You might know Switzerland for the most famous places like Interlaken and Bern. But the best experiences in the country can be found in its tiny, prettiest villages away from the touristy crowds. You will find houses that haven’t changed in centuries, traditions that are still observed, and a setting that feels surreal. If you’re the kind of traveller who enjoys quiet walks, local food, or discovering a place through its people, these villages are worth your time. Trust us, after visiting these villages, you won’t ever look back at mainstream destinations again.
Gruyères
Gruyères sits on a small hill in western Switzerland and is best known for its castle and cheese. The streets are lined with traditional homes, family-run restaurants, and small art spaces. At the top, the castle offers expansive views of the surrounding region and rooms filled with medieval furniture and artwork. You can also stop by the local cheese dairy and watch how the famous Gruyère is still made every day.
The HR Giger Museum is also worth visiting. It showcases beautiful art and sci-fi designs inside a historic building. Just below the village, you’ll find peaceful trails that lead to nearby pastures and woodlands. You can also try a fondue in one of the cosy restaurants or browse souvenir shops with handmade ceramics and local crafts.
Appenzell
Appenzell stands out for its hand-painted wooden houses and strong local identity. Walking through the town feels like stepping into a place that hasn’t changed much. You’ll see people in their traditional dresses, signs in the local dialect, and storefronts selling regional goods. The surrounding area is perfect for low-key hiking, and the cable car to Ebenalp makes it easy to explore higher viewpoints without a long trek.
In town, visit the Appenzell Museum to learn about its customs, costumes, and farming history. You can also catch one of the local festivals, where people still vote by raising their hands in the square. If you enjoy cheese, many dairies around the area offer tastings and short tours. The landscape nearby is perfect for walks through flower-covered hills or picnics in the open air.
Stein am Rhein
Stein am Rhein is a small riverside town near the German border that feels almost like an open-air gallery. Its medieval centre is full of buildings covered in colourful frescoes. You can follow the main square to the former monastery and walk along the riverfront where boats dock throughout the day.
One of the main attractions here is the Monastery of St George, which has a peaceful garden and a museum with rotating exhibitions. Above town, Hohenklingen Castle is worth the short hike for its panoramic views and its on-site restaurant. The riverbank has shaded benches, and some visitors rent canoes or take short river cruises to nearby villages.
Guarda
Guarda is a mountain village known for its carefully preserved Engadine homes. The buildings are made of thick stone and feature hand-carved designs and inscriptions that reflect the history of the families who lived there. The village is small, with a few guesthouses and a bakery, but it is very walkable and peaceful. From the edges of the village, you’ll find marked trails that lead to open meadows and quiet forest paths.
It’s also known as the home of the children’s book character Schellen-Ursli, and fans can follow a trail inspired by the story. The local museum offers insight into alpine architecture and village life. Don’t miss a slow lunch on a terrace overlooking the valley, or try regional dishes like capuns in one of the small restaurants.
Murten
Murten is located between Bern and Lausanne and sits directly on the lake that shares its name. The town has a complete ring wall that you can walk along, with great views of the lake and rooftops. Inside the walls, the streets are lined with covered arcades and old fountains. During the warmer months, the waterfront becomes a relaxing place to swim, rent boats, or just sit outside one of the lakeside cafés.
You can also take a boat ride across Lake Murten or rent a bike to explore the surrounding vineyards. The Museum Murten gives a detailed history of the town and the 1476 battle that took place here. Local bakeries sell Nidelkuchen, a cream pie that’s unique to the region. The slow pace, natural beauty and history make Murten a must-visit town in Switzerland.
Ernen
Ernen is a quiet village in the canton of Valais with a strong cultural focus. It hosts a well-known classical music series in its baroque church each summer. The rest of the year, it’s a peaceful spot for hiking and exploring the surrounding nature. The village architecture is simple and mainly made of dark wood, with carved balconies and narrow lanes that connect the square to open fields nearby.
You can also visit the Tellenhaus, a painted building that once served as the village court, or take a trail into the Binntal Nature Park. This area is known for its minerals, so many hikers search for crystals or just enjoy the quiet mountain paths. In winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular sports here.
Saint Ursanne
Saint Ursanne lies along the Doubs River and feels like a place from another time. The old town gates, stone bridge, and abbey complex are all intact. The village is surrounded by wooded hills and makes a good base for walking or biking along the river. You can have a quiet lunch in the small square or visit the museum to learn more about the monk who gave the town its name.
In summer, the river is calm and perfect for paddling or canoeing. The main church regularly hosts concerts, and the cloister remains one of the best-preserved in the region. A few local art studios and antique shops are tucked between homes, which you can easily explore on your walk.
Evolène
Evolène is a mountain town in the Val d’Hérens that still holds tightly to its traditions. The wooden homes are dark from age, and the streets are decorated with flags during festivals. Locals speak a regional dialect, and you’ll often see traditional costumes during events. The area has well-marked trails that lead to lakes and alpine views.
Visitors can hike to Lac d’Arbey for a peaceful picnic or explore smaller hamlets nearby. The local museum focuses on seasonal life in the Alps and is worth a visit. In winter, Evolène has a family-run ski station and quieter slopes than larger resorts.
Soglio
Soglio is located on a ridge in the Bergell Valley and offers beautiful views of the mountains and valley below. The houses are made of grey stone and grouped tightly along small paths. The local church sits at the edge of the village, overlooking the entire landscape. You can hike through chestnut groves and alpine meadows, or simply enjoy a quiet meal at one of the few inns in town.
Soglio is also a good base for longer hikes into Val Bregaglia, including trails that pass waterfalls and wildflower meadows. Artists and writers have often stayed here, and you’ll see why as you walk through the shaded gardens and quiet corners. The peaceful setting, strong local food traditions, and natural beauty make Soglio a favourite among those looking to unplug.
Romainmôtier
Romainmôtier is one of Switzerland’s oldest monastic settlements, built around a Romanesque church that remains active today. The village is located in the Jura region and is made up of stone houses, narrow streets, and quiet gardens. You can attend a choral performance in the abbey or join a guided walk through the area’s historical spots.
Nearby, you’ll find forest paths and picnic areas just outside the village. Small workshops sell pottery and regional honey, and a few guesthouses offer overnight stays. The abbey often hosts concerts and seasonal events, giving another reason to visit this pretty village.
These villages show a different side of Switzerland. They are not designed for busy sightseeing or fast-paced travel. They offer rich history, culture, and a connection to local life that is easy to miss in larger towns. If you are planning a visit to Switzerland and want to experience something beyond busy ski resorts and city hotels, consider spending a few days in one of these towns.
