Switzerland

Switzerland: general info for travelers

Switzerland is a landlocked country located in central Europe. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including breathtaking mountain landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and lush green forests. The country is also famous for its chocolate, luxury watches, and skiing resorts.
Switzerland is a democratic federal republic with a population of around 8.5 million people. The official languages spoken in Switzerland are German, French, Italian, and Romansh. The capital of Switzerland is Bern, while the largest city is Zurich.
Switzerland is renowned for its political neutrality, and it is one of the most prosperous countries in the world. The economy of Switzerland is based mostly on banking, finance, and tourism, while its society is characterized by high levels of education, security, and quality of life.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Switzerland, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Switzerland: places to visit

Switzerland is a charming European country famous for its snow-capped mountain ranges, pristine lakes, and picturesque villages. Here is a list of some of the main places to visit in Switzerland: 1. Zurich: Zurich is known for its vibrant culture, modern architecture, and plethora of museums and art galleries. The city is also famous for its vibrant nightlife and a host of culinary delights that will please any food lover.
2. Geneva: Geneva is a cosmopolitan city, home to numerous international organizations, including the United Nations headquarters. It is also famous for its stunningly beautiful lake, charming old town, and a host of museums and cultural institutions.
3. Basel: Basel is located in the northwestern part of Switzerland, where the country borders both Germany and France. Basel is famous for its well-preserved old town, a thriving cultural scene, and its love for art.
4. Lucerne: Lucerne is a picturesque town located in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Lucerne is famous for its medieval architecture, charming harbor, and stunning landscape that includes beautiful lakes and snow-capped mountain peaks.
5. Bern: The capital city of Switzerland, Bern, is a charming and well-preserved medieval town, and it is also home to some of Switzerland's most iconic landmarks, such as the Bern Bear Park and the Zytglogge clock tower.
6. Interlaken: Interlaken is the perfect holiday destination for thrill-seekers, offering a variety of adventurous activities such as paragliding, bungee jumping, and river rafting. It sits in the heart of the Swiss Alps and provides a stunning backdrop of beautiful mountains and valleys.
7. Zermatt: Zermatt is a charming Alpine village located at the foot of the Matterhorn mountain, one of Switzerland's most iconic landmarks. The village is famous for its quaint architecture, stunning vistas, and world-class ski resorts. These are just a few of the many wonderful places to visit in Switzerland, each with its own unique beauty and charm.
There is more to see and do in Switzerland: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Switzerland: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Switzerland, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Switzerland experiences a temperate climate, which varies by elevation and region. Generally, summers are warm, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F) depending on the location. Winters can be cold, with temperatures ranging from -2°C to 7°C (28°F to 45°F). The higher altitudes and mountainous areas receive more snowfall and are colder, especially during winter.
The best time to visit Switzerland depends on what you plan to do. Summer (June to August) is an excellent time for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports. The weather is usually warm and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the country's beautiful cities and landscapes.
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are relatively mild and less crowded, making them excellent for sightseeing and hiking.
Winter (December to February) is a popular time to visit for its snow sports, including skiing, snowboarding, and ice-skating. The Christmas markets and New Year's Eve celebrations are also highlights of the winter season.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Switzerland depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to indulge in during your trip.

Switzerland: activities and what to do

Switzerland is known for its pristine natural beauty and offers a range of activities and sports for tourists. Some popular activities include: 1. Skiing and snowboarding: Switzerland is famous for its winter sports and the Swiss Alps have some of the best ski resorts in the world.
2. Hiking: Switzerland has a vast network of well-marked hiking trails. The country offers a variety of trails ranging from easy to difficult, making it an ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts.
3. Mountain Biking: Switzerland has a well-developed system of trails for mountain biking with varying levels of difficulty.
4. Paragliding and Skydiving: Switzerland is a popular destination for paragliding and skydiving due to its scenic landscapes.
5. River rafting: Switzerland offers some of the best river rafting experiences in the world, with rapids ranging from easy to difficult.
6. Canyoning: Canyoning involves navigating through canyons and waterfalls. Switzerland offers a variety of canyons for canyoning activities.
7. Swimming and water sports: Switzerland is home to numerous lakes, making it a great destination for swimming, boating, and other water sports.
These are just a few examples of the many activities and sports that can be enjoyed in Switzerland.

