The Best Summer Destinations in Switzerland

Explore Switzerland in Summer: Top Destinations and the Businesses That Bring Them to Life


Reading Time:   4 Min.
Publication:       July 30, 2025, Jonathan Schönholzer


Train in the Bernese Mountains

Switzerland is often thought of as a winter wonderland, but summer unveils a breathtaking side of the country, offering crystal-clear lakes, alpine trails, and charming villages under warm skies. Whether you're into outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just soaking in the views, Switzerland delivers. Here’s a guide to some of the top summer destinations - plus the local businesses that help you make the most of them.


Zermatt – Home of the Matterhorn

Zermatt is a scenic mountain village nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn. In summer, the landscape becomes a lush green wonderland with wildflowers, rushing streams, and more than 400 km of hiking and biking trails. The altitude keeps things cool and crisp, even in the middle of summer.

In Zermatt, the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise offers year-round snow and the highest cable car station in Europe. Operated by Zermatt Bergbahnen AG, this experience includes panoramic views, a glacier palace, and access to summer skiing.


Montreux – Music, Culture & Lake Geneva

Set between the Alps and Lake Geneva, Montreux is known for its beautiful promenade, terraced vineyards, and cultural richness. The town has long attracted artists and musicians, from Freddie Mercury to Igor Stravinsky.

Belle-Epoque Steam Boat
Montreux comes alive in summer with the Montreux Jazz Festival, which draws global artists and music lovers in July. It's more than music—it’s an immersive cultural event set along the scenic Lake Geneva promenade.

To explore the lake, book a cruise with CGN (Compagnie Générale de Navigation). Their Belle Époque paddle steamers offer scenic boat rides between Montreux, Vevey, and Lausanne.

Looking for a culinary experience? La Rouvenaz, a lakeside Italian restaurant, offers fresh seafood and pasta with unbeatable views.


Interlaken – Adventure Capital of Switzerland

Located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and surrounded by the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains, Interlaken is the epicenter of outdoor activities in Switzerland. The scenery is dramatic, and the options for adventure are endless.

Known for heart-pounding outdoor activities, Interlaken is a hub for thrill-seekers. Outdoor Interlaken AG is the region’s leading adventure company, offering paragliding, canyoning, skydiving, and white-water rafting with professional guides.

For scenic journeys, take a ride with the Jungfrau Railways to Jungfraujoch, the "Top of Europe", where you can walk on the Aletsch Glacier and visit the Ice Palace.

Stay at Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa, a five-star hotel that offers a mix of wellness and luxury between two glacial lakes.


Lugano – A Taste of Italy in Switzerland

View of Lugano
Located in the Ticino region, Lugano blends Swiss and Italian charm. Summers here are warm and sunny, making it perfect for swimming, hiking, or simply sipping espresso by the lake.

In Lugano, the Italian-Swiss blend creates a relaxed, Mediterranean vibe. SBB offers combination deals that include train tickets and access to attractions like the Monte San Salvatore funicular or the Swissminiatur open-air museum.

For a boutique hotel stay, check out The View Lugano, a modern, design-forward hotel with lake views and excellent dining.


Lucerne – Mountains, Lakes, and History

Lucerne is a picturesque city where medieval architecture meets lake and mountain scenery. Its wooden Chapel Bridge and waterfront Old Town provide charm and history in equal measure. The surrounding region is ideal for hiking, boating, and mountain rail adventures.

Ride the historic paddle steamers of SGV across the lake, or take the world's steepest cogwheel railway, run by Pilatus Bahnen AG up to Mount Pilatus for summer hiking.

In town, unwind at the lakeside Hotel des Balances, known for its gourmet restaurant and scenic terrace.

For families and curious minds, the Swiss Museum of Transport (Verkehrshaus der Schweiz) is a must-visit. This interactive museum covers everything from aviation to automobiles and space travel. Additionally, their Swiss Chocolate Adventure, is a delightful multimedia ride through the world of Swiss chocolate making. It’s educational, immersive, and great for all ages.

Switzerland’s summer magic comes alive thanks to these local businesses that connect travelers to the mountains, lakes, and legends of this remarkable country. Whether you’re climbing the Alps or cruising a lake, you’ll find world-class service and unforgettable experiences at every turn.


All information provided without guarantee


Image sources: wirestock via Freepik; SLPix & adege, via Pixabay

Location: Thurgauerstrasse 40, 8050 Zürich, Switzerland

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