Switzerland is a lot more than just a neutral country known for its chocolate production and cuckoo clocks. Firstly, the alpine landscape is truly spectacular. The peaks pointed and snow-capped, the alpine meadows, where you might see a cow wearing a cowbell, as green as any muesli advert and it's all reflected in still, clear glacial lakes... Then there are the clean, lively cities known for their high standards of living.
Switzerland is glamorous too, full of financial institutions, multi-linguists, and wonderful fusion cuisine drawn from influences all around Europe. Many of the best places to stay in Switzerland will be sure to impress anyone who visits!
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Zürich today is much more than a sleek, cosmopolitan financial capital that enjoys the finer things. The lakeside position is beautiful with plenty of ways to enjoy the water in the summer and is a gateway to the Alps in winter. With a large expat and student population it is also arty, vibrant and possibly even 'happening'.
Geneva is a wealthy cosmopolitan city full of pretty spots, good restaurants and interesting museums. The views over the lake, the Alps and the Jura are a truly spectacular backdrop to any activity. So it deserves more than just a stop off on the way to the high peaks. The old town is where the Roman's settled, now at the highest part of the city and totally Heritage Listed. This area is full of small bars, cafes and boutiques lining winding, cobbled streets.
If you're looking for peace in an almost divine setting then visit Lake Geneva, the glittering beauty on the border of Switzerland and France. Surrounded by mountains, rows of neat vineyards, pretty chateaux and charming little resort towns. On a clear day you can see the wonderful views of the Alps reflected in the water. Largely French speaking, the Lake Geneva region has a real European flavour.
Many visitors to Switzerland are here for the winter sports, but just because you know why you're travelling, it doesn't necessarily make the choice of where to stay any easier! Switzerland's chocolate box alpine villages, welcoming traditional chalets and modern resort towns are all tempting.
At the foot of the dramatically pointed Matterhorn you'll find the village of Zermatt, with year-round glacial skiing (the highest skiing in the Alps) and guaranteed snow. Verbier is further south, connected to one of the best and most extensive ski resorts in the Alps, with more than 400kms of pistes and runs for all abilities. Wengen is another high altitude resort, on a plateau below both the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau it is one of the most charming, and traditional, ski resorts in Switzerland. Saas Fee was inaccessible until the 1950s, the beautiful amphitheatre of thirteen peaks and nine glaciers which surround the tiny resort kept out all but locals and their mules - it's still quieter, but the extended ski season, and the views, mean it's worth the effort.
If you know which part of Switzerland you'll be exploring skip through to our Swiss Destination Guides:
What Not To Miss
- Take the cable cars up to the top of Zermatt's The Matterhorn and marvel at the stunning panoramic views. A wondrous experience - be sure to remember your camera!
- Head around the medieval Chateau de Chillon with a guide, situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, to learn all about its rich history. A stunning spot.
- Hop on the Bernina Express railway for the best way to see the Swiss Alps in all their beauty!
- Wander around picturesque Lucerne's old town for a true taste of old Europe, with its cobbled streets and lovely architecture (including the Chapel Bridge). If you're into this sort of thing then you'll also love Bern's old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The best places to stay in Switzerland will vary according to the reason for your visit, but we think that we've covered most angles from chic city pads, to stunning alpine retreats. Use our guide and start to plan your trip!
