Switzerland Our home will be your home
First things first: we know Switzerland, inside out and top to bottom. That shouldn’t be a surprise (we are Swiss after all!) but it’s always interesting to notice how many people don’t actually know what’s on their doorstep. You won’t have that problem with us. But we don’t want to overwhelm you with our in-depth knowledge and limitless passion for all things Swiss, so let’s start with introducing you to the regions of Switzerland. Each one is packed with wonderful sights and unique experiences just waiting for you.
Where the cows speak French
Suisse Romande
Much of life in western Switzerland revolves around the croissant shape of Lake Geneva, with its historic towns, elegant ships and famous residents. This French-speaking region, known as Suisse Romande, is the home of two Swiss passions: watches and wines, so take the time to enjoy both.
A capital region for exploring
Bern & the Oberland
The heart of the nation
Lake Lucerne region
Urban life made easy
Zurich & the north
Zurich might be Switzerland’s metropolis but it’s also compact and pleasant. With cobbled streets in the old town and swish shops along Bahnhofstrasse, the city centre is a delight. And it’s the starting point for exploring the north, from the mighty Rhine Falls to the museums of Basel.
Where Swiss traditions live on
Eastern Switzerland
You’ve probably never heard of a Hackbrett, let alone heard one being played. That isn’t too surprising given that it’s a musical instrument from Appenzell in eastern Switzerland. Life here is as Swiss as Swiss can be, so why not experience these rich traditions and festivals yourself?
Get high on fresh air
Graubünden Alps
The stunning mountainous landscapes of the eastern Alps dominate the canton of Graubünden, which is both the largest and emptiest in Switzerland. Glamorous resorts like St Moritz vie for your attention with scenic hikes, rustic villages and amazing train rides.
More than the Matterhorn
Valais Alps
Don’t tell everyone but the best place to see the majestic Matterhorn isn’t in Zermatt itself. Luckily, we know where you’ll get the perfect shot of this iconic peak. But there’s more to the Valais Alps than just one mountain so have your camera ready for the majestic Aletsch Glacier.
La Dolce Vita Swiss style
Ticino
South of the Alps is Ticino, the Italian-speaking canton where life is more relaxed. With its elegant towns and glittering lakes, this region will soon have you enjoying languid lunches, exploring hidden valleys, admiring great architecture and relishing Switzerland’s sunniest climate.
Essential facts
Switzerland sits at the heart of Europe, surrounded on all sides by the European Union (but it is not itself a member). The country is made up of 26 cantons, or mini-states – each with their own traditions, but with a federal government and parliament in Bern. Around nine million people (and 1.6 million cows) call Switzerland home and there are four national languages. It has a Latin official name, Confoederatio Helvetica, that is shortened to CH.
Time zone
UTC +1
Dialling code
+41
Local currency
Swiss franc
The big Swiss quiz
