Switzerland's cities offer an unparalleled blend of historical charm and modern convenience, all connected by one of the world's most efficient rail networks. Click on a city to learn about its train stations, local transit options, and top attractions accessible with your Swiss Rail Pass.
German-Speaking Switzerland
Zurich
Switzerland's largest city combines vibrant urban life with easy access to nature. Home to the country's main transportation hub, Zurich offers excellent connections to all regions of Switzerland and neighboring countries.
Bern
The Swiss capital enchants visitors with its UNESCO-listed Old Town, medieval arcades, and the iconic Zytglogge clock tower. Bern's central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the country.
Basel
Sitting at the crossroads of Switzerland, France, and Germany, Basel is a cultural powerhouse with world-class museums, stunning architecture, and a vibrant arts scene. Its trinational station offers direct connections to major European cities.
Lucerne
With its pristine lake, iconic wooden Chapel Bridge, and breathtaking mountain scenery, Lucerne embodies the classic Swiss experience. The city serves as a gateway to central Switzerland's mountains and lakes.
St. Gallen
Home to the UNESCO-listed Abbey Library and historic textile industry, St. Gallen combines rich cultural heritage with a modern university atmosphere. Its train station connects eastern Switzerland with major cities.
Winterthur
Often called the "city of museums," Winterthur offers cultural treasures in a compact setting. This charming town is just a short train ride from Zurich but has its own distinct character and excellent transport connections.
French-Speaking Switzerland
Geneva
This international hub combines Swiss precision with a global perspective. Home to numerous international organizations, Geneva offers stunning lake views, excellent shopping, and direct rail connections to France and beyond.
Lausanne
Home to the International Olympic Committee, Lausanne combines sports heritage with a vibrant university atmosphere. The city's hilly layout offers spectacular views of Lake Geneva and the French Alps.
Montreux
This elegant resort town on Lake Geneva is famous for its annual jazz festival and Mediterranean-like microclimate. Montreux is the starting point for the scenic GoldenPass panoramic train route through the Alps.
Fribourg
With one of Switzerland's best-preserved medieval centers, Fribourg straddles the French-German language boundary. Its spectacular setting on steep hills above the Sarine River makes it uniquely photogenic.
Italian-Speaking Switzerland
Lugano
Blending Swiss efficiency with Italian flair, Lugano offers a Mediterranean atmosphere with palm-lined promenades and scenic lake views. The city serves as Switzerland's third-largest financial center and a gateway to Italy.
Alpine Gateways
Chur
Switzerland's oldest city serves as the gateway to the Alps and the starting point for the famous Bernina Express and Glacier Express scenic routes. Chur's charming car-free old town dates back 5,000 years.
Thun
Often called the "Gateway to the Bernese Oberland," Thun charms visitors with its medieval castle, covered wooden bridges, and stunning lake. It's an ideal base for exploring the Alpine region while enjoying city amenities.
Schaffhausen
Famous for the nearby Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall, Schaffhausen boasts a well-preserved old town filled with ornate oriel windows and decorated facades. Its strategic location connects Switzerland with southern Germany.
Biel/Bienne
Switzerland's largest bilingual city harmoniously combines French and German cultures. Known for its watchmaking tradition and scenic location on Lake Biel, the city offers excellent transit connections to the Jura mountains.