Ten Best Cities to Visit in Switzerland in Fall by Train Tour

Imagine embarking on a train journey through Switzerland, surrounded by breathtaking autumn landscapes and charming cities awaiting your exploration. In this ultimate travel guide, we will unveil the top must-visit cities on a Switzerland train tour that will captivate your senses and leave you in awe. From the vibrant urban hub of Zurich to the majestic mountains of Interlaken, to the French towns of Lake Geneva, the picturesque town of Zermatt, home to the Matterhorn, and to the glamorous city St. Moritz, each destination offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Join us as we dive into the beauty of Switzerland, uncovering the rich culture, diverse landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and best places that make this country a top-tier travel destination. Get ready to be swept off your feet and start planning your adventure of a lifetime today!

Why travel to Switzerland in Fall Season

We focus on traveling in the Autumn Season, particularly late September and early October which is the best time to visit Switzerland. There are fewer crowds and you can enjoy the cooler temperatures, mild weather, the colourful leaves of the fall foliage, local traditions and an active festive season including harvest time and a grape harvest festival.

Switzerland in Fall: When to see the Bright Colors of the Fall Foliage

Generally speaking, the best month to visit Switzerland to see the fall foliage is early October, as the bright yellow colors from the golden larches are the most vibrant in early October. The higher elevations (Alps) will likely showcase their most vibrant colours in late September to early October. Unlike, the colors in New England where there are beautiful maple trees that turn a bright red color, the yellow fall color from the larch trees and beech trees is more popular in the Swiss Mountains.

Getting Around Switzerland by Train

Public Transportation is the best way to see Switzerland.  The trains run on time, and the panoramic views are incredible. To learn more about the Switzerland train system, please see our post “Switzerland Train Tour, Best Itinerary in Europe.”

The Top Ten Cities Reachable by The Swiss Rail System

Unfortunately, Bern and Basel might make most travel books lists of the top ten cities to visit in Switzerland, but unfortunately, they didn’t make our list as we are focused more on cities that are reachable on the famous panoramic train lines of the country, starting with the most popular landing city, Zurich.

Start Your Tour, City #1 Zurich: The Vibrant Urban Hub with a Rich Cultural Scene

Zurich is one of the best starting points for a tour through Switzerland — not only for convenience but also for the perfect blend of culture, scenery, and accessibility. Here’s why:

Seamless International Access:

Zurich’s airport (ZRH) is the largest and most efficient in Switzerland, with frequent direct flights from major cities worldwide. It’s also just 10 minutes from the city center by train, making arrival and departure stress-free.

Gateway to the Swiss Rail Network:

Zurich’s Hauptbahnhof (main train station) is a central hub for Switzerland’s legendary rail system. From here, you can easily connect to:

• Lucerne (1 hour) for lakes and mountain excursions,
• Interlaken or Grindelwald (2 hours) for the Bernese Alps,
• Zermatt (3½ hours) for the Matterhorn,
• Lugano or Lucerne via the scenic Gotthard Panorama Express,
• or even Chur for the Bernina and Glacier Express routes.

It’s ideal for travelers planning a circular or panoramic tour of Switzerland.

 

Elegant Urban Introduction:

Zurich offers a gentle transition into Swiss culture:

• Walkable old town (Altstadt) with cobblestone lanes and cafés,
• Lake Zurich promenades with mountain views,
• Top museums like the Kunsthaus Zurich (fine art) and Swiss National Museum,
• Chic shopping on Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most luxurious shopping streets.

It’s a cosmopolitan prelude before the mountain adventures begin.

Swiss Indulgence at Its Finest:

Zurich embodies Swiss quality and craftsmanship:

• Visit Sprüngli Café for its iconic Luxemburgerli macarons or its elegant Hot Chocolate which Robin and I had on our visit.

• Sample fine Swiss chocolate at Lindt Home of Chocolate (with its world’s largest chocolate fountain),
• Enjoy lakeside dining or sunset cruises before your alpine journey.
• Zurich Film Festival in the early Swiss Autumn Season, end of September

Perfect Orientation Point

Starting in Zurich allows you to adjust to time zones, relax after your flight, and explore a clean, safe, and beautifully organized city before venturing into the countryside. Many travelers stay 1–2 nights here to rest and begin their Swiss adventure refreshed and oriented.

