A Comprehensive Guide to Airports in Switzerland: Closest Cities, Attractions and Travel Tips

Bounding with spectacular mountains, beautiful lakes, and vibrant cities, Switzerland stands as one of the best places in Central Europe. It holds a very highly developed and organized transportation network, that welcomes millions of visitors to the country each year. The country boasts ten strategically located airports: ten to connect various parts of the country, making it easier for travelers to explore Switzerland and its surroundings. This guide delves into location, nearest cities, and practical travel tips for each airport.

Airports in Switzerland and their Nearest Cities, Attractions

This guide shows major airports in Switzerland with the nearest cities. It is also a travel planner for your travel to this very beautiful country. You can go for the magnificent Alps, busy urban life, or very calm lakes, knowing the whereabouts of these airports would save you from a lot of hassle when you fly into the country.

1. Zurich Airport (ZRH)

Zurich Airport, which is the largest and busiest airport in Switzerland, receives upwards of 31 million travelers each year and therefore acts as one of the major gateways into the country. Situated in northern Switzerland, it easily connects the Major hubs for the Swiss International Airlines onward travel destinations worldwide. Its location only 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from the lively city center of Zurich makes it very convenient in terms of providing superb transport facilities for both business and leisure travelers. Often praised for efficiency and modern services, Zurich Airport sets an example for Swiss precision and hospitality, thus considered one of the city's favorites among international visitors.

Nearest Cities to Zurich Airport:

Zurich: 

• Distance from the airport: 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) 

• Key Attractions: Along the Limmat River

• Traveling time: 20-25 minutes from Zurich Airport

Winterthur: 

• Distance from the airport: 

• Key Attractions: 

• Traveling time: 20-25 minutes 

Baden:

• Distance from the airport: 22 kilometers (about 13.6 miles)

• Key Attractions:  Offers thermal baths and rich culture inherited from the past.

• Traveling time: 20-30 minutes by train or car.

Rapperswil-Jona: 

• Distance from the airport: 40 kilometers (25 miles)

• Key Attractions: Medieval atmosphere, at the shores of Lake Zurich

• Traveling time:  35 - 40 minutes traveling by train or car.

Schaffhausen: 

• Distance from the airport: 50 kilometers (31 miles) 

• Key Attractions: Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe

• Travel time: 45-50 minutes by car or train

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and a. A Zurich limousine service is available for a luxurious and convenient transfer to and from the airport to the city center.

2. Geneva Airport (GVA)

With more than 18 million passengers, Geneva Airport is one of the busiest in Switzerland. It is situated in western Switzerland, and this airport is a home for EasyJet Switzerland; there are short-haul as well as long-haul flights available.

Nearest Cities to Geneva Airport:

Geneva

• Distance from the airport: Approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles).

• Key Attractions: Jet d’Eau, St. Pierre Cathedral, and the United Nations Office.

• Travel time: Around 10-20 minutes by car, taxi, or public transport.

Nyon

• Distance from the airport: About 25 kilometers (15.5 miles).

• Key Attractions: Nyon Castle, Lake Geneva promenades, and Roman ruins.

• Travel time: Around 25-30 minutes by train or car.

Lausanne

• Distance from the airport: Approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles).

• Key Attractions: Olympic Museum, Lausanne Cathedral, and the Ouchy waterfront.

• Travel time: About 40-50 minutes by train or private transfer.

Annecy (France)

• Distance from the airport: Around 45 kilometers (28 miles).

• Key Attractions: Lake Annecy, Old Town, and scenic canals.

• Travel time: Roughly 45-50 minutes by car or shuttle.

Montreux

• Distance from the airport: About 95 kilometers (59 miles).

• Key Attractions: Chillon Castle, the Montreux Jazz Festival, and picturesque views of Lake Geneva.

• Travel time: Around 1 hour 15 minutes by car or train.

The Geneva Airport transfer is fast and easy, and takes only 10-20 minutes to get to the city center, depending on traffic.

3. Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg Airport (BSL/MLH/EAP)

This tri-national airport serves Switzerland, France, and Germany. With over 9 million passengers a year, Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg Airport is one of the largest EasyJet Switzerland hubs.

Nearest Cities to Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg Airport

Basel (Switzerland)

• Distance from the airport: Approximately 5 kilometers (3 miles).

• Key Attractions: Kunstmuseum Basel, Basel Minster, and the Old Town.

• Travel time: Around 10-15 minutes by taxi, car, or public transport.

Mulhouse (France)

• Distance from the airport: About 25 kilometers (16 miles).

• Key Attractions: Cité de l’Automobile (Car Museum), Cité du Train (Train Museum), and Mulhouse's charming old town.

• Travel time: Approximately 25-30 minutes by car or shuttle.

Freiburg (Germany)

• Distance from the airport: Around 70 kilometers (43 miles).