Switzerland: few words on history and culture

Switzerland has a rich history and culture that can be traced back to the ancient Celts and Romans. The country is home to four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh, and has a diverse population which includes many different ethnic and cultural groups. Switzerland is famous around the world for its stunning natural landscape of mountains, lakes, and forests, which have been a source of inspiration for artists, writers, and musicians for centuries. The country is also renowned for its contributions to science, technology, and education, as well as its long tradition of arts and crafts, from watchmaking and chocolate-making to cheese-making and embroidery. Switzerland has a strong tradition of political neutrality and is home to many international organizations, including the United Nations and the International Red Cross. Swiss culture is characterized by a strong sense of community and a commitment to democracy, freedom, and social justice. Overall, Switzerland is a fascinating and diverse country with a rich history and culture that is worth exploring.

Switzerland: how to move around on holiday

Switzerland is well-connected to the rest of Europe and the world, so there are many ways to reach and visit the country. Here are some of the best means of transport: 1. Air: Many airlines offer direct flights to Switzerland from major cities around the world. Swiss International Airlines is the national carrier of Switzerland and operates flights to many major destinations.
2. Train: Switzerland's rail network is one of the best in the world, and train travel is an excellent way to explore the country. Trains are punctual, comfortable, and offer stunning views of the Swiss landscape.
3. Car: If you prefer to drive, renting a car is a good option in Switzerland. The roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate. However, driving in Switzerland can be expensive due to tolls and parking fees.
4. Bus: Buses in Switzerland are efficient and affordable, and they offer an excellent option for travelers who want to explore the countryside.
5. Boat: Switzerland has several lakes that offer scenic boat rides, and this is an excellent way to see the surrounding mountains and landscapes.
Overall, Switzerland has an excellent transportation system, and visitors can choose the option that best suits their needs and budget. To hire a car to visit Switzerland, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Switzerland: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Switzerland with a full stomach:D
Certainly, here are some of the typical foods of Switzerland: 1. Cheese Fondue: A classic, creamy and savory Swiss dish made from melted cheese in a pot served with bread cubes to dip into the cheese. 2. Rosti: A simple and delicious dish made of grated potatoes that are fried and then served in a pan. You can add other ingredients like cheese, bacon, or onions for extra flavor.
3. Raclette: A popular dish that involves heating a block of Raclette cheese, melting it, then scraping off the melted cheese onto boiled potatoes and pickled onions.
4. Swiss Chocolate: Swiss chocolate is highly regarded as being some of the best in the world, famous for its smooth, creamy texture and rich flavor.
5. Zopf: A type of Swiss bread that is typically braided and made with milk, flour, yeast and butter. It has a soft and chewy texture and is perfect for breakfast or served alongside cheese and meats.
6. Birchermuesli: A popular breakfast dish made with a mixture of oats, fruits such as apples and berries, nuts and yoghurt. It is a healthy and filling start to the day.
7. Basler Leckerli: A traditional Swiss gingerbread cookie made with honey, almonds, candied fruit and spices. It makes a great snack or dessert. These are just a few examples of the delicious foods that Switzerland has to offer.

Switzerland: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Yes, Switzerland is considered an expensive country for tourists. The high cost of living in Switzerland translates to higher prices for accommodation, transportation, food, drinks and other travel expenses. However, there are still ways to save money while traveling in Switzerland such as using public transportation instead of taxis, staying in budget hotels or hostels, eating at local cafés or restaurants instead of high-end establishments, and purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass or other discount cards.

