12 Lakes in Switzerland: Crystal Waters, Alpine Views, and Everything You Need to Know

Switzerland sparkles with over 1,500 lakes dotted across its mountainous terrain. These crystal-clear bodies of water range from vast expanses like Lake Geneva to smaller alpine gems like Lake Sarnen.

Lakes in Switzerland offer something for every type of traveler—whether you want to swim in turquoise waters, snap postcard-worthy photos, enjoy family picnics, or simply take in the mountain reflections.

This comprehensive guide covers the 12 most beautiful lakes in Switzerland, with all the practical details Indian travelers need—from entry fees and swimming rules to photography spots and picnic locations.

1. Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)

Lake Geneva stretches across the western edge of Switzerland, creating a natural border with France. As the largest lake in Switzerland, its vast blue waters sparkle against the backdrop of snow-capped Alps and terraced vineyards.

The lake’s shores are home to some of Switzerland’s most glamorous cities and towns, including Geneva, Lausanne, and Montreux, each offering distinctive experiences from international diplomacy to jazz festivals.

Highlights:

• The largest lake in Switzerland, covering 580 sq km

• The famous Jet d’Eau fountain in Geneva shoots water 140 meters high

• UNESCO-listed Lavaux vineyards on terraced hillsides along the lake

• Medieval Chillon Castle sits dramatically on a small island

• Scenic paddle steamer cruises connect lakeside towns

• Montreux Jazz Festival venue (annually in July)

• Popular swimming spots with excellent water quality

• Home to the CGN ferry network connecting Swiss and French shores

Location: Western Switzerland, bordering France; major cities include Geneva, Lausanne, and Montreux

Entry Fee: Free access to lake shores; public beaches are typically free while private beaches charge CHF 5-10 (approximately Rs. 450-900)

Timing: Open year-round, 24 hours; the main tourist facilities operate 9:00-18:00

Activities: Swimming, sailing, paddleboarding, windsurfing, boat cruises, wine tasting in Lavaux vineyards, lakeside walks, visiting Chillon Castle, and cycling along lake paths

Nearby Restaurants:Café du Grütli, Brasserie de Montbenon

Suggested Read: Switzerland Visa for Indians

2. Lake Constance (Bodensee)

Lake Constance sits at the meeting point of three countries—Switzerland, Germany, and Austria—creating a unique cultural mix. The Swiss portion of the lake offers charming towns, cycling paths, and vineyards.

With its mild climate, sometimes called the “Swabian Sea,” this lake feels almost Mediterranean in summer, making it perfect for Indian travelers looking for both relaxation and activity.

Highlights:

• Shared by three countries: Switzerland, Germany, and Austria

• Famous for Mainau Island’s botanical gardens with exotic flowers

• Mild climate creates a Mediterranean atmosphere in summer

• Historic lakeside towns with medieval architecture

• Extensive cycling paths around the entire lake

• Ferry connections to German and Austrian shores

• Clean, swimmable water with many beach areas

• Popular wine region with lakeside vineyards

Location: Northeastern Switzerland; the main towns include Kreuzlingen and Romanshorn

Entry Fee: Free access to the lake; some beaches charge CHF 3-6 (approximately Rs. 270-540)

Timing: Accessible 24 hours; beach facilities typically open 8:00-20:00 in summer

Activities: Swimming, sailing, windsurfing, cycling on the Bodensee Radweg (Lake Constance Cycle Path), boat cruises, visiting Mainau Island, wine tasting, and fishing

Nearby Restaurants:Restaurant Seegarten, Restaurant HAFEN

Suggested Read: Switzerland Visa Extension for Indians

3. Lake Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee)

Lake Lucerne’s uniquely shaped waters, resembling a fjord with multiple arms stretching between mountains, create one of Switzerland’s most dramatic landscapes. Often called the heart of Switzerland, this lake witnessed the birth of the Swiss Confederation in 1291.

Its combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes it a must-visit for Indian tourists exploring central Switzerland.

Highlights:

• A distinctive cross-shaped lake with four arms resembling a fjord

• Considered the birthplace of the Swiss Confederation

• Surrounded by mountains, including Mt. Pilatus and Mt. Rigi

• Historic paddle wheel steamers from the 1900s still in operation

• Lucerne’s wooden Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) at the lake outflow

• William Tell sites, including the famous Tellsplatte

• Excellent water quality for swimming

• Spectacular mountain-lake photography opportunities

Location: Central Switzerland; the main city is Lucerne (Luzern)

Entry Fee: Free lake access; some beaches charge CHF 3-8 (approximately Rs. 270-720)

Timing: Accessible 24 hours; tour boats operate 8:00-19:00 (longer in summer)

Activities: Boat cruises on historic steamers, swimming, paddleboarding, hiking on lakeside paths, mountain excursions to Rigi and Pilatus, visiting historic sites, and photography

Nearby Restaurants:Seerestaurant Belvédère, Restaurant Opus

Suggested Read: Switzerland Visa Appeal for Indians

4. Lake Neuchâtel

Lake Neuchâtel offers a different Swiss experience with its relaxed atmosphere and gentle landscapes. As Switzerland’s largest lake entirely within the country’s borders, its long shoreline features sandy beaches, nature reserves, and vineyards.

