced here since 1899 and can be experienced up close at the Lindt Home of Chocolate. The building itself is also a source of fascination, with its spectacular architecture. It was designed by the famous Swiss architects Christ & Gantenbein.

Being in the Saanen region, with its five beautiful side valleys, is as being in paradise – probably also due to the legend of the Hand of God. It is said that when He was resting here during the creation, He formed the Saanen region with the imprint of His hand – the region’s hand-like shape can be seen quite well from here. Altitudes ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 m (3,300–9,800 ft) make for heavenly views. Along with the backdrop of mountains, forests and lakes, this region strengthens your well-being and provides positive energy!

Feel like an emperor as you survey the highly agreeable vista. More exactly: like Napoleon III. Established in medieval times, Arenenberg estate was in the hands of the Bonaparte family between 1817 and 1906. The great and the good of the time would come to the imperial court to pay their respects and take in the views of Lake Constance. The household here was organised along the lines of Parisian life, with salons, dinners, theatre and strolls through the gentle Thurgau countryside.

Emmental is the home of the famous cheese of the same name. The region is characterised by countless hills and valleys, and timber and milk are its most important raw materials. Can you hear the cowbells? Enjoy the view over the unique hilly landscape of the Emmental, stretching across to the famous trio of the Bernese Oberland – the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. More than 1,100 kilometres of hiking trails and numerous cycle routes make the region a paradise for those seeking an active holiday.

The Combe d’Enfer is one of the steepest vineyards in the world, with a 200m height differential. Its grapevines are grown in the terraces, with each level supported by a dry-stone wall. Grape harvests are done on foot, since the site can only be accessed via a footpath. The Combe d’Enfer (meaning “Valley of Hell”) takes its name from its amphitheatre shape and the intense heat there. It’s the hottest vineyard in the region.

In the St. Beatus Caves by Lake Thun near Interlaken. Explore around one kilometre of safe and well-lit walkways inside the mountain. Discover stalactites and stalagmites that have been formed by nature over millions of years as you immerse yourself in this unique underground world. A visit to the Cave Museum is a chance to learn more about this natural wonder, with an audio guide telling you all you need to know about caves and caving.

“Guten Tag”, “Bonjour”, “Grüezi” – welcome to the striking Basel border triangle, where the languages and cultures of Germany, France and Switzerland converge. From its Rhine harbour, ships sail towards the North Sea. Basel has a lot to offer, be it experiences of the cultural, recreational or culinary kind: take a plunge into the Rhine river, stroll through the historic Old Town or be inspired by a museum visit. In Basel, you are definitely in for a treat!

The magnificent limestone cliffs of Creux du Van (“van” means rock) form a rocky circle almost 200m high with a circumference of 1.4km. Together with the Areuse Gorge, the site has been a nature reserve since 1876. Upstream is Val-de-Travers, known for its terroir, history and numerous activities. Staff from the tourist information point at Noiraigue Station will be happy to provide more information. And, on its south side, the summit of Creux du Van also offers stunning views of the Alps.

There are three reasons for celebrating a visit to the region around Nyon. In terms of scenery, Lake Geneva is flanked by enchanting vineyards with the Jura range silhouetted above. In terms of culture, the region stands out for its many art and music festivals, castles and museums. And in terms of the pleasures of the palate, the wines and specialities of La Côte are simply too good to miss; you can even dine on one of the heritage paddle steamers. Other water-borne activities include pedalo boating and wind-surfing.

A museum bustling with life. On Ballenberg, the rural life of times past is revived. More than 100 original, centuries-old buildings, from all parts of Switzerland, offer a lot to discover and experience: for example, one can help with forging or basket-weaving, learn how cheese is made, or observe more than 200 farm animals. Those who feel like relaxing, can stroll through the fragrant flower and herb gardens or travel into the past during a horse-drawn carriage ride.

Spiez – the pearl on Lake Thun. A winegrowing municipality made up of five villages. The natural landscape panorama in Spiez and the combination of the lake, vines, the castle and mountains is one of a kind. The municipality is made up of the five villages of Spiez, Spiezwiler, Hondrich, Faulensee and Einigen. Optimal public transport connections and the motorway make Spiez quick and easy to reach. A wide variety of activities, including nature experiences, sports and culture, appeals to families, foodies and active types alike. Spiez, a power spot by the water, stands for energy and inspiration.

The ship station Vitznau, built in 1912, is one of the most important architectural buildings around the Rigi massif. Every day, guests arrive by boat in order to visit the Rigi by taking Europe’s oldest mountain cogwheel railway, which was constructed in 1871. The turntable connects the two track directions, with the mountain track and the depot track meeting at an obtuse angle. It is the central point of any prospective trip to the Queen of the Mountains.

Chesa Merleda, which is studded with battlements, is the landmark of proud La Punt. The impressive ensemble of splendid patrician and guest houses dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries is a historic witness to a flourishing trade and tourism history at the Albula Pass. With the construction of a bridge over the Inn river in the 16th century, the lords of the Albertini family, also known as the ‘Lords of the Bridge’, laid the foundations for development and prosperity in La Punt.

