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Intro

Summer in Switzerland’s cities promises a taste of the Mediterranean – with plenty of fun on the water, balmy nights, and a few drinks thrown in for good measure. Those seeking a more relaxed break can choose from yoga on the lakefront, walks by the river or outstanding architecture along the water’s edge.

Our recommendations

Sustainable cities

Swiss cities are world-beaters when it comes to sustainability – the good air quality, numerous recreational areas, and well-developed public transport options are all testament to this. And the best thing? Guests can directly sense and experience this commitment. These suggestions will help you discover Swiss cities in an even more conscientious way.

Learn more about: Sustainable cities

Olten’s historic old town – surprisingly attractive

Olten is located directly on the River Aare and boasts a very beautiful historic old town district with an extensive pedestrian zone. Numerous cultural institutions, a lido, cafes, restaurants, ice cream parlours and an attractive and diverse mix of shops are the perfect places to relax and unwind.

Learn more about: Olten’s historic old town – surprisingly attractive

From one local mountain to the next in just one day

Lugano is a city in the very south of Switzerland and the Mediterranean soul of the country. Benefitting from a mild climate, the metropolis is located directly on Lake Lugano, surrounded by forested hills and mountains. In addition, Lugano is nestled between the local mountains of Monte San Salvatore and Monte Brè. These can be explored on the same day, with time for a stroll through the city in between.

Learn more about: From one local mountain to the next in just one day

The Lucerne bucket list

Situated in the heart of Switzerland, the city of Lucerne awaits you with many exciting highlights. Whether you’re in the mood for sightseeing, culinary delights, taking a pedalo or enjoying the nearby natural surroundings, we have put together the ten key items for your to do list. Best of all: everything in Lucerne is within easy walking distance.

Learn more about: The Lucerne bucket list

More tips for Swiss towns and cities

Basel

Basel is full of contrasts. The historic old town meets modern architecture. A mix of tradition and innovation. Punctuated by culture and architecture. A city of culture and at the same time a thriving metropolis on the Rhine with a great quality of life and plenty to enjoy. Be inspired by these contrasts.

Learn more about: Basel

Bern

The Swiss capital is a total work of art. With its UNESCO-listed old town, cathedral, clock tower, fountains and numerous arcades, Bern is one of Switzerland’s most beautiful cities. Between all of the sights on offer, the city also offers you plenty of nature and a chance to refresh yourself on the River Aare.

Learn more about: Bern

Geneva

Geneva is international. The European headquarters of the UN or the ICRC are located here. The city on Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) has a picturesque old town with many sights and beautiful parks. The fantastic mountain panorama around Geneva will amaze you.

Learn more about: Geneva

Lausanne

The wide embankments on Lake Geneva, the Olympic Museum, the widely diverse urban quarters and the parklands: Lausanne is full of joie de vivre. Alongside Notre Dame Cathedral, the metro is a key city landmark. Also, thanks to the hillside location, you can see the lake wherever you go.

Learn more about: Lausanne

Lugano

The Ticinese city of Lugano is sunny, Mediterranean and really very pleasant. With its historic city centre, the Piazza della Riforma with its cafés and bistros, Lake Lugano, and the surrounding mountains such as Monte Brè or Monte San Salvatore: Lugano is sure to inspire you.

Learn more about: Lugano

Lucerne

Lucerne is one of the major stops on any trip to Switzerland. In addition to the unmistakable cityscape with the lake, Chapel Bridge and historic old town, Lucerne offers many sights and is the perfect starting point for excursions to the region around Lake Lucerne.

Learn more about: Lucerne

St. Gallen

Eastern Switzerland’s city of St. Gallen is welcoming and close to nature. With its cathedral, the abbey library and its old town, it brings history and culture together. And since Lake Constance and the Alpstein are not far from here, you are guaranteed to find a suitable excursion.

Learn more about: St. Gallen

Winterthur

Winterthur inspires you with diversity: The old town with shops and cafés, right next to it industrial history in old factory halls, villas, parks and gardens. First-class museums, the Technorama as an interactive experience centre and the Casino Theatre round off the offer.

Learn more about: Winterthur

Zurich

In Zurich, find yourself marvelling at the historic buildings in the old town, strolling through the world-famous Bahnhofstrasse and enjoying Lake Zurich. Zurich offers you a mix like no other: a metropolis offering many sights meets water, nature and mountains. Simply spectacular!

