Flights from Cape Town (CPT) to Switzerland

Discover Switzerland

Discover Switzerland

Why visit Switzerland?
Switzerland offers dramatic Alps, serene lakes, and charming cities, all within a compact and well-organised country. You can move from historic old towns to soaring mountain passes in a single day.
What to expect
You will find global finance and culture in Zurich, lakeside elegance in Geneva, and alpine escapes in resorts such as Zermatt and St. Moritz. Scenic railways, mountain cableways, and lakeside promenades define many journeys around the country.
Plan your trip
Switzerland works well as a standalone escape or as part of a wider European itinerary. With its central location, efficient transport, and multilingual culture, it is a convenient gateway to neighbouring France, Italy, Germany, and Austria.

Top experiences in Switzerland

Explore Zurich's Old Town

Wander cobbled lanes, riverside paths, and elegant boutiques in Zurich's historic centre along the Limmat River.

Ride a Swiss panoramic train

Travel on iconic scenic rail routes that glide past alpine peaks, deep valleys, and mirror-like lakes.

Cruise on Lake Zurich or Lake Geneva

Take a relaxed boat trip to see vineyard-covered hillsides, waterfront villas, and mountain silhouettes from the water.

Ascend to a mountain summit

Ride cogwheel trains or cable cars to famous peaks for sweeping views, walking trails, and snowy vistas in most seasons.

Visit Swiss museums and galleries

Discover design, art, and history collections in major cities, from contemporary spaces to focused themed museums.

Sample Swiss chocolate and cheese

Drop into chocolatiers and village dairies to taste regional specialities crafted with long-standing traditions.

Stroll along lakeside promenades

Enjoy easy walks, parks, and cafés along Switzerland's lakes, with mountain backdrops and calm water views.

Experience Switzerland's way of life

Getting around
Switzerland's rail network links major cities and alpine villages with frequent and punctual services. Integrated passes and timetables make it simple to combine trains, boats, trams, and mountain lifts in one trip.
Local life & culture
You will encounter a mix of German, French, Italian, and Romansh influences, often within a short distance. Local life tends to be orderly yet relaxed, with an emphasis on time spent outdoors and in well-kept public spaces.
Where to unwind
Lakeside parks, thermal spa towns, and car-free mountain villages provide peaceful places to slow down. Well-marked walking paths and gentle valley trails let you enjoy the landscape at an easy pace.

A taste of Switzerland

National dishes & specialties
You can try classics such as melted cheese dishes, hearty alpine plates, and crisp potato specialities in mountain resorts and city brasseries. Different regions add their own twist, reflecting nearby countries and local produce.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In cities like Zurich, you will find riverside bistros, contemporary cafés, and relaxed neighbourhood restaurants serving both Swiss and international flavours. Food halls and station districts make it easy to grab a quick bite between trains.
Signature & scenic dining
Lakeside terraces, rooftop restaurants, and mountain-view lodges turn meals into memorable occasions. Seasonal menus often showcase local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh produce paired with regional wines.

Retail therapy in Switzerland

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Major cities such as Zurich offer downtown shopping streets, department stores, and modern malls bringing together international labels and Swiss designers. Many railway stations double as convenient retail hubs open long hours.
Markets & local crafts
Weekly markets and small boutiques highlight regional cheeses, chocolate, textiles, and woodwork in cities and mountain towns alike. Zurich, Bern, and Lucerne are good places to look for quality Swiss-made goods and souvenirs.
Evening retail scene
In central districts, illuminated shopping streets and waterfront areas stay lively into the evening on late-opening days. You can combine browsing with cafés and bars for an easy end to your day.

Best time to visit Switzerland

Peak season: June to August, when many regions enjoy warm days around 18–27°C (64–81°F), ideal for hiking, lake activities, and city exploring.
Shoulder season: April to May and September to October, with mild temperatures around 10–20°C (50–68°F) and fewer crowds, good for sightseeing and lower valleys.
Low season: November to March, when lowland cities sit around -1–8°C (30–46°F), while mountain resorts see snow and colder conditions perfect for winter sports.

Frequently Asked Questions