Six countries at a panoramic glance – from the Säntis peak one can see Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, France and Italy, all at the same time. 2,502 metres high, the mountain is the symbol of the Lake Constance region. Since 1935, Säntis has been accessible by aerial tramway; the valley station at Schwägalp is situated in the beautiful nature adventure park Schwägalp-Säntis, including a lovely Appenzell pasture where local traditions are still lived today.

Hallwyl is one of Switzerland’s loveliest moated castles. The exhibitions in the 900-year-old castle document the building’s history and provide an insight into how the family that owned Hallwyl once lived. The everyday lives of the labouring classes, such as farmers and millers, are also touched upon as part of the exhibition, while the dreadful cries of the prisoners can still be heard from the dungeon tower. Various guided tours, workshops and audio tours allow for more in-depth engagement with selected topics.

This is where Switzerland’s tangiest cheese is made! In the Appenzeller show-dairy in Stein in the canton of Aargau, time-honoured alpine practices are combined with state-of-the-art cheese production to create a successful blend of the traditional and contemporary. A few steps separate you from a unique journey of discovery. This leads from the art of cheese-making to the grandeur and beauty of the Appenzellerland – you are on the trail of the tangy secret.

The 140-meter-high Jet d'Eau in the harbor basin of Lake Geneva is the symbol of the city, which is considered the cradle of haute horlogerie. The old town overlooks the left bank and is dominated by the Saint-Pierre Cathedral.

Wildly romantic, sunny and sheltered: Pontresina is nestled amongst mountains – a place for leisure as well as recreation. Arguably the best vantage point is the world-famous Montebello hairpin bend, at the point where the Bernina section of the Rhaetian Railway crosses the road. You can see the tallest peaks of the Eastern Alps behind the Morteratsch Glacier, including Piz Bernina (4,049 m), Piz Palü (3,901 m), Piz Roseg (3,937 m) and Bellavista. Fancy cooling down a little? The glacier trail from Morteratsch station takes you to where the ice is eternal.

Piazza Ticino, on Monte Ceneri Pass, boasts the region’s new landmark – Totem Ticino, which is built of stone from the canton. The symbolism of this work is unmistakable: the piazza represents the union of the three regions of Locarno, Bellinzona and Lugano, whose history was shaped by deep divisions, starting in 1803 – the year in which Ticino became a canton. The totem, on the other hand, represents the completion of the entire AlpTransit project, with the Ceneri Base Tunnel marking the concluding phase. The Totem is clad in stones from Ticino that were removed during the boring of the AlpTransit tunnel. The new Piazza Ticino is one of the main stops on the La Via del Ceneri cultural trail. The oval-shaped space features five benches and four new trees, which offer a shady respite for visitors.

Höhematte Interlaken, a protected area of historical interest since 1864, affords views from the promenade with Interlaken’s top hotels to the imposing panorama of the Jungfrau. Interlaken is the centre of the tourism and holiday region of the same name and the perfect starting point for excursions to the mountains or on Lakes Thun and Brienz. Interlaken is also the “Adventure Capital of Europe”. Here’s one highlight to prove it: paragliding. Enjoy a flight over Interlaken and land here on the Höhematte.

The mountains rise up majestically over the glittering Lake Thun. Set against the breathtaking panoramic backdrop of the Bernese Alps, the famous three peaks, the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, are unmistakeable. This is the magnificent spectacle that awaits visitors on the Niederhorn. Thanks to its unique location, it offers fantastic 360-degree views of the Swiss Plateau and the Bernese Alps, stretching as far as the cities of Thun and Bern.

Feel history come alive – you are, after all, standing on historic ground. Here on the flanks of Monte Generoso stood the castle of the patrician Torriani family. It was razed to the ground in 1242. Out of respect, the church tower of San Sisinio was spared: this is La Torre, the landmark of Mendrisio. This vantage point offers views of the old town quarter and of Monte San Giorgio, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.

Built between 1861 and 1863 by Baron Albert Emil Otto von Parpart (1813-1869), a former officer in the Prussian royal service. The Baron married Adelheid Sophie Margaritha von Bonstetten (1814-1883) in 1846. Architect Heino Schmieden (1835-1913). Museum of interior furnishings in the Art Nouveau style. The interior has remained unchanged since 1900 – as if time has stood still and the owners might return at any moment. The expansive grounds with native and non-native tree species add an extra charm to the overall experience.

Is Snow White waiting behind the seven mountains? The seven Churfirsten peaks are as magical as a fairytale, and the children of the Toggenburg know what each of them is called. From east to west: Chäserrugg (2,262 m), Hinterrugg (2,306 m), Schibenstoll (2,234 m), Zuestoll (2,235 m), Brisi (2,279 m), Frümsel (2,263 m), Selun (2,205 m). Trails lead to each of them. A particularly popular destination for day trippers is the Chäserrugg, which is easy to reach via two aerial cableways from Unterwasser.

Fribourg – founded in 1157 by Berthold IV, Duke of Zähringen – is a city of bridges in every respect. The city was built on both sides of the river La Sarine/Saane and there are bridges in all styles and from all eras. Being a bilingual city, it also bridges the cultures of the German- and French-speaking parts of Switzerland. Fribourg is home to many contemporary witnesses and architectural jewels, such as the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, built in the 13th century, which dominates the centre of the historic Old City.