Looking for the most Instagrammable places in Switzerland? From charming old towns to epic panoramic viewpoints to dreamy train journeys, here are the best photo spots in Switzerland.
We all know that Switzerland is ridiculously beautiful, with dramatic mountain views, glacial lakes and adorable villages that look like they’ve been plucked from a Pixar movie. But with so many magical photo spots, it’s hard to know where to even start when planning your photography-focused itinerary.
Whether you’re like me and can’t get enough of aerial cableways and viewing platforms, or you prefer more understated beauty of rolling hills and cute villages, there are countless Instagrammable places in Switzerland to add to your shot list. But in a country as beautiful as this, where do you even start?
Don’t worry, I’ve got you! I’ve been fortunate enough to travel all over Switzerland, camera in hand, and I’ve seen the good, the great, and the absolutely mind-blowing. And from all of that, I’ve selected more than thirty of the best photo spots in Switzerland for you to add to your photography bucket list, ranging from tourist hot spots to hidden gems.
So whether you’re wanting cute shots in traditional old towns or landscape panoramas to print for your walls at home, here are 33 of the most Instagrammable places in Switzerland to make sure you’re getting the best shots during your Swiss adventure.
The most Instagrammable places in Switzerland
Best photo spots in Zurich
Even if you’re not a big city person, Zurich might surprise you.
Beyond its reputation as a financial hub, Switzerland’s largest city is a vibrant mix of historic appeal and modern innovation. From exploring its Old Town to cruising the lake, Zurich delivers both Old World charm and a cosmopolitan vibe.
B2 Hotel’s library
Bookworms rejoice, this is one of the most soul-stirring book displays I’ve ever seen outside of an actual library.
Zurich’s B2 Boutique Hotel is housed in a former brewery, paying homage to its past life with old machinery on display and beer bottles used in the chandeliers.
But the most impressive part of this place is the exquisite library with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves that house more than 30,000 old books! Absolutely incredible, this was such a highlight on my recent 10 day Switzerland trip.
Photo tip: Use a wide angle lens to capture as much of the room as possible, what makes this place so magical is the sheer scale of it.
👉🏼 Read more: Five perfect days in Switzerland
Aldstadt
Immerse yourself in Zurich’s rich history with a photo wander through the Aldstadt (Old Town).
This walkable district is filled with architectural gems, quaint shops and a vibrant atmosphere that reminds you it’s a bustling city. Explore winding streets, admire the colorful facades of historic guild houses and discover the stories these buildings hold.
Here are a few highlights within the Altstadt:
- Grossmünster Church: A Zurich icon with its twin towers, climb to the top for sweeping city views
- Fraumünster Church: Famous for its vibrant stained glass windows designed by Marc Chagall
- Lindenhof Hill: A tranquil park offering panoramic vistas of the Old Town, river and lake
- Augustinergasse: One of the prettiest streets, lined with colourful houses and traditional bay windows
Photo tip: Get lost (in a good way!) in the alleys and side streets – you’ll find hidden courtyards and unexpected photo opportunities.
Lake Zurich
Zurich wouldn’t be the same without its pristine lake.
Stroll along the waterfront promenade, rent a paddleboat for a playful perspective, or embark on a scenic cruise for photos without the risk of dunking a camera. On a clear day, the views extend all the way to the snow-capped Alps – a quintessential Swiss scene that’s just waiting to be snapped.
Photo tip: The lakeside area around Bürkliplatz offers a classic panorama of the city, lake and mountains. Capture the reflections of boats in the water for added interest.
Best photo spots in Zermatt
Home to the iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt is a postcard-perfect mountain town ideal for photographers.
This car-free village boasts cobbled streets lined with traditional chalets, dreamy hotels with Matterhorn view rooms and balconies, and plenty of hikes, biking trails, ski slopes or mountain trains to get you up to the best viewpoints.
It’s stunning year-round too, whether it’s sun-soaked or dusted in snow, Zermatt is pure alpine magic.
Here are some particularly Instagrammable spots to add to your Zermatt shot list.
