Country guides
Europe
Things to do in Switzerland
Home to soul-stirring natural settings, wealthy cities and charming villages, Switzerland is rightly famous for being one of the first global tourist destinations. Foreign visitors will discover a country that is extremely well prepared for them, as getting to the many attractions is effortless, if rather expensive. Public transport options include buses, taxis and a clean and efficient rail network, and renting a car is an attractive option, thanks to the impeccably maintained and signposted roads.
This is truly a year-round destination, as its cold winters are perfect for skiing and mountain viewing, and its glorious summers are ideal for exploring the major cities and delightful Alpine villages. An obligatory stop on any grand tour of the continent, Switzerland is a sure bet for travellers looking to experience the best of what Europe has to offer.
Fraumunster Church
Of the church spires that characterise Zurich's skyline, the thin blue spire of Fraumunster is the most graceful. Overlooking the historic old square of Munsterhof, the former pig …
Fraumunster Church
Of the church spires that characterise Zurich's skyline, the thin blue spire of Fraumunster is the most graceful. Overlooking the historic old square of Munsterhof, the former pig market, the church was founded in 853 and its convent inhabited by German noblewomen until the 13th century. Important architectural features include the Romanesque choir and the enormous elaborate organ, but its chief attractions are the five beautiful stained-glass windows designed by Marc Chagall in 1970.
Website www.fraumuenster.ch
Rhine Falls
The Rhine Falls (Rheinfall) are the largest of Europe's waterfalls, and are impressive for the volume of water thundering over their broad breadth rather than for their height of 7…
Rhine Falls
The Rhine Falls (Rheinfall) are the largest of Europe's waterfalls, and are impressive for the volume of water thundering over their broad breadth rather than for their height of 75ft (23m). They are especially remarkable during spring, when the snowmelt adds to the volume of water. On the hill above the falls is a medieval castle, Schloss Laufen, which houses a restaurant, shops and a hostel. Rainbow-coloured mists rising from the forest and encircling the castle create an enchanting atmosphere and, in summer, one of the highlights of a visit to the falls is a boat trip across the white-water of the cataracts to the Centre Rock, where a short climb up some stairs leads to the top for an exhilarating view of the rushing water. Breathtaking views can also be enjoyed from three different lookout platforms along a path leading from the castle. The Kanzeli Lookout, with its protruding platform at the base of the falls, is the most spectacular.
Website www.rheinfall.ch/
Lake Geneva (Lac Leman)
One of the largest lakes in central Europe and shared by both Switzerland and France, Lake Geneva (Lac Leman to its French-speaking inhabitants) has for decades drawn visitors to i…
Lake Geneva (Lac Leman)
One of the largest lakes in central Europe and shared by both Switzerland and France, Lake Geneva (Lac Leman to its French-speaking inhabitants) has for decades drawn visitors to its shores. Attracted by the alpine panorama, quaint wooden chalet villages, vineyard-covered slopes and sailboats skimming across the blue waters, many famous writers, musical composers, actors and poets came to settle and the area has become something of an inspiration to the arts. Situated in the westernmost district of Vaud, the region contains a diversity of attractions and activities, from wine-growing villages and mountain ski resorts, picturesque castles, and magnificent cathedrals, to low-key lakeside resorts, boat cruises, and cosy fireside pots of fondue. Sophisticated shopping and cultural life can be found in the cities of Geneva and Lausanne, where there are sweeping views across the sparkling lake to the Alps and the distinctive pinnacle of Mont Blanc. Among the vineyards and affluent villas clinging to the slopes lie the lakeside towns of Vevey and Montreux, the pearls of the Swiss Riviera.
Lausanne
Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, the energetic city of Lausanne is built above the lake on a sequence of tiers connected by a small metro. The upper or Old Town contains the g…
Lausanne
Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, the energetic city of Lausanne is built above the lake on a sequence of tiers connected by a small metro. The upper or Old Town contains the grand Gothic cathedral, Notre-Dame; its turreted towers a well-known symbol of the city. The lower town on the lakeshore was once the small fishing village of Ouchy and is now the prime waterfront area with outdoor dining and cafes, promenades and sporting activities. The gardens around the Quay d'Ouchy are home to the city's foremost attraction, the Olympic Museum, which contains a wealth of sporting memories and a collection of unique objects pertaining to the Olympic Games from its beginning until the present. Lausanne relishes its importance as the Olympic World Capital and headquarters of the International Olympic Committee.
