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Switzerland Vacations, Tours, Trips & Travel Packages

  • Geneva - the starting point of many Switzerland vacations.
  • Hike through the breathtaking Swiss Alps to witness a magical 360-degree scene
  • Stroll alongside the Rhine River in Basel, a city known for endless museums and culture
  • Capture the beauty of the Matterhorn reflecting against the stunning clarity of Stellisee Lake
  • Hit the slopes with confidence as you make your way down on light Swiss snow
  • Cozy in amongst the Alps in Lucerne, known for its medieval architecture and sensational sights

Switzerland is a relatively small country but has a wealth of diversity be it geographically or culturally. The country is bordered by Italy to the south, France to the west, Germany to the north, and Austria and Liechtenstein to the east. Switzerland is a landlocked country geographically divided between the Alps, the Swiss Plateau and the Jura. It is made up of four main linguistic and cultural regions, German, French, Italian and Romansh-speaking. The Swiss, although predominantly German-speaking, do not form a nation in the sense of a common ethnic or linguistic identity which adds to the flavour of the country on Switzerland vacations. Binding it all together is a distinct Swiss mentality.

Why consider a visit to Switzerland?

Definitely not a large country but Switzerland is blessed with so much beauty that many other destinations should be envious. It is a country endowed with outstanding scenery, a perfect combination of lakes and snow-capped mountains. It is a destination for both summer and winter visits. Imagine waking up in the morning to the sound of cowbells and looking out of your hotel window with views of majestic mountains and shimmering clear blue lakes. On top of these, you can add visits to Switzerland’s cities such as Zurich, Geneva, Berne and Lausanne which offer the opportunity to enjoy visits to museums, art galleries, cafes and restaurants plus explore interesting old neighbourhoods. Despite its rugged mountainous terrain, Switzerland has managed to construct one of the best public transport networks in the world. Even the remotest corners of the country can be reached with relative ease on trips to Switzerland.

The Swiss Mountains

Switzerland is known for its mountains with the Alps in the south and the Jura in the northwest. The Alps make up about 60% of the country's total area. The majority of the Swiss population lives in the Swiss Plateau. Forty-eight of Switzerland's mountains are 4,000 metres/13,000 feet above sea level in altitude or higher. The best-known are the Matterhorn (4,478 metres/ 14,692 feet), the Jungfrau (4,158 metres/13,642 feet) the Eiger and the Monch. Because of Switzerland’s climate in the mountainous regions, it is home to some of the most excellent skiing in the world with the well-known ski resorts of St. Moritz, Davos, Klosters, Zermatt, Andermatt, Gstaad and Adelboden to name just a few of the many ski centres to be found on Switzerland vacations.

View more information on Swiss Alps Vacations here

The Swiss Lakes

Switzerland has an abundance of scenic lakes and it could be difficult to choose which one(s) to include in your Switzerland vacation. There are several thousand lakes in the country but obviously, you only want to visit the lakes of significance. Switzerland has more than 1500 lakes which together with glaciers cover about 6% of the country’s terrain. The largest lake is Lake Geneva in western Switzerland shared with France and home to Montreux and Lausanne. On the Swiss side, you have the Jura Mountains and across the border in France, the glistening, snow-capped peak of Europe’s highest mountain, Mont Blanc which is visible on clear days. Among the most important cultural performances held annually are the Lucerne Music Festival, the Montreux Jazz Festival] and the Locarno International Film Festival. Lake Constance is the second-largest Swiss lake and borders Austria and Germany with its mild climate, flowers, gardens and palm trees. Another important lake is Lake Lucerne, the fourth-largest lake and home to the city of Lucerne with its old, medieval town. Lake Lugano offers alpine scenery including views into Italy not far away and excellent lake cruises. Lake Thun and Lake Brienz are two lakes connected by the town of Interlaken where it is recommended to stay for not only great lake views but due for its proximity to several delightful mountain resorts such as Grindelwald, Wengen and Murren.

What are the top cities to visit in Switzerland?

Zurich

Zurich is Switzerland’s principal city although not its capital. It has been regarded as being among the most desirable cities in the world to live in. it boasts not only many museums, theatres and concert halls, but a multitude of bars, nightclubs and discos. It is a city with a long history and boasts many museums (approximately 50) and art galleries (approximately 100).  Zurich’s Old Town (Altstadt) contains mediaeval houses, twisting, narrow lanes, guild halls and town halls from the Renaissance period.

