The beautiful cities playing host to the Women’s Euros 2025 | Europe | Travel
Lucerne (Image: Getty)
The UEFA Women’s Euros 2025 isn’t just about football – it’s also a passport to some of the most stunning destinations in Switzerland. From lakeside cities to Alpine towns, there’s plenty on offer for football fans heading to the “heart of Europe” and “heart of women’s football” this summer according to the President of Switzerland.
In a teasing video released in anticipation of the tournament kicking off on July 2, Karin Keller-Sutter has released a special statement to football fans around the world. Her message? In Switzerland, even if you lose, you win.
Accompanied by stunning footage of Swiss lakes, mountains, and cities, the video is a love letter to Switzerland, showcasing what the host nation has to offer. “Wouldn’t it be a pity to miss all this?” she asks with a smile.
Here’s what you can expect from each host location this summer.
Basel
The Basler Münster Cathedral is probably the most famous landmark in Basel (Image: Getty)
Where three countries meet, Basel is a city full of contrasts where the historic old town meets modern architecture and mixes culture and riverside cool in one dynamic city. From historic alleyways to cutting-edge museums, it’s a creative, cosmopolitan stop on the tournament map.
Take a ferry along the Rhine, maybe even hop in to cool off, then head out for a cold drink in one of the many ‘buvettes’ – open-air eating and drinking spots.
Make sure you head to Mittlere Brücke, a bridge and superb viewing spot for keen photographers which has come to symbolise the city of Basel. Opened back in 1226, it is one of the oldest Rhine crossings between Lake Constance and the North Sea.
Top attractions: Kunstmuseum, Old Town, Rhine River swim.
Bern
Bern is built around a crook in the Aare River (Image: Getty)
Switzerland’s charming capital is all cobblestone streets, clock towers, and quiet confidence. Hugged by the River Aare and overlooked by Alpine peaks, Bern is as picturesque as it is peaceful.
Be sure to visit the UNESCO-listed old town, cathedral, fountains such as the Zähringen Fountain or the Kindlifresserbrunnen (Child-Eater Fountain) and numerous arcades.
The turquoise-blue waters of the River Aare are also a must for any keen swimmers.
Top attractions: Zytglogge clock tower, Bear Park, Bundeshaus (Federal Palace), Rose Garden.
Geneva
The city on Lake Geneva has a picturesque old town (Image: Getty)
Geneva is international; the European headquarters of the UN and the International Committee of the Red Cross are located here, and is well known as the home of watchmaking.
Polished, global, and impossibly scenic, Geneva offers a mix of lakeside leisure and international sophistication. Whether you’re into politics or paddleboarding, it’s got you covered.
Top attractions: Jet d’Eau, Palais des Nations (UN HQ), Old Town.
Lucerne
Lucerne’s historic old town is one of the major stops on any trip to Switzerland (Image: Getty)
Lucerne looks like it stepped out of a storybook. With its wooden bridges, mountain backdrop, and crystal-clear lake, i’s the ultimate gateway to central Switzerland.
Make sure you visit Lucerne’s pier, the best spot for a photo, or check out the fantastic views of the city, lake and mountains from the Musegg Wall with its nine towers.
Take a break at a café along the Reuss River before you enjoy stroll through the beautiful Old Town, taking in the brightly coloured painted façades and many shops.
Top attractions: Chapel Bridge, Mount Pilatus, Old Town, boat cruise on Lake Lucerne, Lion of Lucerne.
Sion
Sion is the oldest of Switzerland’s cities, set in the sunny Rhône Valley (Image: Getty)
This sunny Alpine town in the Rhône Valley is full of character. Wine lovers and history buffs will both find something to toast to in the area characterised by its fortress hills, stunning old town and Valais vineyards.
Why not check out the underground lakes of St Leonard, Europe’s largest subterranean lake.
Sion’s also the perfect base, from where you can visit the thermal baths of Saillon and Leukerbad in no time at all.
Top attractions: Basilique de Valère, Tourbillon Castle, Old Town.
St. Gallen
St Gallen’s cathedral, the abbey library and old town brings history and culture together (Image: Getty)
Where embroidery meets elegance, St. Gallen is a cultural crossroads with a strong sense of style. Its abbey library alone is worth the trip, along with a wander around the car-free old town.
Let the Mühleggbahn (historic railway) take you up to the Drei Weieren for views over the city, while keen walkers can visit the Sittertal valley on St Gallen’s Bridge Trail.
Top attractions: Abbey Library, Cathedral of St. Gallen, Textile Museum
Thun
Thun is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland (Image: Getty)
A fairytale town perched between lake and mountains, Thun is full of tranquil charm and natural beauty ideal for slow days and scenic strolls.
Thun is known for its many bridges, so start your day with a walk through the old town, crisscrossing along the Aare.
Don’t miss a trip on the nostalgic Blümlisalp paddle steamer as you cruise across the waters of Lake Thun.
Top attractions: Thun Castle, Lake Thun, Old Town
Zurich
Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and its economic and financial centre (Image: Getty)
Zurich may be Switzerland’s largest city, but it’s also one of its most livable. With its sparkling lake, buzzing nightlife, and thriving art and food scenes, it’s a perfect blend of urban energy and natural beauty.
Wander through the Old Town, hop on a boat across the lake, or explore edgy districts like Zurich-West.
Cross the Münsterbrücke bridge for a popular spot to take a photo or head to the Lindenhof is a beautiful and relaxing oasis in the middle of the city.
Top attractions: Bahnhofstrasse (Zurich’s main downtown street and one of the world’s most expensive and exclusive shopping avenues), Lake Zurich, Kunsthaus Zurich.
