Flights from New York (NYC) to Switzerland

Discover Switzerland

Discover Switzerland

Why visit Switzerland?
Switzerland blends dramatic Alps, serene lakes, and elegant cities in a compact, easy-to-explore country. You find outdoor adventure, refined culture, and quiet lakeside towns in one journey.
What to expect
Explore Zurich for its vibrant arts and lakefront promenades, then head towards the Alps for snow sports and mountain villages. Rail journeys link cities, lakes, and peaks with scenic efficiency.
Plan your trip
You can combine city breaks, alpine escapes, and lake retreats in a single itinerary. Switzerland also works well as a gateway to neighbouring France, Italy, Germany, and Austria, thanks to excellent cross-border rail and road links.

Top experiences in Switzerland

Stroll along Lake Zurich

Walk the lakeside promenades, hire a boat, or relax at waterside parks with views of church spires and distant mountains.

Ride a panoramic mountain railway

Take a scenic train into the Alps for sweeping views of snow-capped peaks, forests, and valleys from wide panoramic windows.

Explore Zurich’s Old Town lanes

Wander cobbled streets lined with historic townhouses, hidden courtyards, and riverside viewpoints along the Limmat.

Cruise on a Swiss lake

Join a leisurely lake cruise to see villages, vineyards, and mountains from the water on classic or modern vessels.

Discover Swiss art and design

Visit museums and galleries in Zurich showcasing contemporary art, design, and Switzerland’s tradition of precision craft.

Head into the Alps for hiking or skiing

Spend a day or more in alpine resorts, following well-marked trails in summer or ski slopes in winter.

Visit hilltop viewpoints

Ride funiculars or cable cars from city edges to reach lookouts with sweeping views over lakes, roofs, and mountains.

Experience Switzerland’s way of life

Getting around
Switzerland’s rail network is one of the easiest ways to travel between Zurich, lakes, and mountain regions, with frequent, punctual services. Buses, boats, and cable cars connect smaller towns and alpine villages, giving you seamless access to high-altitude viewpoints.
Local life & culture
Daily life feels calm and ordered, with a strong focus on craftsmanship, design, and outdoor living. You notice distinct personalities between regions, shaped by German, French, and Italian language traditions that meet within one compact country.
Where to unwind
Lakeside promenades, forest paths, and mountain trails offer peaceful places to slow down close to nature. Many resorts and city hotels feature spas where you can soak, swim, or enjoy wellness treatments after days out in the fresh mountain air.

A taste of Switzerland

National dishes & specialties
Switzerland is known for rich alpine comfort food, fine cheeses, and chocolate crafted with great care. Mountain and lakeside regions each add their own twist, from hearty dishes in ski areas to lighter fare near the water.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Zurich, you find relaxed brasseries, cafés, and contemporary restaurants serving Swiss and international flavours. Neighbourhood spots range from cosy, wood-panelled rooms to modern spaces by the river or lake.
Signature & scenic dining
Some of the most memorable meals are served with views of peaks, lakes, or historic cityscapes. You can dine in hillside restaurants, rooftop venues, or waterside terraces that showcase the country’s landscapes alongside refined cooking.

Retail therapy in Switzerland

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Zurich offers modern shopping streets and malls with international labels, Swiss designers, and lifestyle brands. You can move easily between department stores, boutiques, and galleries in compact central districts.
Markets & local crafts
Local markets are good places to find regional produce, handmade gifts, and crafted keepsakes. In Zurich and other Swiss towns, look for weekly markets and seasonal fairs that highlight local makers.
Evening retail scene
In major cities, early evening is lively around central shopping streets and pedestrian zones. Shops and cafés give way to restaurants and bars, so you can combine late browsing with a relaxed night out.

Best time to visit Switzerland

Peak season: June to August
Summer brings warm days in the lowlands, typically around 20–27°C (68–81°F), and cooler temperatures in the mountains. It is ideal for hiking, lake activities, and long daylight hours.
Shoulder season: April to May, September to October
Spring and autumn are milder, usually between 10–20°C (50–68°F), with fewer crowds and changing landscapes. These months suit city breaks, light hiking, and scenic rail travel.
Low season: November to March
In winter, lowland temperatures often range from -1–7°C (30–45°F), while mountain regions are colder. It is prime time for skiing and snow trips, with quieter cities outside holiday periods.

Frequently Asked Questions