BEST OF SWITZERLAND: THINGS TO SWITZERLAND

Switzerland is a landlocked country situated in the heart of Europe. It is located in Central Europe, bordered by France, Germany, Austria,  Liechtenstein, and Italy.  Dominated by the Alps in the south and the Jura Mountains in the northwest, with a central plateau of rolling hills, plains, and large lakes. Traveling to Switzerland offers a diverse array of experiences, from stunning natural landscapes to rich cultural heritage.  Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Bern Lucerne, Interlaken, Zermatt, and Lausanne are cities in Switzerland worth visiting. Switzerland offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness, making it an ideal travel destination for various interests. These cities each offer unique experiences, from cultural and historical attractions to outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making them top destinations for travelers to Switzerland. 

Switzerland has some of the best and most scenic train rides in Europe, including the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and Golden Pass Line; these Train rides offer breathtaking views of the lakes and mountains of Switzerland. Skiing and Snowboarding are popular activities to do in Switzerland during the Winter; the most famous resorts are St. Moritz, Verbier, and Davos. Cycling is a popular activity do in the summer, Switzerland has well-maintained cycling routes across the country, including lakeside and mountain paths. Switzerland is a country you can visit year-round, as it offers something different to do in every season; Switzerland is ideal for hiking and sightseeing in the summer, Skiing and Winter sports from December to February. If you want to come in the off-season to avoid crowds, you can come in the Spring or Autumn months. Switzerland offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness, making it an ideal travel destination for various interests.

Transportation

Switzerland's transportation system is renowned for its efficiency, punctuality, and extensive coverage. Swiss Federal Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS) is the backbone of Swiss public transport, providing frequent and reliable services across the country. Regional and Local Trains operated by various regional companies, connecting smaller towns and cities. PostBus (PostAuto), the National Bus service connects remote regions, mountain villages, and tourist destinations. City Buses: Extensive networks in major cities, offering frequent services. Zurich, Basel, Geneva, Bern, and several other cities have efficient tram systems; it's a frequent, reliable, and environmentally friendly mode of urban transportation. Lake Geneva, Lake Zurich, and Lake Lucerne have regular boat services offering scenic tours and transportation between lakeside towns. Cable Cars, Funiculars, and Cogwheel Trains such as the Gornergrat Railway (Zermatt), Pilatus Railway (Lucerne), and Jungfrau Railway (Interlaken) are popular alpine transportation systems in Switzerland, but it's mainly tourist that use it.  Swiss public transport operates on a synchronized timetable system, ensuring smooth connections between trains, buses, trams, and boats. Comprehensive network covering nearly every part of the country, with various passes available for tourists, like the Swiss Travel Pass and Half Fare Card. Switzerland's transportation system is designed to make travel convenient, efficient, and enjoyable, whether you're exploring urban areas or heading into the picturesque countryside and mountains

Zurich

Zurich is a city that seamlessly blends the old with the new, offering visitors a rich cultural experience amidst stunning natural surroundings. Zurich's most popular attraction is it's Old Town (Altstadt); top highlights include Medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and historic landmarks. Must-see sites in the Old Town are Grossmünster, a Romanesque-style Protestant church with twin towers, Fraumunster, famous for its stunning stained-glass windows by Marc Chagall,  and St. Peter's Church, known for having the largest church clock face in Europe. Lake Zurich is another popular attraction in the city, visitors commonly take boat tours and cruises to enjoy the scenic beauty, walking or biking along the promenade, and Swimming, paddle boarding, and picnicking at various lakeside parks like Zurichhorn. Kunsthaus Zurich is one of  Switzerland's most important art museums, housing works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art, including pieces by Giacometti, Monet, and Chagall. Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum) is Description: Located in a fairytale-like building, this museum offers insights into Swiss cultural history, including artifacts from prehistoric times to the present. Zurich Zoo features a wide range of animals and habitats, including the Masoala Rainforest Hall, a large indoor rainforest exhibit. Uetliberg Mountain has plenty of hiking and biking trails with panoramic views of Zurich and the Alps and is accessible via a short train ride from the city center. 

