Between the Swiss Alps, local valleys and hidden across the rolling hills of Switzerland, you will find the most beautiful villages in Switzerland that you can visit.
It might be difficult to choose which of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland to visit. Since they all have something unique, such as charming car-free zones, beautiful views, hidden in valleys or ideal for activities such as hiking or skiing!
Some villages are also only accessible with the local cable cars or hiking, whereas others you can drive nearby. And, keep in mind that some villages are at a much higher elevation than others, where you can expect snow in winter!
So we hope this post helps narrow the choice down for those looking for a pretty Swiss village to visit. Each charming village shared below, with a special tale to tell, captures the spirit of Swiss tradition, culture, and community.
In no particular order, read on to see both our and other traveller recommendations on the most beautiful villages in Switzerland that you can visit.
Most Beautiful Villages In Switzerland – Top 18 Suggestions!
Captured below are 18 most beautiful villages in Switzerland, based on villages with a population under 6,000 as of 2023. They are shared in no special order, but we hope you enjoy reading about them all. So check them out and get inspired to add them all to your Swiss bucket list of travels.
Morcote
Canton: Ticino
For the very first most beautiful villages in Switzerland list, Morcote is worth your reading. It is specifically located on the lakeside of picturesque Lake Lugano. It is very close to the Italian border, however the lake separating the land in between. Morcote is situated just a short 25 minute drive (with car or public transport) from the main city of Lugano. With Lugano easily reachable with direct trains from Milan Malpensa airport or Zurich airport.
With many picturesque locations in Ticino Switzerland, the village of Morcote is worth your time visiting in July. Ticino is the sunniest canton of Switzerland, being so close to the Mediterranean, making it 28°c as daily average, and summer evenings dipping to an average of only 18°c.
Morcote has a rich history, with the 14th century Church of Santa Maria del Sasso as one of the highlights and photogenic points in the village. Morcote is best for many outdoor activities during July, such as to visit the local gardens, walking the lakeside promenade and of course stopping at a local restaurant for something Italian or Swiss to eat. Find a table at Osteria Portici on the terrace for some relaxation with good food. Morcote also has a few boutique shops for buying something local if you want to take something home with you.
From Morcote you can also explore more of the area with the local boat, which departs multiple times a day during the summer to locations such as to Melide, Lugano and Gandria. They ofter also a day ticket just to enjoy Ticino by lake.
We feel that it’s one of the top must-see most beautiful villages in Switzerland that you can visit in Ticino!
Travel tip: Take a cruise tour from Lugano – Lake Lugano Cruise to Morcote & Sightseeing
Ascona
Canton: Ticino
Ascona is a small village located in the canton of Ticino in southern Switzerland, known for its beautiful picturesque setting, warm Mediterranean climate, and cultural Swiss/Italian attractions. The local population is just under 6,000 and located 196 meters above sea level.
Ascona is officially one of the few Swiss villages on the water’s edge of Lake Maggiore. It is near to Locarno and easily reachable by car or public transportation when in the area from many other locations. The village has a Mediterranean-style architecture and has a beautiful 16th-century church in the village centre.
The village has a bit of everything, with local boutiques, hairdressers and the most delicious restaurants on the lake front. You can find a bit of everything here, with pizzas and pastas being the most popular dishes to order. It’s one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland that often get’s visited by those also staying on the border of Italy.
From Ascona you can also choose to hike up to a local viewpoint Balladrum or take a boat trip to the local botanical garden at Isole di Brissago, which is a stunning botanical island just a short ride away.
Interlaken
Canton: Bern
Welcome to Interlaken, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Switzerland. This picturesque village is where tranquility meets adventure. Embrace the charm of chalet-studded streets, framed by the dramatic backdrop of the Swiss Alps. Here, nature’s beauty is not a painting on a wall but a panorama in 360 degrees!
Explore the Harder Kulm, the local mountain offering a bird’s eye view of the village, and while you’re at it, dare to paraglide over the turquoise lakes, Thun and Brienz.
A stroll in the Höhematte Park promises serenity, and if you are lucky, a free concert played on an open-air Alpine horn.
Let the local cuisine tantalize your taste buds. Savor the traditional Swiss fondue or treat yourself to the sweet delight of Swiss chocolate at Schuh.
Interlaken might be small in size, but it is brimming with experiences that will leave you with memories and it’s just one step away from the majestic Jungfrau Peak and Grindelwald and Lauterbrunner valleys.
