Things to do in Gstaad

No. 3 of Ski Resorts in Switzerland

Glacier 3000

Glacier 3000 is located on the way from the shores of Lake Geneva to the Alps, so it is easily accessible from Geneva, Montreux, Lausanne, etc. If you have limited time in Switzerland, this is a great place to save time viewing the glaciers and have fun with the snow. The restaurant on top of the hill was designed by world designer Mario Botta and is futuristic. From here you can see the European peak Mont Blanc, Switzerland's iconic Matterhorn and the Jungfrau. There are also a variety of snow and ice sports available here: snowboarding, snow golf, snow bus and dog sledding. Here you can enjoy ice and snow fun even in summer. In addition, it is also a paradise for hiking from October to May. Climb the Oldenhorn at 3123 meters, or try the glacier hike from the summit cable car station ScexRouge to the Sanetsch pass and the fixed rope route to Gemskopf.

No. 6 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Switzerland

Chillon Castle

Chillon Castle stands on a small rocky island jutting into the eastern end of Lake Geneva, facing the lakeside town of Montreux and connected to the shore by a wooden bridge. The entire castle follows the contours of the oval island rock, surrounded by water on all sides. From the shore, it appears to float on the lake, with its gray-white stone walls and reddish-brown conical towers reflecting the lake and mountain scenery like a painting. The land-facing side is studded with arrow slits and shooting ports, forming a heavily fortified defense structure, while the lakeside features elegant Gothic arched windows, once the residence of the House of Savoy—a harmonious blend of strength and grace in this ancient waterborne fortress. The earliest written records of the castle date back to the mid-12th century, though its central keep was built in the 11th century, predating documented history. Strategically located on a vital north-south European trade route, merchants traveling to Rome via the Great St. Bernard Pass would pass by its gates. The House of Savoy leveraged this position to collect tolls and expanded the castle into their summer palace in the 13th century. After Bernese forces captured it in 1536, it successively became a bailiff's residence, armory, and prison. The castle's fame stems partly from its dungeon: François Bonivard, abbot of Geneva's St. Victor Abbey, was chained to a pillar here for years after opposing the Duke of Savoy's control of Geneva, until his rescue by the Bernese. In 1816, Lord Byron visited, immortalized the story in his poem "The Prisoner of Chillon," and carved his name on the pillar. Rousseau featured it in "Julie, or the New Heloise," while Hugo and other literati also wrote about it. Crossing the wooden bridge into the castle reveals courtyards, halls, bedrooms, the keep, and dungeons—like stepping through a three-dimensional medieval history book. The underground prison is particularly noteworthy: its walls are built from the island's natural rock, topped with Gothic vaulting typically reserved for cathedrals, with Byron's inscribed pillar still standing. Several grand halls once hosted Savoyard feasts, their windows framing Lake Geneva's vistas. The Bernese bedroom displays an elaborate four-poster bed with heating, a bathroom, and running water—remarkably advanced for its time. The Chapel of St. George preserves 14th-century religious murals, rare survivors of Reformation iconoclasm. The armory exhibits medieval to 17th-century weapons—swords, halberds, arquebuses, crossbows, and armor—offering insights into period warfare. Visitors should linger: beyond interior artifacts, the lakeside path offers classic panoramic views of this aquatic fortress.

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Riviera Suisse

Golden Pass Railway

Two languages, three worlds, six lakes, one route: this is the Golden Pass route. In Montreux, the palm trees and southern vibes along the "Swiss Riviera" still prevail. French romance fills the air. Vineyards and gardens can be captured as the Golden Pass Express goes uphill, the trains are fading away, and a look back at Lake Geneva, the tunnels, and more. The Golden Pass Express is a fascinating route connecting the beautiful lakes of Switzerland such as Lake Geneva, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz and Lake Lucerne.

No. 17 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Switzerland

Jaun-Gastlosen Bergbahnen AG

Jaun-Gastlosen Bergbahnen AG is located in the western foothills of the Swiss Alps in the canton of Fribourg. The region is marked by a unique group of limestone peaks, with jagged ridges and gentle meadows forming a rich mountain landscape. A comprehensive cable car system smoothly transports visitors to different altitudes, providing convenient access for outdoor activities in all seasons. In winter, the slopes covered with fine snow are ideal for skiing enthusiasts. There are multiple well-maintained ski trails for different skill levels, from gentle beginner areas to challenging mountain slides. When the snow melts, the exposed rock walls and alpine meadows form a paradise for hikers, and a criss-crossing network of trails connects lakes, pastures and observation decks. In summer, mountain bike trails open up exploration paths for tourists seeking a sense of speed. Whether pursuing sports vitality or immersing in the tranquility of the mountains, this place provides a variety of possibilities for Alpine holidays.