Learn more about: Zurich

Aarau

Aarau offers you a varied mix of culture, gastronomy and nature. Discover the old town with its historic alleyways and ornate roof gables. You can explore museums such as the renowned Aargauer Kunsthaus and enjoy leisure activities on the banks of the Aare.

Learn more about: Aarau

Baden

Baden is a city to feel good and enjoy: Explore the charming old town with the wooden bridge over the Limmat and the ruins of Stein Castle. Experience art and culture in a unique ambience and relax in the spa district with its mineral-rich thermal water.

Learn more about: Baden

Bellinzona

In Bellinzona – probably the most Italian city in Switzerland – you’ll find a real mix of grandeur and coziness. This is where the St. Gotthard and San Bernardino alpine passes come together, and it is also an ideal starting point for excursions into the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Learn more about: Bellinzona

Biel

Biel has many facets: you will find modern buildings on the lakeshore alongside historic buildings in the old town higher up. The centre of the watchmaking industry with the Cité du Temps will inspire you just as much as the winegrowing villages and the Taubenloch Gorge towards the Jura.

Learn more about: Biel

Chur

Chur – the oldest city in Switzerland – offers you a mix of sights, culture and nature. You’ll discover its old town, the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption and its local mountain Brambrüesch. Or you can instead enjoy a ride on the Glacier or Bernina Express, departing from Chur.

Learn more about: Chur

Delémont

Delémont – the capital of the canton of Jura will impress you. Stroll through the old town with its historic buildings and the five beautiful figurine fountains. Enjoy the view from the Vorbourg chapel and excursions into the picturesque Jura landscape.

Learn more about: Delémont

Fribourg

Fribourg an der Saane is considered one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Europe. Marvel at the towers of the city fortifications, fountains and bridges, chapels and monasteries. The Cathedral of Saint Nicholas gazes down over it all. There are lakes, mountains and nature parks at every turn.

Learn more about: Fribourg

Locarno

Palm trees and a fascinating world of flowers await you in Locarno. The location on Lake Maggiore with the surrounding mountains and valleys, the mild climate and festivals of film and music guarantee the perfect stay. This is the ideal place to soak up the sun and enjoy the Dolce Vita.

Learn more about: Locarno

Montreux

Montreux: a destination that offers pure enjoyment. This town on the shores of Lake Geneva boasts a magnificent Alpine backdrop, the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival and sights such as Chillon Castle. Just a few reasons why it is often referred to as the “Pearl of Lake Geneva”.

Learn more about: Montreux

Neuchâtel

The lake, the old town, the vineyards, the Jura: in Neuchâtel, French charm meets Mediterranean flair. Oases of nature and places steeped in history are situated close together here. The best thing you can do in and around Neuchâtel is to simply stroll around and enjoy.

Learn more about: Neuchâtel

Olten

Olten is located at the southern foot of the Jura on the river Aare. Due to its central location in the Swiss Mittelland, the small town is a popular venue for congresses and conferences. Likewise, the small town is known for the Swiss Writers' Trail and the old town.

Learn more about: Olten

Rheinfelden

Just by Basel, at the start of the navigable Rhine, lies the charming little "Zähringer" town of Rheinfelden. The historic town centre with its typical wide market street and delightful side lanes is an inviting area in which to wander, explore and do some shopping.

Learn more about: Rheinfelden

Schaffhausen

Schaffhausen will inspire you with its charm. Walk through the historic old town, visit the Munot Fortress and marvel at the nearby Rhine Falls. Nestled in a wine region, this picturesque city brings you closer to Swiss traditions and indulgence.

Learn more about: Schaffhausen

Solothurn

Solothurn inspires as the most beautiful baroque city in Switzerland. Discover the St. Ursus Cathedral with its clock tower and the magic number 11. Enjoy a walk through the old town, the Mediterranean atmosphere on the Aare and a view of the local mountain Weissenstein.

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Thun

Thun is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland. See for yourself by making a detour to mystical Thun Castle, taking a stroll through the enchanting old town or enjoying a boat trip on the deep, blue waters of Lake Thun.

Learn more about: Thun

Zug

In Zug, you can explore the old town with the Zytturm and Landsgemeindeplatz and enjoy Lake Zug on a boat trip or at the lido. The city is located at the foot of the Rigi, not far from Einsiedeln, Lucerne and Zurich and is known for its impressive sunsets.

Learn more about: Zug