The most Instagrammable hotel in Zermatt: Hotel ZERMAMA
If I were ever to create a hotel, it would pretty much be this.
Hotel ZERMAMA is gorgeous, with stylish interiors, loads of cool extras (including in-room fondue sets and big faux-fur coats for chilly evenings), and some rooms have Matterhorn views which are totally worth the upgrade. The rooms I’ve stayed in let you see the mountain from your bed, your bathtub, your couch and your balcony!
Photo tip: Hotel ZERMAMA have one room with a private spa pool with a view of the Matterhorn, but as you can imagine this gets booked up well in advance. If you’re keen to splurge on an exclusive accommodation experience with to-die-for views, this one is worth it.
👉🏼 Read more: The ultimate 10 day Switzerland itinerary
Zermatt’s most Instagrammable train trip: Gornergratbahn
The iconic cogwheel Gornergrat Railway has been ferrying visitors up to heart-stopping views and dizzying heights since way back in 1898.
Conveniently starting from the valley station in the centre of Zermatt, the train takes 33 minutes to reach the top station at 3135m, and almost every moment of the ascent offers epic photography opportunities.
Photo tip: Sit on the right-hand side going up for the best views across Zermatt and out to the Matterhorn. You can pay 7CHF per person for priority boarding which will pretty much guarantee you a window seat, absolutely worth it.
The best Matterhorn viewpoint: Riffelsee
The view from the top of Gornergrat isn’t to be scoffed at, but only a short walk (or a shorter train ride) away you’ll find an even more impressive photography location: the reflective Riffelsee lake.
I know this sounds dramatic but this is potentially the most quintessentially Swiss photo you could ever take. No pressure! The majestic Matterhorn as a mirror image in the perfectly calm lake, blue skies above, ideally no other tourists, just perfect 👌🏼
You can either walk down from the top station (about 30 minutes but you’ll probably spent another 30 minutes taking photos) or get off the train at Rotenboden (the second to last station) and it’s only five minutes down from there.
Photo tip: If you’re visiting in the shoulder season or during winter, the lake might be frozen over. In 2022 I visited mid-October and got the snow-free photos you see below, then in 2023 I visited in the last week of October and it was entirely covered in snow with no lake to be seen! Still worth the train ride up, but just manage your expectations so you’re not disappointed.
The most Instagrammable cable car trip: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Ready to soar into the clouds? The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car takes you to Europe’s highest mountain station, sitting at 3883m elevation.
And yep, your body feels it! I made the mistake of running from the cable car to the outdoor viewpoint because it was almost time to close, and wondered why I felt horrendously light-headed after a 40m jog 🙃
But if you can handle the thin air at this altitude, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most magnificent mountain views on offer anywhere in the world. You’ll glide over unforgiving glaciers to reach the top station, where you can spot 38 (!!!) 4000m+ alpine peaks on the panoramic horizon. It honestly feels like a movie set.
Photo tip: During summer, the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise offers an experience called the ‘Crystal Ride’, where you get to take the final leg of the tip in a glass-bottomed cable car, giving you the ultimate view of the glaciers below.
Best photo spots at Jungfraujoch
Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe is a Swiss icon and a mainstay on Europe bucket lists for travellers all over the globe, for good reason.
It’s not the continent’s highest mountain (that would be Mount Elbrus in Russia at 5642m) or even the highest in Switzerland (Monte Rosa, 4634m), but it is the highest train station in Europe, sitting at a cool 3454m elevation. Pretty impressive for a railway that was built in the late 1800s/early 1900s.
The entire experience is perfect for photographers, from the scenic train trip or cable car ride to the smooth commercial operation at the top that includes restaurants with crazy outlooks, some breezy open-air viewing platforms and loads of info about the railway’s history.
It’s expensive for sure, but there are ways to get it cheaper like a Swiss Half Fare Card or Jungfrau Travel Pass. The best option for you will depend on your exact itinerary, but often a combo of the Half Fare Card and regional Jungfrau Travel Pass actually works out to be the best value!
