Old towns

The Rhine Circular Trail leads from the Alte Rheinbrücke to the new hydroelectric power plant and then back on the other side of the Rhine. Along the way, hikers can learn about the 900-year history of bridges and settlements, while enjoying the diverse fauna and flora along the Rhine.

Munot has been proudly overlooking the town of Schaffhausen for well over 400 years. The fortification of Munot was built in the 16th century by forced labourers from Schaffhausen and characterises the old town to this day.

From humble beginnings in a cramped flat to a snowballing success story: “Schuum-Bier” was created by two friends and is now well on its way to ​becoming a household name.

Discover Lugano’s charm with a guided food & wine tour.

The narrow, winding alleyways, the cheerful ambience of a traditional spa town and the almost Mediterranean climate of the northern part of the Jura — in Rheinfelden's old town you can discover, stroll, and enjoy. And that within walking distance.

The old city of Vevey is dotted with historical monuments and museums bearing witness to its rich heritage. In addition, a large variety of boutiques and craftsmen can be found in the narrow paved streets, displaying their know-how and wares.

In St. Gallen you'll find history at every turn. The city's landmark is the Convent of St. Gall with its Baroque cathedral. The convent, including the library and monastery archives, was added to the Unesco World Heritage List in 1983.

The old town of Chur, the oldest city in Switzerland, combines history with modern flair. Between small alleyways, the castle, the cathedral and lively markets, it offers cozy cafés and numerous boutiques.

Immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of the Old Town and discover the history of Biel-Bienne and the important places in the Old Town.

The Zytglogge (clock tower): Visit the landmark of Bern's Old Town and experience the history and mechanics of the tower on a guided tour.

The cathedral is a fitting symbol of the episcopal city of Chur. Somewhat plain from the outside, it impresses with its magnificent interior.

The intact walls surrounding the city and over 200 unique Gothic facades impart incomparable mediaeval charm to Fribourg. The old town is best explored on foot, like an open-air museum.

Stories from the night watchman. The “Unheimliches Thun” (Dark side of Thun) city tour offers titillating tales and a look into the world of the night watchman.

The Spalentor is the most imposing of the three city gates that were part of the large city fortifications dating back to the year 1400. Many important supplies entered the city of Basel from Alsace through this gate. From here, there is a wonderful view over the roofs of Basel’s old town and the hills of the Jura, the Black Forest and Vosges.

Discover the picturesque old town, impressive sights and beautiful parks in a fun way, with an enjoyable round of city golf.

Back in Roman times, there was a fort standing guard over the river crossing where the old bridge in Olten is now. The old bridge was first mentioned in 1295.

On the first Friday of every month, Biel’s old town shows its most beautiful side. A vibrant street festival gives the town a unique atmosphere.

The Stadtkirche Biel is appreciated for its well-balanced proportions and the simplicity of the interior.

Aarau combines history, nature and culture in a number of different ways. The city offers a wide range of family-friendly activities. From historical journeys of discovery to relaxing hours spent on the River Aare or interactive museum visits – there’s plenty to experience here for children and adults alike.

The “Funi” (funicular railway), which overhang the Old Town and the river Sarine, is a “technical engineering marvel”, listed as a cultural asset of national importance. This nostalgic railway has been running since 1899 – with no exhaust fumes.

The St. Gallen Collegiate Library is one of the oldest libraries in the world. It is the heart of the abbey district and immerses you in history with its large baroque hall and valuable manuscripts.

Forces Motrices, the imposing cultural center, “swims” in the middle of the Rhone River. Located in the former water works it is today a renovated oasis with theater and opera performances as well as exhibition halls with a capacity of 950 persons.

The lively cultural centre and spa town of Baden offers not only the most mineral-rich thermal waters in Switzerland but much more besides.

Munot has been proudly overlooking the town of Schaffhausen for well over 400 years. The tower contains the quarters of the Munot watchman, who rings the famous Munot bell for five minutes every evening at 9 p.m. – by hand, of course, just like in 1589.

Thanks to its well-preserved medieval townscape, the Old Town of Bern was entered onto UNESCO’s listing of World Heritage Sites in 1983.

With just 1,100 seats, Zurich’s is the smallest of the great international opera houses, and offers an exceptionally intimate experience of top performances.

This landmark of Zug is 52 metres high and rises above the other town towers. The lower part was constructed as a simple passageway through the town’s oldest circular wall. Hans Felder snr., from Bavaria, the master builder who built St. Oswald's Church, increased the tower height in 1478-1480.

Every Saturday from the beginning of April to the end of October, there is an interesting guided walking tour of the city. It offers the chance to discover the new Lugano train station, and the recently restored cathedral and to see the city from above.

Once a year, Aarau’s old town is transformed into an atmospheric backdrop for the Bachfischet, one of the oldest living customs in Switzerland. With a festive lantern procession through the darkened alleyways of the old town, the end of the annual cleaning of the city’s stream has been celebrated for centuries. At the same time, the city offers numerous unique highlights that make Aarau an unforgettable travel destination.

Chillon Castle is located on a rock on the banks of Lake Geneva. The water castle is the most visited historic building in Switzerland. For nearly four centuries Chillon was the residence and profitable toll station of the Counts of Savoy.

If you like to spend your time shopping in a small, beautiful town, Solothurn in the perfect place for you! Wherever you turn, you'll find smart shops and small boutiques that invite you to browse their wares.

The bell tower of the Gothic cathedral, high on the hill on which the Old Town is built, is home to the city’s most enigmatic resident.

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.

You can't imagine the city without them: Zurich’s city-centre rooftop bars offer fresh mountain air on hot summer days – and the beautiful view is part of the deal.