Bahnhofstrasse is one of the world's most exclusive shopping streets, featuring luxury boutiques, department stores, and high-end brands. The major landmark of  Bahnhofstrasse is Paradeplatz, a major financial center. Opera House (Opernhaus Zürich) and Tonhalle Zurich are both iconic cultural venues in Zurich renowned for world-class performances. Popular dining areas in Zurich are Niederdorf, a historic district with a variety of restaurants and cafes, and Langstrasse, known for its diverse food scene and vibrant nightlife. Local Dishes to Try in Zurich include Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (sliced veal in cream sauce), Rösti (potato dish), and fondue.  An efficient network of trams, buses, and trains operated by the Zurich Public Transport (ZVV). Tickets can be purchased at machines, online, or via the ZVV app. The city is very walkable and bike-friendly, with numerous rental options available. Zurich’s main train station (Zürich Hauptbahnhof) is a major hub with connections to cities across Switzerland and Europe. Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to October) for pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Summer for festivals and outdoor activities. Winter for a charming, snowy cityscape and nearby skiing. Zurich, Switzerland's largest city, is a vibrant hub of culture, finance, and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in historical sites, modern art, shopping, or outdoor activities, Zurich has something to offer. 

Geneva

Geneva, situated at the western tip of Switzerland along the shores of Lake Geneva, is a global city known for its diplomatic, financial, and cultural significance. Jet d'Eau is one of Geneva's most famous landmarks, this water fountain shoots water 140 meters into the air.  Jet d'Eau is best viewed from the lakeside promenade or a boat tour on Lake Geneva. Old Town (Vieille Ville) is known for three main attractions: St. Pierre Cathedral, the historic cathedral with an archaeological site and panoramic city views from the tower, Place du Bourg-de-Four, the oldest square in Geneva, and Maison Tavel, a museum housed in the oldest private residence in Geneva. Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) is another popular attraction; visitors like strolling along the Quai du Mont-Blanc for beautiful views of the lake and mountains, going on boat cruises, paddleboarding, and swimming. Patek Philippe Museum is dedicated to the history of watchmaking, featuring an extensive collection of watches and clocks; it highlights Antique timepieces and craftmanship exhibits. Parc des Bastions is home to the Reformation Wall, giant chess boards, and a beautiful park setting, Jardin Anglais is famous for its Flower Clock (L'Horloge Fleurie) and lake views, while Parc de La Perle du Lac is a scenic park along the lake with walking trails and picnic spots. Mont Salève is located just across the border in France, offering hiking, paragliding, and panoramic views of Geneva and the Alps. Lavaux Vineyards is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its terraced vineyards and wine-tasting tours.

  

United Nations Office (Palais des Nations) is the European headquarters of the United Nations; Guided tours are available, offering insights into the workings of the UN and access to the Assembly Hall and Council Chamber. Located near the National Nations Office is the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum, it displays Interactive exhibits highlighting the history and humanitarian efforts of the Red Cross. Musée d'Art et d'Histoire has an extensive collection of fine arts, archaeology, and applied arts. The Museum of Natural History has exhibits on natural history, including regional flora and fauna. Opera and Theater are popular in Geneva, so make sure to visit the Grand Theatre de Geneve and Victoria Hall. Popular Dining areas in Geneva are Eax-Vives, a trendy area with a variety of restaurants and Carouge, known for its Mediterranean-style atmosphere and charming eateries. Local Dishes to Try include Fondue, raclette, and lake fish like perch (perche) fillets. An efficient network of trams, buses, and boats operated by Transports Publics Genevois (TPG). Tickets can be purchased at machines, online, or via the TPG app. Geneva’s main train station (Gare Cornavin) offers connections to cities across Switzerland and Europe. Geneva is a cosmopolitan city that offers a blend of cultural richness, historical landmarks, and natural beauty, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.

Lucerne

Lucerne, located in the heart of Switzerland, is renowned for its picturesque setting, rich history, and cultural attractions. Nestled between a stunning lake and majestic mountains, Lucerne offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm. Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) is a historic wooden bridge spanning the Reuss River, adorned with 17th-century interior paintings; the Wasserturm (Water Tower) is part of the bridge complex. Old Town (Altstadt) has several key landmarks: Weinmarkt, a charming square with frescoed buildings, Hirschenplatz and Kronmarkt, historic squares with medieval architecture, and Musegg Wall (Museggmauer), a well-preserved rampart with towers, offering panoramic views. Lake Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee) has boat cruises offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and picturesque villages. The Lake is one of the most iconic lakes in Switzerland. Mount Pilatus has stunning panoramic views of the Alps and Lake Lucerne; popular activities to do here include Cable car and cogwheel train rides to the summit, Hiking the trails with varying difficulty levels, and Summer toboggan run and rope park. Mount Rigi is known as the “Queen of the Mountains,” accessible by cogwheel train and cable car, it has spectacular views of the Swiss Plateau and the Alps. Bürgenstock is another popular attraction in Lucerne with the Hammertschwand Lift being the Premier attraction, it is the highest outdoor elevator in Europe. 