The lake’s microclimate supports unique flora and fauna, making it ideal for nature lovers among Indian tourists.

Highlights:

• The largest lake located entirely within Switzerland

• Long sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing and picnics

• Grande Cariçaie nature reserve with 1,000+ plant species

• The medieval town of Neuchâtel with its distinctive yellow stone buildings

• Archaeological sites, including prehistoric pile dwellings

• Popular for windsurfing due to reliable breezes

• Excellent birdwatching opportunities in wetland reserves

• Quieter atmosphere than the more famous Swiss lakes

Location: Western Switzerland; the main city is Neuchâtel

Entry Fee: Free lake access; some beaches charge CHF 2-5 (approximately Rs. 180-450)

Timing: Accessible 24 hours; beach facilities typically open 9:00-19:00 in summer

Activities: Swimming, sailing, windsurfing, birdwatching in nature reserves, hiking along shoreline paths, visiting vineyards, exploring prehistoric sites, and cycling

Nearby Restaurants:Restaurant Le Jura, Brasserie Le Cardinal

Suggested Read: Switzerland visa rejection for Indians

5. Lake Zurich (Zürichsee)

Lake Zurich combines urban sophistication with natural beauty, offering a perfect balance for Indian travelers who want both city excitement and lakeside relaxation.

The clean, clear waters stretch from the heart of Zurich into the countryside, with many access points, beaches, and promenades. In summer, the lake becomes the social center of the city, with locals and tourists enjoying its refreshing waters.

Highlights:

• Urban lake with easy access from Switzerland’s largest city

• Clean, clear water suitable for swimming

• Numerous public beaches, parks, and bathing areas

• Frequent boat services connecting lakeside villages

• Stunning views of the Alps on clear days

• Popular sunset spots along promenades

• Excellent waterfront dining options

• Vibrant summer atmosphere with many events

Location: Northeastern Switzerland; the main city is Zurich

Entry Fee: Free lake access; some beaches charge CHF 4-8 (approximately Rs. 360-720)

Timing: Accessible 24 hours; beach facilities typically open 9:00-20:00 (May-September)

Activities: Swimming, sailing, paddleboarding, boat cruises, lakeside walking and jogging, picnicking in parks, visiting lakeside villages, and sunset watching

Nearby Restaurants:Lake Side, Pumpstation

Suggested Read: Switzerland Visa Photo Requirements for Indians

6. Lake Thun (Thunersee)

Lake Thun’s deep blue waters reflect the surrounding Alpine peaks, creating picture-perfect scenes at every turn. Located in the Bernese Oberland region, this lake serves as a gateway to some of Switzerland’s most famous mountains.

For Indian photographers and nature lovers, Lake Thun offers spectacular scenery combined with charming historical towns and castle views.

Highlights:

• Deep blue water color distinctive among Swiss lakes

• Medieval castles, including Thun Castle and Oberhofen Castle

• Gateway to the Jungfrau region and the famous Swiss Alps

• Surrounded by mountains on all sides

• Historic paddle steamer cruises available

• Several swimming areas with mountain backdrops

• Popular for photography due to stunning reflections

• Less crowded than nearby tourist hotspots

Location: Bernese Oberland; the main town is Thun

Entry Fee: Free lake access; some beaches charge CHF 3-6 (approximately Rs. 270-540)

Timing: Accessible 24 hours; boat services operate 8:00-19:00 (longer in summer)

Activities: Swimming, sailing, boat cruises on historic vessels, castle visits, fishing, photography, hiking on surrounding mountains, and visiting lakeside villages

Nearby Restaurants:Restaurant Dampfschiff, Beau Rivage

Suggested Read: How to Get Visa Appointment for Switzerland

7. Lake Brienz (Brienzersee)

Lake Brienz is famous for its extraordinary turquoise water, which can appear Caribbean-blue on sunny days. This smaller lake near Interlaken offers some of Switzerland’s most photogenic landscapes.

The combination of colorful water, wooden boats, and mountain backdrops makes Lake Brienz one of the best lakes for photography in Switzerland, particularly popular with Indian tourists.

