There are few places in the world that have captured the attention of tourists as much as the European countryside. Romantic in films, books and shows, the charms of the European countryside have captured the imagination of all travellers. While Ireland and England offer breathtaking scenery, Switzerland is home to some of the world's most picturesque villages. Nestled deep in the Alps and surrounding valleys, these beautiful Swiss villages offer tourists the chance to relax and experience local life and culture.
It's true that Switzerland's elegant towns are very admirable. Most tourists are so captivated by the allure of Zurich, Lucerne and Geneva that they hardly venture into the rustic Swiss countryside. If you're planning a holiday in Switzerland, be sure to visit some of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland. Here's a list of the best villages in Switzerland to choose from for your next holiday:
1. Grindelwald
Considered one of Switzerland's oldest seaside resorts, Grindelwald has been welcoming visitors since the 19th century. Surrounded by a number of mountains and glaciers, you have to visit this beauty to see and believe. Although there are many activities in the area, such as hiking, trekking, skiing and mountain biking; it is the Flying Fox Ride that is a must. The First Flyer at First Summit offers a Flying Fox Ride zip line that is the ultimate adventure. You can also hike around the Bachalpsee lake around Grindelwald for breathtaking views. And while you're here, don't forget to explore the town in the evening, when everything is lit up by the backdrop of the immense Alpine range. This makes Grindelwald one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland.
How to get to Grindelwald:
By plane: Zurich-Kloten is the nearest international airport to Grindelwald. It takes around 2.5 hours to reach Grindelwald from Zurich airport by car and 3 hours by train.
By train: To get to Grindelwald, you must first arrive at Interlaken Ost. There you can change to the BOB train to Grindelwald.
By road: Take the A6 or A8 motorway to Interlaken. Exit at Wilderswil and follow the main road towards Grindelwald.
2. Wengen
Wengen is a beautiful Swiss village at the foot of the Jungfrau mountain. This small town offers breathtaking views, friendly locals, delicious food and access to the most beautiful natural wonders. There's plenty to do while you're in Wengen. Although there are many ski resorts you can visit, Wengen is very popular for hiking. You can hike through the green hills in spring or admire the valley from different vantage points in autumn. You can also enjoy skiing and other adventure sports in winter. Wengen is therefore an ideal year-round destination and one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland.
How to get to Wengen:
The only way to reach Wengen is by train. First you have to reach Lauterbrunnen, from where you can take the cogwheel train to Wengen.
3. Guarda
Guarda is one of Switzerland's most beautiful villages. During the summer months, you can visit the village and hike up to the famous Piz Buin. In addition, there are many hikes to be made around Guarda. The day can be spent hiking, but you can also spend the evening strolling around one of the cafés here. It's during the winters that the villages are transformed into a wonderland. Activities such as toboggan runs, ice rinks and cross-country ski routes are available to keep visitors entertained. You can go skiing or ice skating here. This makes Guarda one of the best villages in Switzerland that is also of great national importance.
How to get to Guarda:
Guarda can be reached from Zurich by road. The journey takes around 2 hours 30 minutes and covers a scenic route of 166 km. Another popular way to reach Guarda is via St. Moritz. You can take a bus, train or road to Guarda from St. Moritz. The journey from St. Moritz to Guarda takes about an hour.
4. Morcote
If you want to visit a beautiful Swiss village rich in history and culture, Morcote is the ideal option. Morcote is home to some of the most remarkable architectural wonders. Some of these are highly listed Swiss heritage sites of national importance. Among these, some of the places not to be missed are the ornate church of Sant'Antonio Abate, which is a beautiful old church. In addition, there is an Egyptian temple with ancient architecture to admire with the number of Greek sculptures. Morcote is like travelling back in time. With all the age-old structures and beautiful houses, you'll also meet some of the hottest people here. Morcote is thus on the list of Swiss villages rich in beauty, history and culture.
How to get to Morcote:
The best way to reach Morcote is to first reach the nearby town of Lugano. Morcote is a 25-minute drive away.