The Lion Monument (Löwendenkmal) is a poignant sculpture commemorating Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution; it is carved into a sandstone rock face, set in a tranquil park.  Swiss Transport Museum (Verkehrshaus der Schweiz) is an interactive museum of Switzerland’s transportation history, including trains, planes, automobiles, and space travel; the museum also has an IMAX theater and Planetarium. Make sure to check out the Rosengart Collection, a private art collection featuring works by Picasso, Klee, and other modern masters. It has extensive Picasso paintings and drawings, Klee’s diverse works. Richard Wagner Museum located in the composer's former villa, offers insights into his life and work; it is beautifully set by the lake with gardens and a view of Mount Pilatus. Popular dining Areas in Lucerne are Old Town, known for Traditional Swiss restaurants and charming cafes. Lakefront is a popular scenic dining area with views of Lake Lucerne. Local Dishes to Try include Älplermagronen (Swiss macaroni and cheese), Luzerner Chügelipastete (pastry filled with veal and mushrooms), and fondue.  Efficient network of buses, boats, and trains within the city and to surrounding areas. Tickets can be purchased at machines, online, or via the SBB app. Lucerne’s main train station (Bahnhof Luzern) offers connections to cities across Switzerland and Europe. Lucerne's combination of historical charm, cultural richness, and natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination in Switzerland.

Interlaken

Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, is a premier destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Known for its stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and access to the Jungfrau region, Interlaken offers a variety of experiences. Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe is the highest railway station in Europe, offering spectacular views of the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding peaks. The Ice Palace and the Sphinx Observatory are the top attractions at Jungfraujoch. Harder Kulm is a viewpoint accessible by funicular, providing stunning views of Interlaken, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. Walk across the Two Lakes Bridge, a viewing platform extending over the valley. then enjoy a meal at the Panorama Restaurant. Schynige Platte is accessible by a cogwheel train, this area is known for its botanical alpine garden and hiking trails. The Alpine Garden features over 600 species of alpine plants and the various trails there offer panoramic views. St. Beatus Caves have a network of caves with underground waterfalls, stalactites, and stalagmites. Learn about the history and geology of the caves, then explore the museum which has displays on cave exploration and local legends. Lake Thun and Lake Brienz are popular lakes in Interlaken; take scenic tours on both lakes, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and charming lakeside villages. 

Paragliding is one the most popular activities to do in Interlaken, as it is one of the top destinations for paragliding, offering tandem flights with breathtaking views of the lakes and mountains. Various companies offer tandem flights, including a briefing and equipment. Skydiving is another popular thing to do in Interlaken, experience the thrill of freefalling from a plane with views of the Swiss Alps; Several companies offer tandem jumps with experienced instructors. Nearby resorts such as Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren offer excellent slopes for Skiing and Snowboarding. Various trails and runs are available in the region for Snowshoeing and Sledding. Popular dining areas in Interlaken are Höheweg, with the Main Street filled with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops as well as Lakeside, a scenic dining option with views of the lakes. Local Dishes to Try in Interlaken include Cheese fondue, raclette, rosti, and Swiss chocolate. Efficient network of trains, buses, and boats operated by the Swiss Travel System. Interlaken has two main train stations (Interlaken Ost and Interlaken West), with connections to cities across Switzerland and Europe. Interlaken offers a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both excitement and relaxation.

Zermatt

Zermatt, nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn in the Swiss Alps, is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those looking to enjoy stunning alpine scenery.  The Matterhorn is one of the most famous and recognizable mountains in the world. Viewing the Matterhorn from various vantage points around Zermatt. Learn about the mountain's history, including the first ascent at the Matterhorn Museum. Gornergrat is a rocky ridge with a railway station at an altitude of 3,089 meters; activities to do here are ride the Gornegrat Railway, a scenic cogwheel train ride offering spectacular views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks along with taking in the Panoramic views of the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa, and the Gorner Glacier from the Viewing Platform. Klein Matterhorn (Little Matterhorn) is the highest cable car station in Europe at 3,883 meters. The Glacier Paradise is an observation deck with 360-degree views, an ice palace, and a restaurant and people come here to enjoy Skiing and Snowboarding year-round. Sunnegga is a sunny terrace at 2,288 meters, accessible by funicular, visit Leisee Lake to swim and picnic with views of the Matterhorn. Zermatt offers some of the best skiing in the world with extensive slopes and reliable snow. 