• Key Attractions: Freiburg Minster, Schwabentor Gate, and the Black Forest.

• Travel time: Roughly 50-60 minutes by car or train.

Colmar (France)

• Distance from the airport: About 60 kilometers (37 miles).

• Key Attractions: The picturesque Little Venice, Unterlinden Museum, and stunning Alsatian architecture.

• Travel time: Around 50-60 minutes by car or transfer service.

Weil am Rhein (Germany)

• Distance from the airport: Approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles).

• Key Attractions: Vitra Design Museum, Laguna Badeland water park, and the scenic Three Countries Bridge.

• Travel time: Around 15-20 minutes by car or taxi.

Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg Airport uniquely connects three countries, making it an ideal hub for exploring nearby Swiss, French, and German cities. Reliable Basel airport transfer services ensure efficient and comfortable travel to these destinations, allowing visitors to explore a diverse range of cultures and attractions.

4. Bern Airport (BRN)

This is a small but vital, central Swiss hub offering regional and seasonal flights to a variety of European destinations. Bern Airport is conveniently located in the Swiss capital of Bern.

Nearest Cities to Bern Airport

Bern

• Distance from the airport: Approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles).

• Key Attractions: Zytglogge Clock Tower, Federal Palace, and the Bear Park.

• Travel time: Around 20-25 minutes by car or Bern Airport Transfer.

Thun

• Distance from the airport: About 30 kilometers (19 miles).

• Key Attractions: Thun Castle, the scenic Lake Thun, and historic old town.

• Travel time: Approximately 30-35 minutes by car or train.

Biel/Bienne

• Distance from the airport: Around 40 kilometers (25 miles).

• Key Attractions: The Biel Old Town, Lake Biel, and the Omega Museum.

• Travel time: Roughly 35-40 minutes by car or public transport.

Fribourg

• Distance from the airport: Approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles).

• Key Attractions: St. Nicholas Cathedral, the Old Town, and stunning medieval architecture.

• Travel time: About 40-45 minutes by car or train.

Interlaken

• Distance from the airport: Around 60 kilometers (37 miles).

• Key Attractions: Harder Kulm, Jungfrau Region, and activities by Lake Brienz and Lake Thun.

• Travel time: Approximately 1 hour by car or train.

Bern Airport is strategically located to access Switzerland’s central region, providing an excellent gateway to explore nearby picturesque cities. Reliable Bern Airport Transfer services ensure a seamless journey to these vibrant destinations filled with cultural and natural attractions.

5. Lugano Airport (LUG)

Located in south Switzerland, the Lugano Airport primarily serves regional flights but is apt for people interested in the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland.

Nearest Cities to Lugano Airport

Lugano

• Distance from the airport: Approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles).

• Key Attractions: Lake Lugano, Monte Brè, and Parco Ciani.

• Travel time: Around 10 minutes by car or taxi. 

Paradiso

• Distance from the airport: About 5 kilometers (3.1 miles).

• Key Attractions: The base station for the Monte San Salvatore Funicular, luxury hotels, and lakeside promenades.

• Travel time: Roughly 10 minutes by car or public transport.

Mendrisio

• Distance from the airport: Approximately 20 kilometers (12.4 miles).

• Key Attractions: FoxTown Outlet Village, Monte Generoso, and its charming historical center.

• Travel time: Around 20-25 minutes by car or train.

Bellinzona

• Distance from the airport: Around 30 kilometers (18.6 miles).

• Key Attractions: UNESCO-listed Bellinzona Castles, medieval streets, and vibrant local markets.

• Travel time: About 30-35 minutes by car or train.

Como (Italy)

• Distance from the airport: About 37 kilometers (23 miles).

• Key Attractions: Lake Como, the stunning Cathedral of Como, and the Brunate Funicular for panoramic views.

• Travel time: Approximately 40 minutes by car or taxi.

Lugano Airport serves as a gateway to the scenic Ticino region and northern Italy. Reliable Zurich to Lugano Transfer services provide a seamless way to explore these nearby cities and their unique attractions.

6. Sion Airport (SIR)

A smaller regional airport in southwestern Switzerland, Sion Airport is generally used for more local trips to the region, and its closest city.

Nearest Cities to Sion Airport

Sion

• Distance from the airport: Less than 5 kilometers (3 miles).

• Key Attractions: Valère Basilica, Tourbillon Castle, and the vibrant old town with cafes and boutiques.

• Travel time: Just 5-10 minutes by car, taxi, or shuttle.

Crans-Montana

• Distance from the airport: Approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles).

• Key Attractions: Famous ski resorts, hiking trails, and stunning views of the Rhone Valley.

• Travel time: Around 30-40 minutes by car or private transfer.

Martigny

• Distance from the airport: About 25 kilometers (15.5 miles).

• Key Attractions: Fondation Pierre Gianadda Museum, Roman ruins, and the picturesque Trient Gorge.

