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Discover Switzerland's Best Small Towns According to Travel + Leisure

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, December 15th 2025 at 13:14 GMT by Travel + Leisure

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A Snapshot of Switzerland’s Most Charming Small Towns

When most people think of Switzerland, they picture towering peaks, pristine lakes, and world‑class ski resorts. Yet, beyond the well‑trodden alpine playgrounds lies a tapestry of intimate villages and market towns that capture the country’s soul in a far more personal way. In Travel + Leisure’s recent roundup of “Best Small Towns in Switzerland,” the magazine takes readers on a virtual journey through ten of the nation’s most enchanting locales, each with its own signature blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and off‑the‑beaten‑path experiences. Below is a concise, yet thorough, guide to those towns—complete with why they stand out and how to make the most of a visit.

A Deeper Look Into the Towns

Interlaken: A Playground for the Brave and the Curious

Interlaken’s position between two sparkling lakes and the towering peaks of the Jungfrau region makes it the perfect launch point for a wide range of activities. From paragliding to white‑water rafting, the town caters to adrenaline seekers, while its quaint cafés and boutique shops provide a more relaxed atmosphere. One of the best ways to enjoy the town is to hop on the local “Funicular” to reach Harder Kulm, a lookout that offers panoramic views of both lakes and the surrounding mountains. The nearby “Hohematte” park is a serene spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

Appenzell: The Quintessential Swiss Village

If you’re looking for an authentic slice of Swiss culture, Appenzell is the place to be. The town is famous for its traditional wooden houses and the famous Appenzeller cheese, which is produced on small farms just outside the village. Visitors can wander through the old town’s winding streets, stopping at the local cheese factory to taste this aromatic cheese. The town’s open‑air market, held on Saturdays, showcases local produce, crafts, and regional delicacies. A short drive into the surrounding hills reveals the pastoral beauty that has inspired countless Swiss artists and writers.

Gstaad: Luxury Meets Alpine Simplicity

Gstaad’s unique charm stems from its juxtaposition of refined luxury and rugged natural beauty. While the town’s boutiques and luxury hotels offer a high‑end experience, the surrounding mountains and valleys provide a sense of rugged adventure. Gstaad’s winter scene is a highlight for ski enthusiasts, while the summer months see hikers exploring the alpine trails that weave through the valley. A stroll through the “Goldener Gletscher” (Golden Glacier) promenade is a great way to soak up the town’s refined atmosphere.

Grindelwald: The Eiger’s Shadow

The Eiger’s north face looms over Grindelwald like a silent guardian. The village’s rustic charm and close proximity to the Eiger make it a favourite among mountaineers. In addition to hiking, Grindelwald offers a variety of other winter sports, such as skiing, snowboarding, and even ice‑climbing. In summer, the “Grindelwald First” cable car takes you to the First Glacier, where you can enjoy alpine views, rock‑climbing, and a thrilling zip‑line adventure.

Lauterbrunnen: A Valley of Waterfalls

The name Lauterbrunnen means “clear water,” and this valley truly delivers. With its 72 waterfalls and the stunning Trümmelbach Falls, the valley’s waterfalls cascade into a dramatic amphitheatre of stone. The valley’s scenery is reminiscent of a fairy tale, and the town’s cobblestone streets and wooden houses add to its charm. The valley’s close proximity to the Jungfrau Railway, which connects the valley to the town of Interlaken, makes it a must‑visit stop for travelers seeking both natural wonder and convenience.

Zermatt: The Matterhorn’s Home Base

Zermatt’s car‑free centre means that visitors can enjoy a quiet, pedestrian‑only environment that feels almost timeless. The town’s streets are lined with wooden chalets and colourful signage that celebrate its rich alpine heritage. The town’s most iconic feature is the Matterhorn, whose jagged peaks rise above the surrounding mountains, making Zermatt a world‑famous ski resort and a favourite among mountaineers. In addition to skiing, the town offers a variety of other outdoor activities, including mountain biking and hiking.

Saanen: A Quiet Town with Olympic History

The town’s quiet atmosphere belies its historical importance as the site of the 1908 Winter Olympics ski jump. Today, Saanen offers a relaxed and authentic Swiss experience that is not overly commercialised. Visitors can explore the town’s winding streets and historic buildings, and enjoy local cuisine and local wines.

St. Moritz: The Ultimate Winter Playground

The town’s most iconic feature is the “Engiadina,” which hosts a range of winter sports and events. The town’s unique winter scene is a combination of high‑end luxury and the raw beauty of its surroundings. The town’s location on Lake St. Moritz also makes it an attractive destination for water‑based activities. The town’s vibrant nightlife and upscale shopping also add to its appeal.

Montreux: A Lakeside Jewel

Montreux is famous for its lakeside location on Lake Geneva and its annual jazz festival. The town is also famous for the Château de Chillon, a medieval castle that sits on a rocky island in the lake. In addition to its famous festival, Montreux is also known for its vineyards, which produce the famous “Chasselas” grape wine. The town’s lively and colourful atmosphere makes it a great destination for music lovers, foodies, and those looking for a scenic lakeside setting.

Final Thoughts

The towns highlighted by Travel + Leisure are each more than just scenic backdrops; they are living, breathing communities that embody the best of Swiss heritage and hospitality. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of mountain sports, the allure of traditional cheese-making, or the charm of a quiet alpine village, Switzerland’s small towns offer something for every type of traveler. As you plan your itinerary, keep these towns in mind—each one guarantees a unique, memorable, and quintessentially Swiss experience.