Switzerland: where to find accodation

There are several options to look for accommodation in Switzerland: 1. Online booking websites: Websites like Booking.com, Expedia, and Airbnb offer a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, B&Bs, and apartments.
2. Official tourism websites: Switzerland Tourism is the official tourism website of Switzerland. It provides information on accommodation options, special offers, and recommendations for cities and regions.
3. Hotel and hostel websites: Many hotels and hostels have their own websites where you can book directly.
4. Travel agencies: Travel agencies can help you find and book accommodation based on your budget and preferences.
5. Local tourist offices: In each city or town, there is usually a tourist office that can provide information on accommodation options and book them for you.
You can check hotel prices in Switzerland here:
Booking.com

Switzerland: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Switzerland typically receives around 10-12 million tourists annually. There are indeed some periods when Switzerland can get quite crowded, particularly during the peak summer months of July and August, and around important holidays like Christmas and New Year's Eve, as well as during major events and festivals. Ski resorts also tend to be very busy during the winter months. However, Switzerland is a popular year-round destination, and crowds tend to be more spread out outside of these peak times.
Switzerland is considered to be a very safe country for tourists. The crime rate is low and the country has a well-functioning police force. However, like in any country, there are a few places that should be avoided, especially at night. You should avoid some of the more run-down areas in cities. Additionally, it's always important to take the same precautions you would take anywhere else, such as keeping an eye on your belongings in public places. Despite these recommendations, Switzerland is generally considered to be a very safe country for tourists.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Switzerland on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Switzerland: events for tourists

Switzerland has a wide range of events that may interest tourists depending on their preferences. Here are some of the most popular ones: 1. The Montreux Jazz Festival: A world-famous music festival that takes place in Montreux each year in July.
2. The Fasnacht Festival: A carnival celebrated in various parts of Switzerland, the most famous being the one in Basel.
3. The International Balloon Festival: An event that takes place in Château-d'Oex and brings together hot air balloons from all over the world.
4. The Open Air Cinema: A summer event where films are projected on an outdoor screen, taking place in various cities.
5. The Christmas Markets: Traditional markets that take place in various cities during the Advent season, selling handicrafts, food, and beverages.
These are just a few of the many events that take place in Switzerland throughout the year and are worth attending while on a trip.

Switzerland: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Switzerland, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a two-week itinerary for a typical tourist in Switzerland: Day 1-3: Begin in Zurich. Spend two nights exploring the city's historic Old Town, museums, and shopping districts. Visit highlights like the Fraumünster and Grossmünster churches, Bahnhofstrasse shopping street, and take in the views from the Uetliberg lookout.
Day 4-6: Travel to Interlaken, the gateway to the Swiss Alps. Take in the scenic beauty of the mountains, whether by hiking, paragliding, or taking a cogwheel train up to Jungfraujoch, the highest train station in Europe.
Day 7-8: Head to Lucerne, another charming Swiss city with a picturesque old town and a famous wooden bridge. Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Lucerne, visit the historical Lion Monument, and try some of the local Swiss cuisine.
Day 9-11: Next, travel to the charming town of Montreux on the shores of Lake Geneva. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, visit the famous Chillon Castle, and take the mountainside rail line to Rochers-de-Naye for stunning panoramic views.
Day 12-14: Finally, end your trip in the cosmopolitan Geneva, a city that is both historic and modern. See the tremendous Jet d'Eau fountain, the Palace of Nations, visit the United Nations, and enjoy the international flair of the city.
This itinerary is an excellent way to experience some of the best Switzerland has to offer in just two weeks. Make sure to try some famous Swiss cheeses, chocolates, and wines along the way!

