Discover lesser-known urban treasures
Zurich, Lucerne, and Geneva are wonderful, yet Switzerland’s lesser-known cities offer quiet beauty and rich cultural layers. From castle-capped ridges to monastic libraries, these towns invite you to explore another side of Swiss life. Discover six cities where history abounds — but crowds are scarce!
Whether you’re a culture lover, a slow traveler, or simply seeking the path less followed, these six cities show Switzerland’s magic beyond the spotlight. Pack your curiosity — the quiet, slow-paced Switzerland is waiting.
1/
Thun
Tucked between the Bernese Alps and Lake Thun, this is truly a hidden Swiss gem. Its pastel-colored old town, hilltop castle, and wooden bridges over the Aare River blend storybook charm with Alpine beauty. Far from the tourist crowds, Thun invites quiet strolls, lakeside sunsets, and a taste of a quieter Swiss life.
2/
Fribourg
Perched above the Sarine River, Fribourg is a medieval jewel of Gothic spires and modern flair. Its old town, one of Europe’s best preserved, is a maze of cobbled alleys, historic fountains, and 15 bridges. The 74-meter tower of St. Nicholas Cathedral offers panoramic views, while the Espace Jean Tinguely – Niki de Saint Phalle museum adds a modern art twist. With a lively university scene and a blend of French and German cultures, Fribourg offers contrasts and charm.
3/
St. Gallen
St. Gallen is a cultural treasure with a rich monastic past. Its UNESCO-listed abbey, with a stunning Baroque cathedral and one of the world’s oldest libraries, anchors the old town. Ornate facades, quiet squares, and a legacy of fine embroidery give the city a refined, timeless feel — ideal for travelers seeking depth and beauty.
4/
Bellinzona
Bellinzona’s three UNESCO-listed castles — Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro, towering over the town — enchant visitors. Stroll cobbled streets lined with historic palazzi and lively squares, and don’t miss the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, known for its Renaissance fresco. On Saturdays, the local market bursts with Ticino flavors and crafts. For adventure, cross the Carasc suspension bridge, spanning a dramatic 100-meter gorge. Bellinzona perfectly blends medieval history with Italian charm.
5/
Chur
Nestled in the Rhine Valley, Chur is Switzerland’s oldest city, with over 13,000 years of history. Its car-free old town is a maze of medieval alleys, frescoed facades, and historic towers. Highlights include the 12th-century Cathedral of the Assumption and Roman ruins hidden beneath the city. Culture thrives in the Bündner Kunstmuseum and Rätisches Museum. As the starting point of the Bernina Express, Chur is also the gateway to stunning alpine adventures.
6/
Sion
The sun-soaked capital of Valais, Sion is crowned by two hilltop castles, Valère and Tourbillon. The winding streets of the old town lead to Romanesque churches, charming squares, and the Cathedral of Notre-Dame-du-Glarier. Surrounded by vineyards, Sion is a hub of Swiss wine culture, blending history, heritage, and Alpine beauty.
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