Best Things to do in Switzerland: Top Activities for UAE Residents

Switzerland, a land of breathtaking mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and charming alpine villages, is one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations. Switzerland is a destination that caters to every type of traveler, whether you’re chasing adrenaline, immersing yourself in culture, traveling with family, or simply looking to unwind in scenic surroundings.

If you are planning to visit Switzerland from Dubai, we have covered all the best things to do in Switzerland. From adventure sports like hiking, trekking, skiing, to relaxing things like lakeside relaxation, Switzerland has it all. Let’s explore each activity in detail.

8 Must-try Activities in Switzerland

1. Adventure Sports and Outdoor Thrills

Switzerland is a playground for adventure enthusiasts, and its dramatic landscapes provide the perfect setting for outdoor activities:

  • Hiking and Trekking: Trails range from gentle lakeside walks to challenging alpine hikes. Popular routes include the Eiger Trail in Grindelwald and the Five Lakes Walk in Zermatt.
  • Paragliding in Interlaken: Experience bird’s-eye views of the Swiss Alps while gliding over turquoise lakes.
  • Skiing and Snowboarding: Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Verbier are world-famous resorts that attract skiers of all levels.
  • Canyoning and Rafting: Interlaken’s rivers and gorges offer heart-pounding adventures for thrill-seekers.
  • Mountain Biking: Grindelwald and Davos boast incredible trails that combine fitness with stunning scenery.
Best Things to do in Switzerland

2. Scenic Train Journeys

Switzerland’s rail network is among the most scenic in the world, turning every journey into an experience:

  • Glacier Express: A full-day panoramic ride from Zermatt to St. Moritz, passing through the Swiss Alps.
  • Bernina Express: Crosses the UNESCO-listed Albula Line and reaches Italy’s Tirano, showcasing snow-capped peaks and Mediterranean landscapes.
  • GoldenPass Line: Connects Lucerne with Montreux, offering views of lakes, vineyards, and mountains.

Also Read: Best European Countries to Visit in Winters

Festivals in Europe - Glastonbury Festival in the United Kingdom

3. Explore Lakes and Cruises

Switzerland’s lakes are as captivating as its mountains, offering both relaxation and recreation:

  • Lake Geneva: Enjoy wine tours along the Lavaux vineyards or take a boat cruise past Chillon Castle.
  • Lake Lucerne: Combine a steamboat ride with a cogwheel railway trip to Mount Pilatus.
  • Lake Zurich and Lake Thun: Perfect for paddleboarding, swimming, and sunset cruises.
Festivals in Europe - Glastonbury Festival in the United Kingdom

4. Cultural and Historical Experiences

For those drawn to heritage and culture, Switzerland’s cities and towns deliver a wealth of attractions:

  • UNESCO Old Towns: Explore Bern’s medieval arcades or Lucerne’s charming alleys.
  • Museums: Visit Geneva’s Red Cross Museum, Zurich’s Kunsthaus, or Basel’s art institutions.
  • Festivals: Don’t miss the Montreux Jazz Festival in summer or Basel’s Fasnacht Carnival in winter.
  • Castles: Chillon Castle by Lake Geneva and Bellinzona’s trio of castles in Ticino provide a glimpse into Switzerland’s medieval past.
Festivals in Europe - Glastonbury Festival in the United Kingdom

5. Food and Culinary Adventures

Switzerland is heaven for food lovers, with dishes that reflect its diverse regions:

  • Cheese Fondue and Raclette: Try these comforting dishes in alpine restaurants after a day outdoors.
  • Swiss Chocolate Tasting: Visit chocolate factories like Lindt Home of Chocolate in Zurich or Maison Cailler near Gruyères.
  • Wine Tours: Lavaux vineyards offer tours of Switzerland’s lesser-known but exceptional wines.
  • Local Specialties: Sample rösti, Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, and Italian-influenced cuisine in Ticino.
Festivals in Europe - Glastonbury Festival in the United Kingdom

6. Family-Friendly Activities

Traveling with kids? Switzerland offers countless family adventures:

  • Chocolate and Cheese Factories: Interactive tours are both educational and fun.
  • Swiss Transport Museum in Lucerne: A hit with children fascinated by trains, planes, and cars.
  • Boat Trips: Calm lake cruises are perfect for families with young children.
  • Theme Trails: Adventure trails in Grindelwald or fairy-tale walks in Engelberg keep kids entertained while exploring nature.

Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Europe with Family

Festivals in Europe - Glastonbury Festival in the United Kingdom

7. Relaxation and Wellness

Switzerland and is equally famous for its wellness culture and tranquil escapes:

  • Thermal Spas: Soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters of Leukerbad or Bad Ragaz, surrounded by mountains.
  • Lakeside Relaxation: Enjoy leisurely strolls or picnics by lakes such as Lake Lugano or Lake Zurich.
  • Scenic Resorts: Luxury resorts in St. Moritz and Gstaad combine wellness treatments with panoramic alpine views.
Festivals in Europe - Glastonbury Festival in the United Kingdom

8. Seasonal Highlights

  • In Summer: Hiking, lake swimming, open-air concerts, and vineyard tours dominate the calendar.
  • In Winter: Skiing, Christmas markets, snowshoe hikes, and cozy chalet evenings are top activities.