5. Interlaken
Situated between two crystal clear lakes, Interlaken is a perfect place for those seeking peace and adventure. Interlaken offers the perfect combination of relaxation and different adventure activities. You can spend all day looking at the beautiful landscape with areas of lush greenery, small houses with elegant architecture and large hotels and ski resorts. If you feel like going on an adventure, you must visit the adventure park here, which offers rafting, water sports, paragliding and much more. What's more, skiing is very popular here as you can ski down looking at the majestic Alps. Interlaken is without doubt one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland.
How to get to Interlaken:
Interlaken is one of the most easily accessible Swiss villages. The nearest airport to Interlaken is Berne airport. From Berne airport, it takes around 45 minutes to reach Interlaken by road and an hour and a half by train. You can even reach the beautiful Swiss village of Zurich. The train journey from Zurich to Interlaken takes around two and a half hours. Get more information on how to reach Interlaken here.
6. Andermatt
Located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Andermatt is a picturesque village that will keep you coming back for more. Some of the most popular activities you can enjoy here are hiking, mountain biking, climbing and fishing. The village offers some of the most spectacular views of the Alps. Andermatt is also where you can catch the world's slowest express train, the Glacial Express. This express will take you through picturesque villages and superb panoramas to Zermatt. This makes Andermatt one of Switzerland's most beautiful villages, not to be missed.
How to get to Andermatt:
Andermatt is another spectacular and easily accessible Swiss village. Located in the heart of Switzerland, Andermatt is accessible by car, train and plane.
By road: The nearest town to Andermatt is Lucerne. Take the one-hour drive from Lucerne to Andermatt. (Zurich to Andermatt: 1h30; Lugano to Andermatt: 1h30; Milan to Andermatt: 2h20).
By train: many trains from all over Switzerland stop at Andermatt station. The Glacier Express, world-famous for its picturesque route, stops in Andermatt several times a day.
By plane: The nearest airport to Andermatt is Buochs, 45 minutes away. Zurich airport is an hour and a half from Andermatt.
7. Lauterbrunnen
Easily one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland, Lauterbrunnen is truly remarkable for its natural beauty and the number of activities it offers. Located in the Swiss Alps commune of Lauterbrunnen, it offers visitors some of the most spectacular views of the mountains and numerous waterfalls. This picturesque Swiss village is very popular for its waterfalls, with over 72 cascades in the surrounding area.
Among them are the most beautiful waterfalls in Staubbach, culminating at 300 metres. You can see from the town and adds to the beauty. While you're here, you can also take the cable car from the village of Stechelberg to the Schilthorn mountain while admiring the view of the Bernese Alps. What's more, there are plenty of activities for you to enjoy. Thich include skiing, hiking and adventure sports. So Lauterbrunnen is on the list of Swiss villages you must visit.
How to get to Lauterbrunnen:
Lauterbrunnen can be reached by road and rail. The quickest way to reach this picturesque Swiss village from Interlaken is by train. The train journey takes around 20 minutes to reach Lauterbrunnen.
8. Gimmelwald
Located in the Swiss Alps, Gimmelwald is one of Switzerland's most beautiful villages. As Gimmelwald lies at the bottom of the Lauterbrunnen valley, there are only two ways to reach this little hamlet. One is by hiking through the beautiful valley and the other is by cable car. The whole village has a vibrant atmosphere with small colourful houses. The slow pace of life, the beautiful scenery and the warmth of the people make Gimmelwald a dream. This makes Gimmelwald easily one of the most beautiful villages near Zurich in Switzerland.
How to get to Gimmelwald:
The quickest way to Interlaken-Gimmelwald (Duration: 55 minutes)Take the Interlaken-Lauterbrunnen train from Interlaken Ost station (Duration: 20 minutes).
Get off at Lauterbrunnen and take a bus to Stechelberg (duration: 12 minutes). Alternatively, you can choose to take an hour-and-a-half panoramic walk from Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg.
At Stechelberg, you'll find the cable car that will take you to Gimmelwald.
