Switzerland is one of a kind as far as countries go. When you travel to Switzerland, you are transported into a world where big cities sit in the midst of amazing natural landscape, where amazingly efficient transport networks cross Europe's harshest territories without a flinch, and where great food and great hospitality are a way of life. You can spend your days in the peaks, staying in small Alpine Villages, or you can sample the cosmopolitan flair of the larger cities.
Getting to Switzerland, a land locked country in the heart of Europe, is amazingly easy. There are several busy airports, but the country's speedy and efficient rail service covers even the most remote places of the country - travel by rail in Switzerland is an attraction in itself, and there are even parts of the Swiss countryside that only the trains go, including the highest railway station in the world. It's all breathtaking and mindboggling at once.
As cities go, there are several that are well known. Lucerne is one of the prettiest, sitting alongside a lake, its streets filled with chocolate shops, watch makers, and fondue restaurants. From the city you can easily get up into the mountains, up so high where only the peaks of mountains are visible, the rest hidden by clouds. Geneva, on the French border, is another spot popular for its high end feel and the jet fountain in the middle of the lake. Interlaken is a hike/bike/boat/ski hotspot, and literally hundreds of trails and trips can be taken from here as a base. Zurich and Bern are financial centers, Bern being the capital city, and both have their own charms. And on the German border, explore Basel which has its own whimsical feel.
Switzerland has a number of events and festivals throughout the year, making it a year-round destination. When you can ski in winter you can hike in summer, though many trails stay snow covered year round. The cities are aglow with jazz clubs and beer pubs, and your shopping options are so good everyone can get a different souvenir, including one for yourself.
Travel to Switzerland and you'll never want to leave - the views are just that amazing.