Also Read: Best Times to Visit Europe

Festivals in Europe - Glastonbury Festival in the United Kingdom

Best Activities in Switzerland by Destination

Each region has its own highlights that make it one of Switzerland’s best places to visit for travelers. If you’re planning your itinerary and wondering what to do in Switzerland, we hace created a list of best things to do iin different places in Switzerland.

Visit Zurich for Culture and Lakefront Charm

Zurich is not only a financial hub but also one of the best places at Switzerland for culture and leisure. Stroll through the Old Town (Altstadt) with its medieval streets, explore the Swiss National Museum, or admire modern art at Kunsthaus Zurich. Shopping on Bahnhofstrasse is a must, while Lake Zurich offers cruises and paddleboarding in summer. In winter, cozy cafés and festive Christmas markets create a magical atmosphere.

Visit Lucerne for History & Adventure

Lucerne is one of the Switzerland best places in summers, thanks to Lake Lucerne’s cruises and the adventure of climbing Mount Pilatus or Mount Rigi. The Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument add cultural depth. In winter, Lucerne turns into a snowy wonderland, offering access to ski resorts and a picturesque holiday setting.

Visit Interlaken for The Adventure Capital

For adrenaline seekers wondering what to do at Switzerland, Interlaken is the ultimate destination. In summer, try paragliding, white-water rafting, and mountain hiking. In winter, it becomes a gateway to ski slopes in the Jungfrau region. Its location between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz makes it one of the best places at Switzerland year-round.

Also Read: Europe Travel Checklist for UAE Residents

Visit Jungfraujoch for the Top of Europe

Jungfraujoch is a bucket-list experience and one of the Switzerland best places visit in any season. Summer activities include glacier hiking and panoramic train journeys, while winter offers snowboarding, skiing, and exploring the Ice Palace. The views of the Aletsch Glacier are breathtaking no matter when you go.

Visit Zermatt & the Matterhorn for an Iconic Alpine Adventure

Zermatt is car-free and centered around the world-famous Matterhorn. In summer, visitors enjoy alpine hiking and climbing trails, while in winter, Zermatt transforms into one of Switzerland best places in winters, with skiing and snowboarding on pristine slopes. Year-round, rides on the Gornergrat Railway showcase some of the most stunning views in the Alps.

Visit Geneva for Cosmopolitan Elegance

Geneva is one of the best places at Switzerland for culture lovers. In summer, enjoy cruises on Lake Geneva, vineyard tours in Lavaux, and lakeside promenades. Winter brings indoor cultural exploration, from the United Nations headquarters to luxury shopping and watch museums. Geneva is ideal for travelers who want both nature and cosmopolitan flair.

Also Read: Where to Go on Your First Trip in Europe

Visit Montreux for Lakeside Relaxation and Music

Montreux is best known for the Montreux Jazz Festival in summer, making it one of the Switzerland best places in summers for music and cultural experiences. Year-round, you can explore vineyards, enjoy lake cruises, and visit Chillon Castle. In winter, Montreux hosts enchanting Christmas markets that draw visitors from all over Europe.

Visit Bern for The Capital of Charm

Bern, Switzerland’s capital, blends history with modern life. In summer, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town and the scenic River Aare, where locals swim in crystal-clear waters. In winter, Bern’s arcaded streets come alive with festive lights, and the Bear Park remains a family favorite. This makes Bern one of the most versatile Switzerland best places visit any time of year.

Visit Ticino: Mediterranean for Switzerland

Ticino offers a completely different vibe, with palm-fringed lakes and Italian flair. In summer, it’s one of the Switzerland best places in summers to relax by Lake Lugano or enjoy open-air piazzas with Italian-inspired dining. In winter, Ticino remains milder than the rest of Switzerland, perfect for those seeking sunshine with alpine backdrops.

Also Read: Planning a Budget Trip to Europe from UAE

Visit Grindelwald for Alpine Bliss

Grindelwald is a picture-perfect alpine village and one of the best places at Switzerland for outdoor enthusiasts. In summer, hiking trails and the First Cliff Walk provide adventure with views of the Eiger mountain. In winter, the village turns into a skier’s paradise, offering slopes, snowshoeing, and cozy chalets. It’s a year-round gem for those who want a true alpine experience.

Final Thoughts

Switzerland is a year-round destination offering endless possibilities. You can try chasing snowy peaks in Zermatt, enjoying alpine meadows in Interlaken, or sipping wine by Lake Geneva. With its seamless blend of nature, culture, and modern amenities, it’s no wonder Switzerland ranks among the world’s top tourist destinations.

So pack your bag and let Travnook handle all your travel preparation. Our experts will assist you in getting a Switzerland visa, the best Switzerland packages, and everything you need for planning a trip to this beautiful country.

Last Updated: 7 Oct 2025

Share This Blog!

Have a question?
Contact us!