9. Spiez
Imagine a beautiful little town by a lake with a majestic castle at its centre. Yes, Spiez is the perfect example of a small town on the shores of Lake Thun with a beautiful castle at its centre. The village offers spectacular views of the mountains, while you can stroll around the lake. You can also take a boat trip on the lake to witness the natural beauty of the surroundings. The village also boasts some of the finest vineyards, breathtaking scenery, an old church and a castle. And while you're here, don't forget to visit Spiez's 1000-year-old castle church. So Spiez is one of the beautiful villages you should visit near Zurich.
How to get to Spiez:
Spiez serves as a major railway junction. Trains from all over the country stop here.
10. Crans-Montana
The two neighbouring towns of Crans and Montana are often seen as one and regarded as one of the most popular and sought-after resorts in the Valais Alps. You can admire the natural beauty around the town, with the majestic Alps, the surrounding houses and the famous Mont Blanc as a backdrop.
These towns also have several lakes where you can swim and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds them. In addition, there are numerous hiking trails that will take you to a higher vantage point from where you can admire the views of Crans-Montana and the Swiss Alps. If you like golf, the town has an 18-hole golf course right in the centre, surrounded by magnificent views. And while you're here, don't forget to wander the beautiful streets, which exude a lively atmosphere, delicious cuisine and invigorating mountain air. Crans-Montana is easily one of Switzerland's most beautiful villages.
How to get to Crans-Montana
Crans-Montana is accessible by air, road and rail. Geneva and Bern are the nearest towns to this picturesque Swiss village. From Geneva, it takes around 2 hours to reach Crans-Montana by road and 3 hours by train.
11. Avenches
Avenches, the capital of Switzerland in Roman times, is an interesting little town to visit just off the A1 motorway between Lausanne and Bern. The town is particularly famous for its Roman amphitheatre, which is still frequently used for operas, rock festivals and other shows. The medieval tower next to the amphitheatre houses an interesting Roman museum, while many other Roman ruins can be visited next to the modern town. The most important medieval building in Avenches is the castle, which was rebuilt during the Renaissance, but several watchtowers and other buildings have survived to the present day.
The Avenches area is relatively flat - with views of the Alps and the Jura mountains - making it very popular with cyclists and hikers. Many routes are available from here to Lake Neuchâtel.
How to get to Avenches
Avenches is strategically located on the main road to the Lake Geneva region. Switzerland's most important motorway, the A1 from Geneva to St. Gallen via Lausanne, Bern and Zurich, always passes within sight of the old town. Avenches is therefore a very quick drive from Geneva (1h15), Lausanne (1h) or Bern (0h40) on the A1 motorway. From Lausanne, a very pleasant option is the N1 (E25), a smaller but more direct road running parallel to the A1, through beautiful countryside.
Getting to Avenches from Lausanne by public transport takes about 90 minutes (change trains at Payerne or change to a bus at Fribourg). From Bern to Avenches takes just over an hour - changing trains at Murten is usually the best option.
12. Bursins
Burins is close to the cities of Geneva and Lausanne. It is a charming little village with rolling vineyards, beautiful views and picturesque architecture. It lies in the middle of the Côte vineyards along the coast between Rolle and Gland. It also faces Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc. A holiday with the aim of quiet, serene contemplation and a peaceful environment will be well spent here. As well as the various footpaths along which you can discover the beauty of the village and surrounding mountains, Bursins is also famous for its historic buildings. The Swiss church of Saint-Martin and the Vinzel tile factory are both part of Switzerland's heritage of national importance and are important elements of the village's heritage.
How to get to Bursins
Bursins can be reached by bus on lines 820 and 835.
13. Dardagny
Dardagny lies on the western edge of the Mandement wine-growing region, and vine-growing plays an important role in the village's economy. The area under vines even doubled in the second half of the 20th century.
The wine-growing village of Dardagny is situated on a vast plateau overlooking the unspoilt valley of the River Allondon to the west. For centuries, the surrounding topography has favoured the cultivation of vines on the best-facing slopes.
