12 Incredible Experiences in the Swiss Alps

With its breathtaking scenery, thrilling adventures, and dizzying alpine roads, planning a trip to the Swiss Alps can be overwhelming. The region offers accommodations that feel like you're nestled in the clouds.

While the Matterhorn and Eiger are must-sees, be sure to explore some hidden gems and activities as well to fully appreciate Switzerland's stunning natural landscape. Continue reading for a curated list of the top things to do in the Swiss Alps.

1. Hike the Historic Gemmi Pass

There’s something sacred about a mountain pass, an alpine trail forged centuries ago by traders, pilgrims, and farmers. Among the most accessible is the Gemmi Pass, which became a tourist attraction in the 19th century when Thomas Cook led his first package tour here. Notable figures like Jules Verne, Pablo Picasso, and Mark Twain have walked its paths.

You can follow in their footsteps by hiking up from Leukerbad to the pass's beginning, or opt for the easier and quicker route by taking the Gemmibahn cable car. Once at the top, it's a 3-hour trek to Sünnbuel, where another cable car will take you down to the Kandersteg Valley. The journey features stark peaks, shimmering turquoise lakes, blooming meadows, and the historic Hotel Schwarenbach, established in 1742, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink.

Detour: Be sure to explore the villages flanking the mountain pass. Take in the stunning mountain views while soaking in the warm waters of Leukerbad’s thermal baths, and don’t miss the stunning Oeschinensee, a beautiful lake reachable via cable car from Kandersteg.

2. Take the Verticalp to the Emosson Dam

Approximately half of Switzerland’s electricity is generated through hydropower, and Emosson Dam stands out as one of the most captivating dams to visit, with the journey to reach it being part of the allure. From Martigny, board the Mont Blanc Express to Châtelard, where you’ll switch to the Verticalp funicular, originally built a century ago for the workers constructing the dam. Once at the top, a charming mountain railway hugs the cliffside, leading you to the base of the massive concrete structure, from which a smaller funicular ascends to the reservoir level.

Take a moment to marvel at the dam’s impressive scale, the immense volume of water it restrains, and the breathtaking views from the edge. Afterwards, hike through serene landscapes to discover the older Vieux Emosson dam, where a mountain hut awaits with snacks, drinks, and stunning vistas.

Planning to explore more of Switzerland? Here are the top destinations to check out

3. Traverse three breathtaking mountain passes by car or bike

With their winding hairpin turns and surreal landscapes, Switzerland’s mountain passes are truly mesmerizing and an exhilarating adventure to tackle. Experience the Grimsel, Furka, and Susten passes all in one journey by driving or cycling a circular route that showcases them.

As you ascend and descend the winding roads, the scenery—and even the temperature—shifts dramatically, revealing stunning lakes, rugged peaks, and glacial formations. There are also many attractions along the way: the Gelmerbahn, Europe’s steepest funicular leading to Gelmer Lake; the base of the Rhône Glacier; the iconic (now-closed) Hotel Bélvèdere featured in the 1964 James Bond film Goldfinger; and the historic Grimselhospiz, a hotel since medieval times where you can enjoy a peaceful night after the daytrippers have departed.

Planning tip: If you prefer not to drive or find cycling too strenuous, consider taking the bus instead. Switzerland’s reliable yellow postbuses run this route daily.

4. Discover the ancient bisses, traditional irrigation channels in Valais

Unique to the canton of Valais, the bisses are historic irrigation channels that were once used to carry water across alpine meadows and pastures. Today, they've been restored and transformed into fantastic hiking trails. Generally flat, with some thrilling sections, these paths follow the gentle flow of water across fields, through forests, and sometimes along steep cliffs.

A notable example is the Bisse du Torrent Neuf, which hugs the rock face above the Rhône valley, featuring wooden walkways affixed to the steep mountainside. It’s completely safe, but those prone to vertigo might want to steer clear.

5. Experience hut-to-hut hiking

Switzerland’s mountains are dotted with overnight cabins in breathtaking locations—on mountain summits, overlooking glaciers, or in secluded areas far from civilization—making it hard to believe how they were originally constructed.

Embarking on a multi-day hiking trip from one hut to another is a quintessential Swiss adventure. You can design a personalized route on Wanderland.ch and reserve your accommodations through the Swiss Alpine Club website, or opt for a popular hut-to-hut itinerary like the Tour des Muverans, a stunning 33km (20.5 mile) circular trail that recommends stays at Cabane Rambert and the Refuge du Lac de Derborence.

Planning tip: Cabins fill up quickly during peak season, especially on weekends, so it's wise to book ahead. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, you can usually call to cancel. Swiss Alpine Club huts welcome both members and non-members.

Looking for more ideas? Check out the best hiking routes in Switzerland

6. Discover the Aletsch Glacier with fewer crowds

The Aletsch Glacier, stretching 20 kilometers (12 miles), is the longest glacier in the Alps, winding through the mountains between the cantons of Valais and Bern. Most visitors opt for the iconic train ride from Grindelwald to the Jungfraujoch, which is a memorable yet expensive experience shared with many others.

