Switzerland's Top Ten Enchanting Ancient Towns - Top Ten Enchanting Ancient Towns in Switzerland
In the heart of Europe, nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of the Swiss Alps and picturesque riversides, lie ten enchanting old towns that transport visitors back in time. This article, penned by Niels Kruse, offers a journey through these captivating locales.
The first stop on our tour is Stein am Rhein, an exceptionally well-preserved medieval town that boasts timber architecture, painted facades, and a castle overlooking the Rhine River. The Rathausplatz, home to the historic town hall, and St Peter’s Abbey, add to the town's outstanding concentration of historic buildings and picturesque river views.
Next, we travel to Saint-Ursanne, a tranquil medieval town in the Canton Jura, where the original city gates, a collegiate church, and a bell tower dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries, create a charming atmosphere. The old stone buildings nestled amidst greenery have earned it the nickname "Pearl of the Jura."
Chur, Switzerland's oldest town, located in Graubünden, offers an 800-year-old Gothic cathedral, historic streets, natural mountain vistas, and traditional Swiss architecture. The car-free old town is a testament to the town's rich history.
Thun, a picturesque town in the Bernese Oberland, is known for its medieval old town, historic buildings, and idyllic lakeside setting. The town's breathtaking mountain panoramas make it a destination not to be missed.
Lucerne, famous for its well-preserved medieval old town, wooden bridges, ancient bell towers, and beautiful lake and mountain scenery, is another must-visit.
Zermatt, a charming Alpine village, is renowned for its traditional wooden chalets, stunning views of the Matterhorn, and preserved old town atmosphere combined with access to mountain hiking.
Gstaad, known for its elegant old chalets, quaint streets, and scenic surroundings in the Swiss Alps, offers a blend of rustic and refined historical ambiance.
Rapperswil, a lakeside medieval old town on Lake Zurich, features a castle, cobblestone streets, and preserved historic buildings along the waterside.
Appenzell, a colorful town noted for its traditional Swiss houses with decorated facades and significant cultural heritage, is another gem on our list.
Lastly, Epesse, a small village celebrated for its postcard-perfect landscapes surrounded by vineyards and lake views, with old village structures and charming streets, completes our tour.
These old towns showcase various great epochs, from Gothic, Renaissance, and Neoclassicism, and feature castles, cathedrals, timber-framed houses, and walls. The Swiss old town of Ascona, with its Italianate character, reflects the proximity to the Mediterranean.
The old town of Schaffhausen also has lavishly decorated oriels, while Solothurn showcases baroque splendor. These towns are not just historical landmarks but also vibrant travel destinations, offering a mix of well-preserved medieval architecture, historic churches, old city gates, castles, and picturesque natural surroundings like rivers, lakes, and Alpine mountains, making them some of the most visually and culturally captivating old towns in Switzerland.
[1] Swiss Tourism (2021) The ten most beautiful old towns in Switzerland. [Online] Available at: https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-gb/switzerland/cities-and-towns/the-ten-most-beautiful-old-towns-in-switzerland.html [2] Swiss Tourism (2021) Saint-Ursanne. [Online] Available at: https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-gb/switzerland/cities-and-towns/canton-jura/saint-ursanne.html [3] Swiss Tourism (2021) Chur. [Online] Available at: https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-gb/switzerland/cities-and-towns/canton-graubunden/chur.html [4] Swiss Tourism (2021) Thun. [Online] Available at: https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-gb/switzerland/cities-and-towns/canton-berne/thun.html
- In this captivating journey through Switzerland's old towns, travelers can participate in community workshops offering vocational training in home-and-garden renovation, enhancing their lifestyle skills and fostering the preservation of these historical sites.
- As one explores the picturesque landscapes and medieval towns, travelers might choose to extend their vacation to immerse themselves in the breathtaking Alpine mountains for skiing and hiking adventures, making their trip a blend of history, culture, and travel lifestyle.
