Travel guide to Switzerland
| Language: | French, German, Italian |
| Currency: | Swiss Franc |
| Time zone: | +1 hr GMT |
This landlocked nation may be small in size but it more than makes up for it in style. Bordering Germany, France, Italy, Austria and Liechtenstein it can only be described as a cultural crossroads! Synonomous with chocolate and skiing, Switzerland is a great year round holiday destination, with sunny snow-filled winters in the mountains and a Mediterranean climate at its southerly points.
World renowned for its skiing, Switzerland is a winter-wonderland. Home to the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc and the Four Valleys amongst others, keen skiers will be spoilt for choice. Spend a day on the slopes and you will come back invigorated! But don't assume Switzerland is just for winter- spring and summer offer up perfect conditions for hiking and mountain biking. With picturesque Alpine landscapes, majestic lakes, waterfalls (don't miss the Rhine Falls, Europe's largest) the country is overflowing with natural beauty.
If you can bear it then be sure to drag yourself away from this natural bounty and visit the country's cities. Zurich is surprisingly trendy, with plenty of clubs and bars popping up. Geneva has a distinct international vibe, and being just on the banks of Lake Geneva you are never far from that natural charm. For quintessential Switzerland then head to Lucerne. Set amidst snow-capped mountains it boasts some beautiful architecture in the Old Town.
Team all this with typical Swiss precision and efficiency and you are guaranteed not to be left disappointed by a trip to this beautiful country. It may be politically neutral, but it is most definitely not bland!
Accommodation links for your holiday in Switzerland
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