Switzerland flag

Geography of Switzerland

Climate, terrain, natural resources, and geographic features

Total Area
41,277
km² (rank #136)
Coastline
0
km
Highest Point
Dufourspitze (4,634 m)
Lowest Point
Lake Maggiore (195 m)

Area Comparison

Switzerland 41,277 km²
United States (reference) 9,833,520 km²

Switzerland is 0.4% the size of the United States.

Climate

Temperate but varies with altitude; cold, cloudy, rainy/snowy winters; cool to warm summers

Terrain

Mostly mountains (Alps in south, Jura in northwest) with central plateau of rolling hills and lakes

Natural Resources

Hydropower Timber Salt

Land Use

10.2%
31.5%
58.3%
Arable: 10.2%
Forest: 31.5%
Other: 58.3%

Bordering Countries

Switzerland on the Map

View larger map on OpenStreetMap

Region

Europe Western Europe

Frequently Asked Questions

How big is Switzerland?
Switzerland covers an area of 41,277 km², ranking #136 in the world by size.
What is the climate of Switzerland?
Temperate but varies with altitude; cold, cloudy, rainy/snowy winters; cool to warm summers
What is the highest point in Switzerland?
The highest point in Switzerland is Dufourspitze (4,634 m).
What natural resources does Switzerland have?
Switzerland's natural resources include Hydropower, Timber, Salt.
Which countries border Switzerland?
Switzerland shares land borders with Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Liechtenstein.