I’ve even got two super detailed blog posts to help you find the most cost effective way of exploring Jungfrau and beyond:
🚞 Is the Jungfrau Travel Pass worth it?
🚂 Is the Swiss Half Fare Card worth it?
The journey to get there
The journey to Jungfraujoch is half the fun, and there are two options to reach the Top of Europe.
First is the Eiger Express (which I explain further in the Grindelwald section of this blog), this runs from Grindelwald Terminal to Eigergletscher, where you connect to the Jungfraujoch famous red train for the remainder of the trip to the top. The trip from Eigergletscher to Jungfraujoch is entirely inside the mountain so it doesn’t matter what side you sit on, there are no views anyway.
The second option is to catch the Wengernalp train (also more info below) from Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen to Kleine Scheidegg, then switch to the red Jungfraujoch train for the trip to Eigergletscher and on to the top of the mountain.
You can easily combine both routes, take the Eiger Express up and then the train the rest of the way, catch the train back down to Kleine Scheidegg and then switch to a connecting train to Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen. Too easy!
Photo tip: For the Jungfrau Railway from Kleine Scheidegg you’ll want to sit on the right side ascending the mountain (or the left side coming down), this side provides the best views of the valley below. You can make seat reservations on this train for 10CHF per person to lock in your time and guarantee boarding (which means a better chance of getting a window seat).
The photo stop on the train
Between Eigergletscher station and Jungfraujoch, in the middle of the mountain tunnel, there’s a quick five minute photo stop at Eismeer, where you’ll witness the ‘Sea of Ice’. Prepare to be wowed!
This viewing platform has been built into the mountain and gazes out across the vast expanse of the Aletsch Glacier (the longest glacier in the Alps) and endless snowy peaks.
Photo tip: The windows Can be quite reflective so use a polarising filter to limit glare.
Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
(Discounted rate available with the Jungfrau Travel Pass)
While there are loads of higher peaks within Switzerland’s borders, none are as easily accessible to visitors via train, making Jungfraujoch the highest point many travellers will ever reach. That’s pretty damn cool!
There’s actually plenty to see and do up Jungfrau, I’d recommend setting aside 1.5 to 2 hours to see all the sights and have time for a hot drink.
Inside there’s an Ice Palace with frosty sculptures and carved tunnels (complete with a heated handrail), a multimedia exhibition sharing the 100+ year history of the railway, and a selection of eateries serving up traditional food with a side of insane scenery.
Outside you’ll find the Sphinx Observatory’s panoramic terrace, offering unmatched views stretching towards Italy, France and Germany. There’s also the plateau, another great vantage platform that’s got a Swiss flag just waiting for photos. And if you’re visiting from mid-May to mid-October you could check out the Snow Fun Park for more outdoor adventures.
Photo tip: Cold temperatures can make your batteries drain faster, so make sure you’re fully charged and have a power bank to re-juice your phone or camera.
Best photo spots in Lauterbrunnen
Nestled in a valley where sky-high waterfalls tumble down from towering cliffs, Lauterbrunnen is the epitome of Switzerland’s quaint alpine charm.
Flower boxes line the lodge windowsills, cosy cafes host tourists indulging in fondue or rösti, and the Staubbach Falls captivate all those wandering Lauterbrunnen’s streets searching for the best vantage point.
Whether you’re just wanting to capture the village’s magic, or you’re up for a bigger adventure and want to hike through the mountains, Lauterbrunnen is a must-visit on any photographer’s Switzerland itinerary.
The church
If you removed Lauterbrunnen’s iconic church from this location and plonked it in the middle of a normal city I don’t think it would really impress anyone, but when you throw jagged mountains and a misty waterfall in the background, it becomes one of the most Instagrammable churches in the world.
Your Lauterbrunnen album wouldn’t be complete without taking photos of the village’s symbol and the winding path that leads down to it.