Popular Trails in Zermatt include the Five Lakes Walk, a scenic trail passing five mountain lakes with Matterhorn reflections, Matterhorn Glacier, Trail, a trail offering close-up views of glaciers and the Matterhorn and Hornli Hut, base camp for Matterhorn climbers, reachable by a challenging hike. Mountain Biking is a popular thing to do in Zermatt; popular routes including Sunnegga, Gornergrat, and Rothorn offer thrilling downhill rides and scenic routes. Numerous trails range from easy to challenging, with stunning alpine scenery. Zermatt is a world-renowned destination for climbers, popular climbs here include The Matterhorn, Breithorn, and Monte Rosa Massif. Tandem paragliding flights offer breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and the Alps. Various companies offer tandem flights with experienced pilots. A popular Dining area in Zermatt is the Village Center with a variety of restaurants offering traditional Swiss and international cuisine. Some Local Dishes to Try in Zermatt is Cheese fondue, raclette, rosti, and Valais dried meat. Mountain Restaurants offer scenic dining with panoramic views accessible by hiking or lifts. Zermatt is car-free, ensuring a clean and tranquil environment. Electric taxis, e-buses, and horse-drawn carriages are available for local transport. The village is very walkable, and bike rentals are available. The best way to reach Zermatt is by train. The Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn provides connections from Brig and Visp. The Glacier Express offers scenic rides from St. Moritz or Davos to Zermatt. Zermatt offers a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural richness, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a quintessential Swiss alpine experience.

Basel

Basel, located on the banks of the Rhine River, is Switzerland's third-largest city and a cultural hub known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and lively festivals. Old Town (Altstadt) has three key attractions: Basel Minster, Marktplatz, and Spalenberg; Basel Minster is a stunning Gothic cathedral with twin towers and a beautiful terrace overlooking the Rhine, Marktplatz is the central square featuring the red sandstone Town Hall (Rathaus) with its colorful facade and intricate murals and Spalenberg is a Narrow,  winding street with charming medieval buildings and boutique shops. Kunstmuseum Basel is Switzerland's oldest public art collection, featuring works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art. It displays paintings by  Holbein, Rembrandt, Monet, Van Gogh, Picasso, and more. Fondation Beyeler is a renowned art museum located in Riehen, just outside Basel, showcasing modern and contemporary art. Works by artists such as Monet, Cézanne, Van Gogh, Picasso, Warhol, and Rothko are on display here. Tinguely Museum is dedicated to the works of Swiss artist Jean Tinguely, known for his kinetic sculptures. Basel Zoo is one of the oldest and largest zoos is Switzerland; the zoo has a wide variety of animals, including exotic species, and a focus on conservation and education. Take a scenic cruise on the Rhine River, which offers views of the city’s skyline and historic bridges or you can simply walk and Bike along the Promenade paths along the riverbanks. 

Basel Museum of Cultures (Museum der Kulturen) showcases ethnographic artifacts from around the world and has collections highlighting cultural diversity and heritage. The Historical Museum Basel located in the Barfüsserkirche, a former Franciscan church, it houses exhibits on Basel's history and culture; it contains Medieval artifacts, tapestries, and the Basel Cathedral treasure. Botmingen Castle and Park is a beautiful castle with surrounding gardens, particularly lovely in the summer months. Basel has easy access o nearby Swiss cities like Zurich, Lucerne, and Strasbourg, as well as the Black Forest in Germany and the Alsace region in France. Reinach Loop is a popular hiking trail in Basel offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Popular Dining Areas in Basel are Old Town with numerous restaurants offering traditional Swiss and international cuisine and Kleinbasel, a trendy area with diverse dining options and vibrant nightlife. Local Dishes to Try in Basel include Basler Läckerli (a type of gingerbread), Swiss fondue, raclette, and regional specialties like Basel-style roasted flour soup (Mehlsuppe).  Basel has an efficient network of trams and buses operated by Basler Verkehrs-Betriebe (BVB). Tickets can be purchased at machines, online, or via the BVB app. The city is very walkable and bike-friendly, with numerous rental options available. Basel has two main train stations (Basel SBB and Basel Badischer Bahnhof), offering connections to cities across Switzerland, Germany, and France. Basel’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and picturesque setting along the Rhine make it an exciting destination for travelers.

