Switzerland is one of those countries we can’t stop returning to, no matter the season. Every trip feels different and we still find something new to explore each time we visit. From lakeside towns and alpine hiking trails to cities with world-class food and culture, Switzerland has a little of everything packed into one beautiful country.

On our visits, we’ve based ourselves in several places. Zurich has a mix of historic streets and modern design, Geneva blends international culture with beautiful lake views and Lausanne charms with its hills, markets and café-lined squares. Winterthur is a favorite with amazing hiking and so much for kids.

And then there’s Zermatt, the kind of place you picture when you think of Switzerland’s alpine beauty. Whether you’re here for skiing, hiking or just sitting with a coffee while looking up at the Matterhorn, it’s unforgettable. Between scenic train rides, cozy mountain villages and endless outdoor adventures, Switzerland makes it easy to slow down and enjoy every moment.

This Switzerland travel guide brings together highlights from our trips so far, including tips on where to stay, what to eat and how to make the most of your time. We’ll keep adding more stories and guides as we continue exploring, from city breaks to mountain escapes.

Zurich

A Blend of Old Town Charm and Modern Living

Zurich is one of those cities we’ve visited a few times, and each trip has been a little different. We’ve spent time walking through the Old Town, stopping at cafés and checking out the main squares, and it’s the kind of place you can enjoy without planning too much.

The lakefront is one of our favorite spots in the city. We’ve walked along Lake Zurich, sat by the water with coffee and just watched everything going on around us. It’s a nice break from the city without leaving it.

Zurich has plenty to do if you want to stay busy, but it also works if you want to take things slower. There are museums, good food and neighborhoods worth exploring, but it never feels overwhelming. .Read our Zurich guide →

Zermatt

Mountains and Views

Zermatt is exactly what we pictured when we first thought about visiting the Swiss Alps. The views of the Matterhorn are crazy, and you can always see the mountains around you.

We’ve love walking through the car-free streets, stopping for coffee and enjoying the views. In the warmer months, the hiking here is some of the best we’ve done, and in winter, the skiing is hard to beat.

Even if you’re not into skiing or hiking, Zermatt is worth visiting just for the scenery and atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where we always end up wishing we had more time to stay. Don’t miss the hay soup, sounds weird but is oddly delicious.
Read our Zermatt guide →

Winterthur

A Town Made for Kids of All Ages

Winterthur surprised us the first time we visited. It’s smaller than Zurich but still has plenty to see and do. We went for the science museum, but also spent time walking through the Old Town and finding some great hikes.

Dylan fell in love with the science museum and the extreme sports park. We have spent several of his birthdays here.

It’s an easy place to enjoy for a day or a weekend, and the slower pace makes it a nice change from Switzerland’s busier cities. Read our Winterthur guide →

Know Before You Go: Switzerland

Best Time to Visit:
April to October for hiking, festivals and warm weather. December to March for skiing and winter activities.

Currency:
Swiss franc (CHF). Credit cards are widely accepted.

Language:
German, French, Italian and Romansh are spoken depending on the region. English is common in tourist areas.

Getting Around:
Trains are the easiest way to travel between cities and towns. Rental cars give more flexibility for mountain regions and smaller villages.

Tipping Culture:
Service charges are usually included but rounding up is appreciated.