View more information on Zurich Tours here

Geneva

Geneva is Switzerland's second-largest city on Switzerland vacations. It lies in the southwest, near the border with France, at the western end of Lake Geneva where the Rhone flows out of the lake. A number of international organizations have their headquarters in Geneva. These include the European headquarters of the UN, the International Committee of the Red Cross and, the World Health Organization. Geneva is also well known for its Car Fair, Inventors' Fair and Book Fair. One of the most interesting sights in the city on trips to Switzerland is the Jet d’Eau (Water-Jet), a large fountain and one of the city's most famous landmarks. The Old Town is a picturesque section of Geneva with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, sidewalk cafes and restaurants.

View more information on Geneva Tours here

Basle

Basle or Basel is in northwest Switzerland, at the point where the Rhine bends northwards. It is an important European rail hub as it borders France and Germany. It has a lively art scene with a good selection of art galleries and museums one can visit on trips to Switzerland.

Berne

Berne is the capital of the country and because of its unique infrastructure and narrow cobbled streets, it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. One highlight here is the Berne Bears that have been living in a park since 2009. The previous home for the bears was in the bear pit in the centre of the city. Another is the 30-metre/100 feet tall Cathedral tower. This beautiful Old Town has 6 kilometres/3.5 miles of mediaeval arcades dating back to the 12th Century. The arcades contain many shops and bars.

Lucerne

Lucerne is the economic and cultural centre of central Switzerland. With its lake location and mountain backdrop, it is an attractive resort with an old town centre and an excellent starting point for excursions into the neighbouring countryside on Switzerland tours.

Lugano

Lugano is the most important city in Southern Switzerland and part of the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino. It is surrounded by hills and mountains. Known for centuries to artists, writers and poets for its exceptionally mild climate, its wonderful views and its colourful vegetation, it is a popular stopover point.

Interlaken

Interlaken is the captivating capital of Switzerland's beautiful Bernese Oberland and is a delightful resort surrounded by the crystal-clear lakes of Thun and Brienz and close to the Eiger, Monch & Jungfrau mountain ranges. It is also one of the best locations in the country for souvenirs and watch purchases while on Switzerland vacations.

St. Moritz

By far the most exclusive of resorts on Switzerland vacations, St. Moritz is known for its ski runs and a vast choice of stunning hiking trails. There is a funicular which takes you up to Corviglia where you have sweeping alpine views. 

Zermatt

Zermatt has retained its old-world charm which combines chic upscale modern stores and fine dining. Perhaps the most photographed mountain in the world, heading to the Matterhorn is a must. It juts up into the sky and its peak is one of the most spectacular sights anywhere, not to be missed on Switzerland vacations. 

Gstaad

Gstaad, with its top hotels and gourmet restaurants, is a car-free resort in the Bernese Oberland and a popular destination for international celebrities. In the town is a picturesque avenue full of numerous shops, restaurants, art galleries, and hotels.

Davos

Davos is a major ski resort with expert runs and après-ski parties. It is the annual meeting point for the World Economic Forum. It also offers a large number of scenic walking trails for hiking in the summer.

What about the Chocolate, Cheese and Watches?

The Swiss have been making chocolate since the 17th Century, mainly milk chocolate with major brands being Lindt, Toblerone and Nestle. There are more than 450 varieties of Swiss cheese and nearly half the milk produced in Switzerland is turned into it. The most produced cheeses are Emmenthal and Gruyere. Swiss watches are known as symbols of luxury and status due to their quality, attractive designs and reliability. Think Rolex, Cartier, Omega, Longines, Tissot and Swatch.

When is the best time to visit Switzerland?

The best time to visit this destination really depends on your reason for travelling there. It goes without saying that the winter is the only time for winter sports which can last from mid-December to mid-April. The peak months, however, are January and February for guaranteed snow conditions and are considered the high season. Snow is almost guaranteed at altitudes over 1500 metres/4900 feet. Snow is experienced in the lower areas of Switzerland during the winter. Summer is the perfect time to be anywhere in the country as the climate is temperate and not too hot. This is a good time for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.

What types of tours are available in Switzerland

Depending on your style of travel and time of the year, Goway has a large selection of travel ideas. City stopovers are available in Zurich, Geneva, Interlaken and Lucerne. For rail enthusiasts and travellers who enjoy exceptional scenery, a selection of train itineraries covers most of the highlights. For independent travellers, there are pre-planned self-drive tours with a selection of suggested itineraries. Ski packages are available starting from both Zurich and Geneva to major resorts. And don’t forget a visit to Switzerland for the Christmas markets.   