Get ready, pack your bags, and immerse yourself in the journey of a lifetime in Interlaken. You’ll soon discover why it’s one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland.
Contributed by Giorgy from G-Extreme Travel
Travel Tip: Experiene Interlaken with a Boat Day Pass on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz
Grimentz
Canton: Valais
Well, if you’re in search of the epitome of Swiss excellence, Grimentz should be at the top of your travel list. Tucked away in the remote Swiss Alps, this charming village shares the same canton as renowned destinations like Zermatt and Sion. However, despite its “close proximity”, Grimentz often remains undiscovered by many international tourists. Passing it by would certainly be a missed opportunity.
Why, you might ask? Indeed, while Grimentz may not boast an array of numerous attractions — save for a handful of notable ones, such as the historic Burgher House from 1550 at the heart of the village or the quaint Maison de Grand-Maman (Grandma’s House)— there’s something truly captivating about this place. Grimentz stands out as the epitome of charm and beauty, characterized by a profusion of “regular” yet captivating wooden houses adorned with vibrant geraniums adorning every corner. A leisurely stroll through Grimentz’s village center is a visual delight, a feast for the eyes. And, following a leisurely exploration of this picturesque village, the grandeur of the Moiry Glacier and Lake beckons, easily reachable from Grimentz.
Getting there might be time-consuming but whether you get there by car or by bus (Postauto) – it is a pleasant experience in itself – as you will drive through one of the prettiest roads in the country.
Contributed by Arzo from Arzo Travels
Corippo
Canton: Ticino
Have you ever wanted to visit one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland that has less than 10 inhabitants? The village of Corippo, located in the Ticino canton, is just that! With quaint little granite houses, a local historical church and plenty of surrounding nature, the village is possible to visit as well as sleep the night at. It is a perfect pitstop while on a local hike in the Verzasca valley too.
It is a charming little village that you can spot from the main road along the Verzasca valley, can be best visited with local transporation such as the public bus.
Since Corippo is such a small village, you may expect that there is not actually that much to see, but it is still rather special to see with your own eyes. The houses are very pretty for those who enjoy photography, especially during the Spring flowering seasons.
Many also like to visit Corippo while hiking in the area, which most people first visit the village before visiting the beautiful crystal clear waters on a hot Summers day. It’s truly a paradise location in Ticino!
Gandria
Canton: Ticino
Hidden a little around the corner from Lugano is a village called Gandria. This picturesque hidden gem is the perfect spot to explore little streets, tiny restaurants, shop in some local boutiques and more. There are no cars in the village, making it perfect for a peaceful day of exploration.
To get there, you can choose to walk along the lakeside from Lugano, which takes around 1 hour when its not too busy. It is called the Gandria Trail, also known as the Olive Path. This is a very beautiful route between Lugano and Gandria along the waters edge and olive trees. It takes a total of 1 hour from Lugano city.
Else you can consider arriving by boat, with the larger touristic Lugano boats stopping in Gandria while sailing on the lake. You can buy tickets at the docking area in Lugano at the main boat area or also visit Gandria from other lakeside locations such as Paradiso, Melide and Morcote.
There are surprisingly many little restaurants in Gandria, all with something delicious on the menu. On quiet days it is easy to find a table at one of them for food, else we recommend booking in advance on the busier weekend days. Many restaurants have a view of the lake side, which is gorgeous to sit and enjoy. If you don’t fancy any food, it’s worth stopping for at least a coffee!
When in Lugano, make sure to visit this most beautiful villages in Switzerland location!
Mürren
Canton: Bern
The village of Mürren is a special little hamlet in the Bernese highlands. Located about 300 meters above the Lauterbrunnen valley on a cliff, at 1650 meters altitude, it is known for its unparalleled views of the mountain trio.
People from all over the world come to see the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau summits in Mürren. Besides, the village of 400 souls is completely car-free, and it can only be accessed via cable car or mountain train.
The James Bond movie, “On her Majesty’s Secret Service”, further popularized Mürren and mount Schilthorn, which is better known as Piz Gloria (cable car tickets here!) in the movie. A trip to the Schilthorn summit comes with a 360 degrees panoramic view of the Bernese alps.
Foremost, visitors should definitely take a relaxed stroll around the village, but most people come for the green pastures and hiking views. The choice is great with special themed trails, for adults and kids alike, that come in various difficulty degrees.
Adventure sports such as paragliding and the via ferrata are immensely popular as well. Yet, the dazzling views will certainly enthrall and are the highlight of a magical trip to Mürren.
