Switzerland

Switzerland Travel Guide Contents

Click below to jump to the sections that interest you most! 👇

About Switzerland · Quick Facts · Highlights of Switzerland · Things to Do · Travel Tips · Switzerland Articles

About Switzerland

Switzerland is a picturesque country located in the heart of Europe, known for its stunning alpine scenery, world-renowned chocolates and cheeses, and luxurious ski resorts.

Switzerland is particularly popular among outdoor enthusiasts, ski and winter sports enthusiasts, food and wine lovers, and luxury travelers. Those looking for a luxurious getaway with world-class skiing, shopping, and dining would also find plenty to enjoy in Switzerland.

Quick facts about Switzerland

• Population: 8.5 million
• Capital: Bern
• Area: 41,285 km2
• Language(s): German (predominant), French, Italian, and Romansh
• Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
• Government type: Federal republic
• Electricity Voltage & Frequency: 230V/50Hz (European plug)

Highlights of Switzerland

Natural landscapes

Switzerland is famous for its beautiful and dramatic mountain scenery, including the Swiss Alps, the Matterhorn, and the Jungfrau region.

Skiing and winter sports

Switzerland is one of the top destinations in the world for skiing and winter sports, with some of the best ski resorts in Europe, including Zermatt, Verbier, and St. Moritz.

Chocolate and cheese

Switzerland is known for its world-renowned chocolates and cheeses, such as Lindt, Toblerone, and Swiss cheese, making it a food lover’s paradise.

Lakes and outdoor activities

Switzerland is also home to stunning lakes such as Lake Geneva, Lake Zurich, and Lake Lucerne, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as swimming, boating, and hiking.

Cities and culture

Switzerland has a rich cultural heritage and is home to beautiful cities such as Geneva, Zurich, and Bern, which offer a mix of historical architecture, modern art, and international cuisine.

Rail travel

Switzerland has one of the most efficient rail systems in the world, making it easy to explore the country by train, including scenic routes such as the Glacier Express.

Watchmaking and luxury goods

Switzerland is also known for its luxury goods, including watches, jewelry, and designer clothing, making it a shopper’s paradise.

Best activities, attractions, and things to do in Switzerland

1. Visit Matterhorn: The iconic Matterhorn peak is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Switzerland. Take a cable car up to the Klein Matterhorn or enjoy stunning views of the mountain from Zermatt village!

2. Explore Jungfraujoch: This must-visit destination boasts some of the most spectacular scenery in the Swiss Alps. Take a train to the Jungfraujoch and marvel at the glacial landscapes from 3,454 meters!

3. Try Swiss Cheese Fondue: Enjoy some of Switzerland’s most famous dishes with a fondue experience! Dip bread chunks into melted cheese whilst sipping on local wines – what could be better?

4. Take a Cruise on Lake Geneva: Board one of the many boats that cruise around Lake Geneva and enjoy incredible views of Mont Blanc, Chillon Castle, and more!

5. Admire Architecture in Bern: The old city center of Bern is full of beautiful buildings ranging from medieval to modern. Take a stroll through the streets and admire the incredible architecture!

6. Shop at Zurich’s Bahnhofstrasse: This famous shopping street is home to designer stores, luxury boutiques, trendy cafes, and more! Find something to suit every taste here.

7. Visit Chateau de Chillon: This stunning medieval castle sits on a rocky outcrop overlooking Lake Geneva and is one of the most famous castles in Switzerland. Be sure to check it out!

8. Explore Interlaken: Located between two stunning lakes, Interlaken is a great destination for outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, rafting, and more. Don’t miss out on all the fun things to do in this beautiful town!

9. Go Skiing in Zermatt: Enjoy some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Switzerland at Zermatt! With a huge number of slopes, this ski resort is perfect for winter sports fans. Christmas in Zermatt is beautiful as well!

10. Take a Chocolate Tour in Zurich: Learn about the history of Swiss chocolate-making and sample some delicious treats on a chocolate tour of Zurich! You won’t be disappointed.

Visiting Switzerland: What to know before you go

📌 Switzerland is an expensive country and the cost of living is high. If you’re planning a trip, it’s best to be prepared with plenty of cash or credit cards.

📌 The official language in Switzerland is German, although many people also speak French and Italian. English is widely spoken by most people throughout the country as well.

📌 Switzerland has a temperate climate, with mild summers and cold winters. Rainfall is common throughout the year, so be sure to pack an umbrella just in case!

📌 Make sure to check ahead for bank holidays as some places may be closed on certain days.

📌 When it comes to getting around, Switzerland has an excellent public transport system including trains, buses, and cable cars. Be sure to purchase tickets in advance to get the best prices.

📌 The currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF), so make sure to exchange some money before your trip. Euros are also accepted in some places.

📌 Mealtimes can be quite different from what you’re used to – people typically eat much later than they do in other countries such as the UK or US. In fact, many Swiss take their biggest meal at lunchtime and just have a light snack for dinner. This is especially true if you’re staying in a hotel or hostel.

📌 Finally, remember that tipping is not expected in Switzerland – however, a small tip is usually appreciated in restaurants and cafes.

📌 Smoking is prohibited in all enclosed public places throughout Switzerland, including restaurants and bars. There are some designated smoking areas but it’s best to check with the staff first.

Switzerland Articles