How to get to Dardagny
The village can be reached from Geneva by train to Russin, then by bus to La plaine station (SI5) and another bus to Dardagny (74 and 75).
The SI5 bus is also a way of getting to Dardagny from Geneva.
14. Evolène
Evolène is the fourth-largest municipality in Switzerland in terms of surface area. Its territory offers a vast choice of activities for everyone.
In winter, the mountain panorama is breathtaking under its blanket of snow. More than 100 km of downhill ski runs, for all categories of skier, are meticulously groomed. Snowshoeing and helicopter skiing excursions with mountain guides are also available. Two of the best cross-country skiing circuits in the Central Valais await you amid magnificent scenery, two natural ice rinks are very popular, or try your hand at climbing frozen waterfalls. Our weekly programme of activities can include torchlight and moonlight skiing or a helicopter flight.
Among the splendid Alpine peaks is the Dent Blanche, with over 250km of clearly marked paths and trails, as well as 100km of mountain bike trails. Tennis, trout fishing, a fitness circuit or, for the more adventurous, the brand-new Via Ferrata, mountaineering school, paragliding and paintball are all available. Numerous cultural activities are also organised - visits to the Evolène museum, themed guided excursions (geology, glaciology, flora and fauna) and evening concerts, to name but a few.
15. Grandson
A visit to the old town of Grandson is well worth your while. The church, the tower, the fountains and the narrow streets lined with extraordinary facades make it a place truly weathered by time. For guided walks, stop off at the Maison des Terroirs tourist office (open daily from 11am to 6pm). This lakeside village in the canton of Vaud has a long history. It is said that in 1066 a member of the Grandson family accompanied William of Normandy (better known as William the Conqueror) to England, where he founded the English barony of Grandson. Otton I de Grandson took part in the Crusades.
16. Grimentz
A shining example of a typical regional village, Grimentz is a cultural gem. Wandering through its streets and alleys of colourful geraniums, you can't help but be plunged back in time. Grimentz will share its heritage with you in all simplicity through visits, discussions and even chance encounters.
Grimentz has an abundance of natural and cultural treasures, and has made good use of them to offer its guests a wide range of activities: winter sports, mountain walks, sports activities, via ferrata, a visit to the Moiry dam... But above all, Grimentz is a delight for all those who want to rediscover the atmosphere of yesteryear, who are enchanted by the centuries-old buildings, those who like to combine a cultural break with their sports holiday, and those who see their holiday as a source of well-being for body and mind.
17. Gruyères
The picturesque historic town of Gruyères, in Switzerland, sits atop a hill with a breathtaking view over the Saane valley. The sloping hillsides of the surrounding valley envelop the town in soothing shades of blue and green, with wild greenery at every turn.
Popular things to do in Gruyères include sampling the excellent cuisine on offer, including Cailler Swiss chocolate on a visit to the Maison Cailler chocolate factory, visiting unique museums such as the HR Giger Museum Bar and the Tibet Museum Gruyères.
Thanks to its beautiful location, there are also plenty of activities for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts such as hiking in the Gorges de la Jogne and skiing at Le Moléson.
18. La Neuveville
The gateway to the Bernese Jura, between Neuchâtel to the west and Biel to the east, La Neuveville, with its 4,000 inhabitants, has much to be proud of. The town perfectly combines relaxation, culture, gastronomy and active leisure activities.
The shores of Lake Biel offer plenty of opportunities for water-based activities. Those looking to walk or swim will enjoy the shoreline around St-Joux with its various picnic areas, while those looking to be more active can hire pedalos, canoes or kayaks. La Neuveville is also the starting point for a wonderful boat trip to Ile St-Pierre, where the renowned writer Jean-Jacques Rousseau stayed.
With the Tour Rouge (or clock tower) to the north, the Tour de Rive, the southern gateway, and the famous Tour Carrée, which was to have been the site of a basilica, a project that never saw the light of day due to the Reformation, La Neuveville is distinguished by its medieval past and its charming character, still present in the town's cobbled streets.
