If you’re considering a journey to Switzerland, you are in for a treat. In every season, there are endless adventures for you to explore. Switzerland is one of the smaller European countries, a bit more than double the size of New Jersey. But while it is small and compact, Switzerland truly offers something for everyone.

Switzerland is full of juxtapositions - from cosmopolitan cities to Alpine villages

You could say Switzerland is full of exciting juxtapositions. You’ll find sleek, cosmopolitan cities alongside small Alpine villages. Time-honored traditions to modern trends. From hearty traditional rustic fare to Michelin star fine dining. And, of course, charming historic chalets and cool, chic boutique hotels. Despite the apparent contrasts, somehow, it all comes together flawlessly, giving Switzerland its own unique vibe.

Take in the natural beauty with its stunning pristine blue lakes, glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and rolling green hills.

A scenic train journey is a must-do in Switzerland, regardless of the season

Hop on one of Switzerland’s intentionally slow trains (so you can appreciate the gorgeous panoramic views, of course).

Gear up for adventure as you hike, bike, ski, snowboard, paraglide, paddleboard … or relax and kick back as you enjoy a scenic rail journey or a boat ride on a lake.

Get your groove on at the Montreux Jazz Festival, where legendary musicians and up-and-comers jam well into the night.

Slip into a heated pool as you gaze at the magnificent hues of the sunset.

Savor a hot, bubbly Swiss cheese fondue with its buttery, nutty deliciousness – the ultimate après-ski treat.

Explore a fairy-tale Alpine village where each has its own distinct flavor.

Indulge in a private chocolate tour as you bite into silky, luscious chocolates and taste the subtle notes on your palate.

Celebrate the holidays the Swiss way, with magical, candlelit villages that will have you searching for elves around every corner.

1. Stunningly beautiful & the great outdoors

As soon as you arrive in Switzerland, you cannot help but notice the picture-perfect landscapes. From glaciers to forests, from verdant green hills to ice-blue lakes and rivers, and of course the white-capped Alps, the entire country feels like an exhilarating breath of fresh, clean mountain air – even in the cities. And let’s not forget the Matterhorn, one of the true pinnacles of this nature show.

There are so many enjoyable ways to experience the Swiss terrain. One way is to view the mountains, countryside, and lakes in the comfort of a scenic train journey. The Glacier Express – known as the slowest express train in the world – has large, oversized windows that offer stunning panoramic views. The Bernina Express is another renowned scenic line that spans mountains and glaciers as you head toward the palm trees in the canton of Italian-speaking Ticino.

If you enjoy being on or by the water, lakes are plentiful in Switzerland. Enjoy a cruise on Lake Geneva, where you can appreciate the awe-inspiring beauty of the Alps and centuries-old castles on a lazy afternoon, take in the Mediterranean vibe and some “dolce vita” in Lugano, or enjoy some adrenaline-inducing action at the lakes in Interlaken.

Your journey to the mountains is a destination in itself in Switzerland

Without a doubt, a highlight of any Swiss experience is the mountains. Switzerland has truly perfected the mountain experience, including the journey itself. Think cog railways, cable cars, gondolas, and funiculars, including several with open areas to take in the fresh air as you watch the stunning scenery unfold.

The journey itself could certainly be a destination.

But then, once you find yourself on the mountains, you find an endless array of opportunities to experience more of that magic of Switzerland. You can have it as easy as you like, whether taking in the stunning panoramas from perfectly situated viewing platforms, retreating to a spa to melt your aches away, or enjoying a comforting meal, accompanied by a view (of course!). Or, for more of a challenge, the great outdoors awaits.

Each mountain is truly its own playground, offering much much more than just a view or two.

A view of the Matterhorn from Zermatt, Switzerland

If sports and fitness are your passion, you will be thrilled at the incredible variety of physical activities you can explore in Switzerland all year round. Charming Zermatt -- with its car-free zone (no traffic!) -- is one of the top ski resorts in the world, situated at the base of the Matterhorn. Here you will enjoy some of the best and most exciting skiing Switzerland has to offer. Beyond Zermatt, resorts including Gstaad and St. Moritz are renowned for luxurious accommodations, fine dining restaurants, and some of the best shopping around.

The warmer months open options for even more sporting fun. True adventurers might choose paragliding or heli-skiing as they sail high above the beautiful country below. Or maybe you prefer hiking in the deep woods where you may encounter some forest friends like ibexes, chamois, or marmots. For a change of pace in summer and autumn, you’ll love hiking or biking on the slopes in the fresh mountain air. And if your appetites turn to more challenging sports, you may enjoy mountaineering. Expert guides are available to chart a course for your ultimate adventure. Prefer a slower pace? Not to worry -- just admire the gorgeous natural beauty all around you in this delightful country.

