Switzerland offers dramatic Alpine landscapes, pristine lakes, and charming historic towns, all wrapped in a calm and orderly way of life. You can enjoy world-class rail journeys, ski resorts, and lakeside cities in one compact country.
Discover Switzerland
Discover Switzerland
Why visit Switzerland?
What to expect
Expect a mix of German-, French-, Italian-, and Romansh-speaking regions, each with its own character. From Zurich's vibrant city life to lakeside Lucerne and mountain gateways like Interlaken and Zermatt, travel is efficient and scenery never far away.
Plan your trip
Use Zurich as a gateway for fast rail links across Switzerland and into neighbouring Europe. With reliable public transport, clearly marked trails, and well-organised cities, it is easy to combine nature, culture, and short breaks in one itinerary.
Top experiences in Switzerland
Explore Zurich Old Town
Wander the cobbled streets of Zurich's Altstadt along both banks of the Limmat River, discovering medieval lanes, riverside promenades, and elegant boutiques.
Cruise on Lake Zurich and beyond
Take a relaxing boat trip on Lake Zurich or nearby lakes such as Lucerne or Geneva for views of waterfront villages, vineyards, and snow-capped peaks.
Ride iconic mountain railways
Board panoramic trains and mountain cog railways to reach viewpoints such as Jungfraujoch or Gornergrat, where wide Alpine panoramas unfold.
Stroll the lakeside promenades
Enjoy gentle walks along waterfront promenades in Zurich, Lucerne, or Montreux, with cafés, gardens, and public art lining the shores.
Experience Swiss museums and galleries
Visit museums in Zurich and other cities to explore modern art, design, and history, from contemporary galleries to interactive cultural spaces.
Take a scenic rail journey
Travel on Switzerland's scenic rail routes, where large windows frame valleys, bridges, and mountain passes in complete comfort.
Enjoy winter sports in the Alps
Head to renowned Alpine resorts for skiing, snowboarding, and winter hiking, supported by well-groomed pistes and cosy mountain villages.
Experience Switzerland's way of life
Getting around
The Swiss Travel System connects cities, towns, and mountain resorts by coordinated trains, trams, boats, and buses, often with easy same-platform transfers. From Zurich, you can reach most major destinations in a few hours, making day trips simple to plan.
Local life & culture
Daily life moves at an unhurried but precise pace, with a strong focus on punctuality, privacy, and respect for shared spaces. Local festivals, multilingual signage, and distinct regional traditions reflect the country's blend of cultures.
Where to unwind
Unwind on lakeside lawns and parks around Zurich, or escape to spa towns and mountain retreats where fresh air and quiet trails invite long walks. In both cities and villages, you will find calm green corners never far from the water or mountains.
A taste of Switzerland
National dishes & specialties
Cheese-based dishes such as fondue and raclette, along with rösti and rich chocolates, are among Switzerland's best-known flavours. Zurich and other cities offer regional variations that reflect German, French, and Italian influences.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Zurich, you can dine in relaxed cafés, brasseries, and contemporary bistros that serve everything from hearty local meals to international favourites. Food halls and neighbourhood restaurants across the country add more variety for everyday dining.
Signature & scenic dining
Look for restaurants with lake or river views, or dine in mountain lodges that you reach by cable car or train. Many places pair Swiss dishes with wide Alpine vistas, turning a meal into a memorable part of your journey.
Retail therapy in Switzerland
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Zurich offers major shopping streets and centres where international labels sit alongside Swiss brands, including watches, fashion, and homeware. Larger urban malls combine shops with dining, services, and entertainment under one roof.
Markets & local crafts
Explore city markets and smaller boutiques in Zurich, Lucerne, and Bern for handmade crafts, regional textiles, and local delicacies. Seasonal markets often showcase artisanal items that make thoughtful gifts.
Evening retail scene
In Zurich, shopping streets and side lanes stay lively into the evening, with illuminated windows and late-opening stores on selected days. Nearby cafés and bars create a relaxed atmosphere for combining browsing and a drink.
Best time to visit Switzerland
Switzerland has distinct seasons that vary between lowland cities and higher Alpine areas. In general, spring and autumn are mild, summers are warm, and winters are cold, with snow common in the mountains.
Peak season: June to August is peak season, with warm days in cities such as Zurich averaging around 20–25°C (68–77°F). Lakes are busy, mountain resorts are open for hiking, and long daylight hours make this a popular time for outdoor travel.
Shoulder season: April to May and September to October form the shoulder season, with temperatures usually between 10–18°C (50–64°F) in the lowlands. You can expect fewer crowds, cool mornings and evenings, and good conditions for city breaks and scenic rail journeys.
Low season: November to March is generally low season in cities, with temperatures often between -1–7°C (30–45°F), though it is peak for winter sports in the Alps. Expect short days, possible snow or rain at lower levels, and a quieter, more atmospheric feel in many towns.