Why Switzerland Should Be Next on Your European Bucket List

Majestic mountain peaks, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate, charming Alpine villages — these are just a few of the things that make Switzerland famous.

But the European country has a lot more to offer than what you see on its postcards, like world-renowned art museums, relaxed lakeside resorts, and unparalleled public transportation. While it’s a notably expensive destination, Switzerland is also one of the easiest places to plan a trip to and navigate thanks to its expansive, well-connected train network that allows visitors to journey from town to town with low stress. Its location is also ideal for a longer European trip, with many travelers arriving before or after visiting France, Italy, or Germany.

When planning a trip to Switzerland, there are several things to consider, from the time of year to where exactly to go. It’s best to do some research ahead of time, but the beauty of Switzerland’s train pass is that you can be spontaneous. While it’s home to a variety of bucket list destinations, including the Matterhorn, everywhere you go is so charming, picturesque, and orderly it’s difficult to go wrong. Here are some things to consider when planning the perfect trip to Switzerland.

Where to Go in Switzerland

Switzerland is a relatively small country, but it’s packed with must-see spots that range from scenic Alpine peaks to culture-filled cities. It’s home to metropolises like Zurich, Bern, Basel, and Geneva, while the Swiss Alps are dotted with charming towns like Zermatt, Grindelwald, and Andermatt. Switzerland is also well-known for its many crystal-clear lakes, which rival those in Italy. Some of the most picturesque include Lake Lucerne, Lake Thun, and Lake Lugano.

Because everything is so well connected by train, travelers can include multiple stops in one itinerary, and the adjacent countries of Italy and France are close enough to be added on before or after. A week in Switzerland, for example, might include Geneva, Lausanne, and Bern, or you could combine Zurich, Basel, and Lucerne into a single trip. Skiers and hikers may want to base themselves in an Alpine town like St. Moritz, Verbier, or Gstaad, which boast upscale resorts and easy access to the mountains. For the Matterhorn, head to Zermatt, and to glimpse Mont-Blanc, located in France, journey to Chamonix via Geneva.