 "Globetrotting with Goway" blog articles

For some additional reading, the following articles are from our blog “Globetrotting with Goway”….. a great source of information for those people who are, or who want to be, world travellers!

Free Things to Do in Zurich While on a Switzerland Vacation

Add a Festival to Your European Vacation (Part 2)

The Intimacy and Accessibility of European River Cruises

Fantastic Train Travel Can Be Part of a Goway Tour

Enjoy Great Planned Walks, Hikes, and Treks on a Europe Trip

Introducing the Grand European, Goway’s Exclusive Holiday of a Lifetime to Europe

Stretching the Adventure with Sustainable Tourism Destinations

Up, Up, and Away on a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Extend your Stay in Europe

Consider an additional stopover to your Switzerland vacation at one of Goway's other European destinations. You can choose from a Paris vacation, a London vacation or an Amsterdam vacation. This can be done stopping over en route to or from Switzerland.

 

 

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FEATURED TRIP
  • The car-free village of Zermatt lies at the foot of the Matterhorn
  • The Swiss Federal Railways or SBB was founded on 1 January 1902
  • Zurich has for years ranked among the world’s top cities in terms of quality of life
  • Montreux, nestled in a sheltered bay on Lake Geneva is surrounded by vineyards and the snow-covered Alps
  • Complete with gable paintings, the covered, medieval Chapel Bridge forms the centrepiece of Lucerne’s townscape
FEATURED TRIP

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland: Montreux, Zermatt, St. Moritz & More

MODERATE | RAIL: You're invited to ride the rails of Switzerland and bask in the country's unparalleled Alpine splendor. Travelling across the whole country, you’ll journey along some of the world’s most famous train routes and enjoy spectacular views of the Matterhorn and Lake Geneva, among many others.

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Switzerland

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  • Grand Train Tour of Switzerland: Montreux, Zermatt, St. Moritz & More

    MODERATE | RAIL: You're invited to ride the rails of Switzerland and bask in the country's unparalleled Alpine splendor. Travelling across the whole country, you’ll journey along some of the world’s most famous train routes and enjoy spectacular views of the Matterhorn and Lake Geneva, among many others.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,100
    Trip Type:
    Rail Travel Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Switzerland See Trip Details

  • Highlights of Interlaken

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: In the heart of the Swiss Alps lies beautiful Interlaken. Known for its outdoor beauty, explore this region at any time of the year. Jet boat or hike in summer or ski in the winter; there is something here for everyone.
    Duration:
    3 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 971
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Switzerland See Trip Details

  • Essence of Switzerland: Zurich, Lucerne & Interlaken

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Weave your way through the wonders of Switzerland on this all-encompassing getaway that features three Swiss gems: Zurich, Lucerne, and Interlaken. Explore these pictures cities and famous alpine landmarks on a range of organized tours, with plenty of leisure time as well.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,454
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Private Experiences, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Switzerland See Trip Details

  • Fascinating Switzerland Self-Drive

    FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: Discover the many sides of Switzerland on this picturesque self-drive across the nation. Beginning in Zurich, you’ll drive to Montreux, Zermatt, and Lugano to stroll along the banks of Lake Geneva, gaze upon the Matterhorn, and explore the Italian-speaking region of Ticino.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,669
    Trip Type:
    Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Switzerland See Trip Details

  • Classic European Vistas: Cities, Mountains & Lakes

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Follow in the footsteps of the Grand Tour, travelling from Paris to Milan on this sublime Europe vacation. Take in the sights and culture of some of the world’s great cities, and the spectacular natural beauty of the Alps.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,198
    Trip Type:
    Bucket List Travel Ideas, Classics (Bestsellers), Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    France See Trip Details

  • Chocolates & Cheese Swiss Self-Drive: Interlaken & Zurich

    FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: Sample the visual and culinary delights of the Alps on this delicious Switzerland tour. Arrive in Zurich, then explore the charming cities of Bern and Lucerne, and spend most of your time at picturesque Interlaken, in the heart of the Alps all while travelling at your own pace.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,010
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Switzerland See Trip Details

  • Classic Switzerland Self-Drive: Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken & Bern

    FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: Discover the nature, history, and culture of Switzerland on this weeklong self-drive tour through the country. Heading from the banking center of Zurich to tranquil Interlaken to the capital Bern, you’ll experience the best that Switzerland has to offer.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,316
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Self-Drives
    Switzerland See Trip Details

  • Christmas Markets in Three Countries: Basel, Freiburg & Colmar

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Celebrate the holidays with a trip to three iconic Christmas markets in three different countries of Western Europe. Heading to Basel, Freiburg, and Colmar, you’ll savour Christmas treats and explore medieval old towns as you get into the holiday spirit in Switzerland, Germany, and France.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,020
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Rail Travel Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Switzerland See Trip Details

  • Highlights of Zurich

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Enjoy both the city of Zurich and the attractions of Lake Zurich with its pretty historical towns. Take a trolley tour in the city and a bus tour around the lake including a cable car ride.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,326
    Trip Type:
    Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Switzerland See Trip Details

  • Best of Switzerland: Lucerne & Interlaken ​

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Experience the thrill of exceptional panoramic views from the peaks of some of Switzerland's tallest mountains. Enjoy stays in the beautiful cities of Lucerne and Interlaken; explore the part of the area using scenic train rides and aerial cable cars.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,069
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Rail Travel Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Switzerland See Trip Details

  • Discover Geneva

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Though it sometimes struggles to compete with the resort towns for tourist traffic, Geneva is the center of French Switzerland, and one of the most socially and historically significant cities in Europe. Come see for yourself!
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,184
    Trip Type:
    Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Switzerland See Trip Details

  • Switzerland's Most Famous Mountain Peaks: Jungfraujoch, Matterhorn, Gornergrat & More

    MODERATE | RAIL: Many of Switzerland’s most awe-inspiring and best-known mountains are located close to the towns of Interlaken and Zermatt, in themselves, attractive resorts in which to spend time. Enjoy train rides and panoramic views of the central Swiss Alps.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,737
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Rail Travel Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Switzerland See Trip Details

  • Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - Best of Winter

    FIRST-CLASS | RAIL: Venture across Switzerland by rail during the height of winter to explore its magical alpine landscape. Connecting to Lucerne, Interlaken, Brig, and Chur by rail, you’ll ride along some of the world’s most famous train routes and enjoyable unbeatable views of mountain peaks and frozen lakes. You’ll also have time to explore the mountains and even go skiing!
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,739
    Trip Type:
    Rail Travel Ideas
    Switzerland See Trip Details

  • Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - Winter Magic

    FIRST-CLASS | RAIL: Discover a landscape of glaciers, powder snow, and frozen lakes on this winter train journey through Switzerland. Ride the rails of Switzerland to Interlaken, Zermatt, and St. Moritz to bask in the country’s unparalleled alpine splendour. You’ll have plenty of leisure time to ski and enjoy spectacular views of the Matterhorn and other mountain peaks.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,789
    Trip Type:
    Rail Travel Ideas
    Switzerland See Trip Details

  • Highlights of Lucerne

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: This trip will leave you wanting to spend more time in the beautiful Swiss Alps. Walk your steps as you explore by foot and reap the rewards of learning about one of Switzerland's most famous foods in a chocolate tasting after touring the chocolate making facilities.
    Duration:
    3 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,265
    Trip Type:
    Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Switzerland See Trip Details

  • Lucerne: Mountain Exploration

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Visit the roof of Europe on this spectacular short vacation in Switzerland. Staying in Lucerne, one of the country’s favourite resort towns, visit Mount Pilatus, Mount Titlis, and Jungfraujoch, the mountain known as The Top of Europe.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,789
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Switzerland See Trip Details

  • Swiss Mountains & Golden Pass Line: Lucerne, Interlaken & Montreux

    MODERATE | RAIL: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and explore enchanting towns on this journey through Switzerland. Heading from Zurich to Lucerne, Interlaken, and Monteux, you’ll explore picturesque resort towns, ascend towering mountains, and ride along one of the most famous rail lines in the world.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,775
    Trip Type:
    Rail Travel Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Switzerland See Trip Details

  • Switzerland by Glacier Express

    FIRST-CLASS | RAIL: Board the Glacier Express for an unforgettable train ride through the picturesque Swiss Alps. On this journey, you’ll travel from dazzling St. Moritz to sophisticated Zermatt, enjoy a stay in magical Interlaken, and visit Jungfrau, the highest train station in Europe and one of the main summits of the Bernese Alps.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,239
    Trip Type:
    Rail Travel Ideas
    Switzerland See Trip Details
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