Switzerland Overview
Located in Central Europe, Switzerland is a picturesque landlocked country bordered by France, Italy, Austria, Liechtenstein, and Germany.
To travel to Switzerland is to travel to one of the safest and most mountainous countries in Europe; however, there is much more to Switzerland than just its spectacular Swiss Alps.
Travelers will also find plains, lakes, rolling hills, quaint old towns, and modern city centers to explore, and thanks to an impressive transportation system, travel to and from any region in Switzerland is simple and enjoyable. Indeed, tourists will likely come away from their trip spoiled by how efficient, clean, and expansive the Swiss transit network is.
From punctual trains and buses to elegant gondolas, the travel experience in Switzerland is only enhanced by the ease of getting from here to there.
As for what to see and do when you reach your travel destination, Switzerland won’t disappoint in that respect either, as it is home to world-famous cities like Zurich and Geneva, breathtaking landscapes, and historic sights not to be missed.
In Switzerland, it’s not only about what to do, but what to do next.
One travel experience that most every visitor needs to try in some capacity is hiking, with the inspiring lay of the Switzerland land beckoning all to make an attempt.
Whether it’s a short hike or one that will require a walking stick, you’re sure to be rewarded handsomely.
The natural beauty of Switzerland is difficult to match and people do travel the world over just to take in a memorable gaze.
Outdoor recreation is big in Switzerland, from hiking and Alps climbing to skiing, snowboarding, and rowing the clear waters.
In 2008, spectators will also descend on the country for the UEFA Euro 2008 Championships, which will play in Austria and Switzerland June 7-29. The aforementioned Geneva and Zurich, plus Basel and Bern will host matches.
Those who attend the tourney should take the opportunity to experience Switzerland as best they can in the time they have. Fortunately, there is much to see wherever you find yourself.
It’s a good idea to note that there are three distinct cultures in Switzerland and depending on where you travel, you’re likely to find yourself encountering the people and customs of one of them – each influenced by its border country.
This said, in northeast Switzerland, you’ll find a German spirit; in the southwest, there’s a French joie de vivre; and in the southeast, it’s about cappuccino, warm sun, and Italian flavor. Thus, it’s advisable to learn a few German, French, or Italian phrases when you travel to Switzerland, as it can only help you communicate with the locals. However, it shouldn’t be too difficult to find someone friendly who can speak English.
With such distinctiveness in one country, the options for the tourist are numerous and return travel is common, to experience it all. For instance, though many may think of Switzerland as mainly snow and mountains, there’s also Lucerne and its water links and St. Moritz and its more than 320 days of sunshine.
As for where to stay in Switzerland, there are traditional and historic hotels, country inns, bed-and-breakfasts, ski resorts and villages, and for those on a tight travel budget, hostels.
Switzerland is indeed one of the more expensive countries to visit, but the quality of accommodations and travel choices is definitely a positive ROI.
Switzerland is not part of the European Union (EU) and so does not use the Euro as its currency. Instead, it uses the Swiss franc. For tourists who travel from neighboring countries and have Euro dollars however, it’s quite all right to still pay with them. In return, you’ll conveniently receive change in the country’s currency.
Shopping is a definite thing-to-do for those who travel to Switzerland, with locally-made products famous the world over. Gifts to take home are a big part of any travel trip, with Swiss-made chocolates, watches, cheese, and knives being on many a wish-list.
Be aware that on Sundays, all establishments, with the exception of small family-owned and operated shops and travel railways, are closed. Sunday is set aside for resting, so plan to shop Monday through Saturday and then take Sunday to travel the countryside or explore some historic sights/sites, such as St. Peter’s Church, Chapel Bridge, and the Löwendenkmal (Lion Monument).
A visit to Lausanne in southwestern Switzerland will make a great day trip, with travel times below two hours from Geneva, Fribourg, or Bern.
Another idea, if you’re staying in the Bernese Oberland, travel to nearby cities like Wallis is always an option, as is an exploration of the famed Jungfrau region and its mountains and glacier views.
Indeed, the ideas, they seem endless. Upon arrival, you’ll quickly find that there are dozens of trips within the trip to Switzerland.