Photo tip: You might need to get creative with your angles to get photos without others in them. Shoot on a wide angle to capture more background, use colourful flowers in the foreground to bring some vibrancy, or use the harsh midday sun to your advantage by capturing sun bursts or mist from the waterfalls.
Staubbach Falls
Plunging almost 300 meters from the clifftops, the Staubbach Falls are an awe-inspiring sight and a reminder of nature’s power amongst such a calm and peaceful village.
There’s a short, paved trail that leads right to the base in just five minutes, and you might even feel the cool spray of the waterfall on a windy day.
Photo tip: Unfortunately Lauterbrunnen’s famous falls are on everyone else’s Switzerland bucket lists too, and the town gets busy with day trippers from 10am until about 4pm. The cliffs block the early sun which means it will be quite dark if you get there early, but it’ll give you a far better chance of getting photos without having to navigate through hoards of other travellers.
The Wengernalp Railway
(Included in the Jungfrau Travel Pass)
This historic cogwheel train winds its way from Lauterbrunnen to Wengen, a picturesque car-free village perched on a sunny terrace. With mesmerising views at every turn, the journey itself is half the fun.
If you recognise this train from somewhere but can’t figure out where, have another look at your phone… It’s the green and yellow train from the train + mountains emoji!
This is the train that continues to Kleine Scheidegg to switch to the Jungfrau Railway.
Photo tip: Sit on the right side going up for the most dramatic views over the villages and valley.
Most Instagrammable places in Grindelwald
Grindelwald is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream and a photographer’s playground.
From glacier-carved valleys to the rugged north face of the colossal Eiger, the views here are out of this world.
Whether you’re content with wandering the cute village, want to lace up your hiking boots to hit the trails, or would prefer to take in the expansive panoramas via cable car, there are loads of spots here to satisfy your photographic needs.
Bergwelt Grindelwald
If you’ve read a few of my blogs before or if you follow me on Instagram, you’ll know that I’m a sucker for a good hotel view. And the view we had at the gorgeous Bergwelt Grindelwald is about as magnificent as they come.
With sleek interiors, a wellness centre complete with both an indoor and an outdoor pool and a brilliant restaurant, as well as some rooms with jaw-dropping mountain views, this is my top recommendation for where to stay in Grindelwald as a photographer.
Photo tip: Get breakfast delivered to your room so you can set up a food shoot on your mountain-view balcony, too cute!
Grindelwald-First
(Included in the Jungfrau Travel Pass)
Make sure your GoPro is charged, because you’re going to want to use it to capture the adventures on offer up at Grindelwald-First.
Start with a super scenic gondola ride, then once you reach the top you’ve got a bunch of activities on offer. Traverse the First Cliff Walk, a thrilling metal walkway that clings to the cliffside, offering mind-blowing views out to the mountains and down below the cliffs. A portion of the walkway is suspended over a sheer 45m drop, so don’t drop your phone or camera!
If that’s not enough to get your heart racing, consider trying out the First Flyer (an 800m zipline that’ll get you going as fast as 84km/h) or the First Glider (a hang-glider-style zipline where you lie flat, get hoisted up backwards and then let go to soar across the valley like a bird).
Photo tip: If conditions allow, do the 2 hour round trip hike to Lake Bachalpsee, though you’ll want to add an extra hour or so in for photo stops and maybe a swim if you’re brave. We visited in winter and didn’t have the correct footwear to tackle the snowy trail unfortunately, so I’ll have to go back for that one!
Eiger Express
(Included in the Jungfrau Travel Pass)
This state-of-the-art cableway whisks you from Grindelwald to the Eiger Glacier (Eigergletscher) station in just 15 minutes, and every second gives you insane views.
If you’re keen for an outdoor adventure there’s a new hiking trail opening in summer 2024 called the Eiger Walk of Fame, it’s 1h 30m from Eiger Glacier Station to Kleine Scheidegg and provides some of the best scenes of the Eiger’s North Face as well as Grindelwald village in the valley below.
Photo tip: Every view is great but I prefer the left hand side going up, this lets you look back towards Grindelwald.