Highlights:

• Striking turquoise water color due to glacial minerals

• One of Switzerland’s deepest lakes at 260 meters

• Photogenic wooden boats and traditional steamers

• Picturesque village of Iseltwald on a small peninsula

• Giessbach Falls cascading directly into the lake

• Fewer swimmers due to colder water (perfect for photography)

• Stunning wooden boathouses along the shores

• Incredible light conditions for sunrise photography

Location: Bernese Oberland; between the towns of Brienz and Interlaken

Entry Fee: Free lake access; some beaches charge CHF 2-5 (approximately Rs. 180-450)

Timing: Accessible 24 hours; boat services operate 9:00-18:00 (April-October)

Activities: Photography, boat cruises, kayaking, visiting Giessbach Falls, touring the historic Brienz Rothorn Railway, limited swimming (water remains quite cold), and hiking

Nearby Restaurants:Café Walz, Seehotel Bären

Suggested Read: How To Check Switzerland Visa Status In India

8. Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore stretches across the Swiss-Italian border, bringing Mediterranean charm to Switzerland’s southern Ticino region. Palm trees, exotic gardens, and a mild climate create an atmosphere quite different from other lakes in Switzerland.

For Indian visitors, Lake Maggiore offers a fascinating blend of Swiss efficiency and Italian lifestyle, with excellent food and beautiful landscapes.

Highlights:

• Cross-border lake shared with Italy

• Mediterranean climate with palm trees and exotic plants

• Brissago Islands with botanical gardens featuring 1,700+ plant species

• Belle Époque architecture in lakeside towns

• Popular for swimming due to warmer water temperatures

• Famous for camellias and other colorful flowers

• Charming markets in lakeside towns

• Excellent boat network connecting Swiss and Italian shores

Location: Southern Switzerland, Ticino region; the main towns include Locarno and Ascona

Entry Fee: Free lake access; Brissago Islands botanical garden costs CHF 8 (approximately Rs. 720)

Timing: Accessible 24 hours; boats to Brissago Islands operate 9:00-18:00 (March-October)

Activities: Swimming, sailing, visiting Brissago Islands, exploring markets, boat trips to Italian towns, visiting gardens, enjoying Mediterranean atmosphere, and photography

Nearby Restaurants:Al Pontile, Ristorante Sensi

Suggested Read: Hiking in Switzerland

9. Lake Zug (Zugersee)

Lake Zug offers peaceful shores and stunning sunsets in central Switzerland. Smaller and less visited than nearby Lake Lucerne, it provides a more relaxed atmosphere with equally beautiful scenery.

The lake is surrounded by gentle hills and cherry orchards, making it particularly lovely in spring when blossoms appear. For Indian families looking for quieter lakes in Switzerland for picnics, Lake Zug is an excellent choice.

Highlights:

• Famous for spectacular sunsets with mountain silhouettes

• Surrounded by cherry orchards (beautiful in spring)

• Several excellent picnic areas along the shores

• Clean, clear water perfect for swimming

• Mountain panorama including Rigi and Pilatus

• Peaceful atmosphere with fewer tourists

• The historic old town of Zug at the northern end

• Good fishing opportunities (with permit)

Location: Central Switzerland; the main town is Zug

Entry Fee: Free lake access; some beaches charge CHF 2-5 (approximately Rs. 180-450)

Timing: Accessible 24 hours; beach facilities typically open 9:00-19:00 in summer

Activities: Swimming, picnicking, fishing (with permit), boat trips, walking along shoreline paths, cycling, sunset watching, and cherry blossom viewing in spring

Nearby Restaurants:Restaurant Widder Zug, Restaurant Theater Casino Zug

Suggested Read: Switzerland on a Budget

10. Lake Murten (Murtensee)

Lake Murten is one of Switzerland’s smaller lakes but offers plenty of charm with its medieval town and relaxed atmosphere. The shallow waters warm up quickly in summer, making it popular for swimming.

Located in a bilingual region, the lake area provides a fascinating cultural mix of German and French influences that appeals to many Indian visitors.

Highlights:

• Shallow, warm water ideal for families with children

• The medieval walled town of Murten on the shore

• Rich history, including the famous Battle of Murten (1476)

• Bilingual region with French and German influences

• Sunflower and tobacco fields surrounding the lake

• Excellent cycling paths on all sides

• Popular for stand-up paddleboarding

• Good bird watching opportunities

Location: Western Switzerland; the main town is Murten/Morat

Entry Fee: Free lake access; some beaches charge CHF 2-4 (approximately Rs. 180-360)

Timing: Accessible 24 hours; beach facilities typically open 9:00-19:00 (June-September)

Activities: Swimming, sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, cycling around the lake, exploring medieval Murten, hiking, bird watching, and picnicking

Nearby Restaurants:Restaurant Chesery, Auberge de la Croix Blanche

Suggested Read: Flavors of Switzerland

11. Lake Sarnen (Sarnersee)

Source: wikimedia

Lake Sarnen represents one of the more hidden lakes in Switzerland, often overlooked by international tourists despite its beauty. Located in central Switzerland, this smaller lake offers peaceful surroundings and authentic Swiss experiences without crowds.

