Whether it’s the scenic alpine vistas and exhilarating outdoor adventures or the top-rated gourmet dining and extensive vineyard visits, the opportunities to explore this delightful country are boundless. Get inspired and discover what makes Switzerland so appealing to travelers the world over.
SWISS SOPHISTICATION
The cosmopolitan city of Zurich combines creative urban life with its natural side. Just a one-hour drive from the Swiss mountains, Zurich is the birthplace of the famed Dadaism art movement of the early 20th century and home of the legendary Cabaret Voltaire, a venue for young artists and performers to gather during World War I. As a prosperous center of commerce since the early Middle Ages, this is where you’ll find the Bahnhofstrasse, one of the most famous shopping streets in the world, filled with exclusive boutiques and luxury department stores. For chocoholics, a visit to Lindt Home of Chocolate is a deliciously immersive experience.
LOVELY LUCERNE
Lucerne, with its beautiful lakeside setting and impressive mountainous panorama, is the gateway to central Switzerland. The covered Chapel Bridge forms the center of Lucerne’s townscape and fresco-decorated historic homes line picturesque town squares. The Jesuit Church, which dates back to the 17th century, is Switzerland’s first Baroque church and the twin towers of Hofkirche St. Leodegar are an integral part of the landscape. With the near proximity of the Pilatus and Rigi mountains and alluring Lake Lucerne, an alpine excursion or steamship lake cruise are a must.
VIEWS AND VINEYARDS
Nature and gastronomy take center stage in the Lake Geneva and Matterhorn Region. Majestic glaciers, scenic vistas, and a history of viticulture can all be found here. To experience the breathtaking views and pristine beauty of the UNESCO-designated Great Aletsch Glacier, take a cable car to one of the viewpoints, Moosfluh or Eggishorn, before heading to a lakeside restaurant for a Michelin-starred meal. And with six wine-growing regions covering altogether more than 9,800 acres of vineyards, the canton of Vaud-Lake Geneva Region area is one of Switzerland’s major winegrowing areas, attracting connoisseurs with its vast varietals over many vintages. Make sure to visit Lavaux Terraced Vineyards, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
FARMING & FONDUE FOR TWO
Hop on the GoldenPass Panoramic train and enjoy the exquisite scenery as you head to Gstaad, where Alpine traditions are alive and well. With over 250 farms and working pastures, this area retains its Alpine authenticity with popular local produce and craftsmanship. Cattle and dairy farming are the mainstays of this area, which is evident by the many specialty cheeses produced locally. Visit a working farm, take a stable tour and learn age-old cheesemaking techniques. For a truly unique experience, pick up a Fondue Backpack for two – complete with everything you need for preparation – and enjoy this traditional treat made by resident dairies, as well as crusty fondue bread supplied by local bakeries, while surrounded by fresh air, lush pastures, and mountain landscapes.
CAPITAL OF CULTURE
Situated along the storied Rhine River, the charming city of Basel — with its nearly 40 museums and countless galleries — is host to the original Art Basel, multiple orchestras, and live classical and contemporary theater productions. Explore its picturesque old town, filled with small boutiques and antique bookshops, before stopping into Läckerli Huus to try traditional honey cake. Basel’s streets are filled with unparalleled architecture as 15th-century structures nestle alongside contemporary buildings designed by renowned architects.
PURE LIFESTYLE
Characterized by top-class dining, stellar events, urban lifestyle, and cosmopolitan charm, St. Moritz is more than just a holiday resort. Spend the day at Via Serlas, the highest luxury shopping street in the world, where renowned fashion boutiques neighbor famous international brands. When you want a break from shopping, take an early morning cable car ride up to the summit of Piz Nair and experience a truly spectacular sunrise from 9,800-ft. above sea level. Upon your return, be sure to stop at one of the many traditional coffeehouses and enjoy a local specialty like the Engdadine nut tart or Hauser’s pralines.
THE LIFE OF LEISURE
Interlaken lies in the Bernese Oberland and is a well-known vacation destination, presided over by a trio of imposing peaks, including the unforgettable Jungfrau. With over 45 mountain railways, aerial cable cars, and ski lifts, Interlaken is the ideal starting point for over 120 miles of ski pistes. The Jungfrau region, with glacier hiking in the winter and all-weather tobogganing in the summer, is one of the most picturesque areas of Switzerland. Take a scenic ride to the glass-enclosed platform of Jungfraujoch, which sits at over two miles above sea level, for breathtaking panoramic views of the Swiss Alps.
TASTEFUL TICINO
Travel south to discover Ticino, the perfect blend of Swiss quality and Italian vitality. Sip a cappuccino while you stroll through lush gardens and tranquil city squares, and get to know the locals, who would love to teach you how to cook risotto and other classic Ticino dishes. Italian culinary influence brings rich wines and delightful local delicacies to grottos and restaurants across the region, so raise a glass (or a fork) to your time in Ticino - you’ll enjoy every bite.
EFFORTLESS EXPLORATION
Switzerland’s public transportation network is so efficient, you can set your watch by it. And, with the all-in-one Swiss Travel Pass, exploring Switzerland has never been easier. A single ticket enables visitors to travel from end to end by interconnected trains, buses, and boats for up to 15 consecutive days. The pass also allows complimentary admission at more than 500 museums throughout the country, along with mountain excursions to Rigi, Stanserhorn, and Stoos.
AN EXCELLENT JOURNEY
Pass through 91 tunnels and over 291 bridges on this memorable journey for the senses. With its high-quality full service onboard and modern design, the Glacier Express – affectionately called the “slowest express train in the world” – comfortably takes travelers across the spectacular Swiss Alps on its relaxing drive. Comfortable lounge seating and oversized panoramic windows allow each guest a front-row seat to the marvelous vistas as they travel from dazzling St. Moritz to sophisticated Zermatt. Excellence Class also includes personal travel guidance, a trendy bar area, a premium multi-course meal with wine pairing, and more.
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Cover Photo: Image by Monika Iris from Pixabay