Best Swiss Mountain Towns to Visit: Insider Picks & Travel Tips
- Stefan
- Feb 13, 2025
- 6 min read
Updated: Jan 6
Switzerland's mountains are stunning, but it's the charming Swiss mountain towns tucked away in them that really steal the show. From quaint, car-free villages with cobblestone streets to bustling resorts packed with activities, each town has its own unique vibe.
I've checked out a bunch of these towns, whether it's hiking in the summer, skiing in the winter, or just soaking in the alpine views. Here are some of my favorite Swiss mountain towns to visit.
Quick Comparison: My Top 10 Mountain Towns in Switzerland
How I Picked the Top Mountain Towns
This isn't a scientific ranking. I chose places based on:
Easy access by train or car
Activities all year round (not just in winter)
Scenic beauty and atmosphere
My own experiences and insider tips
The 10 Best Mountain Cities in Switzerland
City / Town | Canton | Best Season | Why Go | Persona Thoughts |
Zermatt | Valais | Year-round | Iconic Matterhorn, skiing, Gornergrat Railway | Stunning scenery and world-famous, but busy and expensive. |
St. Moritz | Graubünden | Winter & Summer | Luxury resort, alpine lakes, hiking and winter sports | The town itself is fairly average. I prefer the surrounding villages much more. Very expensive. |
Davos | Graubünden | Winter & Summer | Large ski area, biking, cultural events | Not the prettiest mountain town, but the surrounding nature is incredible. Klosters is a much nicer base nearby. |
Grindelwald | Bern | Summer & Winter | Eiger base, glacier canyon, hiking | Very beautiful, but extremely touristy and often overcrowded. |
Wengen | Bern | Summer & Winter | Car-free village, Jungfrau views, family-friendly | Car-free and peaceful. Despite its popularity, it never really feels overrun. One of my favorites. |
Andermatt | Uri | Year-round | Central location, skiing, Devil’s Bridge | The Dubai of the Alps. Massive recent investment with impressive infrastructure and resort-style vibes. |
Verbier | Valais | Winter & Summer | Challenging slopes, après-ski, e-biking | Beautiful, trendy, lively — and definitely pricey. |
Saas-Fee | Valais | Year-round | Glacier skiing, car-free center, ice caves | A fantastic alternative to Zermatt. Car-free, scenic, quieter, and still very impressive. |
Engelberg | Obwalden | Year-round | Mount Titlis, rotating cable car, abbey | This is where locals from Lucerne go skiing. A very authentic alpine town. |
Crans-Montana | Valais | Summer & Winter | Sunny slopes, lakes, golf, biking | An up-and-coming resort town with a lot of development and potential. |
1. Zermatt
What Makes It Special
Nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt is known for its breathtaking scenery. The car-free village ambiance adds to its appeal, creating a serene atmosphere. Zermatt seamlessly combines world-class skiing, mountaineering, and picturesque trails for an unforgettable alpine experience.
Where in Switzerland
Zermatt is located in the southwestern part of Switzerland. It lies in the canton of Valais, near the Italian border. This location offers a unique blend of Swiss charm and international influence.
What Activities I Recommend
Enjoy exhilarating skiing and snowboarding. Take a scenic hike to explore the alpine trails. Or ride the Gornergrat Railway for panoramic mountain views.
Secret Tip
Head out on a sunset hike to the Riffelberg area. You'll get a mesmerizing view of the Matterhorn bathed in golden light—a moment truly cherished by few.
2. St. Moritz
What Makes It Special
St. Moritz is all about luxury mixed with alpine adventure. You’ll find high-end resorts, a lively lakefront in summer, and world-class skiing in winter.
Where in Switzerland
Situated in the Engadin valley, St. Moritz is located in eastern Switzerland within the canton of Graubünden. The high-altitude setting radiates sophistication.
What Activities I Recommend
Indulge in winter sports such as skiing and ice skating. Enjoy summer lake activities or take leisurely hikes in the scenic alpine meadows.
Secret Tip
Venture a short drive outside the city to Sils Maria. This tranquil village offers authentic alpine life away from the bustling resort scene.
3. Davos
What Makes It Special
Known for the World Economic Forum, but the real charm is outside the conference halls. Huge ski area, mountain biking trails, and a solid cultural calendar.
Where in Switzerland
Located in the canton of Graubünden, Davos is set amid the scenic high Alps. Both modern amenities and rugged landscapes are easily accessible here.
What Activities I Recommend
Dive into skiing and snowboarding. Mountain biking is popular in warmer months. Explore local cultural events and alpine hiking trails.
Secret Tip
Explore the paths around the Davos Flüela Pass for quiet escapes and panoramic views rarely experienced by visitors.
4. Grindelwald
What Makes It Special
Grindelwald lies against the dramatic backdrop of the Eiger’s North Face. A true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, it boasts stunning vistas and proximity to famous peaks. Its rustic charm and warm hospitality welcome visitors to experience authentic Swiss mountain living.
