Switzerland, with its picture-perfect landscapes and stunning alpine views, is most often recognized for its busy cities and world-class ski resorts. However, we believe the true essence of Swiss charm can be found in its unassuming villages, where life is quieter, slower, and perhaps even more beautiful. From quaint chalets tucked away at the top of mountains to bustling town squares filled with local markets and centuries of culture, these Swiss villages might just be some of the country’s best-kept secrets.
Zermatt
Right at the foot of the Matterhorn lies the town of Zermatt. One of the most unique things about this village is that it’s car-free, making it the ideal spot for those who want somewhere both relaxing and outdoorsy. The cobblestone streets are lined with traditional wooden chalets, nice boutiques, and cozy cafes with incredible views of the Alps. The culture here is all about mountaineering and skiing, and with that comes a very lively après-ski scene. In terms of food, this village is renowned for its fondue, raclette, and mouthwatering alpine dishes that are perfect after a day on the slopes. Whether you’re here to ski, eat, or enjoy the outdoors, Zermatt will not disappoint.
Grindelwald
Often called the “Glacier Village,” Grindelwald is surrounded by the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains–all of which create such a beautiful backdrop that the town almost seems too perfect to be real. The village itself is small and charming, with a few shops, Swiss chalets dotted with flower boxes, and narrow, winding streets. Culturally, Grindelwald has traditions of the Bernese Oberland region, which is reflected in its food (think fondue and roasted sliced meat) and yearly festivals. The town’s cultural calendar is filled with events that celebrate its heritage, from Swiss music performances to big yodeling festivals.
Lauterbrunnen
Trust us when we tell you that the town of Lauterbrunnen resembles a dream. Set in a valley surrounded by rocky cliffs and the massive, roaring Staubbach Falls, this place is as beautiful as they come. Staubbach Falls, which is essentially a majestic waterfall, cascades from a height of more than 980 feet, creating a postcard scene that’s almost too beautiful to believe. These falls, along with several other waterfalls in the area, give Lauterbrunnen its reputation as the “Valley of 72 Waterfalls.” And, due to these falls, people can hear the sound of cascading water from town. In addition to its waterfalls, Lauterbrunnen has little Swiss chalets as well as a food scene with regional specialties including dishes like fondue, raclette, and rösti.
Wengen
Another car-free village, Wengen is a unique resort village in the Bernese Oberland region. Located on a plateau above the Lauterbrunnen Valley, this town undoubtedly has some of the most amazing views in the Swiss Alps. The vibe here is peaceful and slow, making it a perfect escape for anyone who wants to unwind and spend time in nature. One of the best things about this place is that it hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the famous Lauberhorn ski race, which is one of the oldest and longest downhill races in the world.
Appenzell
Located in the northeastern part of Switzerland, Appenzell is known and loved for its colorful buildings adorned with pretty murals and wooden balconies. The atmosphere is a healthy mix of quaint and lively, with tons of outdoor activities and a bustling town square with weekly markets. The town is famous for its cheese–particularly Appenzeller cheese–which is a staple in most of the cuisine. Visitors can enjoy this cheese in various forms, from simple (but delicious!) fondue to intricate local meals.
Morcote
Known as “Pearl of the Lake,” Morcote is a stunning village that can be found on the shores of Lake Lugano. The village’s architecture features traditional Ticinese houses with terra-cotta roofs, making it look almost like towns in Lake Como, Italy. Morcote is home to several well-known landmarks, including the Church of Santa Maria del Sasso and an ancient castle. In terms of food, Italian-inspired dishes and local specialties such as risotto and fresh fish from the lake can be seen on most menus.
Andermatt
For those who love the great outdoors, Andermatt is the place to go. With a range of great outdoor activities year-round–from world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and mountain biking during the summer months–there’s always something to do here. The village itself is home to cute chalets, upscale boutiques, and gourmet restaurants, balancing the scale between outdoorsy and sophisticated. Whether travelers come to explore its trails, indulge in fine dining, or simply relax in its cozy lodges, Andermatt is one of Switzerland’s most prized possessions.