Most Instagrammable places in Interlaken
Imagine a postcard-perfect town nestled between two impossibly blue lakes, surrounded by snowy peaks… that’s Interlaken for you.
While the surrounding region has lakes, mountains and caves to explore, the town itself offers a delightful mix of traditional village vibes with modern amenities like takeaways and wellness spas. Snap photos of paragliders floating over the city from the Harder Kulm viewpoint, go on a laidback lake cruise or hit one of the many hiking trails on offer.
Whether you’re seeking thrills, landscapes or relaxation (or a mix of all three), Interlaken will deliver.
Travel tip: If you’re visiting Switzerland on a budget I stayed at a fantastic hostel in Interlaken, it’s called Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof and it had dorms + private rooms, a deck with gorgeous mountain vistas, a guest kitchen and a dedicated co-working space.
Harder Kulm
(Included in the Jungfrau Travel Pass)
Get the best view of the city plus both lakes from Harder Kulm, a panoramic viewing platform that sticks out above the forest at 1321m high, reached by a steep funicular.
Enjoy a jaw-dropping outlook that encompasses the Jungfrau peaks, Lake Brienz, Lake Thun and Interlaken nestled between them. Don’t miss the cosy restaurant shaped like a little Swiss castle (but just take a photo, the food is overpriced and average 👎🏼).
In the warmer months the funicular runs in the evenings, and Harder Kulm is *perfect* for sunset. You’ll have to share it with loads of others, but it’s worth it!
Photo tip: Be patient! The platform is pretty small and everyone wants the shot at the pointy end, there’s usually a clear line so just line up and wait for everyone to take their turn.
Paragliding
Do you like your photography spots with a side of adrenaline? There’s no activity more Instagrammable than an epic GoPro selfie of your and your parachute floating through the air above mountains, lakes and towns.
Paragliding in Interlaken is an absolute must for any travellers who love stepping out of their comfort zone. You’ll be taken to a slope high above town, hooked up to your tandem pilot and then make your way down the hill, smoothly transitioning from a run to a flight. Before you know it you’ll be comfortably sat in the sturdy seat, legs dangling, parachute above you, insane scenery all around. The dream!
I went with Paragliding Interlaken and I can honestly say it’s one of the highlights of all my travels.
Photo tip: The paragliding companies all have photo packages, they’re usually about 40CHF on top of your experience but I reckon it’s worth it. The pilots know all the best shots so you can trust they’ll capture it well!
👉🏼 Read more: The ultimate travel bucket list
Lake Thun or Brienz
(Included in the Jungfrau Travel Pass)
For a relaxing way to enjoy the scenery, embark on a scenic boat cruise across either Lake Brienz or Lake Thun.
Lake Brienz boasts ridiculously vivid blue waters and glimpses of the striking Giessbach Falls, while a Lake Thun cruise offers views of lakeside villages and castles.
Photo tip: This is another spot where a polarising filter will do wonders, it’ll reduce the sun’s glare and really bring out the blue of the water.
St Beatus Caves
Descend into a world of wonder at St Beatus Caves, only short boat ride or bus from Interlaken.
This underground network of caves along Lake Thun is named after St Beatus, who supposedly defeated a fire-breathing dragon that lived within these rocky halls. While you’re unlikely to spot any dragons (they famously hate photographers), prepare to be amazed by the towering stalactites, shimmering rock formations, and the roar of underground waterfalls.
Photo tip: It’s a bit hard to shoot inside St Beatus Caves because it’s quite dark (obviously) and tripods aren’t allowed, but these days many phone cameras have great long-exposure modes that can fix up any slight movements.
Victoria-Jungfrau Hotel
Step back in time with a visit to the iconic Victoria-Jungfrau, a symbol of Swiss hospitality since 1865.
This grand hotel boasts a marvelous mix of Belle Époque architecture and modern elegance, with intricate ceilings, sophisticated furnishings, and panoramic windows framing those classic Interlaken scenes.