Contributed by Paul D’Souza of Paulmarina
Foroglio
Canton: Ticino
To explore a pretty village in the Ticino canton of Switzerland, make your way to the idyllic stone-housed village of Foroglio. This fairytale like village is home to only around 35 houses and is part of the Bavona valley. With it’s cobblestoned pathways and flowery gardens, it’s definitely one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland you should visit.
To visit Foroglio, it’s best to take either a car or the local public bus. There is one main road leading all the way to the village from Locarno and Ascona, so its not hard to find. There is also plenty of parking near the village, as this is also the main starting point for many local hiking routes.
The summery highlight of visiting the village is seeing the Foroglio waterfall, where you can dip in your toes to the fresh mountainous waters or take a full blown swim during Summer temperatures. You will often find locals here relaxing, as well as those walking their dogs for a splash of fun. After the waterfall visit, head to the grotto La Froda restaurant for a local bite to eat. It’s a small place, like everything else, but deliciously served meals as well as plenty of drink choices.
For an additional highlight, take the small pathway East of the Foroglio waterfall and hike up. There are a few more houses situated at the top, with this small housing area being extremely picturesque. Perfect for those who enjoy photography as a hobby. Keep in mind to have suitable walking shoes for some local hiking here, as it can be a little muddy based on the season you visit.
Zermatt
Canton: Valais
Located in the Valais canton, the village of Zermatt is a magical and popular destination in Switzerland
Zermatt as a village is very special, with the main streets and village area being completely car free. So if you are staying in a hotel here, it’s often that they have a little buggy that you can get picked up with only.
Zermatt, as you may know is a famous village to visit due to The Matterhorn. The impressive mountain with a silhouette of the triangle once shown on all chocolate toblerone packaging. The peak reaches 4,478 metres (14,692 feet) and borders with Italy.
Although you cannot actually be standing right on top peak of the Matterhorn, you can choose a few options around it. For example, you can book a helicopter flight from Zermatt village directly to see the mountain from above. The best option is to visit the Klein Matterhorn, where the beautiful blue and black ski lift takes you to the Matterhorn Glacier Express.
We visited Zermatt during winter, with most restaurants and facilities opening up for the season. This was a great period to visit the village as it was not too touristic but still very enjoyable with plenty of restaurant choices. The main ski lift and the Gornergrat train was also fully open and bookable in advance.
Check our personal recommendation for a place to stay with the most stunning Matterhorn mountain view!
Sonogno
Canton: Ticino
It is located at the end of the Valle Verzasca valley, which you should spend at least a day exploring, can you find the charming village of Sonogno.
The village is home to under 100 residents and one of the most peaceful, picturesque locations in Ticino. The village has mostly stone houses and typical alleys filled with the most colourful flowers. You definitely don’t want to rush your visit when walking and exploring the cobblestoned pathways.
It is part of the municipality in the district of Locarno, which is only a 50 minute car ride away. Once arrived, there is ample paid parking available, so keep this in mind on busy days that it might be best to visit with the local bus.
A special highlight in Sonogno is the marvelous waterfall, which is just a short walking journey along the pathways. The waterfall, called Cascata La Froda, is easily reachable and definitely a waterfall you should visit with friends, loved ones and children!
We have personally been many times, and it’s always a delight to visit regardless of the weather.
Bettmeralp
Canton: Valais
Bettmeralp, nestled in the picturesque Valais region of Switzerland, is an enchanting village to visit, whatever the season. This Alpine gem, high amongst the clouds, is accessible only by cable car. This means it’s car-free and family friendly.
During the warmer months, Bettmeralp is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts, with a range of hiking trails and circular routes to explore. What’s more, Bettmeralp is located within the Aletsch Arena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to Europe’s largest glacier.
At the heart of the village sits the beautiful Lake Bettmersee. The perfect spot for fishing or a taking a picnic on its shores with incredible panoramic mountain views.
For families, the village offers mini-golf and an indoor swimming pool complete with slide, for extra fun. And for the more adventurous, Bettmeralp boasts Switzerland’s highest ropes park, perched at nearly 2000 meters above sea level. With a heart-pounding 200-meter zip wire and a range of rope skill courses for all age levels.
Come winter, the village dons its snowy blanket and Bettmeralp transforms into a bustling ski resort. A winter wonderland where skiers and snowboarders carve their paths down snow laden slopes, and little kids toboggan down nursery slopes.
Whether summer or winter, this Alpine paradise is worth popping onto any Swiss itinerary.
