Switzerland Has 2,390 Cities—Zurich Is Largest

Switzerland comprises 2,390 municipalities (called "cities" or "communes" depending on canton).

Largest by Population (2023)

1. Zurich: 434,335 (metro 1.4M)
2. Geneva: 203,856
3. Basel: 178,120
4. Bern (capital): 134,591
5. Lausanne: 140,202
6. Winterthur: 114,220
7. Lucerne: 82,620
8. St. Gallen: 76,213

Note on "City" Definition

Swiss statistics count political municipalities (Gemeinden/Communes). Many are small villages. "City" (Stadt) is a historical/legal title some hold; others are "urban municipalities."

Zurich is the economic engine; Bern is federal capital; Geneva hosts UN/International organizations.