Beyond its Instagrammable interior, the Victoria-Jungfrau also houses a world-class spa and wellness centre, offering day passes to let you experience the lavish hotel without needing to spend a week’s budget on one night.
Photo tip: The main indoor pool is one of the most aesthetically-pleasing pools I’ve ever seen, where leading lines and light combine to form the perfect photo. Be polite when shooting, avoid getting other people in the backgrounds of photos if you can (they might not want to end up on a viral social media post in their swimsuit 🙃) and then put the camera down and enjoy some actual relaxation.
Most Instagrammable places in Lucerne
With its lakeside setting and fairytale old town, Lucerne might just steal the crown for Switzerland’s most beautiful city.
With well-preserved medieval architecture, breathtaking scenery and easy access to a handful of magical mountain excursions, make sure you’ve got space on your phone and spare SD cards when you explore this incredibly Instagrammable slice of Swiss paradise.
A cruise on Lake Lucerne
Experience Lucerne’s beauty from a different perspective, soaking up panoramic views that change along the trip with lake cruise.
Capture reflections of the city’s skyline in the water, watch sailboats glide by and marvel at the seemingly endless peaks that surround the lake’s shores.
The public boats are a part of the Swiss Travel System network which means they’re included in travel passes like the Swiss Travel Pass, Swiss Half Fare Card (50% discount) and the regional Tell Pass.
Photo tip: A first class ticket gives you access to a separate area and viewing deck which makes it easier to get photos with fewer people around.
The mountains around Lucerne
Lucerne is the gateway to some of Switzerland’s most iconic peaks, here’s a quick overview to help you choose your mountain adventure:
Mount Pilatus: Dramatic and legendary, with a combo of gondola, cable car and cogwheel train to make an epic loop with loads of photo opportunities.
Mount Titlis: Glacier paradise with a revolving cable car (the first in the world) and a thrilling cliff walk over harsh icy landscapes.
Stanserhorn: Accessible by vintage funicular and an open-top cable car for unobstructed 360-degree views.
Rigi Kulm: Dubbed ‘Queen of the Mountains’, offering spectacular vistas and loads of hiking trails.
Photo tip: Each mountain has its own unique draw. Research what bests suits your interest and the type of photos you want to capture.
Lucerne’s Old Town
Step back in time as you wander the cobblestone streets of Lucerne’s Old Town.
Founded in the Middle Ages, it’s a treasure trove of architectural gems and effortlessly charming vibes. Admire fresco-covered buildings, indulge in traditional Swiss cuisine and stroll along the Reuss River.
Don’t miss these highlights:
- Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke): Lucerne’s iconic symbol with its painted roof panels
- Musegg Wall: Walk along this ancient rampart for stunning city views
- Lion Monument: A poignant carving commemorating Swiss Guards
Photo tip: As you can imagine, the city gets busy during the day and evenings so the best time to shoot would be early in the morning. Stay in the middle of the Old Town for easy access, I stayed at the Lubo which is a simple but super comfy contactless hotel right in the city centre.
Instagrammable places in Basel
Known for its world-class museums, vibrant street art and thriving entertainment scene, it’s a cultural hub that has loads of sights and scenes to capture.
From medieval squares, historical architecture and modern masterpieces, this border city effortlessly blends tradition with creative energy. Prepare for a feast of art, design, theatre and culture, plus a dash of Swiss charm.
Travel tip: If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Basel, I highly recommend Silo Hostel for any fellow creators or digital nomads. It’s a short bus from the main train station, set in a vibrant neighbourhood with a focus on industrial design and sustainability! They’ve got affordable dorm rooms plus private rooms too, a great cafe/bar serving up food and drinks, and lots of work-friendly spaces to get started on your photo edits.
Basler Münster
A masterpiece of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, the Basler Münster stands as a striking symbol of the city.
Built of red sandstone, its twin towers soar above the Rhine, offering breathtaking views from its viewing platforms if you’re willing to walk up 250 steps to get to reach them.
