1. Geneva
As a global hub for diplomacy and banking, Geneva offers a unique blend of international flair and natural splendor. Nestled on the shores of the crystal-clear Lake Geneva and flanked by the Jura and Alps mountain ranges, it's a city that breathes sophistication.
Nomad's Take: Geneva is perfect for the nomad who needs world-class amenities and networking opportunities. It’s an easy base for exploring, with France just a stone's throw away.
Top Activities: Explore the Old Town, visit the iconic Saint Pierre Cathedral, and marvel at the Jet d’Eau, a massive fountain that rockets water 140 meters into the air.
Essential Day Trips: Take a short trip to Château de Chillon, visit Chamonix to see the magnificent Mont-Blanc, or pop over to the charming French town of Annecy.
Where to Stay: For a touch of historic luxury, consider Les Armures in the heart of the Old Town.
2. Zermatt
Home to the iconic, pyramid-shaped Matterhorn (famously featured on Toblerone chocolate), Zermatt is the quintessential Alpine escape. This charming, car-free village offers pure mountain air and an atmosphere of serene exclusivity.
Nomad's Take: The car-free environment makes Zermatt an incredible place for deep, focused work, free from urban distractions. It's a true winter wonderland and a hiker's paradise.
Getting There: Accessible only by train or authorized taxi, which preserves its tranquil vibe. The village itself is compact and easily walkable.
Must-Do: Take a cable car or railway up to one of the viewpoints like Gornergrat for unforgettable Matterhorn vistas. In winter, the three ski resorts are world-class.
Where to Stay: For an unparalleled high-altitude experience, the Riffelalp Resort 2222m offers luxury amidst the peaks.
3. Zurich
As Switzerland's largest city and a major financial center, Zurich is dynamic, clean, and incredibly well-organized. Set along the beautiful Lake Zurich, it offers a perfect mix of urban energy and accessible nature.
Nomad's Take: Zurich is an excellent base for longer stays. With superb connectivity, co-working spaces, and a vibrant nightlife, it caters to the professional who works hard and plays hard.
Key Experiences: Stroll the high-end shopping street Bahnhofstrasse, explore the cobblestone alleys of Altstadt (Old Town), take a boat cruise on the lake, and hike Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic city views.
Unique Vibe: Don't miss the library bar at B2 Hotel, where you can sip wine surrounded by 33,000 books.
Where to Stay: Zurich serves as a fantastic hub for day trips to Lucerne, Bern, and Interlaken.
4. Lucerne (Luzern)
Lucerne is the Switzerland you've dreamed of. This compact city in central Switzerland is framed by the Alps and sits on the edge of the stunning Lake Lucerne. Its medieval architecture and covered bridges are simply enchanting.
Nomad's Take: Lucerne is ideal for creative inspiration. It’s less hectic than Zurich or Geneva but still offers everything you need for a productive and beautiful stay.
Iconic Sights: Walk across the Kapellbrücke, Europe's oldest wooden covered bridge, which is adorned with flowers in the summer. A trip up the legendary Mount Pilatus via cable car is non-negotiable for its sweeping Alpine views.
Pro Tip: Always check the live webcams for Mount Pilatus before heading up; mountain weather can change quickly, and visibility varies.
Where to Stay: Hotel des Balances provides spectacular views of the Kapellbrücke and Reuss River.
5. Interlaken
True to its name, Interlaken is perfectly situated between two magnificent lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. This resort town is the adventure capital of Switzerland and the gateway to the majestic Jungfrau region.
Nomad's Take: If your off-hours are all about adrenaline and epic landscapes, Interlaken is your spot. The efficient transport network makes accessing world-famous peaks a breeze.
Must-Do Adventure: The train journey to Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe,” is an unforgettable experience, taking you to one of the highest railway stations in the Alps.
Other Highlights: Explore the St. Beatus Caves on Lake Thun or simply enjoy the plethora of summer activities available in and around the town.
Where to Stay: Hotel Royal St George is a great central base. For a more immersive mountain feel, consider staying in the nearby village of Lauterbrunnen.
6. Lauterbrunnen
If Interlaken is the gateway, Lauterbrunnen is the heart of the valley. Famous for its 72 waterfalls, including the dramatic Staubbach Falls, this village is a photographer's and nature-lover's paradise. It's so picturesque it feels like a movie set.
