Best Things to Do in Brig Switzerland: Guide to the Alps

Brig is one of those spots that sneaks up on you, in the best possible way. A cute Alpine town framed by towering mountains, dotted with baroque buildings, and packed with enough charm to fill a postcard. Here you can wander cobbled streets, sip crisp Fendant wines from nearby Valais wineries, or hop on a scenic train that cuts right through the heart of the Alps. It’s the kind of place where adventure and relaxation collide, one moment you’re exploring a castle or tasting a crisp local vintage, and the next you’re on a panoramic ride towards Italy. So if you’re looking for a spot that’s as laid‑back as it is jaw‑dropping, Brig is calling your name.

Best things to do in Brig in Switzerland

Visit the Baroque marvel of Stockalper Palace

Right in the heart of Brig, the Stockalper Castle is a scene from a fairytale. Built in the 17th century by the legendary merchant Kaspar Stockalper, this Baroque beauty was once a bustling hub for trade across the Simplon Pass. Today, you can wander its elegant courtyard, soak up its timeless atmosphere, and peek inside the grand halls where history whispers from every corner. Hop on a guided tour if you want to dig deeper, it’s a chance to uncover the stories that shaped this Alpine gem.

Wander the quaint old town

Brig’s old town is like a postcard come to life, with cobblestone streets, colorful chalets, and cozy cafés that invite you to slow down and soak it all in. Wander past charming fountains, tiny chapels, and quiet squares where locals linger over a drink or a bite. Pop into a family-run bakery, sip a glass of crisp Rhône Valley wine, or treat yourself to a creamy slab of Valais cheese. It’s the kind of place where every corner feels like a scene worth capturing.

Visit the Simplon Pass

A quick drive from the city center of Brig, this mountain route delivers jaw‑dropping views of glaciers, pine forests, and winding valleys, making every turn feel like a scene from a postcard. Hop out for a walk, snap some photos, or just soak in that crisp alpine air. It’s the kind of adventure that reminds you why you came to the Alps in the first place!

Ski the pristine slopes of the Bernese Alps

If you’re dreaming of snowy slopes and crisp alpine air, Brig has your back! Just a short hop away, ski spots like Belalp and Bettmeralp are calling your name. Picture yourself carving down powder-packed runs, exploring cozy car-free villages, and warming up with a hot chocolate or a glass of Valais wine. It’s the kind of winter wonderland that makes every ski trip worth the journey.

Stroll along the River Rhône Promenade

As the evening sets in, treat yourself to a slow stroll along the Rhône. The river hums beside you, the Alps glow in the last light, and a glass of local wine feels like the perfect companion. It’s a simple ritual, but one that captures the magic of Brig, a quiet, dreamy way to wrap up a day in this beautiful corner of Switzerland.

Best things to do around Brig in Switzerland

Explore the wine region in Valais

A 40-minute train ride west of Brig, the Rhône Valley shines as one of Switzerland’s best wine destinations. This area of the canton of Valais is a dream for wine lovers, with its steep, sun-drenched vineyards and rare grape varieties like Petite Arvine and Cornalin. Hop on a bike or set out on foot to explore its terraced slopes, join a cellar tasting, or soak up unforgettable views of the Swiss Alps. The Valais wine route offers a delicious mix of culture and nature, making it an ideal addition to any trip to Brig, and an authentic taste of Switzerland you won’t forget.

Stroll through history in Naters

Just a 8‑minute hop from Brig, Naters is where you can get closer to the beating heart of the Alps. At the World Nature Forum, the official visitor center for the UNESCO Aletsch Arena, interactive exhibits and immersive displays reveal the secrets of the Aletsch Glacier and its wild surroundings. It’s a fun and fascinating way to understand why this area is such a natural treasure. Afterward, wander the cozy village streets, relax in a quiet garden courtyard, and soak up the alpine charm that makes Naters a perfect little detour from Brig.

Visit the car-free wonder of Zermatt

In just 90 minutes by train from Brig, you’ll land in Zermatt, a car-free Alpine wonderland that’s all about crisp mountain air and jaw‑dropping views. Home to the iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt is where adventure and comfort come together. Hop on a cogwheel train to the Gornergrat for panoramic sights of glaciers and peaks, hit the ski slopes, or hike through flower‑dotted valleys.

Lose yourself in Sion

Sion is one of those places that draws you in the moment you arrive. Its twin castles stand tall like guardians of the past, while sunny vineyards and bustling cafés invite you to slow down and soak up the charm. Hop between heritage sights, sip a crisp Valais wine, or climb for sweeping views of the valley. It’s a town that blends heritage, nature, and a laid‑back vibe, making it one of Switzerland’s best‑kept secrets.

Don’t miss the best things to do in Sion Switzerland thanks to our team’s best tips!

Rise to new heights in Crans‑Montana

High in the Alps, Crans‑Montana shines as the perfect escape. In summer, its flower-lined hiking trails and world-class golf courses steal the scene. In winter, fresh powder and cozy chalets make it a ski lover’s dream. Whatever the season, this mountain town has that magical mix of adrenaline and relaxation.

Uncover the soul of Martigny

Martigny is where Roman ruins, modern art, and Alpine charm come together. Spend an afternoon exploring its amphitheatre, tasting wines from sun-kissed vineyards, or strolling its quiet streets lined with cafés and boutiques. It’s a town that knows how to win hearts, one delicious bite and spectacular view at a time.

Get inspired by our guide: Things to Do in Martigny Switzerland!

Good to Know before visiting Brig, Switzerland