Top Things to Do in Switzerland: IN Edition with Bollywood Film Locations

Dreaming of snowy peaks and picturesque lakes? A trip to Switzerland is exactly what you need. With breathtaking panoramas and heart-pumping adventures, you’ll have the incredible vacation you’ve been waiting for. Whether you’re looking for exhilarating outdoor activities or sightseeing trips to Bollywood film locations, Switzerland has it all.

Before you board that flight to the Playground of Europe, check out this handy guide of everything you’ll need, from travel essentials to unmissable things to do in Switzerland.

Ultimately, it depends on what activities you want to do in Switzerland. 

If you’re interested in hiking and trekking, plan your trip anytime from July to August when the weather is mild, the trails are snow-free, and the days are long (the sun sets after 21:00!). For skiing and other winter things to do in Switzerland, visit from December to March when there are snowfall and fun holiday events like Christmas markets and seasonal treats.

For a budget-friendly vacation, the most affordable time to travel to Switzerland is during the shoulder seasons. From April to June and from September to October, there aren’t a lot of tourists, and the weather is mild, with the temperature ranging from 15°C to 18°C. The downside is that some cable cars and restaurants may not be operating.

When in the area, it’s a must to take a trip to the mountains. Blessed with towering peaks and snow-covered slopes, the Alps are definitely among the best places to visit in Switzerland. Since the temps at the summit remain cool year-round, it’s best to pack a waterproof jacket that will keep you dry and warm. Plus, it’s better to dress in layers because you can always remove them later if it gets warmer.

Planning to squeeze in visits to other European countries during your holiday? One important thing to keep in mind is that Switzerland uses different sockets than the rest of the continent. Their sockets have three holes instead of two, but the voltage (230 V/50 Hz) is the same. Make sure your travel adaptor is up to Swiss standards so you can use your devices without a hitch.

Another factor that separates Switzerland from other European countries is the currency. It uses the Swiss Franc (CHF). The good news is that the major establishments also accept euros, although you’ll receive your change in Francs. Cards are also an acceptable mode of payment, but it’s better to be prepared and bring some cash if you’re spending time in the smaller villages.

Can’t decide between a pocket WiFi or a SIM card? It depends on how you travel. If you and your companions plan to stick together the entire time, it’s best to get a pocket WiFi. With a single device, everyone can keep connected, use social media apps, and navigate unfamiliar areas. If you have plans to go solo, opt for the SIM card. You’ll have your own European number, so you can keep in touch with each other via text and calls while enjoying a fast internet connection.

Switzerland is home to one of the best transport systems in the world because it’s punctual, well-connected, and easy to navigate. Beyond its efficiency, it’s also great because of the endless views. In fact, a ride on scenic routes like Bernina Express and Golden Pass is one of the best things to do in Switzerland.

If you’re planning to travel from one canton to another, you can save money by getting the Swiss Travel Pass, which gives users unlimited rides on trains, boats, and buses across the country. It also comes with access to panoramic trains and public transportation.

Looking for more things to do in Switzerland? Relive scenes from your favorite Bollywood films for the ultimate experience.

In the Bern canton, you’ll see several familiar sights from Bachna Ae Haseeno. Starring Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone, the film’s song Aahista Aahista was filmed in Gstaad and Obersimmental-Saanen.

One of the highest-grossing Indian films ever, Dhoom 3 has scenes that were shot in Zurich Main Station, while the climactic action scene was filmed at the Verzasca Dam in Ticino.

Meanwhile, the 1989 classic Chandni was one of the first Hindi movies to film in Switzerland. A bulk of its song and dance scenes were shot at picturesque Lake Lauenen and Jungfraujoch.

Did you know that Switzerland has four official languages? Locals speak Italian in the south, Romansh in select areas of the southeast, French in the west, and Swiss-German in the rest of the country. The good news is that English is widely spoken so you should have no problem during your vacation. But it’s always helpful to learn some phrases in the local language, so one of the things to do in Geneva is to brush up on some French phrases.

Excited to try out Switzerland’s specialties like fondue and rosti? Good news! There’s no need to figure out how much you have to tip your server since it’s already included in the total bill. Of course, you can always add a little something to thank the waiter or waitress for their great service.

Zurich may be famous for being a global financial center, but it’s also rich in incredible views. Its well-preserved Old Town, snow-capped mountains in the backdrop, and the glittering waters of the Limmat River make up a panorama to remember. 

With so many sights to see in a little time, one of the top things to do in Zurich is to explore the city with a local. On the Zurich City tour, you’ll be accompanied by an expert guide who’ll show you the serene Lake Zurich, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (where Albert Einstein attended classes), and the largest clock face in Europe at the Church of St. Peter.

The city is also a great base for day trips to the Alps. Join a Mount Titlis day tour from Zurich and experience the world's first fully rotating cable car, Europe's highest suspension bridge, and other exhilarating activities.

Another option is a Jungfraujoch day trip. In a single day, you can take in uninterrupted vistas from the Sphinx Observation Terrace, experience the immersive Alpine Sensation exhibit, and marvel at the sculptures at the Ice Palace.

Surrounded by not one but two mountains and two lakes, Interlaken is a nature lover’s dream destination. You can spend your days hiking Harder Kulm, kayaking through Lake Thun, or cruising around Lake Brienz—the possibilities are endless. You can even take it up a notch and go on a paragliding experience to get a bird’s eye view of the Monch, Jungfrau, and Eiger summits.

Get the best of both worlds at Lucerne. Home to centuries-old buildings and bridges as well as modern buildings, visiting the city is one of the top things to do in Switzerland. Spend time at the Old Town and be charmed by the medieval facades of the houses, make your way to the postcard-worthy Lake Lucerne and see the oldest surviving truss bridge in the world.

The city is also the ideal starting point for excursions to Central Switzerland. Not to be missed is the day trip to Grindelwald and Interlaken, which boasts some of the most otherworldly sights in the country.