Visitors to La Neuveville can also linger on sunny terraces, where they can sample the town's finest wines. With its many vineyards, La Neuveville is home to no fewer than 10 winemakers, who produce different types of white, red and rosé wines (including the famous Œil-de-perdrix).
Last but not least, La Neuveville is the ideal starting point for beautiful walks. Whether you want to discover the Balade de la Sorcière and the refreshing Cascade du Pilouvi, admire the panorama of Lake Biel along the Chemin des Vignes or climb the Chasseral, the highest peak in the region at an altitude of 1606 metres, there's something for everyone.
19. Porrentruy
Situated close to the French border, Porrentruy is the second largest town in the canton of Jura. The old town, home to bourgeois houses in the Aaroque, Gothic and neoclassical styles, is well worth a visit. Large fountains such as the Samaritan Fountain (1564) and the Swiss Fountain (1518) are interspersed between the houses. The Porte de France, built in 1563, is a vestige of the town's medieval fortifications.
The churches of Saint Pierre (14th century) and Saint Germain (13th century) contain rare side altars and church treasures. The oldest part of the castle dates back to 1271. The castle overlooks the town and was the residence of the prince-bishops of Basel from 1527 to 1792.
The stained glass windows of the Jura: an artistic phenomenon unique in Europe. With their nearly sixty churches and chapels, the people of the canton of Jura have created a lively, open museum of modern art in less than half a century. It is the largest concentration of stained glass in a relatively small region of Europe. Great masters - French, Swiss and residents of the Jura cantons - created these works.
20. Romainmôtier
Romainmôtier is a village not to be missed, as much for its prestigious monuments as for its magnificently preserved natural environment, much appreciated by hikers. Nestling on the slopes of the Jura mountains and crossed by the River Nozon, this small medieval village is best explored on foot. Its picturesque narrow streets offer superb views of the ochre and yellow roofs below. The contrast is even more striking from the top of the Belvédère de Forel or from the route des Juriens.
The thousand-year-old abbey church gives rhythm to the whole village. This church is a Cluniac site and the oldest Romanesque building in Switzerland. It is a unique site, whose fortified enclosure has partially survived and whose remains make it easy to imagine the grandeur of the former monastery.
The walk invariably ends on the "Place du Bourg" for a tasting of the famous local beer or at the "Maison du Prieur" opposite the Clock Tower, where home-made pies are on offer.
21. Saillon
As soon as you reach the town, you'll be struck by its fabulous past: Neolithic, Roman and medieval, with a thousand-year-old turret that seems to have remained unaltered by time.
Today, Saillon attracts more visitors than ever because of its authenticity, its wines, its fruit, its hot springs, its medieval festivals, its craftsmen and, of course, Farinet, the beloved bandit to whom an entire museum is dedicated. It is also home to what is believed to be the world's smallest vineyard.
22. Saint-Saphorin
Rated one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland, Saint-Saphorin is a wine-growing village on the steep slopes of the Lavaux vineyards. Its winding cobbled streets, narrow passageways and church are just waiting to be explored.
23. Saint-Ursanne
There's something dark and quirky about the Jura, Switzerland's 26th and youngest canton. Situated in a remote corner of the deep, wooded Doubs valley on the French border, the town of Saint-Ursanne embodies some of the canton's surprising remoteness and offers a glimpse of a medieval village untouched by modernity.
Legend has it that the village, perched on the banks of the Doubs, was founded by the 7th-century Irish monk Ursicinus, who was banished from Burgundy and became a hermit here. Arriving visitors must first cross the four-arched bridge over the Doubs before discovering the town's medieval buildings, including 14th-century half-timbered town houses and a 12th-century collegiate church. Climb the 190 steps to reach the Saint-Ursicinus hermitage or set off on a short signposted walk to the castle ruins and the Doubs nature park.