For a more serene experience, visit the Aletsch Arena and take the cable car up to the ridge that overlooks the glacier, offering arguably a superior view of this colossal ice river. From there, several hiking trails follow its perimeter, often allowing you to enjoy the scenery in solitude.

Planning tip: The Aletsch Glacier is stunning year-round, but autumn is particularly remarkable when the larch forests on its slopes burst into vibrant colors, contrasting beautifully with the glacier's icy hues.

7. Experience mountain biking in Verbier

Mountain biking enthusiasts, known locally as vélo tout-terrain (VTT), will find Verbier a dream destination, transitioning from a winter ski haven to a summer biking paradise. The bike park features 19 kilometers (12 miles) of thrilling downhill trails, along with cross-country and enduro routes suitable for cyclists of all skill levels, weaving across the 4Vallées region.

If you’re in need of a little extra power, don’t fret—Verbier is a haven for e-biking. There’s even an e-bike festival in August, alongside numerous rental shops and charging stations scattered throughout the area.

Interested in skiing? Discover the top Swiss resorts and off-piste adventures

8. Experience the ultimate view of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau from Mürren

You could easily spend days or even weeks discovering the stunning Bernese Oberland, renowned for its breathtaking alpine scenery and the iconic trio of peaks: Eiger (ogre), Mönch (monk), and Jungfrau (maiden or virgin). However, if your time is limited, make sure to prioritize a visit to Mürren.

This charming, car-free village perched above the Lauterbrunnen valley gained fame from the 1969 Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, where the Schilthorn summit station served as Blofeld’s hideout. Thankfully, it has preserved its tranquil alpine allure.

Hiking along the network of trails in this area is a pure delight: you’ll stroll past cow-filled meadows, serene lakes, and sun-kissed wooden barns, while the cheerful chirping of marmots accompanies you and the majestic three peaks stand tall ahead.

Detour: For the adventurous, take on the via ferrata, a climbing route with fixed rungs that begins in Mürren and descends dramatic cliffs to the quaint hamlet of Gimmelwald.

9. Spend a night atop the Faulhorn

Nestled on the Faulhorn mountain in the Bernese Oberland, the Berghotel Faulhorn is one of Switzerland's oldest mountain hotels, offering stunning views of the twin lakes of Brienz and Spiez far below. Reach it by taking the mountain railway from Wilderswil to Schynige Platte, then hike the 10km (6-mile) trail to this hotel perched on a scree-covered slope.

Your reward for this journey is an overnight stay at 2681m (8796ft) above sea level, where you can gaze at expansive starry skies, enjoy hearty homemade meals, and rest in a cozy wood-paneled room that has welcomed guests since 1830.

Planning tip: The hotel closes during winter, but the snow-covered path from its door down to Grindelwald transforms into the longest toboggan run in the world. To experience the thrilling 15km (9-mile) ride, take the cable car to First and hike about 2 hours with your sled to the Faulhorn. The exhilarating descent is worth every step.

10. Experience the Matterhorn from the Five Lakes trail

While it may be a popular tourist activity, seeing the Matterhorn (Cervin in French; Cervino in Italian) is a must when visiting the Swiss Alps, as this iconic peak towers over the village of Zermatt.

One of the finest viewpoints is atop the Gornergrat mountain train, where you'll enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the Swiss-Italian Alps, along with attractions like a virtual reality experience that lets you paraglide over the Matterhorn.

For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle (at least a bit—Zermatt is rarely quiet), take the gondola to Blauherd and embark on the Five Lakes trail. Here, as you gaze at the Matterhorn's reflection shimmering in three of the five lakes, you'll truly appreciate why this iconic mountain, with its unique crooked peak and prominent skyline position, is so revered.

11. Observe wildlife in Swiss National Park

Switzerland’s sole official national park, located in the eastern Graubünden canton, is a genuine wilderness dedicated to preserving its natural state. The local flora and fauna are left undisturbed (activities like tree felling, flower-picking, and hunting are strictly prohibited), and visitors are limited to hiking—camping and fires are not allowed.

Fortunately, the designated trails (which must be followed) are well worth the restrictions, showcasing unique rock formations and pristine forests that are hard to find anywhere else. Keep your binoculars ready for a chance to spot the park's big four animals: chamois, marmots, red deer, and ibex.

Planning tip: The only accommodations available within the park are Hotel Il Fuorn and the rustic Cluozza hut, both established before the area became a national park. Alternatively, consider staying in nearby Zernez and visiting for day hikes.

12. Ascend Le Grammont for the finest view of Lake Geneva

The crescent-shaped Lake Geneva (known as Lac Léman in French) is impressively expansive, stretching over 70km (43 miles) from Geneva in the west to Villeneuve in the east. To truly grasp its size, head to a high vantage point. A popular and accessible location is Rochers-de-Naye, a 2042m-high (6699ft) mountain reached by cogwheel railway from Montreux.

For an even more breathtaking – and less crowded – experience, take the bus or drive to Le Flon in the Valais and hike the straightforward yet steep trail to Le Grammont via Lac de Taney. With the shimmering blue lake sprawling beneath you, a mountainous horizon stretching into the distance, and a refreshing breeze blowing, you’ll truly feel like you’re on top of the world.