It is hard to beat Switzerland when it comes to quaint villages that ooze storybook charm and ravishing alpine scenery. The glittering blue lakes, the snow-capped soaring peaks of the Alps, glaciers, emerald valleys and breathtaking lakeside hamlets have imbued this landlocked country with a kind of fairytale beauty. Switzerland is snuggled between the lakes and mountain valleys and boasts world-class resorts and plenty of activities that people can enjoy. If you are unsure of where to go and what to do when you plan a trip to Switzerland, here is a list of ultimate things that can help you out:
- The Matterhorn
One of the highest mountains in the Alps and an iconic pointed peak in Switzerland, the Matterhorn rises to a legendary 4,478 meters and its four steep faces are in the direction of compass points. The charming village of Zermatt lies at the foot of this mighty peak, which is a leading international resort boasting world-class hotels and restaurants, quaint chalets and horse-drawn carriage rides. Motorized vehicles are now allowed for preserving the peaceful ambiance and air quality. You can ski down more than 300 kilometers in the winter on the slopes. Tennis and swimming are popular in the summer, along with biking, hiking and climbing in the surrounding mountains.
- Jungfraujoch: The Top of Europe
Taking a train to the Top of Europe i.e. Jungfraujoch should definitely be on your list of things to do in the breathtaking Bernese Oberland. It has a scientific observatory and an observation terrace that’s perched at 3,544 meters. Europe’s longest glacier, which is known as the Great Aletsch Glacier also starts here and has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are some popular and prominent trails that you can take, such as the high altitude trail called Öpfelchüechliwäg, which goes from Holenstein to Brandegg through woodlands, alpine pastures and fields of flowers.
If you don’t want to walk that much, you can take advantage of cable cars and gondolas for checking out the scenic viewpoints. The Jungfrau region also has a picturesque glacier village called Grindelwald, which is an excellent base for any adventures into the mountains. It is one of the most popular and oldest resorts in Switzerland and is nestled at the base of the mountains.
- Interlaken
One of the most popular summer holiday resorts in Switzerland is known as Interlaken, which is situated between Lake Brienz and Lake Thun in the east and west, respectively. A marvelous example of urban planning can also be seen in the center of town called Höhematte, which covers 35 acres of open space. Hotels, flowers and cafes surround the main boulevard called Höheweg and it boasts breathtaking views of the mountains. There are also plenty of opportunities to have an alpine adventure, as the mighty peaks of Jungfrau, Mönch and Eiger tower above this town.
Some other prime pursuits include kayaking, abseiling, climbing and hiking. There are more than 45 chairlifts, cable cars, ski lifts and mountain railways that transport people into the surrounding countryside, providing plenty of opportunities for sightseeing.
- Lucerne
This town is one of the top spots for tourists, as it boasts a sparkling blue lake that’s surrounded by mountains. This medieval town of Lucerne is car-free and boasts waterfront promenades, sun-splashed plazas featuring bubbling fountains, frescoed historic buildings and covered bridges. This quintessential Swiss town is famous for its music concerts and it lures conductors, soloists as well as orchestras because of its annual International Music Festival.
One of the leading concert halls in the world can be found in the Culture and Convention Center. The Chapel Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks of the city, as it dates back to the 14th century. There is a renowned Lion Monument in a small park, which is a sculpture showing a dying lion for honoring the heroic deaths of Swiss Guards in the French Revolution. The Swiss Transport Museum is also worth checking out for history buffs, as it has extensive exhibits on different types of transport, including railroad locomotives, space and air travel and also a Planetarium.
- Lake Geneva
The largest Alpine lake in Europe is none other than Lake Geneva, which laps at the shores of some of the most popular cities in Switzerland and straddles the French/Swiss border. The city of Geneva is nestled between snow-capped mountains and it is French-speaking. Also known as the ‘Capital of Peace’, this city serves as the European seat of the UN and is a combination of Swiss structure and French joie de vivre. Gardens, parks and promenades surround the lake and the old town is just great for taking a stroll along with the historic buildings.
One famous landmark is the fountain in Lake Geneva that shoots water about 150 meters in the air and is called the Jet d’Eau. Some of the cultural attractions include the Grand Theatre and the Opera House, which stage international performances.
- Chateau de Chillon, Montreux
Near Montreux and on the shores of Lake Geneva is the Chateau de Chillon, which has been an inspiration for writers and artists for centuries. Victor Hugo, Jean Jacques and Lord Byron are amongst the list of luminaries who wrote about this architectural gem. From the 12th century, it had been the stronghold of the Dukes and Counts of Savoy.
Now, the complex comprises 25 buildings that have three courtyards. Some of the highlights include the Chapel that boasts paintings from the 14th century, the Gothic underground rooms, Great Halls with spectacular views of Lake Geneva and also a bedroom called Camera Domini that was occupied by the Duke of Savoy and is decorated with medieval murals.
Apart from these places, there are some others that you should also check out, such as the Swiss capital of Bern, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Adding these things and places to your list can help you in making the most of your trip to the beautiful country of Switzerland.