Switzerland: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Switzerland described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Adelboden is a picturesque mountain village located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. It's situated at an altitude of 1,350 meters above sea level and surrounded by stunning mountain peak... CONTINUE here for a trip to Adelboden
- Andermatt is a small picturesque village located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, surrounded by stunning mountain and valley landscapes. It is situated in the Canton of Uri and has a population of arou... CONTINUE here for a trip to Andermatt
- Appenzell Ausserrhoden (or Appenzello Esterno in Italian) is a canton or region in northeastern Switzerland. It is situated in the Swiss Alps and shares borders with other Swiss cantons like St. Galle... CONTINUE here for a trip to Appenzello Esterno
- Arosa is a mountain town located in the Swiss canton of Graubünden. It sits at an altitude of 1,775 meters above sea level and is surrounded by stunning Alpine peaks such as the Weisshorn and the Schi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Arosa
- Ascona is a picturesque town located in the southern part of Switzerland, near the Italian border. It is situated on the shores of Lake Maggiore, surrounded by beautiful mountains and lush green fores... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ascona
- Basel is a city in the northwest of Switzerland, situated where the Swiss, French and German borders meet. It is the third largest city in Switzerland and known for its rich cultural heritage, especia... CONTINUE here for a trip to Basel
- Bern is the capital city of Switzerland and is located in the central part of the country. It has a population of approximately 133,000 people and is situated on the banks of the Aare River. Bern is k... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bern
- Brienz is a charming village located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, situated on the eastern shore of Lake Brienz. It is a popular tourist destination known for its picturesque landscap... CONTINUE here for a trip to Brienz
- Brig is a small town located in the canton of Valais in Switzerland. It is situated at the foot of the Simplon Pass and surrounded by picturesque mountains. Brig has a rich history and is home to some... CONTINUE here for a trip to Brig
- Chur is the capital city of the canton of Graubünden in Switzerland. It is the oldest city in Switzerland, dating back over 5000 years. Located in the deep valley of the Rhine River, Chur is surrounde... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chur
- Crans-Montana is a famous ski resort located in the Valais region of Switzerland. It is situated at an altitude of over 1,500 meters and boasts stunning views of the Swiss Alps. Crans-Montana is a pop... CONTINUE here for a trip to Crans-Montana
- Davos is a town located in the canton of Graubünden in Switzerland. It is situated at an altitude of 1,560 meters above sea level and is known for being a popular ski and mountain resort. The town is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Davos
- Engelberg is a picturesque mountain town located in the heart of Switzerland. It is situated at an altitude of 1050 meters above sea level and is surrounded by the stunning peaks of the Swiss Alps. It... CONTINUE here for a trip to Engelberg
- Flims is a beautiful town in the Swiss Alps, located in the canton of Graubünden. It is well-known for its stunning natural landscapes, including forests, lakes, and mountains, and is a popular destin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Flims
- Geneva is a city in Switzerland located in the western part of the country along the banks of Lake Geneva and the Rhone River. It is the second-most populous city in Switzerland and is known for its h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Geneva
- Gersau is a municipality in the canton of Schwyz in Switzerland located on the south shore of Lake Lucerne. It is known as a popular tourist destination due to its charming Old Town, natural beauty, a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gersau
- Grindelwald is a picturesque mountain village located in the Bernese Alps, Switzerland. It is surrounded by majestic mountains and stunning landscapes making it a popular destination for outdoor enthu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Grindelwald
- Gstaad is a picturesque town located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. It is situated at an elevation of 1,050 meters above the sea level and is surrounded by the Swiss Alps. Gstaad is kn... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gstaad
- Interlaken is a small town located in the heart of Switzerland, surrounded by the Swiss Alps and situated between two beautiful lakes, Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. With its breathtaking scenery and nume... CONTINUE here for a trip to Interlaken
- Klosters is a charming Swiss village located in the eastern part of Switzerland, known for its stunning Alpine scenery and world-class skiing opportunities. It is situated in the Praettigau/Davos regi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Klosters
- La Chaux-de-Fonds is a city located in the canton of Neuchâtel, in western Switzerland. It has a population of around 38,000 inhabitants and is known for being a center of watchmaking and art nouveau ... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Chaux-de-Fonds
