Overview Magazine

The sound of music

Switzerland

And the winner is… Basel. After months of talking about candidate cities, it was finally decided that when Switzerland hosts the Eurovision Song Contest next year, it will be in the city on the Rhine. While the cultural world’s spotlight falls on Switzerland, we want to show you that there’s more to Swiss music that one song contest. So much more. But let’s start with a look at the city that will be the centre of the music world next May.

Eurovision in Basel

Basel is an apt choice for Eurovision given that Switzerland’s third biggest city also has its feet in both France and Germany. Not forgetting that Eurovision has already been held in Italian-speaking Lugano (1956) and French-speaking Lausanne (1989) so it was time for the German-speakers to be the host.

Welcome to Basel

A serene view of a cityscape during sunset, with the sky painted in hues of blue, pink, and orange. Buildings silhouette against the vibrant sky, and their lights reflect on the calm Rhine river below.

Nemo Mettler Representing Switzerland in Malmo Sweden at Euro Vision Song Contest

Nemo Mettler at Euro Vision Song Contest

Can Switzerland win for a fourth time, but this time on home ground? We’ll find out in May 2025. Fingers crossed, or as they say in Basel, thumbs pressed.

Alphorn melodies

A group of people in the mountains, listening to theoretical instructions in an alphorn workshop.

It’s long, it’s wooden and it’s hard to master. Yes, it’s the instrument that’s the sound of the Alps and we had a go at playing one. Under expert supervision, of course. If you also fancy learning to play the alphorn in the Alps, take a peek at this article and get inspired to contact us.

People fills a spacious building seated on the balcony creating a lively atmosphere.

The huge black roof is a prominent feature of the lakeshore in Lucerne, jutting out between water and sky. But what lies under that vast roof? You can find out on a private behind-the-scenes tour of the KKL Luzern, one of Switzerland’s premier music venues. It’s the perfect prelude to enjoying a concert or show there.

Musicians performing Beethoven's Missa Solemnis at the classic opening concert in Gstaad, with singers and a cellist.

Festivals of life

The Swiss love their festivals so much that every town seems to have one of its own – and many of them involve music. From cowbells ringing and violins playing to jazz and yodelling, there’s something for everyone. We’ve picked seven of our favourites across the year to show that Switzerland has a festival for every season.