Do not be fooled by the canton of Fribourg’s understated appearance. If you look a little closer, you will discover a fantastic visitor destination.

Take the Old Town of Fribourg, for example. With over 200 perfectly preserved Gothic facades, this historic center—nestled in a cliff-lined meander of the Sarine River—boasts the largest ensemble of medieval architecture in Switzerland and one of the finest in Europe. A stroll through its cobbled streets, dotted with centuries-old bridges, fountains and buildings steeped in history, is like a journey back in time. St Nicholas Cathedral, with its remarkable stained-glass windows and iconic bell tower, has been the symbol of the medieval city since the 15^th century and continues to dominate the city’s skyline.

Less than 20 kilometers away is another picturesque medieval town. Murten is noted for its mild climate, lakeside location and vineyards, as well as its historic architecture. As you head south along its ramparts or the lakeshore, the Fribourg Pre-Alps rise majestically in the distance. With their smooth peaks, flower-filled pastures and signposted paths, they are a paradise for hikers and cyclists. Two lakes—the Lac de La Gruyère and its mysterious Île d’Ogoz and the legendary Schwarzsee—bring an extra touch of magic to this Alpine landscape.

The Fribourg way of life

To truly experience the Fribourg way of life, head to La Gruyère. Discover the secrets behind the world-acclaimed cheese at the Maison du Gruyère. Dive into the world of chocolate at the Maison Cailler, in Broc, which is now the most popular visitor attraction in French-speaking Switzerland. A trip to the region would not be complete without a tour of the Château de Gruyères, perched proudly on its rocky outcrop.

The canton is also famed for its living traditions, many of which are permanent fixtures on the region’s events calendar. In spring, the Poya is the eye-catching ascent of livestock to their summer mountain pastures. This lively ritual featuring cows with floral crowns, clanging bells and armaillis (herdsmen) in traditional costume is foundational to Fribourg’s identity. In early fall, Bénichon celebrates the harvest with a true culinary feast: cabbage soup, smoked ham, leg of lamb, Botzi pears, meringues and double cream—served with plenty of fun and entertainment. In winter, St Nicholas’ Day draws crowds on to the streets of Fribourg to honor the city’s patron saint, while carnival brings a riot of color, creativity and merrymaking to villages and towns across the region.

In 2025, Fribourg will celebrate the centenary of the birth of Jean Tinguely, a major contemporary artist and a native of the city. In 2026 it will host the World Ice Hockey Championships.

Fribourg exudes quiet charm. Authentic and welcoming, it offers the perfect balance of heritage, nature and living traditions—a dream destination that will leave you longing to stay.