City # 2: Lucerne or Luzern, As The Germans Spell It

Lucerne is Switzerland’s “Tourist Darling.” It is an urban hub for visitors seeking an easy access to the Alps. Lucerne is a delightful place with plenty of museums, old town vividly decorated buildings. a famous wooden bridge, and plenty of shops to keep the shoppers busy. Most importantly it is essentially the starting and ending point, after a brief one hour train ride from Zurich, for our train tour around the country. As you wander the cobblestone streets of Lucerne, you’ll be transported back in time to a bygone era filled with tales of knights, nobility, and Swiss independence. The city’s charming Old Town is a maze of narrow alleyways lined with centuries-old buildings, boutique shops, and cozy cafes where you can sample traditional Swiss fare like fondue and raclette.

Don’t forget to visit the impressive Swiss Transport Museum to learn about the country’s innovative transportation history and marvel at vintage trains, planes, and automobiles.

Lucerne is a destination steeped in tradition, with its well-preserved medieval architecture, historic wooden bridges, and picturesque waterfront setting on Lake Lucerne. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks like the Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument, and Musegg Wall, each offering a glimpse into the city’s past.

 

Bernese Oberland: Interlaken and Neighboring Towns

As you journey further through Switzerland on your scenic train tour, the next stop on our itinerary brings us to the mountain region of Bernese Oberland and Interlaken, where majestic mountains meet charming lakes in a harmonious display of natural beauty and tranquility. This picturesque destination and the neighboring towns promises to enchant you with its stunning landscapes and inviting atmosphere, providing a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for travelers seeking a truly unforgettable experience. Get ready to venture to the “Top of Europe”, Jungfraujoch. Immerse yourself in the splendor of Interlaken and discover all that this captivating city has to offer.,

City #3 Interlaken: Where Majestic Mountains Meet Charming Lakes

Interlaken is the central hub of the Bernese Oberland region and the gateway to the Jungfraujoch. At 13,642 feet it is considered the “Top of Europe”. Interlaken connects this region with the rest of Switzerland. It is the largest city in the region, and a good place to have a great time and enjoy outdoor activities. Unlike small alpine villages, Interlaken has a wide range of hotels, restaurants, and shops, making it a comfortable base for longer stays while still feeling authentically Swiss. You can explore all day, then return to lakeside dining or evening walks along the Aare. It has a good choice of decent restaurants and places to stay.

City #4 Grindelwald or Gimmelwald

As you explore the Bernese Oberland’s natural beauty and immerse yourself in its inviting atmosphere, you’ll soon find yourself yearning for more adventures in authentic Switzerland mountain resorts.  In the Bernese Oberland Region, Rick Steeves, the American Travel Expert on European Travel, recommends staying in the town of Gimmelwald. From Gimmelwald you are very “in the Alps”: steep terrain, dramatic views of the high peaks (Eiger/Mönch/Jungfrau), fewer of the bigger-town distractions. In the fall season it can be very charming.
Rick doesn’t recommend staying in Grindelwald, where most of the tours stay, including the one that we were on during our train tour of the country. He says, “it’s not that Grindelwald is bad — it just offers a different kind of experience: more resort, more facilities, more “tourist town”. From other sources (forum discussions) you’ll see the trade-offs:

• Grindelwald is larger, more accessible by train/road, has more shops, restaurants, hotels, and probably more nightlife and tourist services.

• Gimmelwald is smaller, more remote (you’ll depend on cable cars/gondolas to access it), fewer amenities, simpler accommodations.

• If you stay in Gimmelwald you need to like a quieter pace, simpler lodging, arguably a bit more logistical effort getting around.

• Some travelers say: “You are far better off staying in Grindelwald if you want to do all these activities.”

• Personally, we found Grindelwald as an excellent place to stay as it was an easy journey up to the Jungfraujoch from Grindelwald, and our accommodations were quite pleasant. We were staying there after the peak season which made it less crowded.

Lake Geneva and the French Riviera

Next on our journey is Montreux, where you can discover the beauty of the Swiss Riviera and indulge in the charm of this elegant lakeside town. Scenic railways like the GoldenPass Express connect Interlaken with Montreux on Lake Geneva. It is a beautiful train ride across Switzerland.  Unfortunately, in an unusual experience for the Swiss Train System, our Panoramic Train out of Interlaken, broke down and we made an unexpected visit to the city of Spiez, and the Spiez Castle, where we found another, non-panoramic train, to take us to Lake Geneva.

