Switzerland captivates travellers from all over the world with its breathtaking scenery laden with mountain peaks and picturesque lakes, delicious treats, and an efficient transportation system. It’s definitely a great addition to your bucket list if you love nature and adventure, especially if you like finding unique hiking trails and sampling yummy delights such as chocolates!
Read this complete Switzerland travel guide so you can have the best time visiting Switzerland.
Before Your Trip
Picture yourself being surrounded by the snow-capped mountains of the Swiss Alps, lush green landscapes, stunning lakes, and charming villages. It’s not every day that you get to see images like these, but in Switzerland, you can experience that during your whole stay. What else makes Switzerland special? Well, you’ll find that the people are welcoming, the country is safe, and there are lots of activities to do. That said, Switzerland is ideal for any kind of traveller.
But before you go and visit the country, it’s important to know the basics of Switzerland.
Australia is almost 15,000 kilometres away from Switzerland, and depending on where you are in Australia, the travel time can take a minimum of 20 hours. So, prepare your skincare and face masks, download tons of movies, or wear your comfiest clothes for a very long flight. But even so, you’ll know that it will all be worth it.
While you can visit the country year-round, the best time to explore all of its beauty is from April to June and September to October, when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds.
It's also good to note that this European country’s official currency is the Swiss Franc, but many establishments also accept euros. For reference, AUD 1 equals approximately CHF 0.58. And speaking of money, Switzerland isn’t one of the cheapest places to visit, but there are definitely multiple ways to save money.
Visiting this Swiss country doesn’t have to be heavy on your wallet. Read more about our budget-saving tips here:
During Your Trip
After long hours of air travel, it’s finally time to explore Switzerland! Prepare to have the time of your life because there is so much to see and do in this country.
Travelling within Switzerland
Get around Switzerland with its efficient and easy transportation system. Wherever you are in the country, you can reach cities and towns via bus, tram, funicular, or train. You can even take two of Switzerland’s most scenic train rides, the Bernina Express and the Glacier Express, for sightseeing.
Lucky for you, you’ve got options for transportation passes! The Klook exclusive Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited rides on trains, panorama trains, boats, and buses for only AUD 401.90. At the same time, the Swiss Half Fare Card, which costs AUD 207.89, lets you enjoy discounted train, boat, and other public transportation rides. These passes open doors to visiting Switzerland without worrying about multiple expenses for a smoother travel experience.
15 bucket list experiences in Switzerland
1. Visit the Swiss capital - Zurich
This tour is a fantastic way to discover the highlights and must-see places of Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city. Get around the city on board a comfy bus and see iconic landmarks like the Swiss National Museum and the exclusive shopping avenue Bahnhofstrasse. Plus, stop at Enge Harbour to enjoy the beautiful view of Lake Zurich and, finally, experience the buzz of the renowned shopping area, Bahnhofstrasse.
2. Witness the beauty of Rhine Falls and Stein am Rhein
Witness the beauty of Rhine Falls, the biggest waterfall in Europe, then go back in time and explore the mediaeval town of Stein am Rhein. You also have the option to take a guided tour through the old town, where you’ll discover captivating stories and fascinating insights into its rich history.
3. Go on a snow adventure at Titlis and Lucerne
Go on an enchanting journey through Switzerland with a scenic drive to Engelberg, visit Lucerne, and have a snowy adventure at Titlis Snow Park! Try thrilling activities such as skiing, snow tubing, or riding the revolving Rotair cable car to the summit of Mt. Titlis. Go on this day trip and make cherished memories along the way!
4. Take in the views from the top of Europe - Jungfraujoch
There’s no doubt that Switzerland offers some of the best views. But one that might leave you breathless is the jaw-dropping views of the legendary Jungfrau Mountain, a mountain steeped in Swiss folklore. From snow-capped mountains to dramatic rocky terrains, you’ll experience it all in Jungfrau Mountain. But more than the sights, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating history of Jungfraujoch, known as the 'Top of Europe' and the Alpine Sensation.
5. Be awed by Mount Titlis
You can’t leave the country without seeing gorgeous views of the Swiss Alps. Book this day trip on Klook, which promises an unforgettable time amidst the globally renowned mountain peaks. This trip offers an incredible journey to head to the top of Mt Titlis, where panoramic views of majestic alpine and snowy peaks will leave you in awe. Once there, go on various adventures, such as the Cliff Walk, Europe’s highest suspension bridge, and explore the Glacier Cave and Glacier Park, where you can expect to see a wonderful world of ice formations.
