What To See (When You’re Not Hiking Or Skiing) In Switzerland

Most famous for being home to the magnificent Swiss Alps, the small country of Switzerland draws avid hikers and skiers. Along with incredible ski runs and panoramic walking trails, however, this picturesque destination has so much more to offer. Its heritage is rich in folklore (complete with fire-breathing dragons!) and there are more than 100 art galleries in Zürich alone. Here are a few great cultural sites that will give your sore muscles a rest:

The Lindt & Sprüngli chocolate factory

Chocolate is one of Switzerland’s most beloved exports, and the Lindt brand is known all across the globe. Located just a few kilometers south of the city, the headquarters of Lindt & Spüngli is easy to reach from most hotels in Zürich by car or public transportation. Once there, you may take a tour of the chocolate factory and visit the adjacent chocolate museum. Round the day off with a screening of the factory’s film, and don’t forget to pick up your (chocolate-filled) gift bag before leaving!  Also be sure to call ahead, as the place keeps limited hours.

The Maison du Gruyère

Along with chocolate, Switzerland produces mass quantities of cheese. If you love the dairy product as much as the locals do, you should definitely pay a visit to the Maison du Gruyère on the Moleson “Cheese Trail” near Gruyère. Originally opened back in 1969, the farm is now the only show dairy left in the country. Visitors can watch farmers deliver the milk and craftsmen process it into cheese loaves. The interactive exhibition is sure to stimulate your senses. Be sure to purchase some of the hard, mild cheese before leaving the property.

Marc Chagall’s Windows at Münsterhof

Münsterhof is a town square in the Lindenhof quarter of Zürich. It can be found right between Bahnhofstrasse and the River Limmat, and it is best known for one pretty amazing attraction—the slender-spired Fraumünster church. While the landmark’s architecture is eye-catching, what really make the church stand out are its windows. They were brilliantly crafted by Marc Chagall in 1967, when the legendary artist was already 80 years old. Their beautiful colors and impressive size (they are 10 metres tall) make the 5 choir windows among the most stunning attractions in Zürich.

Bellinzona

Commonly thought to be the most “Italian” part of Switzerland, the medieval town of Bellinzona is also a fascinating destination. It is located on the skyline of a panoramic mountain pass, surrounded by spectacular views of the Swiss Alps. Bellinzona’s patrician houses, ancient churches and neo-Classical, Italian-style theatre mingle with more modern buildings like boutiques and cafes. However, its most intriguing attractions are its fortifications. They were built around 3 imposing castles: the Castlegrande, Castello di Montebello and Castello di Sasso Corbaro. Together, the castles form a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Want to stay the night? There are also great hotels in Bellinzona!

Château de Chillon

The most visited historic building in all of Switzerland, this “Water Castle” attracts over 300,000 guests each year—and for good reason. Since belonging to the Counts of Savoy from the 12^th to 16^th centuries, the Château de Chillon has been meticulously preserved. Some of the compound’s most attractive features are its wall paintings from the 14^th century, its subterranean vaults and the grand bedroom that dates back to the days of Bernese rule. Comprised of 25 buildings and three courtyards, the waterfront castle is as large as it is beautiful.