Things To Do
in Schwyz
Schwyz sits at the heart of Switzerland, where historic charm meets alpine scenery. The town serves as a gateway to the lake and mountain landscapes of the region. Its medieval streets, the Bundesbrief Museum, and easy access to nearby peaks create a compact, culture-rich base for exploring central Switzerland.
Outdoor adventures, traditional Swiss cuisine, and tranquil lake views define a visit to Schwyz.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Schwyz and check into your hotel nestled in the charming landscapes of central Switzerland. Take a leisurely breakfast while soaking in views of the surrounding mountains. Spend the morning familiarizing yourself with the town, visiting the historical sites and quaint shops.
After lunch, embark on a guided walking tour of Schwyz's rich history, including a visit to the impressive Federal Museum of Swiss History. Explore the local architecture and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the town square. Take a moment to relax in a cozy café, sipping Swiss hot chocolate while watching the world go by.
As the sun sets, dine at a traditional Swiss restaurant, savoring local delicacies such as fondue or raclette. Stroll through the historic streets to admire the picturesque buildings under starlit skies. Cap off your evening with a leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Zürich.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast, then take the cable car up to Mount Mythen for some breathtaking panoramic views. Spend the morning hiking the well-marked trails and enjoying the stunning vistas of the surrounding Alps. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and enjoy the pristine nature.
Descend back to the base and have lunch at a local mountain hut, soaking in the fresh air. Explore the nearby villages and discover artisanal shops offering handmade Swiss crafts. Engage with local residents and learn about their lifestyle and traditions.
Return to Schwyz and relax at your hotel before dinner. Consider participating in a local cultural event, perhaps a music performance or folk dance. Enjoy a casual meal at a pub, soaking in the warm atmosphere and friendly local interaction.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧀Local cheese platter | $10-18 |
| 🥗Three-course restaurant meal | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip) | $10-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning alpine scenery and lakeside beauty
- Compact town center with easy day trips
- Excellent public transport and safety
- Rich history and Swiss culture
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- High cost of living and prices
- Weather can be unpredictable in the mountains
- "Grüezi" - Hello
- "Danke schön" - Thank you
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Schwyz
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic facades and the emblematic Swiss Federal Charter site provide classic Swiss-town photography with mountain backdrops.
Lush, historical grassland by the lake with distant Alpine silhouettes—ideal for wide-angle landscape shots.
Panoramic views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding peaks; reachable via rail from nearby towns or via hiking routes.
Cable car access to dramatic alpine vistas; exceptional sunrise and sunset photography opportunities.
Water reflections and mountain silhouettes, especially at golden hour.
Food in Schwyz
Schwyz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A crisp, golden potato dish often served with toppings like eggs or cheese; widely available in mountain inns and bistros.
Must-Try!
Classic melted cheese fondue perfect for sharing with friends after a day outdoors.
Swiss macaroni with potatoes and cheese, usually served with applesauce on the side.
Melted cheese served with potatoes, pickles, and onions—great for a cozy dinner in colder months.
A traditional Swiss breakfast made with oats, yogurt, fruit, and nuts.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Saturdays at Rathausplatz offering fresh cheeses, bread, sausages, fruits, and regional snacks.
Seasonal stalls near the lake serving street food and light bites with regional ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be on time for appointments and trains; generous greetings such as 'Grüezi' are common.
Respect quiet hours in residential areas and on public transport; avoid loud conversations at night.
Stay on marked trails, respect private property, and dispose of trash properly.
Safety
Tipping in Schwyz
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; a small tip (5-10%) for good service is appreciated but not required.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy in markets and smaller shops; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming meadows; pack a light jacket for cool mornings and late-season showers.
Warm days with long daylight hours; ideal for hiking, boating, and outdoor dining. Afternoon rain is possible in the mountains.
Colorful forests and cooler temps; good for photography and harvest markets; expect crisp mornings.
Snowy landscapes, ski resorts nearby, and festive markets; dress in layers and be prepared for icy paths.
Schwyz at Night
Hiking in Schwyz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible routes with sweeping lake and mountain views; connectable from Vitznau or Weggis.
A classic ascent to the Mythen peaks offering dramatic scenery and rewarding viewpoints.
Short, scenic loop with cable car onward options and hillside vistas.
Historic trail along the lake with alpine meadows and lakeside panoramas.
Airports
How to reach Schwyz by plane.
Main international gateway; about 60-90 minutes by train or car to Schwyz.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
German-speaking Swiss, many families and retirees living in the region.
Visitors from Europe and around the world seeking alpine scenery and Swiss culture.
A smaller community of temporary residents for work or study in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Nearby Stoos and Hoch-Ybrig offer winter sports with panoramic alpine views.
Extensive trails around Rigi, Mythen, and Stoos provide varied difficulty and stunning scenery.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Schwyz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many menus feature meat-free options such as Rösti with mushrooms, salads, cheese platters, and soups. Ask for seasonal vegetables or egg-based dishes to keep meals protein-rich.