- Laax is a popular ski resort located in the Graubünden region of Switzerland. It is situated in the Flims-Laax-Falera ski area and has a total of 224 kilometers of ski runs, making it one of the large... CONTINUE here for a trip to Laax
- Lavertezzo is a charming village located in the Valle Verzasca region of Switzerland. It's famous for its crystal-clear river, picturesque stone bridge, and beautiful natural surroundings. The village... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lavertezzo
- Locarno is a charming town located in the southern part of Switzerland, on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore. It is the third-largest city in Ticino, the Italian-speaking canton of Switzerland, with... CONTINUE here for a trip to Locarno
- Lucerne is a beautiful city located in central Switzerland, surrounded by mountains and situated on the shores of Lake Lucerne. It is one of the country's most visited tourist destinations, known for ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lucerne
- Lugano is a city located in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland, in the southern part of the country, bordering Italy. It is the largest city in the Canton of Ticino and the 9th largest city in S... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lugano
- Meiringen is a small town located in the Haslital region of the Bernese Oberland in Switzerland. It is situated at an altitude of 600 meters above sea level and has a population of around 4,500 inhabi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Meiringen
- Montreux is a beautiful town located in the French-speaking part of Switzerland on the eastern shore of Lake Geneva. It is renowned for its stunning Alpine scenery, mild climate, and picturesque prome... CONTINUE here for a trip to Montreux
- Oberwald is a small village located in the canton of Valais in Switzerland. It is situated at an elevation of 1,372 meters above sea level and has a population of around 400 people. Oberwald is known ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Oberwald
- Rheinfelden is a town situated in the canton of Aargau in Switzerland. It is located on the banks of the river Rhine and is known for its picturesque old town and thermal baths. The town has a populat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rheinfelden
- Saas-Fee is a picturesque car-free village located in the Swiss Alps, in the canton of Valais. It is situated at an altitude of 1800m and surrounded by thirteen majestic 4000m peaks, making it a popul... CONTINUE here for a trip to Saas-Fee
- San Gottardo is a mountain pass located in the heart of the Swiss Alps. It is situated at an altitude of 2,106 meters and connects the cantons of Uri and Ticino. The pass is known for its scenic beaut... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Gottardo
- Scuol is a picturesque town located in the Lower Engadine region of Switzerland in the canton of Graubünden. It is situated in a scenic valley on the banks of the Inn River and surrounded by the majes... CONTINUE here for a trip to Scuol
- Soglio is a small village located in the canton of Graubünden, southeastern Switzerland. It's perched on a mountainside overlooking the Bregaglia Valley and is known for its stunning natural beauty an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Soglio
- St. Moritz is a picturesque alpine resort town located in the Engadin valley of Switzerland. It's a popular destination for wealthy travelers and is known for its luxurious hotels, high-end shopping, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to St Moritz
- Stans is a small town located in the canton of Nidwalden, Switzerland. It is situated at the foot of the Mount Stanserhorn and surrounded by beautiful Alpine landscapes. Stans is known for its charmin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Stans
- Thun is a picturesque lakeside town located in the canton of Bern, Switzerland. It is located at the confluence of the Aare River and Lake Thun, and is surrounded by the Bernese Alps. Thun is known fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Thun
- Verbier is a popular ski resort located in the canton of Valais in Switzerland. It is situated in the heart of the Swiss Alps and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including the Matt... CONTINUE here for a trip to Verbier
- Villars is a charming mountain village located in the southwestern part of Switzerland, about 120 km from Geneva. It is situated at an elevation of 1,250 meters above sea level and offers breathtaking... CONTINUE here for a trip to Villars
- Zermatt is a small town located in the canton of Valais in Switzerland, well known for its world-famous Matterhorn peak, one of the highest summits of the Alps. Zermatt is a popular year-round tourist... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zermatt
- Zug, also known as Zugo in Italian, is a city in central Switzerland. It is located on the shores of Lake Zug and is known for its picturesque scenery and clean, well-maintained streets. Zug is also o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zugo
- Zurich is a city located in the north-central part of Switzerland. It is the largest city in Switzerland and is known for its beautiful old town, stunning lakefront promenade, and as a global financia... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zurich


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