24. Valangin
After crossing the Seyon gorges, which often emerge from the mist of the Costa, motorists, whether passing through or familiar with the region, are greeted by the imposing and majestic Château de Valangin. As the gateway to Val-de-Ruz from Neuchâtel, our village has often been described as a "hole". But you have to live here to discover the charm of this place, surrounded by forests, lulled by the murmur of the Seyon and Sorghum, protected from the winds by the surrounding hills; Valangin breathes calm, good air, spared the heat of the city in summer and the fog in winter.
Enchanting footpaths, including the "Voie Révolutionnaire", take you through the forest to Valangin from Neuchâtel, Peseux or the old villages of Val-de-Ruz. A place to relax and picnic awaits hikers at the entrance to the forest towards Fenin. The famous Gibet, which in the days of the Lords of Valangin was used to hang hooligans and courtiers in a hurry to be with their wives, offers a breathtaking view of Lake Neuchâtel.
The village, which harmoniously blends a rich historical past with the 21st century, currently has a population of 505, several small buildings have been created and the population is growing year on year. With a surface area of 376 hectares, much of it forested, Valangin is not an agricultural village, with only four farms. Sawmills and Indian industry were the main activities in the early 20th century until 2007, when the last remaining sawmill closed.
25. Yvorne
The many facets of Yvorne, its rich built heritage and its unspoilt rural setting have helped to earn the commune a place among Switzerland's most beautiful villages.
Born of a wine-growing tradition and brought back to life after a natural disaster, Yvorne is a miracle of nature. Destroyed in 1584 by a rock avalanche, the village was rebuilt a few metres further on, leaving behind the rubble site where the internationally-renowned vineyard now stands. Situated on a promontory, the Château de Maison-Blanche stands like a glittering lighthouse in a sea of vegetation where farmland, vines, forests and pastures blend in gentle harmony.
Yvorne's history and identity are best appreciated from the Rhône plain. In the foreground, pretty, colourful winegrowers' houses. A few metres higher up, the church stands proudly amidst the vines. This noble fruit is everywhere: magnified on the local coat of arms, vinified in the basement of the administrative building and showcased in a museum in the nearby Château d'Aigle. Because here, in the heart of the Chablais vaudois between the Alps and Lake Geneva, the grape is king!
26. Aarburg
Aarberg is an island village. It's a historic jewel in the middle of the lower Aare. It is also one of the most authentic and fascinating villages in Switzerland. With its old town, superb views and fantastic shops, Aarberg offers a wide range of leisure activities. Aarberg is linked to the shore by two bridges. These make it easy to walk to the famous Puce market and other open-air markets.
27. Albinen
The village of Albinen lies on the sunniest side of the Rhône valley. This mountain village is considered one of the most beautiful in the Valais. The famous Leukerbad thermal springs are around six kilometres away. Albinen is a peaceful and tranquil village. Here you can breathe in the fresh mountain air while feasting your eyes on the spectacular views. It's an excellent holiday destination in Switzerland.
28. Büren an der Aare
Only a few medieval villages have been able to preserve their historic appearance as perfectly over the centuries as Büren an der Aare. There's plenty to see here, including fascinating handicrafts in various workshops or a guided tour that will show you the many beautiful facets of this small town.
29. Diessenhofen
Schaffhausen may not be high on the list of places to visit on a trip to Switzerland. But it absolutely should be.
This small, historic town in northern Switzerland has plenty of charm and a surprising amount of attractions. With Renaissance architecture, a beautiful riverside location, proximity to Switzerland's largest waterfall and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Schaffhausen can even be a wonderful introduction on your first trip to Switzerland.
30. Ernen
The municipality of Ernen is located in the Goms region of the canton of Valais (Wallis in German), in south-western Switzerland. You may think it's remote, but it's easily accessible thanks to the country's efficient transport system. It's just two hours by train from Berne.
Ernen (population 530) is anchored by a beautiful 18th century baroque church, as well as a central square which contains the tourist office where free brochures and maps are available.
You can easily spend half a day exploring Ernen, and staying overnight allows for more in-depth exploration of the whole Binn valley. If you're short on time, a quick tour can be done in as little as an hour.