6. Cruise around Lake Lucerne
Head down from the mountains to the stunning Lake Lucerne, renowned for its unique shape with diverse bays and side arms. Here, expect equally mesmerising views of the serene lake and the Swiss Alps from a distance. And the best way to explore the lake? Going on a scenic sightseeing cruise tour! This tour provides the perfect opportunity to soak in breathtaking landscapes and savour the peace and quiet of the lake while getting comfortable on the cruise.
7. Surround yourself with nature at Grindelwald and Interlaken
Go on an invigorating full-day exploration of the picturesque alpine regions of Grindelwald and Interlaken! Begin your journey with a lovely drive through the countryside to Interlaken. From there, continue on to Grindelwald, where its picture-perfect mountains served as the backdrop of Star Wars Episode III. Then, take the train and make your way to Interlaken to shop! Explore the town’s shopping district, and perhaps take home some souvenirs to cherish. Finally, you’ll meet up with your guide to go back to Zurich, wrapping up an exciting day.
8. Get cheesy in Bern
Love cheese? Switzerland has a treat in store for you! This Bern Small-Group Tour is packed with a cheese show and a visit to must-visit landmarks. Start by exploring the UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch, then check out the Kambly Experience and savour the famous Swiss biscuits. Head to the capital city of Bern, where you can visit the Old Town and Münster Cathedral. And for cheese enthusiasts, you won't wanna miss visiting the Emmentaler Show Dairy for some history lessons about the world-famous cheese during the King's Way Tour and indulge in a delightful cheese tasting.
9. Go on a gastronomic tour
Attention, foodies! This gastronomic tour was made especially for you! If you can't get enough of dairy and all its byproducts, you'll be glad to know you'll get Swiss farm-fresh milk and discover how it's transformed into tasty Appenzeller cheese. Of course, you cannot end the day without trying some Swiss chocolates! Yum, right?
10. Explore the capital of Bern
Not only will you see remarkable sights in the city of Bern, but you’ll also learn tons about its history. Visit the Bernisches Historisches Museum, which includes a dedicated Einstein museum, where fascinating exhibits tell the stories of the past and scientific advancements. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the serene River Aare and soak in the ambience.
Don’t miss any exciting activities in Switzerland! Read this guide for a full list of amazing things to do:
11. Discover the Matterhorn
You can’t truly say you visited Switzerland without visiting one of Switzerland's iconic landmarks, the Matterhorn. It's one of the best places to go skiing or snowboarding. That said, you’ll find many ski resorts surrounding the area for convenience. The Matterhorn is also a paradise in itself for nature lovers. It provides a picture-perfect haven characterized by its distinct pyramid-shaped peak and mountain views.
12. Enjoy the Swiss Riviera
The Swiss Riviera is considered one of the most scenic places in Switzerland, so it definitely should be on your list of things to explore! Catch the beauty of lush vineyards or soak in the wonderful views of the magnificent Lake Geneva. And if you wanna know how the royals lived, walk along the halls of Château de Chillon.
13. Bring out your adventurous side in Interlaken
Bring out your inner adventurer and get ready for an adrenaline rush in Interlaken! This vibrant destination offers thrilling activities ranging from heart-pounding bungee jumping, paragliding, and skydiving to exhilarating water rappelling and paragliding. Whatever activity you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in Interlaken!
14. Go on a scenic train ride
By this point, you’re likely aware of Switzerland’s abundant natural wonders. So what better way to experience the sheer beauty that defines Switzerland than by taking a scenic train ride? Throughout this journey, you’ll see captivating landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to glaciers and lush valleys. This train ride will definitely leave you in awe of Switzerland, making for a memorable trip.
Familiarise yourself with Switzerland’s scenic train rides with this guide
Other Switzerland Highlights
Of course, you can’t leave the Swiss country without trying some of their famous food! While you’re there, indulge in the rich and creamy Swiss chocolate available in various stores, offering a souvenir to savour later.
Don’t miss out on experiencing delectable Swiss cheeses such as Elemental and Gruyère, which are widely accessible and also a perfect gift to give to your friends and family back home. Aside from those, grab your hands on some delightful local dishes such as the Zopf bread, the savoury Tartiflette, and the sweet Leckerli.
You'll defo have a grand time here, especially if it's your first time to visit Switzerland. With its natural beauty, cultural richness, and thrilling adventures, Switzerland promises an enchanting journey.
Written by: Kezhia Maglasang