Nature takes center stage in beautiful Switzerland. This is a land of towering Alpine peaks and crags, lush, green valleys, and huge crystal-clear lakes. With postcard-pretty towns and cities built around the lakes and surrounded by manicured gardens and lovely, historic buildings, Switzerland is a photographer’s dream and a hiking paradise.
The medieval charm of Zurich’s Old Town, visiting world-class museums like the Kunsthaus, and strolling along the bustling Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world's most exclusive shopping streets, are just some of the reasons why Zurich is one of the happiest cities in the world. Zurich's thriving arts scene, excellent dining, and lively nightlife make it a premier Swiss destination. The city is also a gateway to outdoor adventures boasting easy mountain access.
Located on Lake Lucerne and surrounded by scenic mountains, Lucerne is renowned for its historic buildings including the Chapel Bridge and Water Tower. The Altstadt’s well-preserved medieval architecture is beautifully painted in autumn shades with colorful frescos depicting the city’s history. The town is set against spectacular Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi and is a great springboard for hiking trips.
The Jungfrau Region encompasses the beautiful towns of Interlaken, Grindelwald, and car-free Wengen, with has access to the famous Jungfraujoch. This area is known as the "Top of Europe" with glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and some of the most dramatic Alpine scenery. This is a haven for hikers, skiers, and nature lovers, with trails, ski slopes, and cable cars providing access to lush valleys and towering mountain peaks.
Switzerland is a captivating country of astonishing beauty. It’s a dream destination in Central Europe with towering Alpine peaks, serene lakes, and charming towns and cities. Swiss independence has protected Switzerland’s historic buildings from the destruction of two world wars allowing for many fine examples of ancient Swiss architecture.
The Swiss Alps are the country’s crowning glory, attracting outdoor skiers and nature lovers and hikers from across the globe. Ski slopes and mountain trails run through lush green valleys, passing charming Alpine villages. This is the stuff of which fairytales are made. The many lakes including Lake Geneva, Lake Zurich, and Lake Lucerne are surrounded by parks and bridges. Scenic landscapes and pretty gardens attract people to the lakes to boat, picnic, and stroll through the parklands. Restaurants and cafes line the lakeside shores.
Switzerland’s cultural heritage is as diverse as its landscapes with a unique blend of German, French, Italian, and Romansh cultures. Each contributes to the rich traditions, languages, and cuisines. Explore the vibrant arts scene, world-class shopping on Bahnhofstrasse, and historic sites in Zurich, the country’s largest city.
The medieval architecture of Bern’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a glimpse into Switzerland’s storied past. Don’t miss Montreux, famous for its jazz festival, and the nearby Château de Chillon, a fairy-tale castle on the shores of Lake Geneva or Chur the oldest town in Switzerland. In Ticino, the Italian-speaking region, you’ll find a Mediterranean flair with palm-lined lakes and colorful villages like Ascona and Lugano.
Are you dreaming of a vacation that includes Swiss chalets and Alpine landscapes? Girls’ Guide to the World plans and leads curated, women-only small-group tours to Europe’s most interesting destinations. Enjoy an unforgettable adventure with friends in some of the world’s most beautiful places. Switzerland here we come!
Switzerland has some truly distinctive cultural adventures. A Swiss fondue complete with raclette, crusty bread, potatoes, and pickles is the ultimate Swiss culinary experience. A traditional Swiss music festival or performance will have you yodeling to the deep tones of the alphorn, an iconic Swiss instrument.
Enjoy Swiss Mountain Village charm where wooden chalets, flower-filled meadows, and traditional customs are part of daily life. Watch the cows coming down from the mountains in early autumn crowned with flowers and adorned with bells. It’s a colorful event with music, traditional food, and markets.
Visit chocolate factories and boutiques in cities like Zurich or Geneva for guided tastings and chocolate-making insights.
Switzerland's weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers like t-shirts, long sleeves, and sweaters. The evenings are often cool, especially in the mountains even in summer so pack a warm jacket. Pack a swimsuit for a quick dip in a Swiss lake or spa visit. Switzerland is great for walking and hiking, so pack sturdy shoes. Always pack something smart for your fine dining and theater excursions.
If you plan to visit in winter, bring a winter coat, gloves, a hat, scarf, thermal underwear, and snow boots.
Switzerland's must-see destinations include Zurich with its vibrant arts scene and Old Town, Lucerne with its medieval architecture and Lake Lucerne, and Interlaken for adventure sports and stunning views of the Jungfrau region. Zermatt, home to the iconic Matterhorn, and St. Moritz are both paradises for skiers and hikers. Geneva offers international flair and beautiful lakeside promenades, Bern, which rest on the Aarn river is strikingly beautiful as well as being an important center for art.
No, you do not need a visa if you are traveling from the US, Canada, Australia or the UK and staying less than 90 days.
The currency in Switzerland is the Swiss franc. Simply withdraw Swiss francs from the ATM at the airport when you arrive. Most Swiss businesses accept Visa and Mastercard.
Ensure that your normal vaccinations are up to date. Tetanus vaccinations are also advised.
