Switzerland combines Alpine scenery, pristine lakes, and charming cities in a compact, easy-to-explore country. You can enjoy outdoor adventure, refined culture, and timeless mountain villages in one trip.
Discover Switzerland
Discover Switzerland
Why visit Switzerland?
What to expect
Expect well-organised cities like Zurich and Geneva, storybook towns around Lake Lucerne, and mountain resorts in regions such as the Bernese Oberland and Graubünden. Efficient public transport and scenic railways make it simple to reach lakes, valleys, and peaks.
Plan your trip
Switzerland works well as a stand-alone holiday or as a gateway to surrounding countries such as France, Germany, Italy, and Austria. With excellent train connections and regional passes, you can build flexible itineraries that match your pace and interests.
Top experiences in Switzerland
Explore Zurich and Lake Zurich
Stroll Zurich's historic centre, browse riverside boutiques, then take a cruise or lakeside walk along Lake Zurich for relaxing city and mountain views.
Ride Switzerland's scenic mountain railways
Take cogwheel trains and cable cars in regions like Jungfrau and Zermatt for close-up views of glaciers, jagged peaks, and high Alpine plateaus.
Discover Lucerne and Mount Pilatus
Wander Lucerne's medieval streets and lakeside promenade before heading up Mount Pilatus or Mount Rigi for panoramic views over central Switzerland.
Visit the Rhine Falls
Travel from Zurich to the Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen to see Europe's largest waterfall from viewing platforms or boat trips that edge towards the spray.
Tour Switzerland's lakeside towns
Spend time in lakeside destinations such as Montreux, Lugano, and Thun, where promenades, gardens, and boat rides showcase Alpine and Mediterranean-style landscapes.
Experience Swiss museums and galleries
Explore museums in Zurich, Basel, and Bern that focus on art, design, science, and history, many located in striking contemporary or carefully restored heritage buildings.
Enjoy winter sports in Alpine resorts
Head to ski areas such as St. Moritz, Verbier, or Davos for skiing, snowboarding, winter hiking, and cosy evenings in traditional mountain villages.
Experience Switzerland's way of life
Getting around
Switzerland's rail network links major cities and small villages with regular, punctual services, complemented by boats, buses, and mountain lifts. Scenic routes such as the Glacier Express and Bernina Express make the journey part of the experience.
Local life & culture
You will find four official languages, distinct regional identities, and a strong focus on craftsmanship and design. Daily life balances outdoor activity with an appreciation for art, music, and a calm, orderly rhythm in both cities and mountain towns.
Where to unwind
Relax on lakeside promenades in Zurich, Geneva, or Lugano, or escape to spa towns and wellness hotels in the Alps. National parks, forest trails, and quiet valleys offer easy access to nature all year round.
A taste of Switzerland
National dishes & specialties
Swiss favourites include cheese fondue, raclette, and rösti, with each region offering its own take on these dishes. Mountain areas are known for rich cheese and cured meats, while cities highlight chocolate and delicate pastries.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Zurich, Geneva, and Basel, you will find relaxed brasseries, cafés, and contemporary bistros serving both Swiss and international flavours. Street-food festivals and neighbourhood restaurants reflect influences from across Europe and beyond.
Signature & scenic dining
Enjoy meals in panoramic mountain restaurants, glass-walled lakefront venues, or historic guild houses in old town centres. Many destinations offer seasonal tasting menus that pair regional produce with local wine in memorable settings.
Retail therapy in Switzerland
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Zurich, Geneva, and Lausanne offer modern shopping centres with international labels, Swiss watchmakers, and contemporary lifestyle brands. Many malls are directly connected to major train stations for easy access.
Markets & local crafts
Browse weekly markets in Zurich, Bern, and Basel for regional produce, flowers, and handmade items such as textiles and wooden toys. Mountain villages often feature boutiques selling local crafts, watches, and artisanal chocolate.
Evening retail scene
In central Zurich and Geneva, key shopping streets and arcades stay lively into the evening, especially during late-opening nights and festive seasons. Christmas markets and seasonal fairs add a warm atmosphere with lights and decorated stalls.
Best time to visit Switzerland
Switzerland has distinct seasons, with conditions varying between lowland cities and higher Alpine regions. Winter, from December to February, is low season for cities but peak season in ski resorts, with temperatures in Zurich averaging around 0–5°C (32–41°F) and colder conditions in the mountains. Spring and autumn, from March to May and September to November, are shoulder season, with milder temperatures of about 8–18°C (46–64°F), fewer crowds, and colourful scenery. Summer, from June to August, is peak season in many cities and lakeside areas, with average temperatures in the lowlands around 18–27°C (64–81°F), while higher altitudes remain cooler and ideal for hiking.