Switzerland holidays
Switzerland offers a perfect blend of alpine charm and luxury. Ski beneath the iconic Matterhorn or unwind by Lake Geneva in Montreux’s jazz-filled air. Savour Swiss chocolate and cheese so good it should come with a health warning or indulge in the scenic Glacier Express with a glass of fizz in hand. Whether you’re exploring Zurich or Zermatt, your perfectly timed Swiss escape awaits.
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Our recommended holidays in Switzerland
Switzerland is a nature-loving land with two-thirds of the country covered by the Alps. You'll find unspoilt forests wherever you go and pristine lakes in central Switzerland, around Lucerne. Head south-west towards Geneva for French-speaking Switzerland and south for Italian flair. The rest is mainly German-speaking, including Zurich and capital Bern. Everywhere you'll find flower-decked picture-book villages with colourful local traditions.
Discover a land of lakes and mountains in Switzerland
Hop on a revolving gondola and watch the magic of a mountaintop sunrise. Take a soak down valley in a natural thermal spa, fuel up on a warming raclette before boarding a perfectly timed train to explore your favourite fine-dining Swiss city.
Geneva holidays
Our carefully selected hotels in Geneva will provide the perfect base for your unforgettable city break - whatever your budget, taste or requirements. They range from the affordable to the luxurious and boast fantastic locations, facilities and service.
Zurich holidays
Choose one of our fantastic hotels in Zurich for your memorable Switzerland getaway. No matter how big or small your holiday budget is, we’ve carefully selected accommodation with you in mind - you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Skiing in Switzerland
Well-known for its superb snow conditions and synonymous with luxury, Switzerland has some of the best resorts in the world.
With iconic mountains like the Matterhorn and sumptuous resorts like St Moritz, alongside brilliant skiing for every level, it is easy to see why it is a favourite with the elite of Europe.
Davos
107 miles from Zurich airport and 148 miles from Basel airport
Davos is the highest ‘town’ in Europe, which happens to also be one of the largest ski resorts too. There are five ski areas surrounding this winter sports haven, including the Jakobshorn and Rinerhorn peaks. Jakobshorn is very popular with snowboarders, and the nearby Pischa area is great for families as the slopes are fairly easy to navigate for beginners. Après ski is large and varied, with some superb bars and outstanding restaurants. Davos is also home to one of the most decorated ice hockey teams in Europe, so a trip to a game comes highly recommended.
Grindelwald
94 miles from Zurich airport and 108 miles from Basel airport
Sat in the shadow of the majestic Eiger’s north face, Grindelwald reminds visitors of a Disneyesque Alpine village. With beautiful baroque churches and the UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site – the Jungfraujoch – this is spectacular place to ski. Ideal for intermediates and more advanced beginners, wide blues and sweeping reds cascade down the mountain towards the resort. Grindelwald is a well-kept secret and as such is accordingly quiet on the slopes. Après ski is good, with gourmet restaurants serving up Swiss classics and a great selection of bars to while away the hours.
Saas Fee
141 miles from Basel airport and 155 miles from Zurich airport
A picturesque village in the heart of the Swiss alps, Saas Fee has snow-sure conditions throughout the season due to most of its runs being above 2500 metres. In Saas Grund you’ll find long and empty slopes perfect for beginners and children, while progressive skiers can find more difficult skiing on the glacier above the resort. The Felskinn route offers some excellent powder skiing for the experts, alongside some steep black mogul runs. Après ski is brilliant, with a good selection of bars and restaurants – don’t miss the traditional Swiss Fondue for an unforgettable night out.
St Moritz
142 miles from Zurich airport and 182 miles from Basel airport
St Moritz is recognised as one of the most luxurious resorts in the world, with the rich and famous visiting each winter. But you will also find some superb skiing. Nestled in the Upper Engadin, you will find sublime nature at your ski-tips, with long blues and difficult reds sweeping down the valley to the resort. St Moritz has three separate ski areas, bringing in a massive 350 kilometres of piste, and some excellent off-piste. Experts will fall in love with the Diavolezza and Lagalb areas. Off the mountain, you will find some gourmet restaurants, chic bars and a vibrant night life.
Verbier
160 miles from Basel airport and 217 miles from Zurich airport
The most famous resort in the 4 Valleys ski area, Verbier has one of the best après ski scenes in Europe. Add to this great skiing and difficult snow parks, and you will find a younger, more vivacious ski set than your average Swiss resort. More than 410 kilometres of perfectly groomed pistes in and around Verbier provide a challenge for any type of skier or snowboarder, plus the off-piste here is spectacular. Switzerland’s renowned snowfall and its relatively high position allows for a long season, so you could be skiing well into May’s bluebird days.
