Flights from Adelaide (ADL) to Switzerland

Discover Switzerland

Discover Switzerland

Why visit Switzerland?
Switzerland invites you with snow-dusted peaks, clear lakes, and compact cities that feel both historic and modern. You can move from lakeside promenades to alpine villages in a single day, with everything running on a famously precise rhythm.
What to expect
Your trip can take you from Zurich's riverside old town to the shores of Lake Geneva, the capital Bern, and resort towns like Lucerne, Zermatt, and Interlaken. Efficient rail lines and scenic mountain lifts make even the journey itself a highlight.
Plan your trip
You can base yourself in one city and explore nearby regions by train, or design a loop combining several areas. Switzerland also works well as a gateway to neighbouring France, Italy, Germany, and Austria, opening up wider European itineraries.

Top experiences in Switzerland

Explore Zurich's old town and lakefront

Wander cobbled streets in Zurich's Altstadt, then stroll or cruise along Lake Zurich for views of church spires and distant Alps.

Ride a panoramic Swiss mountain railway

Take a cogwheel or panoramic train to peaks such as Pilatus, Rigi, or Gornergrat for sweeping views over glaciers and valleys.

Cruise the lakes of Lucerne or Geneva

Board a lake steamer to see mountain landscapes from the water, passing small towns, vineyards, and historic landmarks along the shore.

Walk the alpine trails of Interlaken and Jungfrau

Follow well-marked paths past meadows and waterfalls, or ride cable cars up towards Jungfraujoch for high-altitude viewpoints.

Visit Swiss museums and galleries

Discover art, design, and history in institutions such as Zurich's Kunsthaus and Swiss National Museum, or smaller regional collections.

Tour chocolate and watchmaking centres

Join factory or workshop visits to learn how Swiss chocolate and timepieces are crafted, often with tastings or demonstrations included.

Enjoy winter sports in alpine resorts

Ski, snowboard, or try winter hiking and sledging in resorts like Zermatt, St Moritz, and Davos, connected by efficient mountain transport.

Experience Switzerland's way of life

Getting around
Trains are the easiest way to travel across Switzerland, linking Zurich with major cities and mountain regions on regular, reliable schedules. Buses, lake boats, and cable cars connect smaller villages, and integrated passes make combining different modes simple.
Local life & culture
You will notice a blend of German, French, Italian, and Romansh influences as you move between regions, with languages and traditions shifting subtly. Daily life feels calm and orderly, with well-kept public spaces, punctual services, and a strong appreciation for nature and craftsmanship.
Where to unwind
You can relax by lakeside promenades, in quiet village squares, or on mountain terraces with broad views. Many destinations offer spa facilities, thermal baths, and scenic walking paths, helping you slow down between more active excursions.

A taste of Switzerland

National dishes & specialties
Across Switzerland you can try classics such as fondue and raclette, often associated with alpine regions and cosy mountain restaurants. In Zurich and the German-speaking areas you will find hearty meat dishes and rosti, while lakeside towns highlight freshwater fish.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Zurich offers everything from casual cafés to contemporary bistros, making it easy to find a quick meal between sightseeing. Other cities such as Geneva, Basel, and Lausanne add international flavours, reflecting Switzerland's diverse communities and regional tastes.
Signature & scenic dining
You can pair meals with views on lake cruises, mountain-top restaurants, or venues overlooking old town skylines. Special experiences might include dining in historic guild houses, stylish hotel restaurants, or panoramic spots reached by funicular or cable car.

Retail therapy in Switzerland

Malls & lifestyle hubs
In Zurich you will find modern shopping centres and department stores that bring together international labels, Swiss brands, and lifestyle services under one roof. Similar complexes in Geneva, Basel, and other cities make it easy to combine errands, dining, and leisure.
Markets & local crafts
Old town districts and weekly markets in cities such as Zurich, Bern, and Lucerne showcase regional produce, handmade items, and seasonal goods. Smaller towns and mountain villages often specialise in woodwork, textiles, or local delicacies that make thoughtful gifts.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets in Zurich and other major cities stay active with illuminated boutiques, bookshops, and late-opening stores. Seasonal markets and festive decorations in winter add a special atmosphere to evening strolls and window shopping.

Best time to visit Switzerland

Peak season: June to August brings warm days around 18–28°C (64–82°F) in the lowlands, ideal for hiking and lake activities, with cooler temperatures in the mountains.
Shoulder season: April to May and September to October see mild weather around 10–20°C (50–68°F), fewer crowds, and colourful spring or autumn landscapes.
Low season: November to March is colder, from about -2–8°C (28–46°F) in many areas, with snow in alpine regions creating good conditions for winter sports.

Frequently Asked Questions