City # 5 Montreux City

Montreux is a picturesque town nestled along the shores of Lake Geneva, offering visitors a taste of the Swiss Riviera’s elegance and charm. Take a nice walk along the lakeside promenade lined with palm trees, admire the blooming flowers in the city’s parks, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Don’t miss a visit to Chillon Castle, a historic fortress dating back to the 12th century, or spend some time exploring the Montreux Jazz Festival, a world-renowned event that attracts music lovers from across the globe.

Our tour to Lake Geneva, was limited to a single half day, so we were unable to travel to either Lausanne or Geneva. However, having visited both on previous trips to Switzerland, we can highly recommend visiting these cities if you have time on your Switzerland Train Journey.

City # 6 Geneva: A City of International Diplomacy and Stunning Waterfront Views

In Geneva, a city of international diplomacy and stunning waterfront views, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world where global governance meets natural beauty along the shores of Lake Geneva. Home to the United Nations and numerous other international organizations, Geneva exudes an air of cosmopolitan sophistication. As you explore the city, you’ll be captivated by the Jet d’Eau, a majestic fountain that shoots water 140 meters into the air, providing a mesmerizing backdrop to the picturesque waterfront promenade.
But Geneva offers more than just political intrigue. The city boasts a rich history that can be explored in its charming Old Town, where you can wander through narrow streets lined with medieval buildings and discover hidden gems around every corner. Don’t miss the iconic St. Pierre Cathedral, famous for its role in the Protestant Reformation and its panoramic views of the city from its tower.
For a taste of local culture, be sure to visit one of Geneva’s many museums, galleries, and theaters. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the collections at the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire, while history buffs can delve into the city’s past at the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum. And when it’s time to unwind, take a leisurely boat cruise on Lake Geneva or relax in one of the waterfront parks, soaking in the beauty of the surrounding Alps.
As you continue your Switzerland train tour, Geneva’s unique blend of international flair and natural splendor will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the diversity and charm of this captivating city.,
After soaking in the beauty of Lake Geneva, our journey continues to the enchanting mountain resorts of Zermatt, Davos and St. Moritz, Davos, each offering a unique blend of Alpine splendor and luxury amenities.,

On to City #7 Zermatt, Under the Mighty Matterhorn

Zermatt is one of those rare destinations that feels both timeless and cinematic — a blend of pure Alpine beauty, old-world Swiss charm, and bucket-list adventures.

Here’s why it’s worth a visit (or a return visit), especially in autumn when the crowds thin and the Matterhorn glows golden against crisp skies.

The Matterhorn — Switzerland’s Most Iconic Peak

• The Matterhorn (4,478 m) is not only a mountain; it’s a national symbol. Its distinctive pyramid shape is instantly recognizable around the world (it inspired the Toblerone logo!).
• Zermatt offers unmatched views from every angle—especially from Gornergrat, Rothorn, and Sunnegga viewpoints.
• Sunrise and sunset reflections on the peak are legendary; photographers call it “the golden hour mountain.”

Scenic Mountain Railways and Cable Cars

• The Gornergrat Railway, Europe’s highest open-air cogwheel train, climbs to over 3,000 m with stunning panoramas of 29 peaks above 4,000 m.
• The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cableway takes you to Klein Matterhorn, Europe’s highest cable-car station at 3,883 m, with views reaching into France and Italy.
• In fall, these rides feel extra peaceful — clear skies, fewer crowds, and autumn colors sweeping up the valleys.

Hiking, Nature, and Autumn Colors

• Zermatt is surrounded by hiking trails for every level, from forest walks to high-alpine routes with larch trees turning gold by late September.
• Favorites include the Five Lakes Walk, where you can see the Matterhorn mirrored in calm alpine lakes, and the Hörnli Trail, leading to the base camp of the famous climb.
• In early autumn, the air is crisp, the paths are quieter, and the larches start glowing—a spectacular natural contrast to snow-capped peaks.

Car-Free Village Charm

• Zermatt has been car-free since 1961, adding to its tranquil, old-world appeal. You get around on foot, by e-taxi, or by charming horse-drawn carriage.
• The village center is filled with chalet architecture, cozy cafés, and gourmet restaurants ranging from rustic fondue lodges to Michelin-star dining.

