Matterhorn, Jungfraujoch, Pilatus, Rigi, Titlis: discover the most beautiful mountains in Switzerland, how to reach them, what to do and our tips to enjoy them.
Switzerland is, above all, the Alps: legendary peaks, eternal glaciers and breathtaking panoramas, often reachable by train, cable car or cogwheel railway. This guide presents the most beautiful mountains in Switzerland, from the legendary Matterhorn to the easy Pilatus, and how to enjoy them at any level.
The most beautiful mountains at a glance
- The Matterhorn: the iconic pyramid of Zermatt, 4,478 m.
- The Jungfrau and the Jungfraujoch: the "Top of Europe", the continent's highest railway station.
- Pilatus: above Lucerne, with the world's steepest cogwheel railway.
- The Rigi: "the queen of the mountains", 360° views over lakes and Alps.
- The Titlis: glacier, suspension bridge and year-round snow near Engelberg.
The Matterhorn, symbol of Switzerland
With its unique pyramidal silhouette, the Matterhorn (4,478 m) towers over Zermatt, a car-free resort in Valais. You admire it from the Gornergrat, reachable by cogwheel train, or from the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Europe's highest cable car (3,883 m). Zermatt offers hikes, summer skiing and panoramic tables facing the giant.
The Jungfrau region
In the heart of the Bernese Oberland, the trio of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau forms one of the finest Alpine scenes. From Interlaken, Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen, you climb to the Jungfraujoch (3,454 m), nicknamed the "Top of Europe", on Europe's highest railway. The Aletsch Glacier, an ice palace and panoramas await visitors.
Pilatus, Rigi and Titlis: central Switzerland
More accessible, these peaks are perfect for a day trip. Pilatus and the Rigi are reached from Lucerne by combining boat, cogwheel railway and cable car. The Titlis, near Engelberg, offers a year-round skiable glacier, the rotating Rotair cable car and the Titlis Cliff Walk, Europe's highest suspension bridge.
How to get up the mountain?
- Cogwheel railways: Gornergrat, Pilatus, Rigi, Jungfraubahn.
- Cable cars and gondolas: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Titlis Rotair, Schilthorn.
- Hiking: thousands of kilometres of marked trails, from family walks to Alpine treks.
- Panoramic trains: Glacier Express and Bernina Express to link the mountain regions.
When to go and practical tips
Summer (June to September) is ideal for hiking; winter for skiing and snow. Always check the weather at altitude before going up, as the view makes all the difference. Combined tickets and transport passes make excursions more affordable. Bring warm clothes: it can be cold at the summit even in summer.
Plan your stay with TOP SUISSE
To go further, read our guides what to do in Lucerne and central Switzerland, the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland and what to do in Switzerland, or browse the cities and all the categories.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most beautiful mountain in Switzerland?
The Matterhorn is undoubtedly the most famous, with its unique pyramidal silhouette above Zermatt. The Jungfrau and the Eiger massif are also among the most impressive.
Which Swiss mountain is the easiest to visit?
Pilatus and the Rigi, near Lucerne, are very accessible thanks to cogwheel railways and cable cars. The Titlis, near Engelberg, offers year-round snow and a spectacular suspension bridge.
How do you get up to the Jungfraujoch?
The Jungfraujoch, the 'Top of Europe' at 3,454 m, is reached by train from Interlaken via Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen and the Kleine Scheidegg, on Europe's highest railway.
Do you need to be fit to enjoy the Swiss mountains?
No. Most major peaks are reachable by train, cable car or cogwheel railway with no particular effort. There are also many easy, family-friendly hikes at altitude.