Contributed by Shelley from Lifejourney4two
Travel Tip: Book in advance to see the Aletsch Glacier – Round-trip with Cable Car
Lauterbrunnen
Canton: Bern
Lauterbrunnen is an astonishingly pretty village in a valley at the foot of the Bernese Alps. It is easily one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland, with its quaint wooden chalets, traditional church and spectacular mountain scenery. And to top it all off, there’s a graceful waterfall cascading down the cliffs next to it!
Even if you’re only in Lauterbrunnen for one day, there’s plenty to delight you.
One of the best things to do in Lauterbrunnen is simply enjoying the scenic viewpoints around the village. Perhaps the most classic view is of the church framed by both steep mountains and Staubbach Falls.
If you want to do something active, there are several hiking and cycling routes around the valley. And there are some amazing views if you take one of the cable cars or cog railways up to one of the nearby mountainside villages, such as Mürren or Wengen.
Finally, from Lauterbrunnen, it’s possible to make the scenic train journey to Jungfraujoch, which, at 3463 meters above sea level, is the highest railway station in Europe. The views here are epic: a panorama of snowy peaks and the longest glacier in the Alps, Aletsch Glacier.
Oh and there’s plenty of hearty Swiss food available in the village, too. Enjoy your visit to picture-perfect Lauterbrunnen!
Contributed by Martha from MayCauseWanderlust.com
Travel Tip: Take a Lauterbrunnen Valley Waterfalls Day Tour
Grindelwald
Canton: Bern
Another beautiful small village in Switzerland that also happens to be quite a crowd favourite is Grindelwald! This enchanting village beckons visitors from around the world with its breathtaking views of the mountains that make up the Jungfrau region and is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers!
If you’re an avid hiker, there are plenty of trails ranging from beginner to expert that provide stunning views of the Swiss Alps. A popular hike to do is up the mountainside to reach the Grindelwald-First area. This hike takes 3-4 hours to complete but is filled with gorgeous views. You’ll likely see a bunch of people soaring high above with their paragliders and pass by a few friendly cows!
Once you’re in the Grindelwald first area, there are lots of activities to do, such as mountain carting and riding a trottibike! And if you get hungry, there’s a nice restaurant on top with unbelievable views of the surrounding mountains. But, beware, the food is quite expensive!
In addition, during the wintertime, Grindelwald becomes an absolute winter wonderland and a premier destination for those looking to ski and snowboard. So, if you’re looking for a wonderful village to explore in Switzerland, consider Grindelwald!
Contributed by Kristin of Global Travel Escapades
Travel Tip: Buy in advance your Glacier Canyon Entrance Tickets
Iseltwald
Canton: Bern
Located along Lake Brienz in Switzerland, Iseltwald is one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland that is often visited as part of the ferry tour along Brienz Lake.
This quiet spot gained international attention after the South Korean series “Crash Landing on You” filmed an iconic scene in Iseltwald, spurring an uptick in international tourism.
Iseltwald is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. There are numerous hiking trails that lead through the Swiss Alps, offering panoramic views of the lake and mountains. A popular hiking destination is the Giessbach Falls, which can be reached by a picturesque trail along the lake from Iseltwald in just one hour.
The falls cascade down a steep hillside in a series of steps, surrounded by lush greenery, and make for a perfect mix of exercise and adventure, as you get to climb to the overlook on top of the waterfalls via a steep winding trail.
If you want to learn more about Swiss culture, consider a visit to Swiss Open-Air Museum Ballenberg which is a bit further from Iseltwald, but it’s worth a visit if you’re interested in Swiss history. It’s an open-air museum that showcases traditional Swiss buildings, crafts, and lifestyle from different regions and eras.
Since Iseltwald is often visited along with other destinations along Lake Brienz, plan enough time, so you could take an early morning ferry and check out Interlaken, Brienz and Thun.
Contributed by Daria from The Discovery Nut
Leysin
Canton: Vaud
Leysin is an alpine resort village located in the Canton of Vaud in Switzerland and is definitely a gorgeous village in Switzerland. It is located in the district of Aigle and is located around 40 mins away from the Montreux and around 45 mins away from Gstaad.
The drive to the village itself is a beautiful drive filled with gorgeous views of the Swiss alps. The village is located at the foot of the Rhone Alps. The easiest way to get there is by car since it is comparatively more remote. However, you can also take a local train to reach here from the nearby hamlet of Aigle.
During summer, there are numerous hiking trails all around the village and you will be spoilt for choices. Additionally, you can choose the many cycling routes as well. Many mountaineers come to climb the many hills around the village.