Alpine Culture, Dining, and Wellness

• The area blends Swiss precision with Italian flair—you’re right on the border, so menus often mix raclette and risotto.
• Don’t miss mountain restaurants like Chez Vrony or Findlerhof, known for views as good as the cuisine.
• Many hotels (like the Hotel Sonne-where we stayed, CERVO, or Omnia) feature spa and thermal areas, perfect after a day of hiking or sightseeing.

Year-Round Adventure

• Zermatt is one of the few European resorts with year-round skiing on the Theodul Glacier.
• In summer and fall, it’s a hub for trail running, paragliding, mountain biking, and photography tours.
• In winter, it becomes part of a vast ski area linked to Cervinia, Italy, offering cross-border skiing.

Perfect Base for the Swiss Rail Experience

• It’s the southern terminus of the Glacier Express, one of the world’s most scenic train journeys to St. Moritz.
• Zermatt connects beautifully with the Grand Rail Tour of Switzerland, Bernina Express, or Gornergrat Mountain Railway—a must-stop on any Swiss itinerary.

In Short

Zermatt is the quintessential Swiss postcard come to life — where dramatic landscapes, refined comforts, and genuine Alpine spirit meet. Whether you’re there for photography, hiking, food, or pure mountain serenity, it’s a place that stays in your soul long after you’ve left.

Zermatt to St. Moritz and Davos on the Glacier Express

An all day train ride on the famous Glacier Express will take you to the well known resorts of St. Moritz and Davos. For more information about the Glacier Express and other panoramic train rides please see our post, Switzerland Train Tour, Best Itinerary in Europe Post.

Cities # 8 St. Moritz and #9 Davos Compared to Zermatt

St. Moritz, Davos, and Zermatt are three mountain resorts in Switzerland that offer their own distinctive charm and appeal. St. Moritz is known for its glitz and glamour, attracting elite visitors with its luxurious accommodations and world-class skiing. The neighboring village of Pontresina offers similar charm as St. Moritz, and a little less glitz.
Davos, on the other hand, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities from hiking and mountain biking to paragliding and ice climbing. Davos also well known as the home to the World Economic Forum that is held there every January. We stayed in Davos in early October, and it was the low season. Unfortunately, many of the restaurants and hotels were closed. Perhaps, St. Moritz or Pontresina is a better place to stay in the Autumn Season. All three locations offer easy access to the Bernina Express which will take us to our final highly recommended Swiss City, Lugano.
Compared to Zermatt, home to the iconic Matterhorn peak, all these cities are a paradise for skiers and snowboarders looking for some of the best slopes in the world. Each of these mountain resorts provides a unique experience for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation in the Swiss Alps. However, Zermatt is a little more challenging and adventurous for the experienced skier.
These resort towns are just a taste of the diverse landscapes and cultural experiences that Switzerland has to offer. Next, we journey to Lugano to learn about the Italian region of Switzerland.

Take the Bernina Express to Lugano and the Italian Region of Switzerland

Many travel experts, ourselves included, will tell you that of all the panoramic trains that we have take to visit these beautiful cities, the Bernina Express is the most beautiful because of its spectacular views. It uses both a dynamic train ride, and a bus tour pass the famous Lake Como to get you to the southern-most Swiss city of Lugano.

Final Best Cities to Visit in Switzerland: City #10 Lugano, Italy in Switzerland

Lugano feels like a touch of Italy wrapped in Swiss charm. Set on the shimmering shores of Lake Lugano and surrounded by palm trees and snow-dusted peaks, this city blends Mediterranean warmth with Swiss precision.

We wandered along the lake promenade, sipped espresso in sunlit piazzas, and took in views from Monte Brè that seemed to stretch forever. With its blend of art, nature, and easy elegance, Lugano is the perfect pause between the Alps and Italy—calm, cultured, and impossibly beautiful. This was a second visit to Lugano, and we were surprised to discover so many exciting places that we hadn’t previously seen, including a wonderful local festival including an alphorn symphony,

Conclusion

Start planning your Switzerland train tour now and embark on an adventure of a lifetime! From the vibrant urban hub of Zurich to the charming lakes of Interlaken, the beauty of the Swiss Riviera in Montreux, and the historic charm of Lucerne and Bern, Switzerland offers a diverse range of cities waiting to be explored. So, book your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready to be swept off your feet by the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of this enchanting country. As you journey through these must-visit cities, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of wonder and beauty that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Don’t wait any longer – Switzerland is calling, and your ultimate travel experience awaits.