Flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to Switzerland

Discover Switzerland

Discover Switzerland

Why visit Switzerland?

Switzerland offers dramatic Alpine landscapes, serene lakes, and cities that blend heritage with modern design. You find pristine nature, refined culture, and a calm, orderly way of life.

What to expect

From Zurich and Geneva to lakeside Lucerne and alpine resorts like Zermatt and St. Moritz, Switzerland feels compact yet varied. Expect efficient transport, well-marked trails, and a strong focus on quality in everything from hotels to everyday services.

Plan your trip

You can use Switzerland as a base to explore the wider Alps, with easy rail links into neighbouring countries. Plan time for both city stays and mountain villages to experience the country at its best.

Top experiences in Switzerland

Explore Zurich old town and lakefront

Stroll Zurich's cobbled Altstadt, visit its lakeside promenades, and take a cruise for sweeping views of the city and surrounding hills.

Ride panoramic trains through the Alps

Board famous panoramic trains to glide past glaciers, valleys, and peaks, with large windows framing some of Europe’s most impressive scenery.

Visit Mount Pilatus or Mount Titlis

Take cable cars and mountain railways near Lucerne for high-altitude viewpoints, cliff walks, and snow experiences even outside deep winter.

Discover lakeside towns like Lucerne and Montreux

Wander historic waterfronts, cross old bridges, and relax on terrace cafés with lake and mountain backdrops.

Experience Jungfraujoch, the Top of Europe

Ride mountain railways and tunnels to a high-altitude station with viewing platforms looking over glaciers and rugged peaks.

Enjoy winter sports in Swiss ski resorts

In winter, head to resorts such as Zermatt or St. Moritz for skiing, snowboarding, and cosy evenings in alpine lodges.

Tour Swiss cities for art and design

Visit museums, galleries, and design districts in Zurich, Basel, and Geneva to see modern architecture alongside historic streets.

Experience Switzerland's way of life

Getting around

Switzerland's rail network connects almost every major town, mountain valley, and lakeside village with frequent, punctual services. You can combine trains, boats, and cable cars on a single ticket, making it simple to explore without a car.

Local life & culture

Daily life reflects the country's multilingual character, where German, French, Italian, and Romansh influences meet. You encounter tidy neighbourhoods, discreet hospitality, and a strong appreciation for craftsmanship, design, and the outdoors.

Where to unwind

Relax in lakeside parks, wellness spas, and thermal baths found across the country, from city hotels to mountain retreats. Hiking paths and forest trails start close to many towns, so you are never far from quiet viewpoints and fresh air.

A taste of Switzerland

National dishes & specialties

Classic Swiss dishes include cheese-based favourites and hearty mountain fare, with each region adding its own twists. Swiss chocolate and cheeses are produced in many valleys and small towns, often open to visitors.

Casual & modern dining hubs

In cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Basel, you find casual bistros, contemporary restaurants, and international flavours alongside local cuisine. Railway stations and neighbourhood streets often have easy, high-quality options for a quick bite.

Signature & scenic dining

You can dine in mountain restaurants with panoramic terraces, lakeside venues with sunset views, and refined city establishments known for seasonal menus. Many spots pair carefully sourced ingredients with thoughtful Swiss hospitality.

Retail therapy in Switzerland

Malls & lifestyle hubs

Major cities such as Zurich, Geneva, and Lausanne offer shopping streets and centres with international labels, Swiss watchmakers, and local designers. You often find cafés, galleries, and services integrated into these urban hubs.

Markets & local crafts

Weekly markets in Zurich, Bern, and Basel showcase regional produce, flowers, and everyday goods. Smaller towns and alpine villages feature shops selling handmade crafts, textiles, and time-honoured Swiss products.

Evening retail scene

In central districts of Zurich and Geneva, many boutiques and department stores stay open into the evening on selected days. Illuminated streets and seasonal decorations create a relaxed atmosphere for an unhurried stroll between shops.

Best time to visit Switzerland

Winter (December to February) is peak season in ski resorts, with average temperatures around -2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F) in the lowlands and colder in the mountains, marked as peak season. Spring and autumn (March to May, September to November) bring mild conditions of about 8°C to 18°C (46°F to 64°F), with fewer crowds in cities and on hiking trails, making them shoulder season. Summer (June to August) is another peak season, with 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F) common in cities and cooler air in the Alps, ideal for hiking, lake activities, and outdoor events.

Frequently Asked Questions