2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Jungfrau

△ Ascend to 3,454 m above sea level and enjoy a 3‑hour visit at the Jungfraujoch “Top of Europe”. △ Stopovers and spectacular views, including glacier plateaus, the Sphinx viewing terrace, Snow Fun Park, Ice Palace, and a 360° cinematic experience. There are usually three starting points: Interlaken East, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen. i.Interlaken:A lively town with convenient transportation and dining options, often chosen by tourists. ii.Grindelwald:Offers unbeatable scenery and charming slopes, with high playability. It is closer to Jungfrau and also offers outdoor activities at First Mountain, making it a popular choice among young people. iii.Lauterbrunnen:A beautiful valley and waterfall town. △ Climb the Jungfraujoch! Drive to the charming town of Interlaken and immerse yourself in the picturesque scenery along the way. Admire the legendary Jungfraujoch in Switzerland, which was blessed by angels. △ Take your trip on the train, and enjoy the scenery along the way. △ A must-visit photo spot with the Swiss flag.On the glacier platform with amazing views, you will experience snow and ice 365 days a year, guaranteed. △ Facilities: excellent restaurants (Crystal, Bollywood, Aletsch Self‑Service), Lindt Chocolate Heaven, and immersive exhibitions like Alpine Sensation.

Selected for Best Things to Do in Switzerland

Town of Spiez

Town of Spiez is situated on the southern shore of Lake Thun in the Bernese Highlands of Switzerland, nestled in a bay enclosed by two lush, wooded peninsulas. Vineyards on the hillsides stretch down to the lake, a medieval castle stands by the shore, and the Niesen peak on the opposite bank connects to the Bernese Alps. The castle, vineyards, blue lake, and snow-capped mountains framed together create a classic scene in many travelers' photos. The core view here is Spiez Castle and the adjacent Romanesque castle church. The tower was built right by the water and now houses a museum, where the Knight's Hall and period room furnishings tell the history of the local noble families, and the church still preserves Romanesque frescoes. A viewpoint overlooking the entire bay is located by the road above the castle. The hillside vineyards are a rare wine-growing region in the Bernese Highlands, cultivating varieties such as Pinot Noir and Riesling-Sylvaner, and the loop around the bay is easy to walk with expansive views. In summer, you can also swim by the lake, look back at the castle from the water, or take a Lake Thun cruise into the bay for a different perspective.

No. 1 of Ski Resorts in Saanen

Bergbahnen Destination Gstaad Eggli

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Canton of Fribourg

Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory

If you want to see for yourself how chocolate is made, take a tour of the MaisonCailler chocolate factory. Here you can not only touch roasted cocoa beans, try different bitter and sweet recipes, but also experience the fun process of making your own chocolate and take home your own chocolate.

2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Milan Cathedral

•Located in the center of Milan, the cathedral is a landmark of Milan •Admire the enchanting hall, towering stone pillars, and dazzling stained glass windows while studying design elements of various styles •On the platform level, you can see the exquisite spires of Milan Cathedral and the statues on top of them. The statues vary in form and are lifelike. △The church has 135 spires of varying sizes, each topped with a statue. Carvings and spires are one of the defining features of Gothic architecture, and Milan Cathedral exemplifies this characteristic to the fullest. As such, it is also the Gothic church with the most statues in the world, featuring approx. 6,000 marble statues in total. △Immerse yourself in the treasures and artistic touches within the magnificent church. Admire the incredible nave and the way light flickers through the stained glass windows. Study the sarcophagi and approach the exquisitely decorated altar.

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Bernese Highlands

First

Located on a hill to the northeast of Grindelwald, First is one of the main ski resorts in the Jungfrau region and a viewpoint for enjoying the beauty of the glaciers rooted in the canyon, and the mountain scenery along the way is the same Picturesque. Hike to see the mountain scenery There are many walking trails around First, which can go from one high point to the next. Here you will see the mountain scenery of 4,000 meters above sea level and the translucent Tianchi Lake, and the lush mountain grasslands also amaze mountaineers and walkers. FirstFlieger Zipline There is a well-known FirstFlieger zipline project near the first aerial cable car station. This downhill chair allows four people to glide in the air along the ropeway at the same time, the whole journey is 800 meters, and the speed is as high as 84 kilometers per hour. This experience is safe and exciting for all ages. In addition, friends who like to ride can also choose to explore the mountains by bicycle.