During winter, Leysin becomes a popular ski destination and is filled with many snow related activities. Glacier 3000, another famous tourist spot for skiers is just 20 mins away from Leysin by car.
Since it is a remote village, one of our favourite things to do was to chill in our Swiss chalet with a gorgeous view.
Contributed by Soumya at Travel, Books & Food
Travel Tip: If visiting Montreux for a day, book in advance a 2-Hour Riviera Cruise!
Château-d’Oex
Canton: Vaud
The idyllic village of Chateau-d’Oex Switzerland in the Alps Pays-d’Enhaut region is home to a variety of things to do and see for tourists for a trip. Chateau-d’Oex offers something for everyone, whether you want to hit the slopes for some local skiing and snowboarding, wanting to take in the breathtaking alpine landscape, or learn more about the town’s fascinating past and present.
Chateau-d’Oex has a population of around 3,800 people, located in the Pays-d’Enhaut region of the Swiss Alps. This is part of the Vaud canton in Switzerland, not far from the bigger city of Montreux.
It’s possible to reach the village by train, car and local bus. The most enjoyable is by GoldenPass Panoramic train in our opinion, as its a beautiful route through the valley. This train type from Montreux to Chateau-d’Oex has panoramic windows and comfortable seats.
One of the biggest events that happens in Chateau-d’Oex is the annual Festival International de Ballons. It is an event that takes place every January for around 10 days long. This event has hot air balloons of all shapes, colours and sizes, which is pretty cool to see in person. You can even book a flight in a hot air balloon for yourself.
Lungern
Canton: Obwalden
Imagine a place where time seems to stand still, where the air is crisp, and every view looks like a postcard. That’s Lungern for you. Tucked away amidst the Swiss Alps, this village is a tapestry of emerald meadows, traditional chalets, and a lake that sparkles like a gem. It’s a great stopover on your way to Lucerne from Interlaken.
The sheer beauty of Lungern is its biggest draw. The village is set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, with the serene Lungernsee lake at its heart. On a calm day, the lake mirrors the sky, mountains, and chalets, creating a scene that’s nothing short of magical.
The calm waters of the lake are perfect for a leisurely boat ride. As you row, the world seems to fade away, leaving just you, the water, and the mountains.
Don your hiking boots and explore the myriad trails around Lungern. Each path offers a new perspective of the village, whether it’s a panoramic view from a hilltop or a close encounter with local flora and fauna.
Lungern has a rich cultural tapestry. If you’re lucky, you might catch a local festival or celebration. The music, dance, and food offer a glimpse into the village’s traditions and way of life.
While in Lungern, try the local cheese. Made from the milk of cows that graze in alpine meadows, it’s creamy, delicious, and tastes of the mountains.
In a world that’s always in a hurry, Lungern is a reminder of the simple joys of life. It’s not just a place, but an experience, waiting to be savored.
Contributed by Sarah at Travelosio
Chatel St Denis
Canton: Fribourg
Chatel St Denis is one of my favourite places in all of Switzerland, located in the district of Veveyse, in the canton of Fribourg in Switzerland. It is a stunningly beautiful town tucked away in the Swiss mountains, perfectly quaint and picturesque and any time of year is the perfect time to visit.
In spring, there are gorgeous flower blooms, summer is great for hiking, in autumn the resplendent gold hues emerge and in winter it is great for skiing and snow shoeing nearby.
This beautiful village is a bit quieter and is perfect for some winter adventure sports; snow shoeing, skiing, snowboarding, cliff walking and sledding. In winter, the Swiss hospitality is renowned for its peaceful retreats, quaint wooden chalets covered in thick snow, reminiscent of gingerbread houses and warm mugs of tea, coffee or hot chocolate.
In summer, it’s equally as beautiful with the stunning views of Geneva lake and hiking is a favourite past time; every vista is stunning! Make sure you walk into town each night for a dinner of cheese fondue, or try some of the famous raclette dinners made with Swiss Alpine cheese and red wine; it’s delicious.
To see also a charming village on the French-Swiss border, have a look at Adriana’s Colmar post!
Contributed by Adriana at Wanderlicious
Travel Tip: If visiting Fribourg – take a tasting Swiss City Self-Guided Food Tour!
Are you inspired to visit one of these most beautiful villages in Switzerland? We sure are and have added some of these on our Switzerland bucket list!
If you’ve been to a Swiss village under 6,000 population that is not listed here, reach out and we’ll happily include you in our post!
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