Switzerland is a land of alpine peaks, serene lakes, and impeccably kept cities and villages. You can explore pristine nature, charming historic centres, and a relaxed yet refined way of life in one compact country.
Discover Switzerland
Discover Switzerland
Why visit Switzerland?
What to expect
From Zurich and Geneva to the mountain resorts of Zermatt, St. Moritz, and the Jungfrau region, Switzerland blends modern urban living with easy access to the Alps. Expect efficient transport, multilingual locals, and scenery that shifts from lakeside promenades to snow-capped summits.
Plan your trip
Switzerland is ideal for city breaks, ski holidays, lake escapes, and rail journeys that link several regions in one itinerary. It also sits at the heart of Europe, making it a convenient gateway for exploring neighbouring countries by train or short flights.
Top experiences in Switzerland
Explore Zurich's Old Town and lakefront
Wander the cobbled streets of Zurich's Altstadt, then stroll along Lake Zurich's promenade for views of the Alps on a clear day.
Ride the Glacier Express
Take the panoramic Glacier Express between Zermatt and St. Moritz to glide past gorges, viaducts, and alpine meadows in glass-domed comfort.
Visit Jungfraujoch, the Top of Europe
Travel by cogwheel train up to Jungfraujoch for high-alpine views, ice tunnels, and sweeping vistas of glaciers and surrounding peaks.
Cruise the lakes of Lucerne and Geneva
Board historic paddle steamers or modern boats to see lakeside towns, vineyards, and mountains from the water on Lake Lucerne or Lake Geneva.
Discover the Matterhorn in Zermatt
Stay in car-free Zermatt and ride mountain railways or cable cars for close-up views of the Matterhorn's distinctive pyramid-shaped summit.
Walk across the Chapel Bridge in Lucerne
Cross Lucerne's wooden Chapel Bridge, lined with painted panels, and explore its waterfront squares backed by mountains.
Tour Bern's UNESCO-listed centre
Stroll under the arcades of Bern's medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site with fountains, clock towers, and sandstone facades.
Relax in Swiss spa and thermal towns
Unwind in spa resorts such as Leukerbad or Bad Ragaz, where thermal waters and mountain views create a calming retreat.
Experience Switzerland's way of life
Getting around
Switzerland's rail network links major cities and mountain villages with frequent, punctual services, often timed with boats and buses. Scenic trains, regional passes, and well-marked road routes make it easy to combine several regions in one journey without needing a car.
Local life & culture
Daily life in Switzerland balances precision and calm, with strong regional identities across its German-, French-, Italian-, and Romansh-speaking areas. You will find well-tended public spaces, a love of the outdoors in every season, and a cultural calendar filled with music, art, and mountain festivals.
Where to unwind
You can relax on lakefront promenades, forest trails, and easy alpine paths that start right from town edges. Spa hotels, thermal baths, and quiet mountain villages offer a slower pace, whether you prefer reading by the lake or gentle walks amid pastures and peaks.
A taste of Switzerland
National dishes & specialties
Classic Swiss dishes include fondue and raclette in alpine regions, rösti in German-speaking areas, and rich chocolate and cheeses produced across the country. Each region adds its own touch, from hearty mountain fare to lighter lake-inspired cooking.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In cities such as Zurich, Geneva, and Basel, you will find bistros, brasseries, and contemporary eateries serving both Swiss and global flavours. Cafés, bakeries, and neighbourhood restaurants make it easy to enjoy relaxed meals between sightseeing or business meetings.
Signature & scenic dining
For memorable meals, consider restaurants overlooking lakes, rooftops with city panoramas, or mountain lodges reached by cable car or train. Many hotels and gourmet venues pair seasonal menus with views of historic skylines or alpine horizons.
Retail therapy in Switzerland
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Zurich, Geneva, and Basel feature department stores, covered shopping centres, and mixed-use districts with international labels and Swiss brands. Many hubs combine fashion, homeware, and design with cafés and services in one convenient location.
Markets & local crafts
Weekly markets in cities such as Zurich, Bern, and Lucerne showcase fresh produce, flowers, and regional goods. Smaller towns often have boutiques selling Swiss-made watches, textiles, and handicrafts that highlight local materials and traditions.
Evening retail scene
In major cities, central streets stay lively into the evening, with illuminated facades and late-opening shops on selected nights. Around Christmas, festive markets and decorated shopping districts create a warm atmosphere for browsing after dark.
Best time to visit Switzerland
Winter (December to February) is peak season in the Alps, with temperatures around -2°C to 4°C (28°F to 39°F) in many mountain areas and cooler at higher elevations, making it peak season for skiing and snow activities. Late spring and early autumn (May to June, September to October) form the shoulder season, with pleasant temperatures of about 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F) in many cities and valleys, ideal for hiking and lake trips. Summer (July to August) is another peak season in many regions, with city and lowland temperatures roughly 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F), bringing warm days for outdoor dining, festivals, and high-altitude excursions.