Travel to Switzerland

Switzerland is one of Europe’s top tourist destinations and with good reason; there are plenty of sights and attractions to keep you busy, an extensive transport network and English is widely spoken throughout the country.

Wherever you decide to visit in Switzerland you will find tourist information offices in every town, generally located in close proximity to the train station. Here you can find a whole wealth of information and get assistance with anything and everything from booking accommodation to hiring a car.

You can also buy passes for various sights which entitle you to discounted entrance fees, for example, if you plan to visit lots of museums then it might be worth investing in a Swiss Museum passport which gives you free entry to more than 250 museums, galleries and castles around the country.

When it comes to money matters you will find most banks are open Monday to Friday so you can change cash and sort out travellers cheques with ease.

As a general rule post offices are open Monday to Saturday so if you have postcards to send then you have plenty of time in which to do so.

You may want to book accommodation before you go and using the internet is an easy way of doing this. The summer months are the busiest so it might be wise to book in advance. A wide range of accommodation is available throughout Switzerland, from inexpensive hostels to five star luxury.

Berne is the capital of Switzerland. A medieval city which was founded in 1191 on and around the River Aare, Berne has quite a few attractions and historic sites and in 1983 was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city and is home to the country’s largest concentration of banks. The picturesque old town makes a pretty place to stop.

Between Zurich and Berne lies Lucerne, which many deem the cream of the crop of Swiss cities. With the Alps as a backdrop, Lucerne epitomises everything you have ever associated with Switzerland and makes for a truly authentic experience.

Basle is the second largest Swiss city and culture capital. Basle’s medieval centre is well worth a look and its crossroads position to France and Germany make it a handy place to stop if you fancy exploring other countries as well.

Switzerland’s third largest city, Geneva is a destination with lots to offer. The shores of Lake Geneva have attracted visitors for years and the city itself sits on the lake's western shore, with soaring snow-capped peaks creating a pleasing backdrop.

Flights to Geneva from London run regularly, as well as from a whole host of other international destinations, so matter where you are heading, you can book your trip to Switzerland with the minimum of fuss.

The information contained within this article is the opinion of the author and is intended purely for information and interest purposes only. It should not be used to make any decisions or take any actions. Any links are included for information purposes only.

Because Switzerland is a just a small country, its attractions are near each other and can be reached quite easily. Mountain resorts, lakes, forests, castles, museums, and ancient and modern architecture make this federal republic an excellent tourist destination. With its low crime rate, it is also very safe for tourists.

1.) The Jungfrau Region

The Jungfrau Region offers spectacular scenery to bewitch the eye. The white peaks of three towering mountains-the Jungfrau, Monch, and Eiger-contrast with the green valleys and meadows in this Alpine wonderland. Enjoy the fresh mountain air while visiting this place.

2.) Chateau de Chillon, Montreux

The town of Montreux is located in the heart of the Swiss Riviera on the shores of Lake Geneva. Walk by the lakeside and explore the Chillon Castle, or take a tour of the tower, courtyards, dungeons, and rooms of this eleventh-century castle, the most frequently visited historical building in Switzerland where its numerous rooms house weaponry, frescoes, and furniture. The castle can be reached by walking along the lakefront or taking the train or trolley bus.

3.) Fasnacht Spring Carnival, Basel

Be sure to visit Basel, Switzerland's second largest city for the Fasnacht Spring carnival. Its world-famous three-day carnival features participants in colorful costumes and masks parading in the streets. The carnival starts on the Monday after Ash Wednesday, and cafes and bars are open all night as confetti, sweets, and flowers are thrown to the crowd.

4.) Swiss National Park, Zernez

The Swiss Natural Park is 169 square kilometers of mountains and woodland. It is home to a variety of wildlife such as large red deer, chamois, ibexes, and marmots. Walk around its trails and admire its breathtaking views.

5.) Geneva

Hugging the shores of lovely Lake Geneva, this city is the third biggest in the country. You can find the world's tallest fountain, enchanting museums, and fine restaurants here. For those with a turn towards alternative arts, Geneva is a place not to be missed.