Discover 6 Car-Free Villages in Switzerland for Quiet Getaways

Switzerland is known for its commitment to environmental preservation, reflected in its car-free towns. These destinations offer a quieter pace of life, set against stunning natural backdrops. Here are our favorite 6 car-free villages in Switzerland that provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle. Read below for the best-rated spas, or watch our video summary.

Top 6 Car-Free Villages in Switzerland

1. Zermatt: Serene Views of the Matterhorn

   Zermatt lies at the foot of the Matterhorn and is strictly car-free, ensuring clean air and quiet streets. The town is a favorite among mountaineers and ski lovers, with its scenic trails and resorts. While Zermatt has a reputation for luxury, it also offers simple pleasures like strolling through its calm streets and admiring the alpine scenery.

   Key Highlights:

   • Pristine views of the Matterhorn

   • Skiing and hiking options all year long

   • High-end accommodations and dining

   

   Zermatt with the famous Matterhorn in the background

2. Wengen: Quaint Alpine Living

   Located above the Lauterbrunnen Valley, Wengen captures the essence of alpine tranquility with its wooden chalets and sweeping views. The village serves as a gateway to the Jungfrau region, popular for winter sports and hiking. Wengen maintains a quiet charm, especially outside of the busy ski season.

   Key Highlights:

   • Gateway to the Jungfrau region

   • Traditional wooden architecture

   • Quiet, relaxed atmosphere

   

   Wengen

3. Mürren: Elevated Solitude

   

   Mürren

   Mürren, perched on a cliffside, offers stunning views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. Its remote location, accessible only by cable car or train, guarantees a peaceful environment. The village is a haven for those seeking to escape the noise of modern life, with its scenic trails and the historical Schilthorn Piz Gloria.

   Key Highlights:

   • Dramatic mountain views

   • Historic Schilthorn Piz Gloria (James Bond)

   • Secluded and quiet

4. Saas-Fee: Glacier Views and Tranquility

   

   Saas-Fee

   Saas-Fee, surrounded by towering peaks, is known for its glacier views and serene ambiance. The town is accessible year-round for skiing and hiking. Notable attractions include the Fee Glacier and the Mittelallalin, the world's highest revolving restaurant, offering understated yet impressive experiences.

   Key Highlights:

   • Glacier scenery and skiing

   • Revolving restaurant with views

   • Quiet, with a range of activities

5. Braunwald: Family-Friendly and Secluded

   

   Enjoy the stunning view of the Glarner Alps from Braunwald, surrounded by lush greenery and a cozy wooden cabin.

   
   

   Braunwald, in the Glarus region, is a car-free haven ideal for families. The town's safe, vehicle-free streets allow children to roam freely, and it offers outdoor activities against the backdrop of the Glarus Alps. Braunwald is a place for those seeking a gentle escape in nature.

   Key Highlights:

   • Safe and suitable for families

   • Nature trails and outdoor activities

   • Scenic views of the Glarus Alps

6. Stoos: Remote Mountain Serenity

   Stoos, accessed via a steep funicular ride, is a secluded village known for its impressive landscapes and quietude. It's a place for visitors looking for a peaceful retreat, with opportunities for skiing and hiking. The view from Fronalpstock offers a panoramic vista of the area, emphasizing Stoos's tranquil beauty.

   Key Highlights:

   • Isolated and quiet

   • The world's steepest funicular railway

   • Panoramic mountain and lake views

   

   View from the steepest funicular in the world to access Stoos

   
   

7. Honorary Mentions: More Car-Free villages in Switzerland

   While the six towns highlighted offer exceptional car-free experiences, there are several others in Switzerland that deserve mention. These destinations provide similar tranquil environments and stunning natural beauty:

   • Bettmeralp: Known for its breathtaking views of the Aletsch Glacier, Bettmeralp offers a serene high-altitude retreat.

   • Melchsee-Frutt: A family-friendly destination with serene lakes and ample outdoor activities in both winter and summer.

   • Rigi Kaltbad: Famous for its thermal baths and panoramic views over Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alps.

   • Gimmelwald: A small, traditional village perched on a mountainside, offering a quiet escape and spectacular scenery.

   • Fiescheralp: Another gateway to the Aletsch Glacier, providing stunning views and a peaceful alpine environment.

   • Riederalp: Similar to Bettmeralp and Fiescheralp, this village offers direct access to hiking trails on the Aletsch Glacier.

   • Gspon: A hidden gem, accessible only by cable car, known for its seclusion and panoramic mountain views.

   • Rosswald: A sunny plateau with family-friendly ski and hiking options, offering tranquility and natural beauty.

   • Belalp: Overlooking the Massa Gorge, Belalp is a quiet spot known for its spectacular winter and summer trails.

   Switzerland’s car-free villages and towns offer an escape into environments where nature and quietude take center stage. These towns are ideal for those looking to unwind amidst beautiful settings, with each offering a distinct experience. Visiting these car-free havens provides a chance to enjoy Switzerland’s natural beauty in peaceful and sustainable surroundings.

   You have read about the car-free villages; now here are the best cities to visit in Switzerland.

FAQ: Car-Free Villages in Switzerland

1. What does “car-free” mean in Swiss villages?

Car-free villages in Switzerland restrict or ban private car traffic within their main areas. Access is typically via train, cable car, or funicular, and local transportation is provided by electric shuttles, horse-drawn carriages, or walking.

2. How do I get to car-free villages like Zermatt or Mürren?

You usually reach car-free villages by parking in a nearby town and continuing by train or cable car. For example, Zermatt is reached via train from Täsch, while Mürren is accessible via cable car from Lauterbrunnen or Stechelberg.

3. Are car-free villages suitable for families with children?

Yes! These villages are peaceful and safe for children since there’s no regular car traffic. Many have playgrounds, kid-friendly hiking trails, and family-focused hotels or activities.

4. Can I bring luggage or a stroller to a car-free village?

Definitely. Most car-free villages have well-paved paths, and transport services (like electric taxis or luggage shuttles) make it easy to move luggage and strollers from train stations to hotels.

5. When is the best time to visit car-free villages in Switzerland?

Summer and winter are both great times to visit, depending on your interests. Summer offers hiking and alpine views, while winter is perfect for skiing and snow-covered landscapes. Spring and autumn are quieter and ideal for avoiding crowds.

Looking for more peaceful escapes? Check out our guide to the most beautiful Swiss mountain villages or get inspired by these unique day trips from Zurich.