Explore the peaceful cloisters, admire the vibrant stained glass windows and discover the tomb of the humanist Erasmus of Rotterdam
Photo tip: The walk up to the viewing platform is absolutely worth it, you’ll be treated to extraordinary vistas of the Old Town, the Rhine and the surrounding hills.
Street art
Basel boasts a vibrant street art scene. Wander neighborhoods like Kleinbasel to discover colorful murals and unexpected installations.
Photo tip: Join a street art tour to see the best graffiti that grace’s Basel’s walls.
Museums
Less of a place to take photos and more so somewhere to enjoy other people’s photos, Basel’s museums are a must-see for anyone with an interest in art, history or design.
Some of the most renowned museums are:
- Kunstmuseum Basel: Houses one of Europe’s oldest public art collections, spanning from the 15th century to the present.
- Fondation Beyeler: Showcases a superb collection of modern and contemporary art in a beautiful building designed by Renzo Piano.
- Antikenmuseum Basel: Dedicated to ancient Mediterranean civilizations, with a focus on Egyptian, Greek, and Roman antiquities.
- Museum Tinguely: Celebrates the life and work of Swiss kinetic sculptor Jean Tinguely, known for his playful, interactive machine sculptures.
- Spielzeug Welten Museum Basel (Toy Worlds Museum Basel): A delightful journey through the history of toys, dolls and teddy bears, with a vast collection from around the world.
The most Instagrammable train journeys in Switzerland
This one is a win-win, you can minimise your carbon footprint while maximising your photography opportunities with some of Switzerland’s most beautiful train journeys.
Zip by snowy peaks, through harsh alpine passes, over glacial rivers and past storybook villages as you enjoy the comforts of train travel on one of the best public transport networks in the world.
There are countless Instagrammable panoramic train trips to pick from in Switzerland, I’ve already mentioned a few in this blog, but the ones below are certainly bucket list train journeys for anyone keen to snap some fantastic photos.
And if you’re wanting to go all out, you can connect these five incredible train adventures with a couple of extra sections to make an easy-to-follow round trip itinerary, called the Grand Train Tour.
Travel tip: Trains in Switzerland are expensive for individual fares, but there are plenty of ways to bring your costs down with travel passes. I’ve got detailed guides to the Swiss Travel Pass, Swiss Half Fare Card and Jungfrau Travel Pass to help you determine the right one for your itinerary.
The Glacier Express from Zermatt to St Moritz
Lovingly known as ‘the slowest express train in the world’, the Glacier Express runs between Zermatt and St Moritz over an 8ish hour, 290km journey. Crossing over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels, you’ll pass by a variety of different landscape scenes.
It’s expensive but you can get the train for free when you have a valid Swiss Travel Pass or Interrail/Eurail Pass, you’ll just need to pay the seat reservation (mandatory). Book in advance, seats sell out year-round.
Photo tip: The windows in the main cabins don’t open so glare can be a problem, wear dark clothing or take a dark scarf with you to wrap around your camera lens to reduce reflections bouncing back.
👉🏼 Read more: The ultimate Glacier Express travel guide
The Bernina Express from Chur to Tirano
Another iconic train journey, and an easy one to add on after the Glacier Express (both trains have options leaving from Chur or St Moritz), the Bernina Express offers seriously impressive scenery over a four hour journey that connects Switzerland and Northern Italy.
You’ll see the harsh, rugged landscape of the Bernina Pass, engineering marvels like the Brusio Spiral and Landwasser Viaduct, and you even get a short photo stop at Alp Grüm, an alpine station that overlooks a radiant blue glacier-fed lake.
Photo tip: Sit on the right side of the train when travelling south to Italy, this side is closest to the lakes and glaciers during the Bernina Pass segment of the journey.
👉🏼 Read more: The ultimate Bernina Express travel guide
The GoldenPass Express from Interlaken to Montreux
The 190km, 3h 15m journey from Interlaken to Montreux on the GoldenPass Express offers passengers scenic views from start to finish, passing by lakeside castles, rolling meadows and lush vineyards.
I’d recommend an upgrade to the fancy Prestige class if you can, you’ll get plush leather seats that turn 180-degrees for the ultimate train experience.