Website www.lausanne-tourisme.ch
Chateau de Chillon
One of the best-maintained medieval castles in Europe, the 13th-century Chateau de Chillon is the most visited historical building in Switzerland. With its stunning lakeside locati…
Chateau de Chillon
One of the best-maintained medieval castles in Europe, the 13th-century Chateau de Chillon is the most visited historical building in Switzerland. With its stunning lakeside location near the chic town of Montreux, jutting out into the water and framed by mountains, it is one of the most photographed castles in Europe. An important fortress in the Middle Ages, it was positioned to control the narrow passage between mountains and lake, protecting the major north-south route. It was also the favourite summer residence of the Counts of Savoy; while later, it served as a state prison. Visitors can tour the dungeons where the castle's most famous prisoner was chained for four years, the priest Francois Bonivard: a supporter of the Reformation. The fortress became famous when Lord Byron wrote about Bonivard's fate in an inspired poem entitled Prisoner of Chillon. Besides the dungeons, visitors can wander round the towers and courtyards, discover narrow secret passages, and see the grand knight's halls, frescoed chapel, luxurious bedchambers and rooms containing medieval weapons, furniture and paintings.
Website www.chillon.ch
Bern
According to legend, Bern was named when its founder, Berchtold Duke of Zahringen, was advised to go on a hunt and to name the town after the first beast that he caught. The bear h…
Bern
According to legend, Bern was named when its founder, Berchtold Duke of Zahringen, was advised to go on a hunt and to name the town after the first beast that he caught. The bear has remained the symbol of the capital city ever since. One of the most charming cities in Europe, its Old Town centre was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the preservation of its cobbled medieval street plan, and its many fountains, towers and its massive astronomical clock. With its relaxed atmosphere, farmers' markets and friendly people, it is easy to forget that this is the Swiss capital, an important city of politicians and international meetings. And with its interesting museums, theatres, long-standing monuments and landmarks, Bern is a popular base from which to explore the mountains and lakes of the nearby Bernese Oberland.
Polybahn and Rigiblick Funiculars
Trains, buses, trams and bikes are common ways of getting around Zurich. To get above the bustling streets and cobbled walkways, travellers should hop onto either the Polybahn or R…
Polybahn and Rigiblick Funiculars
Trains, buses, trams and bikes are common ways of getting around Zurich. To get above the bustling streets and cobbled walkways, travellers should hop onto either the Polybahn or Rigiblick Funicular for panoramic views of the city and Lake Zurich. The traditional Polybahn was first opened in 1889 to solve the transport problem of students travelling from central Zurich to the University of Technology, which is situated on the towering Zürichberg hill. The Polybahn has maintained its classic Swiss appearance and continues to haul students and tourists to the Polyterasse viewpoint. Serving an attractive neighbourhood north of Zurich, the Rigiblick Funicular rewards travellers with a sweeping panoramic view of the city and the unmistakable Mount Rigi (1797m).
Niederdorf
Situated in the old town across from central station, the narrow lanes of Niederdorf wind through towering 14th century buildings revealing small plazas where restaurants spill ont…
Niederdorf
Situated in the old town across from central station, the narrow lanes of Niederdorf wind through towering 14th century buildings revealing small plazas where restaurants spill onto cobbled streets and buskers entertain diners and passers-by with miscellaneous music. This charming district has an interesting array of fashion stores, bookshops and antique dealers, as well as superb independent cheese, wine and pastry shops. In the evening the area transforms into one of Zurich's buzzing nightlife venues, and there are a wide selection of bars, restaurants and clubs to be explored.
