Switzerland is famed for many things such as chocolate, watches and the alps but it’s often a country looked over by people due to it’s small size and proximity to other European countries.
It can be easy to think about Switzerland as being a chocolate box country or even a retreat of the wealthy elite. But that is to do such a lovely country a great disservice.
Once you move away from the cliche, you can discover one of the most vibrant, stunning and beautiful countries in Europe.
Getting to know Switzerland is a real eye opener on every level. More than that you’ll experience a subtle country that is jaw-droppingly beautiful. One that can offer a vast range of experiences that will change the way you see things forever.
Whether you are looking for an active outdoor break, a short city break, or want to include Switzerland as part of a European backpacking tour, view my tips for where to go, what to do, and how to save money.
Reason to Visit Switzerland
There are so many reasons you’ll love Switzerland.
There really is something in the air, and in the water too. A visitor to Switzerland quickly realises that this country lives and operates on three levels.
There are the picturesque villages and towns in the valleys. That could be enough for many countries. Of course, there are the world famous lakes and rightly so. Lake Geneva itself is stunning.
Can you imagine sailing the pristine waters looking up and vineyards and fairytale castles? This gives you a clue to the next level. It’s up in the hills and forests. It’s in the high pastures. Here you’ll find the flowers and the stunning valleys and, of course, the cows and goats that give so much to the country in terms of its cheeses.
Then again, there is still room to go up. Because, whatever the time of year Switzerland’s mountains are world class.
Getting Around
Taking a train in Switzerland is like no other experience of earth. You could even say that trains were made for this stunning country. You could buy a “Swiss pass” travel ticket that will get you around the country.
The names give them away. Take the Glacier Express or how about the William Tell Express? Jungfrau is the highest railway station in Europe a whopping 3,454 metres above seas level. It’s stunning, summer or winter, and if skiing is your thing, then you’ll be right at home in the famous ski resort of Grindelwald.
Local and international travel companies offer tours of Switzerland all year round. Some also include Switzerland as part of overland European trips perfect if you would like to see more of the continent.
Did you know you can e-bike your way across Switzerland? You simply exchange batteries for recharged ones as you go.
Where to Stay
There’s a huge choice of accommodation in Switzerland, from farm stays for something unique to luxury hotels for an unforgettable experience. Some hotels in Switzerland are some of the best in the world, but they can be expensive so you will need to budget for this.
In cities you have the choice of hotels and hostels, whilst up in the hills and mountains you could stay in some of the traditional huts. Eating, sleeping and drinking in a remote hut can be a fantastic experience and a great way to make friends.
Make sure that you book your place before you go as prices are really expensive especially compared to other European cities. Find the best deals on hotels on Booking.com.
Best Places to Visit in Switzerland
A absolute essential stop is Geneva, a very up-market French-Swiss town, with a big lake and the famous Jet d’eau water geyser.
Interlaken
This is actually most people’s highlight. Stay right in the Swiss Alps, and on the train line for one of the best excursions in Europe. It’s a train ride up to the top of the Jungfrau mountain. You take the world’s longest cog railway to the top, and then you can play in the snow, walk through a glacier, take a space-age lift to the highest point of the visitors’ centre, and (depending on the season) ski on a bunny hill, take a husky dog ride, sledge, and sometimes take a plane trip over the glacier. It’s a huge buzz up there.
Plan a Trip to Switzerland
Switzerland is the kind of place that opens your eyes to really embracing the good things in life. You’ll return fitter and bronzed without a doubt. Make sure that you pack the sunscreen. The sun up in the Alps can be incredibly strong. You’ll need sturdy footwear as well. This is serious hiking country and you should invest in a good pair of boots that will protect your ankles. Make sure that you wear them in before you start your trip. From the valleys, to the pastures and the glorious mountains, allow Switzerland to drink you in!