A spectacular sojourn through ‘Switzerland’

Visit this pleasing part of Europe with Dook’s bespoke Switzerland Holiday Packages

“Switzerland”- the mere name of this picturesque country invokes irresistible images of snow-capped Swiss Alps, glacial lakes, quaint mountainside villages, the surreal shades of greens dominating the countryside, ancient castles, lavish vineyards and what not! Everything just seems otherworldly and plucked out of a postcard. A strong reason why this central European country has long been considered a classic tourist destination across the globe is because of its magnificent contrasts between adventure, exploration and relaxation. It is a country where peace prevails in every corner, nature and city blend harmoniously and adventure, excitement and culture take the front seat. With more than half the country being covered by the Alps, Lake Constance in the north, Lake Geneva in the south and its fair share of urban cities like Zurich, Switzerland tourism is booming more than ever. Further, the country sharing its borders with five of the most wonderful countries - France, Germany, Italy, Austria and Liechtenstein, puts it high among every traveller’s bucket list.
 
It is quite astonishing how a single country can hold up hundreds and thousands of wonders together, be it towns and cities perfectly blended into history and modernity or the picturesque rural areas and rich geographical features making it a nature wonderland. Add to this the country’s record of being a safe tourist destination, with well-maintained roads and world-class resorts, red trains curling up to unbelievable heights, its fondness for food and wine and you know you have a perfect spot to unwind. Plan for a Switzerland Tour and venture into the land of the breathtaking Alps, of glorious cities, of castles and old town squares, of the most beautiful blend of nature and culture; for this is not an experience that should simply be seen in photographs, it is one to be had personally. While here, you can’t afford to miss the Matterhorn and of course the top of Europe-Jungfraujoch, the festival-loving city of Lucerne, Lake Geneva, Lake Lugano, Swiss National Park, Rhone Glacier and these are just a few for starters; the country also has a wealth of wonderful attractions that will definitely fill your wanderlust appetite. Additionally, as Switzerland is world-famous for its cheese, make sure to sample some during visits to farmers’ stalls along with the Swiss chocolates that are the best souvenirs to bring back home. You can also let your taste buds tickle a bit to try the fondue, polenta, apple rosti and papet Vaudois that too are the must-try on the list of top Swiss delicacies along with Swiss wines and beers.
 
With so much versatility of offerings to its credit and incredibility on its tourism platter, this pivotal country at the heart of Europe is a magnet for travellers of all ages and interests. Why are you still waiting to plan a trip here? All you must do is get in touch with us and enquire about our tailor-made Switzerland Tour Packages from India. Rest assured that you will have a Swiss vacation of a lifetime!
 
Capital: Bern
Languages: German, French, Italian & English
Currency: Swiss Franc
Driving Side: Right
Best Time to Travel: Round the year destination but the time between July to September (for summer breaks/ outdoor activities) and January to mid-March (for skiing and other winter sports) are the best enjoyed.

2. Bern: The medieval Swiss capital

Resting along the shores of the unspoiled Aare River, the capital city of Switzerland is one of the cities that has still managed to keep its historic charm intact while fixing its other foot into modernity. While the medieval air of the city with its fountains with fantastic folk figures on their tops, sandstone facades, narrow streets and their cobbled paths, cellar shops and historic towers are too good to miss, an array of bars, clubs and restaurants in the city centre make Bern a perfectly balanced and interesting city to explore.

The capital city has a wonderfully intact UNESCO-listed old town that transports the mind to a bygone era thanks to its 6 kilometres of arcades that the locals refer to as 'Lauben', boasting one of the longest weather-sheltered shopping promenades and eateries in Europe. And it is not possible to visit Bern and not tune up a gear with some more adventure and real fun on the River Aare; including following the locals who have made urban swimming an actual UNESCO listed Swiss tradition. There is plenty of tubing, rafting and paddle boarding that you can indulge in while visiting the River Aare. You must also visit the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) which is the darling of the city and a historical highlight. And you’ll be amazed to note that Bern is also known as the “Beer Capital” supporting the fact that it has the best craft beer in the country and innumerable bars serving the best brews.

3. Geneva: The urban metropolis with a tinge of small-town vibes

Whether it’s a walk along a quiet lake, a ride on the boat, a sun-drenched café terrace in the Old Town, or the restaurants and shopping centres exuding a sense of luxe, Geneva is sure to take your heart away at the very first sight. A key centre for arts, culture and home to most of the multinational corporations and associations, Geneva is another of Switzerland’s main destinations and a city with rich international flavour and medieval heritage.

With its breathtaking views, Geneva amazes you time and time again! From the famous Jet d'Eau, the key symbol of the city jetting water 140 metres above Lake Geneva, to the picturesque countryside and the small cobblestone paths, enjoy being enthralled by its enchanting landscapes. The lakefront, along which you'll find many of Geneva's tourist attractions, is lined with elegant promenades, parks and gardens. The Old Town in Geneva rises on a hillside above the Rhône River and is dominated by St. Peter's Cathedral, the centre of the Reformation where the tiny, old streets tell its story through small squares, historic buildings, mysterious museums and famous secret passages that are well-preserved. The sides of the old town are surrounded by a ring of broad streets that trace the line of Geneva's ancient fortifications. Thriving along them is the city that exudes the true urban flavour with its elegant buildings and headquarters of the World Trade Organization, World Health Organization, International Committee of the Red Cross to name a few along with the galleries, luxury hotels, boutiques, theatres, operas and restaurants. From sightseeing to shopping to sipping on fine beverages and finding the best chocolates and watches to take home, in Geneva, you will find a treat of your choice.

4. Basel: The conventionally modern Swiss town  

It may be Switzerland's most underrated city, but Basel is actually quieter than Zürich, less international than Geneva and farther from the Alps than Bern. Yet Basel is Switzerland's second-largest city and the fact that it has more than two dozen museums for a small chunk of the population and a cosmopolitan ambience with traditions held high till date make it clear that this is no ordinary provincial town. Here, in Basel, it is easy to find 15th-century historic buildings complementing the globally renowned modern architecture and a perfect blend of the traditional and the modern.

The historic landmarks of the city that you must include in your Switzerland itinerary are the large market square with its richly decorated red sandstone town hall and the late Romanesque-Gothic Basel cathedral. While strolling the old town, you will walk past small boutiques, antique book shops but also shops of modern designers and a visit to the "Läckerli Huus" to try the traditional honey cake which is well worth your time. On the urban front, the city has well-conceived modern buildings some of which are designed by renowned architects, chic boutiques and more. Other must-sees in the city include the painstakingly renovated City Hall, the Barfüsserkirche (now the Historical Museum) and the Spalentor that once served as a defensive gateway to Alsace.