The clean waters and mountain backdrop make it perfect for Indian travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty away from tourist hotspots.

Highlights:

• A less touristy lake with local atmosphere

• Crystal-clear water excellent for swimming

• Surrounded by forests and gentle hills

• Good fishing lake with several species

• Several natural beaches and swimming spots

• Mount Pilatus visible from the northern shore

• Perfect for peaceful picnics away from crowds

• Traditional Swiss farming villages nearby

Location: Central Switzerland, canton of Obwalden; the main town is Sarnen

Entry Fee: Free lake access; no paid beaches

Timing: Accessible 24 hours year-round

Activities: Swimming, fishing (with permit), rowing, kayaking, picnicking, hiking in surrounding hills, cycling along lake paths, and relaxing at uncrowded beaches

Nearby Restaurants:Restaurant Jordan, Seehotel Wilerbad

Suggested Read: Winter in Switzerland

12. Lake Biel (Bielersee)

Lake Biel sits in Switzerland’s watch-making region and offers a fascinating mix of natural beauty and industrial heritage. The bilingual area (German/French) provides cultural diversity alongside lake activities.

The small St. Peter’s Island in the middle of the lake was once home to philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau and remains a popular destination for day trips and picnics.

Highlights:

• A famous wine-growing region along the shores

• St. Peter’s Island in the middle of the lake

• A bilingual region with both French and German spoken

• Connection to watch-making heritage in nearby towns

• Several sandy beaches suitable for families

• Three-Lakes-Cruise connects to Lakes Neuchâtel and Murten

• Excellent cycling paths around the entire lake

• Less crowded than major tourist lakes

Location: Western Switzerland; the main town is Biel/Bienne

Entry Fee: Free lake access; some beaches charge CHF 2-5 (approximately Rs. 180-450)

Timing: Accessible 24 hours; beach facilities typically open 9:00-19:00 in summer

Activities: Swimming, sailing, wine tasting in vineyard villages, visiting St. Peter’s Island, cruising to connected lakes, cycling, hiking, and picnicking

Nearby Restaurants:Restaurant St. Gervais, Restaurant Du Lac

Suggested Read: Nightlife in Switzerland

Why Choose OneVasco?

OneVasco makes visa applications effortless. Our expert team manages the entire process, allowing you to focus on your journey. 

Enjoy stress-free travel with fast visa approvals.

• Expert and Personalized Support

• Efficient and Hassle-Free Process

• Real-Time Tracking and Updates

• Transparent Communication

FAQs

How many lakes are in Switzerland?

Switzerland has over 1,500 lakes. Lakes in Switzerland range from large ones like Geneva to remote alpine gems, offering both tourist facilities and untouched natural beauty across the country.

Are the lakes in Switzerland man-made?

Most lakes in Switzerland are natural, shaped by glaciers during the last ice age. Some smaller ones are man-made reservoirs, but major tourist lakes like Geneva, Zurich, and Lucerne are naturally formed.

What is the most beautiful lake in Switzerland?

Beauty is subjective, but Lake Brienz is known for turquoise water, Lake Lucerne for mountain views, and Lake Geneva for activities. The best lakes for photography in Switzerland include Brienz, Lucerne, and Thun.

Can you swim in the lakes in Switzerland?

Yes, is swimming allowed in Switzerland lakes is a common question—and the answer is yes! Most lakes have clean, safe water with designated swimming areas and facilities like changing rooms and showers.

What is the best time to visit Switzerland’s lakes?

The best time to visit lakes in Switzerland is June to September for warm weather and outdoor fun. July and August are peak season; May and October are quieter but cooler.

What activities can you do at the lakes in Switzerland?

Lakes in Switzerland offer swimming, sailing, paddleboarding, fishing (with permits), boat cruises, hiking, cycling, picnicking, and photography. In winter, enjoy scenic walks or ice skating on some frozen lakes.

Is there an entry fee for lakes in Switzerland?

There’s usually no entry fee for lakes in Switzerland. Public access is free, but some developed beaches charge CHF 2–10 (Rs. 180–900) for facilities. Boat rides and rentals cost extra.

Are pets allowed at Switzerland’s lakes?

Pets are generally allowed at lakes in Switzerland, but rules vary. Some beaches ban dogs in summer, while others have dog-friendly zones. Keep pets leashed and check local lake regulations before visiting.