Switzerland offers glacier-tipped peaks, mirror-like lakes, and perfectly kept towns and cities. You can enjoy world-class hiking and skiing, refined culture, and a calm, ordered way of life in one compact country.
Discover Switzerland
Discover Switzerland
Why visit Switzerland?
What to expect
From Zurich's lakefront boulevards to the Alps around Zermatt and the lakeside charm of Lucerne and Geneva, Switzerland blends nature and urban style. Expect efficient transport, multilingual locals, and easy access to outdoor adventures in every season.
Plan your trip
Switzerland is an ideal base for exploring Central Europe, with rail and road links to France, Italy, Germany, and Austria. Build in time for both city sightseeing and mountain escapes to make the most of your journey.
Top experiences in Switzerland
Stroll the old town of Zurich
Wander the cobbled lanes of Zurich's Altstadt, where medieval churches, riverside promenades, and galleries sit beside contemporary boutiques and cafes.
Ride panoramic trains through the Alps
Take a seat on one of Switzerland's panoramic trains to glide past deep valleys, high passes, and mountain villages framed by snow-capped peaks.
Cruise on the Swiss lakes
Board a lake steamer on lakes such as Zurich, Lucerne, or Geneva to see mountains and vineyards from the water and stop at pretty shorefront towns.
Explore Jungfraujoch and high Alpine viewpoints
Travel by cogwheel train or cable car to famous viewpoints like Jungfraujoch and Gornergrat for sweeping views of glaciers and the high Alps.
Discover Bern and Lucerne's historic centres
Explore Bern's UNESCO-listed arcades and Lucerne's lakeside bridges and towers, where preserved architecture tells stories from centuries past.
Ski and snowboard in winter resorts
Head to resorts such as Zermatt, St. Moritz, or Verbier to enjoy extensive ski slopes, winter walking trails, and cosy Alpine villages.
Visit museums and galleries
Spend time in Switzerland's museums, from art collections in Zurich and Basel to themed museums on design, transport, and local history.
Experience Switzerland's way of life
Getting around
Switzerland's rail network connects Zurich with major cities, lakes, and mountain regions using frequent and punctual services. Integrated passes make it easy to combine trains, boats, buses, and cable cars on a single journey.
Local life & culture
You will notice a blend of German, French, Italian, and Romansh influences in language, architecture, and traditions as you travel between regions. Daily life feels orderly and relaxed, with an emphasis on time outdoors, cultural events, and community festivals.
Where to unwind
Unwind in lakeside parks, forest trails, and spa towns across the country, from thermal baths in the mountains to quiet promenades by the water. Many resorts offer wellness centres where you can rest after days spent exploring the outdoors.
A taste of Switzerland
National dishes & specialties
Try comforting dishes such as cheese fondue and raclette in the Alpine regions, and rosti served in many traditional restaurants. Swiss-made chocolate and regional cheeses are highlights wherever you go.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Basel, you will find relaxed bistros, riverside cafes, and contemporary restaurants serving both Swiss and international flavours. Food halls and neighbourhood spots make it easy to dine well between sightseeing stops.
Signature & scenic dining
Look for restaurants with mountain or lake views, where you can eat against a backdrop of peaks or old-town skylines. Scenic train journeys and some cable cars also offer memorable dining options on the move.
Retail therapy in Switzerland
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Zurich and other major cities feature modern shopping streets and centres with international labels, watches, and local designers. You can combine shopping with dining, culture, and waterfront walks in compact, walkable districts.
Markets & local crafts
Browse markets in Zurich, Bern, and Lucerne for handmade crafts, seasonal produce, and regional goods. Smaller towns often host weekly markets where local makers sell textiles, woodwork, and design pieces.
Evening retail scene
In larger cities, central streets and department stores stay lively into the evening, with illuminated storefronts and late-opening shops on selected days. Many districts pair evening browsing with bars and cafes for a relaxed night out.
Best time to visit Switzerland
Winter (December to February) is peak season in many mountain resorts, with average temperatures around -2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F) in the lowlands, ideal for snow sports. Spring and autumn (March to May, September to November) are shoulder season, with mild temperatures around 8°C to 18°C (46°F to 64°F), fewer crowds, and colourful landscapes. Summer (June to August) is another peak season, especially around lakes and cities, with temperatures of about 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F), long daylight hours, and numerous outdoor events.