• Travel time: Approximately 20-25 minutes by car or train.

Verbier

• Distance from the airport: Around 50 kilometers (31 miles).

• Key Attractions: World-class skiing, mountain biking trails, and breathtaking alpine scenery.

Monthey

• Distance from the airport: Approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles).

• Key Attractions: Gateway to the Portes du Soleil Ski Area, charming streets, and regional wine tasting.

• Travel time: Roughly 40 minutes by car.

Sion Airport, nestled in the heart of the Valais canton, is a hub for accessing these picturesque towns and alpine destinations. For a seamless journey, opt for a Sion Airport Transfer, which offers convenience and comfort to travelers.

7. St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport (ACH)

St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport can be found in eastern Switzerland, which offers local and seasonal flights to major destinations across Europe.

Nearest Cities to St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport

St. Gallen

• Distance from the airport: Approximately 20 kilometers (12.4 miles).

• Key Attractions: Abbey of St. Gallen (UNESCO World Heritage site), the Textile Museum, and the Lake Constance area.

• Travel time: Around 25-30 minutes by car or taxi.

Rorschach

• Distance from the airport: About 15 kilometers (9.3 miles).

• Key Attractions: Lake Constance waterfront, the Schloss Rorschach, and scenic walking paths along the lake.

• Travel time: Around 20 minutes by car.

Arbon

• Distance from the airport: Approximately 20 kilometers (12.4 miles).

• Key Attractions: Arbon Castle, lakeside parks, and hiking along the shores of Lake Constance.

• Travel time: About 25 minutes by car or public transport.

Friedrichshafen (Germany)

• Distance from the airport: Around 35 kilometers (21.7 miles).

• Key Attractions: The Zeppelin Museum, Lake Constance, and the Dornier Museum.

• Travel time: Roughly 35-40 minutes by car or public transport.

Bregenz (Austria)

• Distance from the airport: About 50 kilometers (31 miles).

• Key Attractions: The Pfänder Mountain, Bregenz Festival (opera), and the Lake Constance promenade.

• Travel time: Around 1 hour by car or public transport.

St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport serves as a convenient gateway to the picturesque region surrounding Lake Constance and offers easy access to neighboring countries, making it a prime entry point for exploring Switzerland, Germany, and Austria. For a comfortable trip, travelers can opt for a St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport transfer to nearby cities.

8. Grenchen Airport (LSZG)

The Grenchen Airport is located near Solothurn, and it is a small regional airport that focuses on few local routes within Europe.

5 Nearest Cities to Grenchen Airport

Solothurn

• Distance from the airport: Approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles).

• Key Attractions: The Old Town, Zytglogge Clock Tower, Solothurn Cathedral, and the Aare River.

• Travel time: Around 10-15 minutes by car or taxi.

Biel/Bienne

• Distance from the airport: About 20 kilometers (12.4 miles).

• Key Attractions: The Museum of Fine Arts, Lake Biel, and the Tissot Watch Museum.

• Travel time: Approximately 25 minutes by car or public transport.

Basel

• Distance from the airport: Approximately 75 kilometers (46.6 miles).

• Key Attractions: Basel Minster, Tinguely Museum, Rhine River, and the Old Town.

• Travel time: Around 1 hour by car or public transport.

Zurich

• Distance from the airport: About 100 kilometers (62 miles).

• Key Attractions: The Old Town, Lake Zurich, Swiss National Museum, and the Bahnhofstrasse shopping street.

• Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car or public transport.

Bern

• Distance from the airport: About 80 kilometers (50 miles).

• Key Attractions: The Zytglogge Clock Tower, Bern Cathedral, the Rosengarten, and the Einstein Museum.

• Travel time: Around 1 hour by car or public transport.

Grenchen Airport offers easy access to several charming cities in Switzerland. Whether you're heading to the scenic old town of Solothurn or the cultural hub of Basel, this regional airport serves as a convenient starting point for exploring the Swiss heartland. Travelers can opt for a Zurich Airport transfer for a seamless journey to nearby cities.

Tips for Exploring Swiss Airports

• Book Your Transfers in Advance: From a Zurich limousine to a Geneva Airport transfer, booking ensures ultimate comfort and convenience.

• Know Your Airport: Switzerland offers several airports near regional hubs, so choose one closest to your destination.

• Private Transfers: Private Chauffeur services can best be availed for hassle-free and more luxurious travel

• Public Transit: The well-planned train and bus system in Switzerland connects airports with cities. In fact, travelling by public transport may prove to be cost-effective.

Conclusion

All these connected airports-right from Zurich Airport to Sion Airport-make traveling easy throughout the country. With knowledge of the location of each airport and its corresponding city, you can plan for your trip with ease. Whether it's business or leisure, a reliable airport transfer service gets you across safely and comfortably, so you enjoy the most of your Swiss adventure.

• Professional Service
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