If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland and seeking lesser-known yet charming destinations, you’ve come to the right place! In this post, I’ll unveil Switzerland’s hidden gems—delightful places perfect for an idyllic vacation.
During my first visit to Switzerland, I explored cities, while on my most recent trip, I uncovered picturesque villages and tiny towns in the cantons of Thurgau, Appenzell, and Valais.
Without further ado, let’s dive into this post about Switzerland’s lesser-known attractions. And, please, do share your favorite village at the end!Â
Table of Contents
Ernen
During my journey, Ernen, a picturesque village nestled in the canton of Valais, left an indelible impression on me. Surrounded by majestic mountain vistas, Ernen stands out as my top pick for an idyllic vacation in Switzerland. Even on cloudy or rainy days, it retains a mystical and enchanting charm. It’s worth noting that I visited Ernen in May, and one can expect sunny weather during the summer months. ?
One of the village’s primary attractions, aside from the breathtaking scenery, is its immaculately preserved town center. The labyrinthine narrow streets lined with wooden houses create an incredibly captivating atmosphere.
Here’s a useful tip: I stayed at the Alpenblick Hotel, and the views from there were nothing short of a dream come true.
For dining options, I highly recommend the Hotel Bergland-Hof for lunch or dinner.
Leuk
When I shared an Instagram post featuring all the places mentioned in this post, it was Leuk that garnered the most admiration. And it’s no wonder why—Leuk is renowned for its panoramic views of the Swiss Alps, making it an irresistible destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike.
Nestled in the German-speaking part of the Valais canton, Leuk is a picturesque town celebrated for its meticulously preserved medieval architecture. There’s an abundance of attractions here, including a 13th-century castle and the intriguing Skull Chapel. From Leuk, you can revel in the breathtaking vistas of the Rhone Valley and the majestic Alps. Additionally, you have the opportunity to savor wines from local vineyards. Close by, a popular thermal spa beckons those in search of rejuvenation.
Saillon
Nestled in the canton of Valais, Saillon is a picturesque village celebrated for its hot springs and exceptional vineyards. Yet, there’s much more to discover here. Saillon boasts a 12th-century castle that gracefully commands the village’s skyline. Moreover, the village offers excellent trekking opportunities, so be sure to bring along sturdy and reliable footwear. If you appreciate atmospheric towns and are up for some ascent, Saillon is an ideal destination for you.
Here’s an intriguing fact: Saillon is home to the world’s smallest vineyard, owned by none other than the Dalai Lama.
Steckborn
Steckborn, situated in the canton of Thurgau on the shores of Lake Constance, is an excellent choice for a summer retreat. One of its standout attractions is the medieval old town, characterized by its charming half-timbered houses. You can still catch glimpses of the remnants of the ancient city wall that once encircled the old town. It comes as no surprise that parts of the city are under heritage protection.
Furthermore, I recommend embarking on a boat cruise to Diessenhofen, for instance. On the ship, you have the option to enjoy refreshing drinks, all while taking in the breathtaking views from this unique vantage point. The landscape unfolds before you, revealing Swiss towns intertwined with a picturesque, almost untamed coastline.
During my stay in Steckborn, I lodged at the See und Park Hotel Feldbach. They also boast excellent restaurants serving delectable cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to try the dessert “Oops, I Dropped the Blumentopf”—it’s simply brilliant!
Diessenhofen
I reached Diessenhofen by boat from Steckborn, another village located nearby in the canton of Thurgau. Diessenhofen is a medieval village brimming with historic charm, tracing its origins back to the 12th century. The best way to uncover its unique qualities is by strolling through the labyrinthine streets of the old town. Among the highlights is the St. Lawrence Church, adorned with a stunning Baroque altar. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the local museum as well.
Here’s an interesting tidbit: Diessenhofen is situated right on the border with Germany. Therefore, make sure to take a leisurely walk across the historic bridge—by doing so, you can literally check off a visit to another country! ?
For a delightful dinner experience, I highly recommend the Unterhof restaurant, known for its spectacular sunset views and delectable cuisine.
Salenstein
Nestled in the canton of Thurgau along the shores of Lake Constance, the village of Salenstein boasts a unique attraction—Arenenberg Castle. This historical site holds particular significance as it was the childhood home of Queen Hortense, the mother of Napoleon III. Today, it serves as a museum dedicated to the illustrious Bonaparte family.
If you find yourself in the vicinity, this is an excursion well worth your time. Napoleon’s former residence is a marvel, and the panoramic views of Lake Constance from the castle are nothing short of breathtaking. In my opinion, it’s a must-visit in the area.
For a delightful lunch or dessert, I recommend the Bistro Louis Napoleon, conveniently located right next to the museum.
Appenzel
Situated in the eastern part of Switzerland, Appenzell holds the distinction of being the capital of the Appenzell Innerrhoden canton. This village is renowned for its well-preserved traditional Swiss architecture, with its iconic colorful houses impeccably maintained. Furthermore, Appenzell is celebrated for its scenic landscapes, extensive hiking trails, and local cuisine, which encompasses both food and beverages.
Beyond its natural allure, Appenzell stands out as a remarkable village steeped in history and culture. It is famously known for the tradition of the Landsgemeinde—an open assembly of citizens where decisions are still made by raising one’s hand, eschewing the use of paper ballots.
During my visit, I had the privilege of staying in the heart of Appenzell, right by the renowned square where these unique elections are conducted. You can discover the Romantik Hotel Appenzell, bearing its charming name, through this link.
What to Explore in Switzerland?
While Switzerland is often synonymous with mountains for many, this country boasts a rich tapestry of offerings that extend from its lakes and rivers to its vibrant cities, charming towns, and quaint villages. My journey through Switzerland was dedicated to uncovering its hidden gems, the picturesque villages that encapsulate the cultural and architectural diversity within the three cantons.
With this in mind, I’d like to emphasize that the list above serves merely as an introduction to the enchanting and lesser-known corners of Switzerland. If you have other places to recommend, I eagerly await your comments.
I embarked on this exploration of Switzerland’s picturesque villages at the invitation of Switzerland Tourism [advertisement].
For those planning a trip to Switzerland, do also consider:
Switzerland in a Week – What to Discover by Train?
Montreux – a Magical Place in Switzerland. What To Do There?
Appenzell: Journey through Alpine Splendor and Swiss Tradition
Best Things To Do In Bern, Switzerland (Map & Tips)
Gruyères, Switzerland: Explore the Cheese Capital in the Heart of the Alps