Where in Switzerland
Nestled in the Bernese Oberland, Grindelwald is in the canton of Bern. Surrounded by majestic peaks, it’s ideal for immersive nature experiences.
What Activities I Recommend
Hike scenic trails, climb challenging routes, or ski during winter. Consider paragliding for a bird’s-eye view of the Alps.
Secret Tip
Seek out the hidden Grindelwald Glacier Canyon walk. It's a unique and adventurous route that offers fresh perspectives on the alpine landscape.
5. Wengen
What Makes It Special
Car-free and perched high above Lauterbrunnen Valley, Wengen is peaceful and scenic. It’s smaller than Grindelwald but perfect for slower travel.
Where in Switzerland
Also situated in the Bernese Oberland, Wengen is located in the canton of Bern. It provides a peaceful retreat above the valleys below.
What Activities I Recommend
Enjoy gentle hiking, ski on well-groomed slopes, or take a cable car ride to absorb panoramic views.
Secret Tip
Take a cable car to Männlichen early in the morning. Hike along lesser-known paths for breathtaking views without the crowds.
6. Andermatt
What Makes It Special
Once a quiet base for soldiers and shepherds, now a modern resort with luxury hotels. Still feels Swiss at its core, and its central location makes it a perfect base for alpine passes.
Where in Switzerland
Andermatt is in Central Switzerland, within the canton of Uri. This city is nestled amidst dramatic mountain landscapes.
What Activities I Recommend
Experience skiing and snowboarding. Explore hiking and mountain biking trails in summer. Unwind in a cozy mountain lodge.
Secret Tip
Visit the intriguing Devil’s Bridge near Andermatt. It’s steeped in local legend and offers unique adventures off the beaten path.
7. Verbier
What Makes It Special
Verbier is a haven for skiers and snowboarders. It's renowned for challenging slopes and a vibrant après-ski scene. In summer, its extensive network of trails attracts mountain bikers.
Where in Switzerland
Situated in the canton of Valais, Verbier is located in a high-altitude valley. The combination of rugged terrain and luxurious amenities is appealing.
What Activities I Recommend
Hit the slopes for skiing or snowboarding. Enjoy mountain biking and hiking during summer. Relax in lively après-ski settings.
Secret Tip
Rise early to enjoy the slopes before crowds arrive. Experience the peace of skiing with the first light of day illuminating the mountains.
8. Saas-Fee
What Makes It Special
Often called the “Pearl of the Alps,” Saas-Fee features an enchanting car-free center. It guarantees snow even in summer, offering unique glacier experiences and pristine landscapes.
Where in Switzerland
Located in the canton of Valais, Saas-Fee lies amid towering peaks. It provides a serene alpine environment.
What Activities I Recommend
Enjoy glacier skiing, explore hiking trails, and discover hidden ice caves.
Secret Tip
Venture into one of the lesser-known ice caves near the glacier. It’s an unforgettable experience in a hidden natural wonder.
9. Engelberg
What Makes It Special
Engelberg is synonymous with Mount Titlis. Visitors can enjoy a spectacular revolving cable car ride. This city offers adrenaline-pumping sports and tranquil summer hikes.
Where in Switzerland
Situated in Central Switzerland, Engelberg is in the canton of Obwalden. It’s framed by towering peaks, ideal for year-round escapes.
What Activities I Recommend
Take the Titlis cable car for breathtaking views. Ski or snowboard in winter. Explore scenic hiking trails in summer.
Secret Tip
After your cable car ride, wander through Engelberg Abbey. The peaceful surroundings and hidden art pieces provide a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage.
10. Crans-Montana
What Makes It Special
Crans-Montana offers sweeping panoramic views and versatile outdoor activities. It features top-tier ski slopes in winter and various summer pursuits.
Where in Switzerland
Located in the canton of Valais, Crans-Montana is in southwestern Switzerland. The stunning alpine vistas create a picturesque backdrop.
What Activities I Recommend
Enjoy high-quality skiing and snowboarding. Partake in mountain biking adventures or play golf amid the scenery.
Secret Tip
Explore the quiet Montana trails at dawn for a serene experience. The soft light and tranquil atmosphere are perfect for reflection.
Why Choose a Swiss Mountain Town?
Switzerland’s mountain towns strike the perfect balance between adventure and comfort. Spend your mornings hiking, your afternoons in a spa, and your evenings over fondue and local wine. Some feel rustic, others polished, but all are surrounded by scenery that’s unforgettable.
For quieter escapes, check out my guide to Switzerland’s car-free villages.
Final Thoughts
Swiss mountain towns each offer a unique vibe, from the bustling energy of places like Zermatt to the tranquil serenity of hidden gems like Belalp. These alpine destinations promise unforgettable memories and photos.
