107 Best Nightlife in Switzerland

Choose from the world's largest selection of whiskeys (2,500 at last count) at the Devil's Place, in the Waldhaus am See. It has been mentioned in the Guinness Book of World Records.

A great place for après-ski drinks, this chatty witch-theme bar and pub has a subtle gay vibe. Gespritzer weissers (white-wine spritzers) are a local favorite, but the dark-wood paneling and cozy booths might make you want to sample something from the extensive whiskey menu.

This local landmark draws a well-dressed, upwardly mobile crowd. It's a popular performance space for established artists, such as Pink Martini and Angelique Kidjo, looking for an intimate venue. The Rolling Stones once showed up unannounced for an impromptu concert.

English chef Jason Atherton helms the King's Social House in Badrutt's Palace—open only in winter—where sharing plates and cocktails give way to international DJs who spin into the wee hours.

Entering the Kornhauskeller is akin to entering a cathedral, except that the stunning vaulted ceilings and frescoes are underground and the lounge-bar in the gallery stocks an incredible array of whiskeys, rums, and bourbons. The building has focused on food throughout its long life, first as a wine cellar–granary, then as a beer hall. In addition to its vast lounge of leather sofas and chairs, the Kornhauskeller houses a classy restaurant.

The bar at the Kronenhalle, designed by Trix und Robert Haussmann, draws crowds of well-heeled locals and internationals for its creative, prizewinning cocktails.

Le Raymond is a modernist café and bar overlooking the city’s moat, the Schanzengraben. Despite its proximity to the ritzy Paradeplatz neighborhood, the bar remains surprisingly casual. Its vaulted ceiling, elongated bar, and cozy wooden alcoves give travelers a little privacy to sip their Hugos and espressos in peace (ditto for the outdoor terrace overlooking the water). There’s also a limited food menu of pies, salads, and soups.

Run by oenophile Patrick Jenny, this no-frills wine shop with a wine bar and outdor seating, is a great place to sample regional producers. The chummy local go-to houses more than 250 wines, including many lesser-known varieties of Valais wines like Humagne Rouge and Petite Arvine. You can also order Valaisan-style tapas to accompany your pours.

This elegant cocktail club features shabby-chic, retro decor, and exquisite craft cocktails.

Located along the city’s former 17th-century moat and ramparts, this bar is a male-only bath during the day and then transforms into a hip bar each evening, when all are welcome. Chill out on cushions and enjoy grilled specialties and cool nightly cocktails.

Choose from a selection of 300 natural wines from throughout Europe at this funky, industrial wine bar. Trallala also features a small seasonal food menu with organic veggies and meats from regional producers.

A welcoming bar that tips a wink to Spain's most famous film director, Almodobar is an oasis for the young hipster crowd, set in a quiet neighborhood.

Open year-round, Anton's Bar is a winter-season hot spot at the Suvretta House known for its live music and large selection of gin.

Artfully furnished with thrift-shop treasures, the Avocado serves up whiskey, beer, and the occasional shot of live music.

The small but convivial Bar Amadeus, beneath the Olympic Hotel in Montana, is a popular après-ski venue.

An after-hours crowd heads to the stately Bar du Palace. If it's not your thing, the stylish, pared-down LP Bar is just a corridor away.

This bar draws a young and style-conscious crowd.

This bar has live music Thursday nights in summer and winter seasons.

Basel's highest bar, on the top floor of Basel's second-highest building, has the best views over the city before dark. Themed dance parties keep the groove going well into the wee hours.

With its back-to-the-1970s feel, the centrally located Baragraph attracts a mixed crowd for its beer and cocktails.

Established in 1956, Barfüsser claims to be one of the oldest gay bars in Europe. It has comfortable lounge chairs and space to mix and mingle. There's also excellent sushi.

Hipsters lounge here in an Italianate setting of red velvet and marble statues.

For a refined and uncrowded place to enjoy a cocktail, head to the palatial Belle Epoque Bar at the Splendide Royale.

Well-heeled travelers (and local politicians) come to see and be seen at the wood-panel Bellevue Bar. In summer, the terrace out back is the place for sipping fancy cocktails and enjoying the view of the Alps and the River Aare.

Just off the Piazza delle Riforma, Bottegone del Vino has a great selection of wine accompanied by good local cheeses and tapas.

You'll always find a lively mixed crowd at Brasserie 17. Except in summer, Thursday means free live music.

This swanky piano bar features both local and international musicians.

Behind the Kunsthalle, Campari Bar pulls in an artsy crowd with its pop-art interior and tree-shaded terrace.