Switzerland

Things to do in Switzerland

Search attractions or local attractions & tours
Search

Explore top experiences

Top 10 attractions in Switzerland

View all Attractions
Chillon Castle
No. 5 of Best Things to Do in Switzerland

Chillon Castle

7.6
4.6/5
263 reviews

Chillon Castle stands on a small rocky island jutting into the eastern end of Lake Geneva, facing the lakeside town of Montreux and connected to the shore by a wooden bridge. The entire castle follows the contours of the oval island rock, surrounded by water on all sides. From the shore, it appears to float on the lake, with its gray-white stone walls and reddish-brown conical towers reflecting the lake and mountain scenery like a painting. The land-facing side is studded with arrow slits and shooting ports, forming a heavily fortified defense structure, while the lakeside features elegant Gothic arched windows, once the residence of the House of Savoy—a harmonious blend of strength and grace in this ancient waterborne fortress. The earliest written records of the castle date back to the mid-12th century, though its central keep was built in the 11th century, predating documented history. Strategically located on a vital north-south European trade route, merchants traveling to Rome via the Great St. Bernard Pass would pass by its gates. The House of Savoy leveraged this position to collect tolls and expanded the castle into their summer palace in the 13th century. After Bernese forces captured it in 1536, it successively became a bailiff's residence, armory, and prison. The castle's fame stems partly from its dungeon: François Bonivard, abbot of Geneva's St. Victor Abbey, was chained to a pillar here for years after opposing the Duke of Savoy's control of Geneva, until his rescue by the Bernese. In 1816, Lord Byron visited, immortalized the story in his poem "The Prisoner of Chillon," and carved his name on the pillar. Rousseau featured it in "Julie, or the New Heloise," while Hugo and other literati also wrote about it. Crossing the wooden bridge into the castle reveals courtyards, halls, bedrooms, the keep, and dungeons—like stepping through a three-dimensional medieval history book. The underground prison is particularly noteworthy: its walls are built from the island's natural rock, topped with Gothic vaulting typically reserved for cathedrals, with Byron's inscribed pillar still standing. Several grand halls once hosted Savoyard feasts, their windows framing Lake Geneva's vistas. The Bernese bedroom displays an elaborate four-poster bed with heating, a bathroom, and running water—remarkably advanced for its time. The Chapel of St. George preserves 14th-century religious murals, rare survivors of Reformation iconoclasm. The armory exhibits medieval to 17th-century weapons—swords, halberds, arquebuses, crossbows, and armor—offering insights into period warfare. Visitors should linger: beyond interior artifacts, the lakeside path offers classic panoramic views of this aquatic fortress.

Switzerland · Veytaux
Lake Brienz
No. 9 of Best Things to Do in Switzerland

Lake Brienz

7.4
4.5/5
102 reviews

Lake Brienz is located at the northern foot of the Alps, named after the village of Brienz on the northeast side of the lake, while Interlaken lies on its southwest side. Surrounded by steep peaks, a boat tour on Lake Brienz offers breathtaking views of the Alpine scenery. The glacial meltwater carries fine rock flour, giving the entire lake a rare turquoise hue that becomes especially vivid on sunny days. Paired with the steep cliffs and dense forests on both shores, every snapshot looks like a postcard—a highly distinctive hallmark of this lake. Themed cruise with rich experiences Lake Brienz cruise offers various types of experiences. In addition to regular sightseeing cruises, it also provides special themed cruise activities, such as "breakfast cruise", "Indian dinner cruise tour", or "fish and jazz tour" on the cruise ship deck, etc. These are worth experiencing for travelers who love Swiss cuisine. Visit the village of Brienz The village of Brienz on the east shore of the lake is a particularly quiet small town, with fewer visitors during the off-peak season, making it perfect for strolling. You can also take the historic steam train—the Brienz-Rothorn Railway—to reach Rothorn. Giessbach Falls Another destination of the Lake Brienz cruise is the Giessbach Falls, where white waterfalls cascade down from 500 m high into the lake, crashing against rocks with a deafening roar, creating a spectacular sight. Beside the falls stands the Giessbach Hotel, resembling a fairytale castle full of dreamy charm. Cycling and hikes around the lake Lake Brienz is also ideal for cycling around the lake, with well-planned bike routes that allow you to experience the beauty of the lake up close. There are significant elevation changes during the ride, and fog may occur in rainy weather, so it is recommended to choose a suitable route based on your fitness level. Of course, there are also popular hiking trails here, such as walking along the southern shore of Lake Brienz, starting from Bönigen and passing through Iseltwald to reach Giessbach.

