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Welcome to switzerland

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How to get there

There are plenty of flight options to get to Switzerland. The most frequent and convenient airport to fly into is Zurich, which is just about a 2-hour drive from the Alps. You can also fly into Geneva, though the drive is a bit longer and may involve passing through France. In the summer months (June to September), return flights are typically well-priced and shouldn’t cost more than £150.

When to go?

The Alps are a breathtaking year-round destination. In winter (mid-November to late April), they become a snowy paradise, perfect for skiing and snowboarding. As spring approaches, the snow begins to melt, revealing vibrant alpine meadows full of wildflowers. April to early June offers a magical blend of snow-capped peaks and blooming landscapes. 

Summer in Switzerland is incredible—long days, warm weather, and lush green scenery make it ideal for hiking, biking, and exploring the stunning Swiss Alps. From June to mid-September, it’s truly a dream. While prices are higher during this peak season, the views are absolutely worth it. 

We’ve only experienced winter in Switzerland through the famous Bernina Express to St. Moritz, which was a truly scenic and unforgettable journey. You can find more details on our here (insert hyperlink). We’d still love to return one day for a full winter experience in the Alps—and we’ll definitely report back when we do! 

Where do I go?

Switzerland is renowned for its breathtaking mountain scenery, and no trip is complete without visiting at least GrindelwaldLauterbrunnen, and Zermatt – the absolute essentials for any first-time visitor. 

Where to Stay?

If your main goal is to experience the mountain beauty of Switzerland, the Interlaken area is the ideal place to stay. It offers easy access to many of the country’s top alpine attractions and serves as a great central base. Interlaken has a wide range of dining options, though prices can be on the higher side. 

During peak travel months like July and August, accommodation in Interlaken can get quite expensive. In that case, consider staying in nearby towns such as Spiez, Sigriswil, Iseltwald, Wilderswil, or Beatenberg—all great alternatives with beautiful surroundings and better value. 

If you’re after the most spectacular views, Grindelwald is hard to beat. Nestled right in the heart of the mountains, it offers some of the best scenery in the region. 

How Do I Get Around?

Getting around Switzerland is incredibly easy, efficient, and scenic. The country boasts one of the best public transportation systems in the world, with punctual and clean trains, buses, and boats connecting even the smallest alpine villages. The Swiss Travel Pass makes hopping between cities and mountain resorts a breeze. Research the travel pass to make sure it’s a good financial decision for you before you go. 

If you prefer more flexibility, then car hire is also a great option—especially if you want to explore off-the-beaten-path locations at your own pace. There are plenty of care hire options available from Zurich airport or Geneva airport. For a complete guide to car rental please visit our dedicated guide here. INSERT LINK TO CAR HIRE GUIDE 

What Will I Need to Pack?

We’ve only visited during the summer, so we recommend packing light, breathable clothing along with comfortable hiking gearSturdy walking shoes are essential, especially if you plan to explore the mountain trails. Keep in mind that some villages sit at higher altitudes, where temperatures can be cooler and weather conditions more unpredictable. It’s always a good idea to check the forecast before heading out and carry a lightweight raincoat in your backpack—just in case. 

Top 5 Places to See

Grindelwald First

A beautiful mountain area with stunning views and exciting activities. Be sure to check out the zip line & mountain carts. Always book online and get there early to avoid the queues 

Lake Oeschinensee

A scenic walk around the lake, with the option to rent a kayak and explore the water. This is quite far from Interlaken area so keep that in mind. 

Lauterbrunnen Valley

A breathtaking valley surrounded by waterfalls. Take the time to visit the charming mountain villages of Wengen and Mürren for even more spectacular views.

Zermatt

A car-free alpine town at the base of the iconic Matterhorn. Great for hiking, sightseeing, and relaxing.

Schilthorn – Piz Gloria

 Famous for its panoramic views and the revolving restaurant featured in a James Bond movie. There is also a thrill walk, skyline walk and an amazing playground for children in Allmendhubel

Top 5 Mountain Passes You Can’t Miss

 Furka Pass

A spectacular high mountain pass with dramatic views. Be sure to stop at the iconic Hotel Belvédère and walk to the nearby Rhone Glacier. 

Grimsel Pass

Known for its rugged landscape, crystal-clear lakes, and hairpin turns—perfect for scenic drives and photos.

