Alpine peaks, chocolate, cheese, lakes and fairy-tale villages
Switzerland is Europe's most scenic country — a small alpine nation where every valley has a postcard-perfect village, every mountain has a cable car to the top, and every lake reflects snow-capped peaks. Interlaken sits between two stunning lakes with the Jungfrau massif as its backdrop. Lucerne has its medieval covered bridge and lion monument. Zurich is a vibrant city of culture and finance. The Jungfrau — Top of Europe at 3,454m — is one of the most spectacular train journeys in the world. Switzerland also invented the Glacier Express, the world's slowest express train.
June to September is perfect for hiking, outdoor activities, and lake swimming — warm and clear. December to March is ski season — world-class slopes at Verbier, Zermatt, and St. Moritz. April and May see wildflower blooms. October and November have fewer tourists and beautiful autumn colours. Christmas markets (November–December) are magical.
Highest railway station in Europe at 3,454m — snow activities, Sphinx Observatory, glacier views
Steamer cruise on the lake surrounded by mountains — Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument, and medieval old town
Europe's largest waterfall near Schaffhausen — boat rides right up to the base of the 150m-wide falls
8-hour scenic rail journey through 291 bridges and 91 tunnels connecting Zermatt and St. Moritz
Traditional alpine village below the Eiger, with views of the iconic Matterhorn pyramid at Zermatt
Factory tours at Cailler chocolate, Gruyères cheese village, and fondue dinners in authentic chalets