Switzerland · Iseltwald

Traveller favourites curated for you

Experiences you can't miss in Switzerland

Featured Day tours in Switzerland

View all Day tours
Zurich Old Town + Lake Zurich + Lindt Home of Chocolate 1-day tour [Cruise]
Trip.Select
󱌍
4.4/5
· 5 reviews· 108 booked
Duration: 5.2 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
7% off
7% off
FromAU$139.96AU$150.5
Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe 1-day tour [comfortable bus/professional multilingual guide/includes 10% discount coupon for the outlet]
Trip.Select
󱌍
4.8/5
· 499 reviews· 395 booked
Duration: 12.6 hrs
English
Free cancellation
97.2% of travelers recommend
7% off
7% off
FromAU$429.12AU$461.43
Half-day Geneva city sightseeing tour in Switzerland | Optional Lake Geneva cruise
󱌍
FromAU$90.17
Zurich Old Town Walking Tour
󱌍
4.4/5
· 101 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
FromAU$45.49
Switzerland Rhine Falls + Stein am Rhein House Painted with Frescoes 1-day tour [Boat ride available/Guide commentary included]
Trip.Select
󱌍
7% off
7% off
FromAU$115.54AU$124.24

Featured Culture & history in Switzerland

View all Culture & history
Swiss Travel Pass
Trip.Select
󱌍
4.9/5
· 1k reviews· 20.6k booked
English
Official partner
Free cancellation
Book now for today
43 consecutive positive reviews
7% off
7% off
FromAU$416.94AU$448.33
1-day tour of Lake Zurich + Zurich Old Town + Grossmunster in Switzerland (with guide)
󱌍
Duration: 4.7 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
51 travellers saved
7% off
7% off
FromAU$91.93AU$98.86
From Zurich: Swiss Alps, Mountain Villages & Local Farm Private Tour
󱌍
Duration: 8 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for tomorrow
FromAU$1,286.67
From Zurich: Rhine Falls & Stein am Rhein Guided Private Tour
󱌍
Duration: 5 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for tomorrow
FromAU$1,508.51
From Zurich: Mount Pilatus Cable Car Private Tour
󱌍
Duration: 8 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for tomorrow
FromAU$1,588.37

Featured Spa & wellness in Switzerland

View all Spa & wellness
From Zurich: Swiss Mountain Thermal Spa & Wellness Private Day Tour
󱌍
Duration: 8 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for tomorrow
FromAU$1,774.72
Vitznau: Train Tickets and Rigi Mineral Baths Day Ticket
󱌍
4.9/5
· 26 reviews
Duration: 7 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
26 consecutive positive reviews
FromAU$163.41
Lucerne: Boat Trip, Mount Rigi Train, & Mineral Baths Ticket
󱌍
4.9/5
· 41 reviews
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
95.1% of travelers recommend
FromAU$282.40
Self-guided: Mount Rigi, Lake Lucerne Cruise and Mountain Spa
󱌍
4.6/5
· 66 reviews
Duration: 7–10 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
90.9% of travelers recommend
FromAU$288.47

Featured Food & drink in Switzerland

View all Food & drink
Private Bern Old Town & Emmental Cheese Tour from Zurich with Tastings
󱌍
Duration: 8 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for tomorrow
FromAU$1,055.96
From Zurich: Alpine Winter Horse Carriage Ride & Fondue Private Tour
󱌍
Duration: 7 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for tomorrow
FromAU$2,129.66
From Zurich: Alpine Sledging & Private Fondue by the Lake Tour
󱌍
Duration: 7 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
FromAU$1,952.19
From Zurich: Swiss Cheese, Chocolate & Wine Private Tour
󱌍
Duration: 9 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
FromAU$2,640.78
From Zurich: Swiss Alpine Vineyard & Wine Tasting Private Tour
󱌍
Duration: 3 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for tomorrow
FromAU$2,750.81
From Zurich: Private Lucerne Tour, Lake Cruise & Exclusive Fondue
󱌍
Duration: 6 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for tomorrow
FromAU$3,549.43
From Zurich: City Tour, Lake Cruise & Lindt Chocolate Private Tour
󱌍
Duration: 8 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for tomorrow
FromAU$1,366.54
Private Alsace Wine Tasting & Basel Day Tour from Lucerne
󱌍
Duration: 10 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for tomorrow
FromAU$3,017.02

More things to do

Switzerland Cruises

See all cruises

Private Tours in Switzerland

View More Private Tours in Switzerland

Group Tours in Switzerland

View More Group Tours in Switzerland

Free things to do in Switzerland

What travellers say about Switzerland

user-avatar
Hossain Hoq ProhorSeptember 11, 2026
5.0
Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe is one of Switzerland’s most spectacular mountain destinations, offering an unforgettable experience high in the Swiss Alps. Surrounded by magnificent snow-covered peaks, vast glaciers, and breathtaking alpine scenery, the journey to the summit is an adventure itself. The panoramic views from the top are truly mesmerizing, especially on a clear day when the mountains seem to stretch endlessly into the horizon. Walking through the snowy landscape feels like entering a winter wonderland. The impressive Aletsch Glacier adds even more beauty to the experience. Jungfraujoch is a must-visit destination for travelers who love mountains, snow, photography, and extraordinary natural landscapes.