Bern

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is a charming city known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and picturesque setting along the Aare River. Old Town (Altstadt) in Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the Old Town is characterized by its cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and arcaded walkways. Old town is highlighted by the Zytglogge, a 13th-century clock tower with an astronomical clock and moving figures, the Federal Palace (Bundeshaus), the seat of the Swiss Federal Assembly and Federal Council, and Nydegg Church and Bridge, offering views of the Aare River and the Bear Park. Bundesplatz is the Central square in front of the Federal Palace, a light and water show from the fountains during the summer months. Bern Cathedral (Berner Münster) is Switzerland's tallest cathedral, known for its stunning Gothic architecture and panoramic views from the tower; climb the tower for a view of the city and the Alps. Rosengarten (Rose Garden) is a beautiful park offering panoramic views of the Old Town and over 200 varieties of roses; it is ideal for picnics, relaxing walks, and photography.  Einstein House (Einsteinhaus) was the former residence of Albert Einstein during his time in Bern; there are exhibits about Einstein's life and work, including his theory of relativity. Bear Park (Bärenpark) is home to Bern's symbol, the bear, this park allows visitors to see bears in a naturalistic setting; the park has viewing platforms and educational exhibits about bears.

Bern Historical Museum is the second largest historical museum in Switzerland, with extensive exhibits on Bernese history and culture, including the Einstein Museum. Kunstmuseum Bern is the oldest museum in Switzerland, featuring works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art. Zentrum Paul Klee is a museum dedicated to the works of Swiss painter Paul Klee, housed in a striking building designed by Renzo Piano. Gurten is a local mountain range in Bern, offering recreational opportunities such as Hiking, biking, picnicking, and is accessible by funicular. Gurten is a local mountain offering recreational activities and stunning views of Bern and the Alps. The Aare River is a popular place where locals and visitors float down the river. You may also choose to Raft or Canoe on the Aare River as well. Bern Market (Berner Markt) held on Bundesplatz and Münsterplattform, offers local produce, crafts, and specialties. Kramgasse and Marktgasse are the main shopping streets in Bern with a mix of local boutiques, international brands, and specialty shops. Old Town has numerous dining options ranging from traditional Swiss to international cuisine. Lorraine and Breitenrain are trendy neighborhoods with diverse dining options and cafes. Bern has an efficient network of trams, buses, and trains operated by Bernmobil. The city is very walkable, with many pedestrian areas, and bike-friendly, with rental options available. Bern’s main train station (Bern Hauptbahnhof) offers connections to cities across Switzerland and Europe. Bern’s blend of historical charm, cultural richness, and beautiful landscapes makes it a captivating destination for travelers seeking a quintessential Swiss experience.

Why visit Switzerland?

Switzerland is a popular travel destination for many reasons, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern amenities. Switzerland is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, including The Swiss Alps, home to some of the highest and most beautiful mountains in Europe, perfect for skiing, hiking, and mountaineering. Switzerland is also known for its Pristine lakes such as Lake Geneva, Lake Lucerne, and Lake Zurich provide opportunities for boating, swimming, and picturesque views. The Rolling hills, vineyards, and picturesque villages dot the landscape of the Country.  Cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Basel are home to numerous museums and art galleries, showcasing everything from medieval history to contemporary art. Switzerland boasts a mix of historic castles, modern buildings, and charming old towns. Visit the Jungfraujoch, known as the "Top of Europe," or take a cable car up to the Matterhorn. Routes like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express offer spectacular views of the Swiss Alps.  Switzerland is famous for its delicious cheeses (like Emmental and Gruyère) and high-quality chocolates.  A blend of French, German, and Italian influences makes for a rich culinary scene. Enjoy dishes like fondue, raclette, and rösti.  Switzerland has efficient public transport, including a well-connected network of trains, buses, and boats makes getting around easy and enjoyable. These diverse attractions and high standards make Switzerland an exceptional destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.