Switzerland

An enchanting fairy tale land of immense Alpine wonders, cozy chalets with flower-filled windows and heart-pounding extreme sports adventures, Switzerland is a mecca for travelers who want to observe and explore incredible mountain scenery. Clean and classic big cities like Geneva and Zurich offer global appeal, while smaller destinations like Interlaken and Bern attract the backpacker crowd with their outdoor adventures. Home to swans and glassy glacial rivers, picturesque Lucerne is a must-see, and an excellent jump-off point to the nearby Jungfrau Alpine region as well.

Zurich

Known as a major financial center, Zurich has more to offer than just bank accounts, businessmen and a stock exchange. Sitting on the Limmat River with a backdrop of the magnificent Swiss Alps, it is a picturesque city that, thanks to its significant wealth and central geographical location, is alive with culture and lots to do. Enjoy a more traditional Swiss atmosphere in Neiderdorf, the ancient medieval section of the city, complete with narrow cobblestones streets and charming eateries. But also indulge in the very cosmopolitan vibe exhibited throughout the entire city from varied personalities, art exhibits, bars and a hyped club scene.

Lucerne

Swans like to call Lucerne home, and it’s easy to understand why. Set beside a gorgeous (and freezing cold) glacial lake, this Swiss village has mountain views, a restored medieval covered bridge and pretty flower-covered windowsills everywhere. Hike into the surrounding mountains, rent a paddleboat on the lake or wander the winding streets. Lucerne is a great place to try traditional Swiss cuisine like raclette or fondue – and save your extra breadcrumbs for the swans.

Interlaken

The Swiss version of Austria’s Innsbruck, Interlaken is, in a word, idyllic. Set in the Bernese Oberland, it is surrounded by snow capped mountains, blue lakes, cow bells, swiss chalets and of course lots of tourists, which should by no means be a deterrent. Visitors can easily avoid each other in this vast spectacular landscape for the couple of days you may spend here. Interlaken is the largest and central town of the region.

Berne

The capital of Switzerland, Berne is a unique village nestled along a scenic curve of the Aare River. Berne is made for taking pictures and features several miles of arcaded walkways and narrow streets decorated with clock towers and fountains. Take an easy walking tour, head down to the river and find a tree swing or visit the city’s namesake in the bear pits. Enjoy beautiful views and a clean, crisp city full of charm when you visit Berne.

Lauterbrunnen

Fields of wildflowers, snow-capped mountains and fresh mountain air await you in Lauterbrunnen, a picturesque Swiss village with awe-inspiring scenery and a friendly populace. Waterfalls abound in this region, and you can wander amongst the sheer mountain slopes to hunt them down for a morning excursion or afternoon picnic. Set in one of the Alps’ deepest valleys, Lauterbrunnen offers spectacular scenery, ice-cold rivers and forests out of a fairy tale.

Swiss Alps

For sheer beauty and breath-taking magnitude, the Swiss Alps have no equal in Europe. Home to a unique mountain culture that transcends national borders, the Swiss Alps offer an unparalleled alpine experience of glorious views, interesting hamlets and incredible snow covered peaks. Hike in the summer, ski during the winter and try to choose your favorite Swiss village. Also known as the Central Alps, the Swiss Alps are topped by the peak Monte Rosa (15,203 feet).