2. HERITAGE, THE ARTS & HISTORY

Switzerland is rich in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, numbering 12 in all. One such site is The Abbey of St. Gallen in the country’s northeastern region, which dates to the 8th century and was once one of the most important monasteries in Europe until it secularized in 1805. The cathedral and library are the stars of this architectural marvel.

Another standout is the Old City of Bern, which harks back to medieval times. The Old City was faithfully restored in the 18th century and included a sophisticated city planning concept still visible today. Don’t miss the Zytglogge (Medieval Clock Tower) with its whimsical mechanical figurines that mesmerize kids and adults alike, every hour on the hour.

UNESCO recognized vineyards in the Lavaux Region along Lake Geneva (or Lac Léman) in Switzerland

How about this for an unexpected landmark? The terraced vineyards at Lavaux, high above Lake Geneva (or Lac Léman), have been producing wine dating back to Roman times. Swiss wines are excellent but not often exported outside of Switzerland, so stay for a tasting while you’re here.

Some World Heritage Sites are part of the land itself, for example, the Jungfrau-Aletsch-Bietschhorn, which spans a large area of the Alps, including Europe’s largest glacier. Aside from the hiking and skiing here, this region is also known for flora and fauna, which are a welcome sight of early spring as the colorful wildflowers make their debut.

If you enjoy museums, there are plenty to choose from to appeal to all sorts of interests, from art to natural history to technology and beyond. Here’s just a small sampling.

Art lovers will enjoy a visit to Zentrum Paul Klee, a museum in Bern featuring some 4,000 works of this avant-garde artist. Swiss by birth, Klee incorporated elements of cubism, expressionism, and surrealism in his work. Or, visit the Kunsthaus Zürich for an impressive collection of art from medieval to baroque to impressionist to contemporary, including works by artists such as Picasso, Matisse, Munch, to name a few. See a comprehensive collection of the work of Alberto Giacometti, the renowned Swiss sculptor as well.

Zurich is also home to Landesmuseum, which traces Switzerland’s prehistoric roots to the present day. Examine ancient artifacts, artworks dating back to Roman times and the Renaissance, and some unusual collections of Swiss clocks, weapons, and armor.

The Museum of Communication in Bern shows how we communicate – past, present, and future. In Lucerne, find the Swiss Museum of Transport which delves into all types of transportation, whether road, rail, water, or air. The Swiss Museum of Transport also happens to be the most visited in all of Switzerland.

You won’t be surprised that you can find museums dedicated to chocolate and ones devoted to cheese. For something different, the Gletschergarten (Glacier Garden) in Lucerne consists of massive “potholes” that are the remains of an Iron Age glacier when ice had covered Lake Lucerne. A museum dedicated to Charlie Chaplin is in Vevey, where he lived for over 20 years.

If you are curious about the architecture throughout Switzerland, you will find a rich variety that includes many different styles, eras, and influences. In Switzerland, you can appreciate storybook castles and preserved fortresses, a stark contrast to fascinating modern buildings such as the Vitra Design Museum, designed by Frank Gehry.

3. A GASTRONOME’S PARADISE

A highlight of your adventures in Switzerland will likely also be the food. Taverns and grottos are casual restaurants where you can sample traditional hearty, rustic Swiss fare such as grilled sausages, risotto, and rösti (think of it as hash browns’ gourmet cousin). And with so many neighboring countries nearby that have impacted the culture of the many facets of Switzerland, you will notice the Italian, German, and French influence on the menu as well.

In Switzerland, you can enjoy the comforts of traditional offerings, including cheese fondue, or a modern taste at a Michelin-starred restaurant

For a truly unforgettable meal, consider booking a reservation at any of Switzerland’s multitude of Michelin-starred restaurants, including three restaurants that have three stars each.

Are you a cheese lover? If so, you’ll enjoy a tasting of authentic Emmentaler (or Swiss) cheese in the place where it has been made for centuries. And how about some Swiss wine to accompany your cheese plate? The best Swiss wines are generally white, lightly sparkling, and eminently drinkable.

Don’t forget the chocolates. Artisanal chocolatiers are everywhere in Switzerland. Dive into truffles, fondues, pralines, and chocolate bars—what a sweet end to a beautiful journey.

Are you ready for a magical journey to Switzerland?

The mountains are calling your name.

To learn more about travel to Switzerland, reach out to schedule your complimentary consultation here. This charming, idyllic land is ready to welcome you.