Photo tip: Sit on the right hand side travelling from Interlaken to Montreux for the best vantage point.
The Gotthard Panorama Express from Lucerne to Lugano
This 120km-ish boat and train combo connects the enchanting city of Lucerne to the lakeside resort of Lugano over a 5.5 hour journey.
Experience a super scenic boat trip, roll through the dramatic Reuss River valley and discover the palm-laden region of Ticino. From Lugano, you can catch the Bernina Express connecting bus to get to Tirano, jump on the Bernina Express train to reach St Moritz or Chur, and continue your Switzerland adventure.
The Voralpen Express from St Gallen to Lucerne
Unlike the previous trains this one is less about the alpine backdrop and instead showcases Switzerland’s gentle lakeside beauty. Spot grazing cows, rolling meadows and wildflowers during the warmer months.
No need for seat reservations, this train runs throughout the day and it doesn’t sell out like the previous panorama trains.
Other Instagrammable places in Switzerland
Beyond the main cities there are some more Instagrammable places in Switzerland that are worth mentioning.
St Gallen’s Abbey Library (Stiftsbibliothek)
Another one for my fellow book nerds, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Abbey Library of St Gallen is one of the oldest and most beautiful libraries in the world.
It houses a magnificent collection of more than 160,000 books and manuscripts, with some dating back to the 8th century, making it a treasure trove for history buffs and bibliophiles.
But it’s not all about the books, the library itself is a masterpiece in its own right. Admire the opulent Rococo hall adorned with intricate carvings, colourful ceiling frescoes and polished wood floors, which you can only step on with weirdly large slippers (provided, no need to bring your own 🙃).
Photo tip: You can take photos of the library with a few rules: no photographing the mummy case (immediate bad juju), no tripods allowed and no flash photography.
Christmas markets
Feeling festive? Cities, towns and villages all through Switzerland transform into magical Christmas wonderlands from late November through December.
Stroll through twinkling market stalls, savour the aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine, and shop for unique gifts handcrafted by local artisans. Here are some notable markets to add to your Christmas market itinerary:
- Zurich: Boasts multiple markets, the largest being the Christkindlimarkt at the main train station with its towering Christmas tree.
- Lucerne: A great range of markets, from cosy lakeside stalls to gastronomic delights to events platforming local artists.
- Basel: One of Europe’s finest Christmas markets, held in the picturesque Old Town.
- Montreux Noël: Set on the shores of Lake Geneva, with stunning views and an idyllic lakeside setting.
- Bern: Several markets throughout the city, including on Waisenhausplatz with its historic backdrop.
Photo tip: The best time to capture the Christmassy scenes is at dusk, when light displays start to sparkle but there’s still enough light to capture details.
👉🏼 Read more: A European Christmas market itinerary by train
Alpine lakes
While Switzerland has no shortage of famous lakes, here are a few lesser-visited gems that offer stunning scenery and a more tranquil experience than the more easily-accessible hot spots I’ve already mentioned on this list:
- Oeschinensee: Considered to be the most spectacular lake in the Alps, this turquoise stunner is reachable by a scenic gondola ride followed by an easy walk.
- Blausee: Famous for its crystal-clear water, this small lake in the Bernese Oberland is surrounded by a forested nature park.
- Seealpsee: Located in the Appenzell region, there’s an easy hiking trail to reach this glacial lake.
- Caumasee: With a year-round temperature of 20-24 degrees celsius, this one is a great location for swimming, fishing and lakeside picnics.
Photo tip: Many alpine lakes involve a bit of hiking, always check conditions before you go and be prepared with a portable charger in case your phone gets drained from your constant snapping of photos.
I hope this detailed list of the most Instagrammable places in Switzerland has helped you plan your upcoming Switzerland photography adventure!
I’m sure there are many Switzerland photo spots that I’ve left off the list, 5700 words felt like enough 🙃 but if you have somewhere epic that you think deserves to be included then let me know in the comments.
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