Zurich
The international gateway to Switzerland and its largest city, Zurich is often seen as the jumping-off point for explorations around the rest of the country.
But there are plenty of reasons to linger in this cosmopolitan lakeside town.
Lose yourself in streets lined with medieval buildings in the Old Town; swim at one of the badis (lake and river pools) dotted across the city; feast on traditional fare at the Kronenhalle or Odeon – both genuine dining institutions loaded with history; or head to Im Viadukt, Zurich’s first covered market, to discover stalls from more than 50 vendors.
Whatever you choose, you won’t be disappointed.
Basel
One of Switzerland’s oldest cities, Basel is alive with culture – from world-class art galleries and museums to creative boutiques and design stores.
And as part of the Dreiländereck (or ‘tri-country region’) linking neighbouring Germany and France, Basel is also a great place to base yourself for day trips.
You can rent a car and drive 10 minutes to the fresh food markets in the French commune of Saint-Louis, then pop over to the German town of Weil am Rhein and see the incredible Vitra Design Museum – and you’ll still be back in Basel in time for dinner.
Interlaken
Set on the banks of the Aare River between lakes Thun and Brienz, and surrounded by the impressive peaks of Jungfrau, Mönch and Eiger, Interlaken deserves its reputation as Switzerland’s adventure capital.
There’s no shortage of high-octane activities around town, from skydiving to paragliding – or you can hop on a Trottibike (part scooter, part bicycle) to explore the region’s rolling hills on two wheels.
And, of course, in winter you can hit the slopes at Grindelwald-First: one of the region’s most popular places for snowboarders and skiers of all levels to practise tricks and perfect jumps.
Lucerne
With its shining lake and relaxed riverside quays, Lucerne epitomises the picturesque beauty of Switzerland.
Frescoed buildings, market squares and a famous wooden footbridge are easily explored in the Old Town – or you can join the locals for a promenade along the Schweizerhofquai lakeshore, stopping for a gelato or delicious handcrafted chocolates.
You can also join a lake cruise and sail past majestic fjords to Flüelen at the opposite end of the mighty lake, or check out one of the city’s speciality museums.
From modern art to transportation, there’s something for every interest just waiting to be discovered.
To find out more about Switzerland and start planning your trip, visit My Switzerland
Read more:
A first-timer’s guide to Switzerland
12 record-breaking Swiss attractions