Ernen's pleasant village square is packed with historic buildings: the Tellenhaus (1576) is adorned with Switzerland's oldest William Tell fresco, the St. Georg tavern (1535) and prison (with torture chamber), are now happily the town archive and meeting room.
Climb up to the baroque church for a breathtaking view of the valley. The rich sounds of classical piano and organ jazz fill its inner sanctum throughout the summer with the annual Musikdorf Ernen music festival, which attracts artists from all over the world. The festival is growing in talent and popularity. If you're planning to stay overnight on a concert night, book in advance.
31. Gersau
Gersau is a village on the shores of Lake Lucerne. It stretches along the slopes of the Rigi up to the panoramic terrace of the Rigi-Scheidegg at an altitude of 1656 m. It is a typical Swiss village, with superb views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
The village is part of the canton of Schwyz. It is also a self-contained estate in a hollow on the sunny, sheltered southern slopes of the Rigi. In fact, until the 19th century, Gersau was only accessible by water or over the Gätterli Pass from Lauerz.
32. Grüningen
The village of Grüningen has three museums, a botanical garden and wonderful seasonal markets. In fact, it is particularly famous for its spring market. What's more, the village is perfectly equipped to host events and festivals. The village also boasts an outdoor swimming pool in a magnificent summer location. The ice rink, set in the grounds of a castle, is ideal when the winter weather arrives.
33. Luthern
Luthern is centred around a pretty village square with a large, beautiful lime tree at its centre. St. Ulrich's church and the neighbouring buildings of the presbytery, parish hall and tithe shop complete an idyllic Swiss village scene.
Luthern lies on the border between the cantons of Bern and Lucerne. It nestles in a sunny valley, surrounded by green hills and woods. Below this valley lies Luthern Bad, a place of pilgrimage dating back to the late 1500s.
34. Schwellbrunn
With its backdrop of green fields and views stretching as far as the Alpstein and Lake Constance, the charming village of Schwellbrunn is one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland. The village is a heritage site of national importance thanks to its beautiful houses with their historical detail.
Traditional customs play a big part in the lives of the people of Appenzell Ausserrhoden, and the villagers of Schwellbrunn also embrace their cultural heritage. Agriculture and gastronomy are popular pastimes, with cows from the surrounding fields contributing to the famous Appenzell cheese.
35. Simplon Dorf
This Valais village is a Swiss site of national importance. At an altitude of almost 1,500 metres, Simplon Dorf lies at the southern end of the Simplon Pass.
There are many nods to neighbouring Italy in this Swiss village, including the central village square, which is Italian in style. The buildings also have flagstone roofs typical of those found in the neighbouring country.
36. Splügen
Splügen lies at an altitude of 1460 metres and, together with the pretty villages of Sufers, Medels, Nufenen and Hinterrhein, forms the Rheinwald district. The Rheinwald district lies close to the source of the Rhine. The village's location on ancient mule routes has exposed it to influences from the north and south since Roman times. In fact, for over 2000 years, the Splügen Pass was the most important link between Graubünden and Italy. The mule track over the San Bernardino also played an important role. Some Rheinwald families achieved wealth through trade. As a result, they built large houses in the southern Alpine style. These impressive stone-roofed houses are known as palazzi.
37. Trogen
Trogen, one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland, is a municipality in the canton of Appenzell in Switzerland. The town is the seat of the canton's judicial authorities. Several buildings in the village centre, including the Protestant church dating from 1782, the refectory with the cantonal library, the town hall dating from 1805 and the two Zellweger palaces, are listed as sites of national importance.
The local Gäbris mountain dominates the village of Trogen. The village is also well known for the children's village of the Pestalozzi Children's Foundation, built in the 1940s.
38. Ascona
Italian architecture, snow-capped peaks and a location on the shores of Lake Maggiore - that's what Ascona is all about. If you're looking for fresh water, sunshine and one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland to visit, then you simply must plan a visit here.