Jungfrau

user-avatar
Anonymous userSeptember 29, 2026
5.0
Purchased package tickets including attractions must be exchanged for paper tickets at the manual counter before use. Package tickets must be purchased at the foot of the mountain; tickets for attractions on the mountain are not sold at the designated areas.

First

user-avatar
Anonymous userSeptember 18, 2026
5.0
This place is absolutely must visit and good chocolate tasting. There is a Cafe on site. Must reserve tickets early as tickets can sold out for that day.

Lindt Home of Chocolate

user-avatar
118***48January 8, 2026
5.0
Very convenient; you can enter the museum and take a boat ride.

Swiss Pass

user-avatar
GullyFebruary 2, 2025
5.0
It is one of the prettiest places I have ever seen. In summer time, you’re almost guaranteed to have great weather. There are multiple paths to hike for more and less experiences trekkers.

Golden Pass Railway

user-avatar
草凡人April 19, 2025
5.0
Take the train to Montreux and stroll along the shore of Lake Geneva. Beyond the water are the snow-capped mountains, stretching quietly. Chillon Castle is on a small stone island near the water. It is not big, but it takes you back to medieval Europe. It is worth a visit.

Chillon Castle

user-avatar
Sobel PhangOctober 29, 2024
5.0
The Matterhorn is one of the most iconic mountains in the Swiss Alps, renowned for its distinctive pyramid shape and stunning beauty. The surrounding area, particularly Zermatt, provides a charming alpine village experience with a range of outdoor activities. The Gornergrat railway offers spectacular panoramic views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding peaks.

Matterhorn

user-avatar
Anonymous userOctober 27, 2026
5.0
The package is good for value. Transport catered. The gliders are professional and very assuring.

Paragliding Experience in Interlaken by Paragliding Interlaken

user-avatar
yankeJuly 17, 2025
5.0
Lake Geneva, which shares the same name as the city, is very vast, with a sapphire-like color and sparkling in the sun. From Geneva Airport, you can take a train to Nyon, a small town on the shore of Lake Geneva. The hotel rooms there are large, and the lake view rooms also have terraces to enjoy the lake view. The breakfast is very rich and cost-effective. From the dock in Nyon, you can take a boat to the French flower town opposite and experience the fun of crossing two countries in half an hour. The price of the flower town is lower than that of Switzerland, and it is very pleasant to enjoy authentic French food there.

Lake Geneva

user-avatar
横竖是二温小迪November 14, 2024
4.0
The last boat from Interlaken East Station to Lake Brienz was at 15:07, and when we went there, the boat had just left. The staff taught us to take the bus to Brienz, and then catch the boat at 16:40, and take the boat from Brienz back to Interlaken. We bought a second-class Swiss pass, which allows free boat rides. There are not many seats in the second-class cabin, but there are more open-air seats. If you are afraid of the cold, you can get on the boat earlier. I sat in the restaurant at first and thought I had to consume, but after sitting for a while, I realized that there was no mandatory requirement.

Lake Brienz

Trip Moments in Switzerland

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Switzerland?

Don't miss these attractions in Switzerland: Jungfrau, First, and Lindt Home of Chocolate. If you like Day tours, try Zurich Old Town + Lake Zurich + Lindt Home of Chocolate 1-day tour [Cruise]. If you enjoy Culture & history, try Swiss Travel Pass.

You can give Private Bern Old Town & Emmental Cheese Tour from Zurich with Tastings and From Zurich: Alpine Winter Horse Carriage Ride & Fondue Private Tour a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Zurich Old Town + Lake Zurich + Lindt Home of Chocolate 1-day tour [Cruise], Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe 1-day tour [comfortable bus/professional multilingual guide/includes 10% discount coupon for the outlet], and Half-day Geneva city sightseeing tour in Switzerland | Optional Lake Geneva cruise. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of November 9, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Switzerland is around AUD 45.49 – AUD 542.08. Rates vary by duration, group size, transport, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

Get help anytime, anywhere within 30 secondsContact customer support

Change and cancellation policies vary by attractions and tours. Please check the product details page for more information.

Ticket prices may vary between weekdays and weekends, as well as during peak and off-peak seasons. When booking with Trip.com, you can also use Trip Coins to get extra savings. For more tips on booking discounted tickets, please visit Trip.com for the latest information.