Switzerland, a land of breathtaking Alpine vistas and rich cultural heritage, is home to some of Europe’s most iconic sights.
From towering mountain peaks to medieval castles and engineering marvels, famous landmarks in Switzerland offer visitors a glimpse into the country’s diverse beauty and fascinating history.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history buff, or architecture enthusiast, these Swiss landmarks promise unforgettable experiences and photo opportunities.
Read on to explore our curated list of the 12 most famous landmarks in Switzerland, and start planning your Swiss adventure today!
12 Famous Landmarks in Switzerland
Whether you’re drawn to Alpine peaks, medieval architecture, or cutting-edge museums, Switzerland’s landmarks promise unforgettable experiences at every turn.
Here’s a list of 12 of the most famous landmarks in Switzerland.
1. Matterhorn
The Matterhorn is a mountain in the Alps, straddling the border between Switzerland and Italy. Its distinctive pyramid shape makes it one of the most recognizable mountains in the world and a symbol of Switzerland.
The Matterhorn is a significant tourist attraction, even for non-climbers. It is one of the most famous natural wonders in Europe.
At its base, the car-free town of Zermatt is a popular resort town offering excellent mountain views. The Gornergrat railway and various cable cars provide access to viewing points.
Further Reading: Most Beautiful Places to See in Switzerland
2. Schilthorn
The Schilthorn is a 2,970-meter (9,744 ft) summit in the Bernese Alps. It’s accessible by cable car from Mürren and offers breathtaking 360-degree views of over 200 peaks, including the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
The summit is home to the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant, which gained international fame as Blofeld’s headquarters in the 1969 James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.
The Schilthorn also features the Bond World 007 exhibition and the thrilling Skyline Walk viewing platform.
Further Reading: 20 Reasons Why You Should Visit Switzerland
3. Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), Lucerne
Built in 1333, the Chapel Bridge is Europe’s oldest covered wooden bridge. It spans the Reuss River diagonally, connecting the Old Town to the right bank.
The bridge is adorned with 17th-century roof panel paintings depicting scenes from Lucerne’s history and Swiss legends.
Further Reading: 100 Bucket List Ideas for Switzerland
4. Jungfraujoch
Often called the “Top of Europe,” Jungfraujoch is a saddle connecting two 4,000-meter peaks in the Bernese Alps. At 3,463 meters (11,362 ft) above sea level, it’s Europe’s highest railway station.
The complex includes an ice palace, viewing platforms, and the Sphinx Observatory. It offers spectacular views of the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding peaks.
5. Rhine Falls
Located near Schaffhausen, the Rhine Falls is Europe’s largest plain waterfall. Visitors can view the falls from several platforms or take boat rides to the central rock.
During summer, the falls are illuminated at night, creating a spectacular light show. The nearby Wörth Castle and Laufen Castle offer additional historical context and viewing opportunities.
6. Zytglogge Clock Tower, Bern
This 13th-century tower in Bern’s Old City began as a guard tower and later served as a prison, clock tower, and civic memorial.
It puts on a show with moving figurines every hour, including a parade of bears, a jester, and a golden rooster.
Except for the clock tower, Bern is also one of the prettiest cities in Switzerland and is well worth exploring.
7. Geneva Water Fountain
The Geneva Water Fountain, installed in 1951, pumps 500 liters of water per second to a height of 140 meters (460 ft).
It’s visible throughout the city and from the air, serving as a symbol of Geneva. The fountain operates daily, weather permitting, and is illuminated at night, creating a stunning display on Lake Geneva’s shoreline.
8. Swiss National Museum, Zurich
Housed in a fairy-tale castle-like building from 1898, this museum offers a comprehensive overview of Swiss cultural history.
Its collections span from prehistoric times to the 21st century, including artifacts, artworks, and historical documents.
9. Château de Chillon
This medieval fortress on the shores of Lake Geneva near Montreux has inspired artists and writers for centuries, including Lord Byron.
Built in the 12th century, it was a strategic water fortress and a summer residence for the Counts of Savoy.
11. Aletsch Glacier
The largest glacier in the Alps, the Aletsch Glacier is 23 km (14 miles) long and covers over 80 square kilometers. It’s part of the Jungfrau-Aletsch protected area, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The glacier is visible from several vantage points, including the Eggishorn and Bettmerhorn peaks.
12. Swiss National Park
This is Switzerland’s only national park and one of the earliest in Europe. Located in the Engadin Valley, it covers 170 square kilometers of pristine alpine landscape.
It’s home to diverse wildlife, including ibex, chamois, marmots, and bearded vultures. The park offers numerous hiking trails and a visitors’ center in Zernez.
Final Thoughts on The Best Swiss Landmarks to See
All these famous Swiss landmarks offer a breathtaking journey through the country’s rich history, stunning natural beauty, and engineering marvels.
From the iconic Matterhorn and the serene Chapel Bridge to the awe-inspiring Jungfraujoch and the charming Zytglogge Clock Tower, these famous Swiss landmarks showcase the diverse treasures that make Switzerland a must-visit destination.
Ready to explore more of Switzerland’s wonders? Discover additional Switzerland travel articles on our blog to help plan your perfect Swiss adventure.
