For travelers whose vacation style best resonates with the finer things in life, Switzerland offers the spoils of a dream luxury vacation. Within the borders of this 16,000-square-mile Central European country lie some of the world’s most coveted adventures, wellness experiences, and culinary innovations. A destination worth visiting for more than its premier status as a world capital of chocolate, a proper itinerary through Switzerland will affirm why travelers enjoy the variety among its most popular cities.
Discover five of the top reasons why intrepid travelers continue to sing the praises of Switzerland travel.
Experience Four Different Cultures In One Country
Swiss culture is, in many ways, an amalgamation of the neighboring countries that surround it. In eastern, northern, and central Switzerland, a heavy German influence dictates the language, food, and community mannerisms. In Switzerland’s western regions, French is primarily spoken and its culture is reminiscent of its neighbor’s way of life. The southern canton of Ticino is unique for its concentrated Swiss-Italian community (10% of the population), a lesser-known area among tourists that’s special on every front. Similarly, the Romansh culture is native to the canton of Graubünden and consists of only 1% of the population.
The ability to easily navigate through one or more distinctly different regions without ever leaving the country is as simple as booking a train ride in Switzerland. Picture a French-inspired morning in Montreux followed by a scenic train ride to the south for a Swiss-Italian dinner in Lugano. Or, land in Zurich’s cityscape and experience new worlds in one of Switzerland’s countryside villages. It also helps ease multi-country travel through its shared borders with other popular European countries including Italy, France, Germany, Austria, and Liechtenstein.
Scenic Trains Make Travel Easier And More Entertaining
Postcards couldn’t do the endless natural landscapes that lie at every turn during train rides in Switzerland any justice. Whether your train travels take you a few stops away or new cantons (think, states), there’s something to marvel at. Glacier-blue rivers and lakes often intersect with train paths. The journey is only made more brilliant with rolling verdant snowcapped mountainscapes and unsuspecting cascading waterfalls.
Popular train routes worth considering include the Gotthard Panorama Express and the social media trending GoldenPass Belle Époque. The former is a boat and multisensory panoramic train experience between Lucerne and Lugano. The route takes guests through a fun and visually stunning exploration of this innovative attraction’s creation. The Belle Époque has a period-piece feel – an antique Orient Express vibe train ride past vineyards, traditional Swiss houses, lakes, and formidable peaks from Montreux to world-famous Gstaad and Zweisimmen. Jungfraujoch is exclusive to the Grindelwald region, but it’s where you’ll find plenty of quaint village adventures that make a once-in-a-lifetime vacation.
Travel Tip: Some popular Switzerland trains only run during certain times of the year on select days of the week. Confirm any travel plans align with your must-have train experiences before booking.
A Premier Destination For Some Of Europe’s Best Shopping
If shopping for brand names brings joy to your travels, nearly every city in Switzerland has something to tempt your wallet. Larger cities like Zurich, Geneva, Lausanne, and Lucern are famous for their walkable, often intricately adorned retail districts featuring everything from streetwear to ultra-luxury brands. Even smaller towns and villages offer fashion-forward finds for winter sports and weathering its cooler temperatures. The celebrity-obsessed town of Gstaad is a ski town that unpretentiously has Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Moncler, and other premium brand chalets that, like every traditional village structure, have to match the Swiss aesthetic.
Of course, luxury watchmakers and army knives abound, but it’s not all about premium price tags. Wellness products are another popular travel find to keep an eye out for. With its bounty of Alpine herbs and affinity for wellness activities, Switzerland is the place to discover new self-care solutions to keep the holistic vibes going back home. Exploring the variety of famous Swiss chocolatiers is also a given, from local grocery stores to gourmet chocolate shops.
Discover One Of The World’s Safest Countries
Ranked in the top 10 safest countries in the world, according to the World Population Review, Switzerland’s history of neutrality still resonates in the tranquil nature that characterizes Swiss living. A low crime rate, peaceful neighboring country relations, and a stable economic and political scene create favorable conditions for residents and tourists. Solo travelers, girls’ groups, and families can safely navigate through the country without the need to look over their shoulders.
While it’s always wise to exercise a level of caution anywhere, many villages in Switzerland are nearly silent at night. Larger cities typically buzz into the morning hours, and these walkable cities are often made for traveling by foot. Rideshare apps are available in major cities, but smaller towns might require a pre-scheduled car service or a taxi.
Premium Travel Experiences Typically Mean Fewer Crowds
One of the biggest factors that prompt objections to travel to Switzerland is the perceived premium costs associated with the country’s cost of living. Switzerland leads the rankings of European countries in cost of living compared to neighbors France, Germany, and Italy, according to Numbeo, a socio-economic factor data distribution company. A premium cost of living for residents also trickles into the travel and tourism sector. The result is a tourist culture that focuses on maintaining the quality the Swiss are known for while doing its best to keep overtourism at bay like that of other European countries.
Some aspects of the trip may cost more, but it’s possible to see Switzerland more affordably with a little planning. Travel factors like hotels and adventure activities may require a bit of a travel investment, however, keep in mind any on-site amenities like saunas with complimentary access or spas. Save on train travel by purchasing a multi-day Swiss Travel Pass, which allows each ticketholder unlimited travel in the country by train, bus, or boat. Many Swiss towns also offer immediate or a few train stops away access to activities that don’t cost anything if you’re willing to get outdoors. Hike across challenging terrains and enjoy a stroll through traditional chalet villages or vendor markets in city settings.
Travel Tip: Fewer crowds don’t necessarily mean no crowds. Many cities in Switzerland see droves of tourists for their most sought-after attractions throughout the year; a worthwhile note to keep in mind when selecting the time of year of your trip.
From its sublime landscapes in every direction to the hospitable service and attention to detail, Switzerland is a bucket list destination that delivers no matter your travel preference.