Nomad's Take: For those seeking pure, unadulterated nature and a quieter pace, Lauterbrunnen is perfection. The inspiration you'll draw from the landscape is immeasurable.
Natural Wonders: Hike the trails to get up close to the Trummelbach and Staubbach waterfalls. The entire valley is a network of stunning walking paths.
Alpine Access: Lauterbrunnen is a key transit point for the train and funicular journey up to Jungfraujoch.
Where to Stay: For an authentic Swiss mountain experience, look for a chalet or guesthouse like Wasserfallhüsli.
7. St. Moritz
St. Moritz is where Alpine luxury was born. This glamorous resort town has hosted the Winter Olympics twice and is synonymous with sophistication, world-class winter sports, and a well-heeled international crowd.
Nomad's Take: This is the destination for the nomad who appreciates the finer things in life. It's a place to network, indulge, and enjoy premier skiing and spa facilities.
Winter Exclusives: Beyond skiing, try bobsledding, ice skating on a natural rink, or even watch polo and horse racing on the frozen lake.
Summer Charm: The warmer months are perfect for hiking, relaxing in spas, celebrity spotting, and enjoying a beach day by the lake.
Where to Stay: The historic Kulm Hotel St. Moritz sets the standard for five-star Alpine luxury.
8. Stoos
A tiny, car-free village with only 100 residents, Stoos offers one of Switzerland's most unique arrival experiences. You'll ascend Fronalpstock Mountain on the world's steepest funicular railway—an engineering marvel.
Nomad's Take: Stoos is the perfect day trip from Zurich or Lucerne for a quick digital detox. The views and the famous ridge hike are a fantastic way to clear your head and recharge.
Main Attraction: The Stoos Ridge Hike is a moderately challenging two-hour trek between the Klingenstock and Fronalpstock peaks, offering panoramic views of ten lakes and the surrounding Alps.
Views: From the village and the hiking trail, the vistas are simply jaw-dropping.
Where to Stay: If you decide to stay overnight, the Wellness Hotel Stoos is the main option.
9. Basel
Located on the Rhine River at the tripartite border of Switzerland, France, and Germany, Basel is a cultural powerhouse with a relaxed, artistic vibe. It boasts over 40 museums and a charming Old Town.
Nomad's Take: Basel's strategic location is a dream for the perpetual traveler. Spend your weeks working in this quaint city and your weekends exploring France's Alsace region (Colmar, Strasbourg) or Germany's Black Forest.
City Life: Explore the Old Town, visit the impressive Basel Minster cathedral, and on a hot day, do as the locals do and float down the Rhine.
Connectivity: The city has excellent public transport and a beautiful train station with daily departures to major European cities.
Where to Stay: Hotel Märthof Basel is a great option for longer stays and easy access to day trips.
10. Chur
As the oldest city in Switzerland, Chur is steeped in over 5,000 years of history. This car-free city in eastern Switzerland is the capital of the Graubünden region and a major hub for scenic train journeys.
Nomad's Take: Chur is an excellent, often-overlooked base for exploring the heart of the Alps. It’s the starting point for the famous Glacier Express and Bernina Express scenic train routes—bucket-list journeys for any traveler.
Activities: Take a walking tour of the historic Old Town, ride a cable car up to a local mountain viewpoint, or rent a bicycle to explore the region's natural beauty.
Where to Stay: The ABC Swiss Quality Hotel is conveniently located near the train station, perfect for travelers in transit.
11. Sion
Sion feels like stepping into a medieval fairytale. The capital of the Valais region is defined by its two fortified hills, each topped with a castle: the 13th-century Tourbillon Castle and the Valère Basilica.
Nomad's Take: Sion is for the history buff and wine lover. Its sunny climate and location in the heart of a major wine region make it a delightful and picturesque base for exploration.
Climate: It's known as one of the sunniest towns in Switzerland, making it beautiful from the lush green of spring to the snow-capped magic of winter.
Best Time to Visit: April through October is ideal for exploring the surrounding Swiss and French wine regions.
Where to Stay: Hôtel des Vignes places you right in the heart of the vineyards.