Pretty as a postcard, this Italian-speaking town lies in the south of Switzerland, not far from the border with Italy and the Italian province of Varese. And at just 196 metres above sea level, Ascona is also the lowest town in Switzerland, on the shores of Lake Maggiore.
The charm of this Alpine lakeside town lies in its relaxed nature and rich, beautiful scenery, as opposed to the typical tourist attractions you might expect from a historic European settlement. Here you'll find a blend of Swiss efficiency beautifully mixed with a taste of "la dolce vita".
39. Morcote
Thanks to its location between the lake and the mountains, its porticoed centre, its churches and chapels and a park that looks like a little paradise, Morcote has won the title of "Switzerland's most beautiful village 2016". Situated on the shores of Lake Lugano, this welcoming destination, also known as the "Pearl of Ceresio", was once a fishing village with houses facing the lake and porticoes once used to house boats. It was also the home of skilled craftsmen and artists who made their fortunes far from home, but who also left a mark of their genius in their homeland.
40 Muggio
The municipality of Muggio occupies a bowl-shaped area at the bottom of the Muggio valley. The paths of the Breggia Gorge Park are interlaced with wild nature, waterfalls, rivers, the remains of a medieval castle, La torre dei Forni, and even an ancient mill. It's one of the most varied walks you'll find in Switzerland.
Once submerged in a marine basin 245-230 million years ago, the park now features ancient rocks and fossils. The mountains around here show red and orange colours.
41. Poschiavo
Poschiavo, capital of the southern Grisons valley of the same name, has a typically Italian architectural character of national importance. Of particular note is the so-called "Spaniolenviertel", a district with villas built by wealthy returning emigrants.
Poschiavo lies around 15 kilometres south of the Passo del Bernina, the pass linking the Engadine and Valtellina valleys.
42. Soglio
Soglio is a village of incomparable charm in the Bregaglia Valley in south-eastern Switzerland. Not far from the famous St Moritz and the pleasant Pontresina, this hidden valley and beautiful village are nevertheless off the beaten track. Soglio is in fact one of Switzerland's best-kept secrets. It's a beautiful little village of narrow cobbled streets and pretty houses. It sits on a high promontory overlooking the valley and looking directly up at the beautiful Piz Badile peak.
43. Bergün
Bergun is one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland. The idyllic alpine village is popular with tobogganers in winter, who flock to the Preda Bergün toboggan run. In summer, the mountains above the town offer perfect views, and visitors can ride the UNESCO-recognised 100-year-old Rhaetian Railway through the Alps.
44. Tschlin
Tschlin, one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland, is a small village in the eastern Lower Engadine. It takes its name from its main nucleus. This is located on a terrace on the left-hand side of the inn at an altitude of 1,500 metres. Not to be missed is the late-Gothic hall church with polygonal choir, built in 1515 perhaps by Bernardo di Poschiavo, who used parts of the existing sanctuary. Inside, frescoes from the early 16th century: on the south wall of the choir, Mary Magdalene in the presence of a holy bishop; on the east wall of the nave, Saint Sebastian and Saints; above, Saint James. On the keystone of the triumphal arch, the shroud of Veronica and, on the west wall, scenes from the life of Saint Blaise. In front of the church is the Donna Lupa fountain, built in 1960.
45. Triesenberg
The village of Triesenberg in the Principality of Liechtenstein lies at an altitude of 900 m, with a breathtaking view over the Rhine Valley to the Alps of eastern Switzerland. With an extensive network of hiking trails, its alpine region is a hiker's paradise.
Triesenberg is a popular recreational area and the largest and highest municipality in the Principality of Liechtenstein. Located on a sunny slope, Triesenberg stretches from 700 to 2000 metres above sea level. Its special features are its various municipal zones.
The most beautiful villages in Switzerland:
At the end of the day, Switzerland is synonymous with beautiful towns and the many things it has to offer its visitors. But if you're someone who likes to explore places beyond the usual, the above list of beautiful villages will help you make the most of your trip to Switzerland.
