Overview

Switzerland is a postcard-perfect country where snow-capped peaks, alpine villages, and crystal-clear lakes blend with cosmopolitan cities, luxury watches, and world-class chocolate. Whether you’re hiking in the Alps, skiing Zermatt, or riding scenic trains like the Glacier Express, Switzerland delivers elegance and adventure in equal measure.

Quick Facts

• Languages: German, French, Italian, Romansh

• Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)

• Religion: Predominantly Christian (Protestant & Catholic)

• Main Airports: Zurich (ZRH), Geneva (GVA), Basel (BSL)

• Visa: Part of Schengen Zone

• Climate: Alpine and temperate

• Power Plugs: Type J (bring adapter)

• Essential Apps: SBB Mobile (trains), MeteoSwiss, Swiss Travel Guide

Where Is Switzerland?

Located in the heart of Europe, bordered by France, Germany, Italy, Austria, and Liechtenstein. It’s landlocked but rich in lakes, valleys, and high mountain passes.

Best Time to Visit

• Winter (Dec–Feb): Ski season in Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Verbier

• Spring (Mar–May): Melting snow, blooming alpine flowers

• Summer (Jun–Aug): Great for hiking, lake towns, and scenic trains

• Fall (Sep–Nov): Golden foliage, wine harvests, fewer crowds

Safety

Extremely safe, well-organized, and clean. Tap water is pristine. Hiking trails and train systems are clearly marked and punctual. Crime is very low.

Budget

• Budget: CHF 70–100/day ($80–110) – hostels, supermarket food, regional passes

• Mid-range: CHF 150–250/day ($170–280) – 3-star hotels, rail passes, restaurant meals

• Luxury: CHF 300+/day ($330+) – luxury chalets, mountain spas, gourmet dining

Top Places to Visit

🏔️ Mountains & Nature

• Zermatt & the Matterhorn: Iconic views, ski resorts

• Interlaken: Gateway to adventure sports

• Lauterbrunnen: Waterfalls, cliffs, and mountain villages

• Lucerne: Lakeside beauty with medieval charm

• Bernese Oberland: Jungfrau Region and Grindelwald

• Lake Geneva (Montreux, Lausanne): Vineyards and festivals

• Ticino: Italian-speaking region with Mediterranean flair

What to Eat

• Fondue: Melted cheese with bread—Swiss classic

• Rösti: Crispy potato pancake

• Raclette: Melted cheese served over potatoes

• Zürcher Geschnetzeltes: Creamy veal dish

• Chocolate: Sprüngli, Läderach, or local artisanal makers

• Pastries: Nusstorte, Luxemburgerli, and Bircher muesli

Where to Stay

• Budget: Youth Hostels in Interlaken, Bern, Zurich

• Mid-range: Hotel des Balances (Lucerne), Hotel Bristol (Geneva)

• Luxury: Badrutt’s Palace (St. Moritz), The Chedi (Andermatt)

• Unique: Mountain huts, lakeside chalets, eco-lodges

Getting Around

• Swiss Rail System (SBB): Reliable, fast, scenic

• Swiss Travel Pass: Unlimited train, bus, and boat travel

• Scenic Trains: Glacier Express, Bernina Express, GoldenPass

• Cable Cars: Essential for mountain villages and summits

• Boats: Great on Lake Geneva or Lake Lucerne

• Walking & Hiking: Trails are everywhere—and well-maintained

Suggested Itinerary (7–10 Days)

1. Zurich – Old town, lake, shopping

2. Lucerne – Chapel Bridge, Mt. Pilatus, boat cruise

3. Interlaken/Lauterbrunnen – Waterfalls, Jungfraujoch, paragliding

4. Zermatt – Gornergrat train, skiing, Matterhorn views

5. Montreux – Lake Geneva, Château de Chillon

6. (Optional) Bern – Capital charm and bears

7. (Optional) St. Moritz or Davos – Luxury alpine escape

Final Tips

• Always check weather before mountain travel—it changes fast

• Tap water is some of the cleanest in the world

• Swiss punctuality is no joke—don’t be late for trains

• Sundays = closed shops (plan ahead)

• Buying groceries instead of eating out saves a lot

• Travel light—many villages are car-free