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4 Small Towns in Switzerland You Need to Visit

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No matter where you decide to visit, there's no doubt that Switzerland is an enchanting, post-card perfect destination. But what will you find if you zoom past Zurich, go beyond Basel, and take a jaunt outside of Geneva? These small towns are our favorite itinerary-worthy picks for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city.

 

Chur

With a population of around 35,000, tiny Chur is the oldest town in Switzerland with a history dating back over 5,000 years. Just 90 minutes from Zurich, Chur is easily accessed via train. Once you arrive, you'll find a picture-perfect town nestled in the hillside amidst local vineyards and the Swiss Alps.

 

switzerland guide

 

The Old Town is meticulously preserved and completely car-free. Take a stroll down the quiet streets to discover beautifully painted buildings and a plethora of local shops. Then, head over to Arcas Square in the central area of Chur, to experience the heart of the city. Often times, there will be celebrations and street performances going on in this area.

 

switzerland guide

 

The city has a number of historic churches. Follow the iconic clock tower through the city to Saint Martin Kirche, the most famous of these churches. The churches in town date back to the 1500s and make for a great walking tour. You can spend an entire day finding the best photo opportunities through the stained glass.

 

A large church tower with a clock on the side of a building

 

After a busy day post up at a local bar with a well-known Calanda, the local beer of Graubunden. Each province or “canton” in Switzerland has its own beer and you can decide for yourself which one is your favorite. For those looking for an extraterrestrial experience, check out the alien-themed Giger Bar on the outskirts of the city.

 

switzerland guide

 

Thrifty Tip #1: The area has an easy to use and affordable bus system, making day trips to nearby towns and hiking expeditions a breeze.

 

Bad Ragaz

Just 20 minutes from Chur lies the even smaller and more charming Bad Ragaz with a population of just over 5,000. Regarded by many as the wellness capital of Switzerland, Bad Ragaz is a prime place to visit to find relaxation and rejuvenation.

 

switzerland guide

 

The town is home to Tamina Therme, a world-class thermal spa and sauna village. The spa is connected to the five-star (and very expensive) Grand Resort Bad Ragaz but is able to be used by the public without a hotel stay.

The spa is fed by hot springs directly up the mountainside which you can also visit. The Tamina Gorge makes for a fantastic day trip. You can either take a bus up the mountain and get dropped off or make a hiking trip out of it. Once at the gorge, you can hike into the mountain, drink directly from the hot springs, and visit the museum.

 

A close up of a rock next to a tree

 

Just a few miles outside of Bad Ragaz is Heidiland. If you're looking to catch some majestic views of the Swiss Alps, experience agriculture, and learn more about true Swiss culture, make a stop at Heidiland.

 

a mountain in switzerland

 

Thrifty Tip #2: Liechtenstein is just a 15 minute trip from Bad Ragaz and can be easily accessed by bus, train, or car. Spend a day checking another country off your list!

 

Lucerne

Clocking in at over 81,000 residents, Lucerne is the largest city on our list but still has a small town feel. Lucerne is just under an hour train ride from Zurich, making it a popular getaway. Located on a pristine lake and littered with 14th-century architecture, you’ll quickly fall in love.

 

A view of a city

 

Start your day by wandering the clean and quiet Old Town, with a visit to the famous Chapel Bridge being a must. The bridge was originally constructed in 1333 and underwent restoration after a fire in the 1990s. It is considered the oldest wooden bridge in Europe. Near the bridge are a number of shops, restaurants, and vantage points with sweeping views you'll love.

 

A bird standing in front of a body of water with Kapellbrücke in the background

 

Make your way through the city over to the Lion Monument, an 1800’s rock carving that commemorates the Swiss Guards massacred in the French Revolution. Mark Twain has regarded the lion as the “most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world”. The park-like setting is great for a quick stop during the day. There are many coffee shops and restaurants near the monument which allows for an ideal lunch break.

 

Switzerland and Town

 

Finish your day by taking in dinner at any of the waterside restaurants that line the area.

 

Interlaken

Don’t let the population of 5,500 fool you; there’s plenty to do in Interlaken. Spend time relaxing in Interlaken and seeing a more remote side of central Switzerland. Some of the most towering Alps will surround you on every side. Lake Brienz borders the city and is an easy way to spend a day.

A trip to Harder Kulm and Jungfraujoch is a must while you're in the area. Both destinations will offer you a birds-eye view that can't be beaten. Jungfraujoch boasts the highest railway stop in Europe and an opportunity to step outside at an elevation of over 11,000 feet. Bring a jacket because no matter what time of year it is, you'll be cold!

 

A sign on the side of a snow covered slope

 

You can purchase tickets for the train and experience here. Jungfraujoch is definitely a full day trip, so factor this into your plans when considering what you have time for.

 

Bottom Line

You can’t go wrong anywhere in Switzerland since you'll find endless mountain views and pristine water everywhere you turn. But if you’re looking for a stop off the beaten path to kick back and relax, consider one of these small cities.

 

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Disclaimer: The responses below are not provided or commissioned by the bank advertiser. Responses have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the bank advertiser. It is not the bank advertiser’s responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.

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