Jet d'Eau
One of the tallest fountains in the world, the Jet d'Eau is a Geneva attraction that cannot be missed. Projecting 460 feet (140m) into the air at a speed of 124 miles per hour (200…
Jet d'Eau
One of the tallest fountains in the world, the Jet d'Eau is a Geneva attraction that cannot be missed. Projecting 460 feet (140m) into the air at a speed of 124 miles per hour (200km/h) and pumping 132 gallons (500 litres) of water per second, the fountain was initially established to release pressure for hydropower generation on the Rhone River, but was so loved by the populace that in 1891 the city created a permanent fountain. As Paris has the Eiffel Tower and New York has the Empire State Building, Geneva has the Jet d'Eau. For a breathtaking and romantic sight, tourists should visit at night, when the fountain is lit up.
International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum
One of the most creative and thought-provoking museums in Europe, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum brings together sculpture, installation, photography and film …
International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum
One of the most creative and thought-provoking museums in Europe, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum brings together sculpture, installation, photography and film to highlight the importance of human rights, the history of conflict in the 20th century and the humanitarian work the Red Cross has done in providing aid to combatants and civilians caught up in both war and natural disasters. Funded entirely by outside donors, the museum is appropriately situated on the hillside opposite the United Nations, within the headquarters of the International Committee of the Red Cross. A significant stopover on a visit to Geneva, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum provides insight into the gross implications of war and the tragedy that surrounds, as well as the committed work of the volunteers and Red Cross representatives alike. All the exhibits have an English language option.
Website www.redcrossmuseum.ch/en/
Public Parks
Public parks cover over one quarter of Geneva and provide a quiet haven of rolling lawns and tree-lined walkways. Dotted with many curious sculptures and attractions, they are cert…
Public Parks
Public parks cover over one quarter of Geneva and provide a quiet haven of rolling lawns and tree-lined walkways. Dotted with many curious sculptures and attractions, they are certainly worth visiting. Bastion Park stands out, as it houses the 328-foot (100m) Reformation Wall, a monument commemorating the major figures and events of the Protestant Reformation, as well as life size-chess boards at the north end of the park. To view the famous flower clock, a symbol of the Swiss watch industry, visitors should head to the English Garden close to the water fountain and, for outstanding views of Mont Blanc and the lake, Park Moynier is a firm favourite. Park Moynier is also noted for being home to the History of Science Museum. Batie Woods is situated on the outskirts of the city and has twenty hectares of woodland and hiking trails.
Barbier-Mueller Museum
Featuring a comprehensive collection of 7,000 artworks and artefacts from civilisations around the world, the Barbier-Mueller Museum in Geneva is the outcome of the tireless accumu…
Barbier-Mueller Museum
Featuring a comprehensive collection of 7,000 artworks and artefacts from civilisations around the world, the Barbier-Mueller Museum in Geneva is the outcome of the tireless accumulations of Josef Mueller, whose collection began in 1907 and is continued to this day by his heirs. Founded in 1977, the museum wanted to preserve and study the sculptures, fabrics and ornaments brought from civilisations that were once isolated communities. Visitors should look out for the megalithic monuments from Indonesia, the statues and items of worship from Oceania, pre-Columbian art from the Americas and ancient masks and shields from Africa.
Website www.barbier-mueller.ch
Swiss Alps
The tradition of skiing goes back two centuries in Switzerland and, today, with more than 1,700 mountain railways and ski lifts, renowned ski schools and instructors, the best ski …
Swiss Alps
The tradition of skiing goes back two centuries in Switzerland and, today, with more than 1,700 mountain railways and ski lifts, renowned ski schools and instructors, the best ski equipment in the world, and outstanding slopes and facilities catering for all levels of ability, it deserves to be called 'Europe's winter playground'. The ideal resort for beginners or families is Grindelwald in the Jungfrau region, while intermediates and snowboarders should head for the twin resorts of Davos and Klosters, where there are miles of excellent ski terrain. Expert skiers can enjoy the challenge of 7,200 ft (2,700m) vertical drops on the Klein Matterhorn at Zermatt, and the ski valley of Verbier is ideal for shoulder-season skiing, as its location provides early snow that lingers late into the spring. Grindelwald has long been the capital of summer hiking in the Bernese Alps, and has a network of groomed trails for winter hikers.