Klausen Pass

A lesser-known gem with winding roads and panoramic vistas—ideal if you’re looking for a quieter, equally stunning route.

San Gottardo Pass

A historic route connecting northern and southern Switzerland, with a cobblestone old road and a museum showcasing its significance.

Susten Pass

Offers sweeping alpine views, tunnels, and waterfalls. It’s one of the most beautiful drives in Switzerland.

Where/What to Eat?

Food can be challenging if you generally eat Halal. While Interlaken offers several Halal-friendly dining options, small towns and alpine villages nearby tend to have very few or no Halal food choices. 

One option is to book a hotel that includes breakfast, which should get you through until the afternoon—then you can head into Interlaken in the evening for dinner. 

Another option is to choose self-catering accommodation (like an Airbnb or apartment) and shop locally. Major supermarket chains such as Migros, Coop, Aldi, and Lidl offer a basic selection of everyday groceries  

Itinerary Suggestions

Please note: Due to varying weather conditions across different regions, we recommend staying flexible with your itinerary. Always check live webcam feeds and weather forecasts before heading out to ensure safe and enjoyable experiences. 

Day - Destination Highlights
Day 1: Arrival & Hotel Check-in
Settle into your accommodation and explore the local area.
Day 2: Grindelwald First
Adventure activities and panoramic views.
Day 3: Lauterbrunnen & Schilthorn
Waterfalls, mountain villages, and stunning vistas.
Day 4: Lake Oeschinensee
Scenic lake walk and optional kayaking.
Day 5: Zermatt & Matterhorn
Alpine town exploration and iconic mountain views.
Day 1: Arrival & Hotel Check-in

Upon arrival in Switzerland, proceed to your hotel, which should be ideally located in the Interlaken area. After checking in, take some time to relax and acclimate to the surroundings. Depending on your arrival time, consider a leisurely walk around the local area to get acquainted with the environment. 

  • Morning: After breakfast, head to Grindelwald First. Engage in activities such as the First Cliff Walk and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. 
  • Afternoon: Opt for the mountain carts or zip line for an adrenaline rush. Remember to book these activities online in advance to avoid long queues. 
  • Evening: Return to your accommodation and unwind after an adventurous day. 
  • Morning: Visit Lauterbrunnen Valley, renowned for its 72 waterfalls. Take a walk through the valley and explore the picturesque surroundings. 
  • Afternoon: Take the cable car to Schilthorn – Piz Gloria. Enjoy the panoramic views from the revolving restaurant and explore the Bond World exhibition. 
  • Evening: Descend to the valley and return to your hotel. 
  • Morning: Travel to Kandersteg and take the gondola to Lake Oeschinensee. Enjoy a scenic walk around the lake, taking in the turquoise waters and surrounding mountains. 
  • Afternoon: For a unique experience, rent a rowboat and paddle on the lake. Alternatively, enjoy a picnic by the shore. 
  • Evening: Return to your accommodation and relax. 
  • Morning: Depart early for Zermatt, a car-free alpine town at the base of the iconic Matterhorn. Explore the charming streets and enjoy the alpine atmosphere. 
  • Afternoon: Take the Gornergrat Railway for stunning views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks. 
  • Evening: Conclude your journey with a leisurely dinner in Zermatt before heading back to your hotel.

Top Tips

  • Book your stays in advance, especially during the summer months, as the region can be quite busy.  
  • Take snacks from home, as Switzerland is an expensive country—this is one of the easiest ways to save. 
  • Use the Lidl bakery for breakfast croissants, buns, and pastries—they’re lowpriced and freshly baked daily. 
  • Avoid visiting major attractions like Grindelwald First on weekends—you’ll encounter fewer crowds and better photo opportunities midweek. 
  • Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats. 
  • Always, always check the webcam weather before heading out, for example via the Jungfrau Region webcams to see current mountain conditions. An example link: https://tinyurl.com/yyu87nr7 

Swiss Map: Photo Spots & Passes

  • For ease of access and visibility, I’ve added a custom Google Map featuring several must-see locations in Switzerland, including: 

    • Top photo spots and parking locations, ideal for travellers with a car. 
    • A dedicated section for famous Swiss mountain passes—a driver’s dream. 

    This is by no means a comprehensive list and if you have any more locations to add, feel free to drop us a message on the website or via our social media platforms. Let us know if you find the map useful!  

Itinerary suggestions

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