Zermatt
143 miles from Basel airport and 158 miles from Zurich airport
A breathtaking resort at a high altitude, with a massive ski area and a traditional village atmosphere, Zermatt sits at the base of the Matterhorn. Known for its advanced skiing, experts are well placed to enjoy the snow-sure conditions and difficult slopes, including the spectacular Tiefbach descent. That said, there are some brilliant red runs for the intermediates, with awe-inspiring views of the iconic Matterhorn. The resort is also known for its glamour, with bustling bars, gourmet bistros and even some chic boutiques to get your retail fix. Those in the know go to the Michelin-starred Heimburg restaurant for a spectacular evening.
Switzerland holiday FAQs
- Geneva offers charm and culture. Find its Jet d'Eau fountain as it shoots 140 metres in the air and nearby, you’ll find lots of waterfront restaurants offering fresh local fish – alpine views come as standard. Once fed, stroll through the winding cobblestone streets of the Old Town, packed with quirky art galleries and cozy cafes. Geneva is home to the European headquarters of the United Nations, as well as the Patek Philippe Museum, where you can explore the history of Swiss watchmaking.
- If you love a little adventure with your scenery, then Interlaken could be for you. You can watch the paragliders soar above the sparkling waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz or take a hike lakeside with mountains to frame your view. With a backdrop of the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau peaks, the area is a perfect spot to whip out your camera. Better still, head to the scenic village of Grindelwald – a gateway to the Jungfrau region.
- There’s no shortage of pretty lakes in Switzerland – after all it’s the land of lakes and mountains – and Lucerne is no exception. While here, why not stroll across Europe’s oldest covered wooden bridge or take a boat trip on Lake Lucerne? Music lovers can visit the Richard Wagner Museum in what was the composer’s former lakeside house. If you’re feeling peckish, it’s also the perfect place to pick up some treats at its rustic markets.
- For stunning panoramas, take the Eiger Trail, which runs close to the North Wall of the famous mountain, or take the cable car up to the First Cliff Walk to test your head for heights on a viewing platform that juts out over the valley below. In winter, the area transforms into a skiing haven. Head to Jungfraujoch, known as the 'Top of Europe' because it offers one of the highest accessible points – and the highest railway station – in the entire continent.
- Staying in Montreux? You're in luck because this charming town is an ideal launchpad for adventures in Geneva, Lausanne, and beyond. Take a day trip to the stunning Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can sip on exquisite local wines while soaking in the stunning vistas. Pair your new favourite Swiss wine and some hearty rustic fare for the perfect evening.
- Zermatt really is the jewel of the Matterhorn. This car-free haven, with its picture-perfect surrounds makes an idyllic base for exploring nearby trails and pistes. The Matterhorn itself boasts more than 220 miles of pistes and around 250 miles of hiking trails through the Matter Valley alone. Whatever the season, Zermatt and its surrounds promise year-round magic.
- Bern Historical Museum is a must-see, offering a comprehensive overview of Swiss history. Inside you’ll find the Einstein Museum, a place dedicated to the life and work of the genius, who lived in the city during the early 20th Century. While in town, take in the cobbled streets and glance up at the astronomical Zytglogge clock that’s been telling the time here since 1530.
- July grooves to the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival, cooled by the breezes of Lake Geneva. Soak up an endless stream of talent while strolling the flower-lined lakeside promenade or visiting Chillon Castle, an imposing medieval fortress offering some epic views.
- For the ultimate scenic ride, hop on the Glacier Express, linking Zermatt and St Moritz through jaw-dropping alpine beauty. You’ll traverse 91 tunnels and 291 bridges along the way, including the iconic Landwasser Viaduct. Upgrade to Excellence Class for a seven-course feast with panoramic views and a decadence that could be straight from a Bond movie. Don't miss lesser-known train journey gems like the Bernina Express and GoldenPass Line.
- Switzerland is a cheese lover's paradise, producing more than 200,000 tonnes annually against a backdrop of breathtaking landscapes. Indulge in melt-in-your-mouth Raclette or the iconic Emmentaler from the picturesque Emmen Valley, where alpine pastures and charming cuckoo clocks abound. In the medieval town of Gruyeres, discover Gruyere AOP and its traditional production methods. Don’t miss the creamy Formaggio d'Alpe Ticinese in sunny Ticino or the smoky delights of L'Etivaz near Lake Geneva.
- For something a little different, why not throw yourself into Swiss folklore and learn to yodel? You might not make the hills come alive with the sound of music, but no one will be judging you if you’re willing to give it a go with a smile on your face. A popular location for limbering up your larynx for this Swiss tradition is the canton of Appenzell. If you fancy something more immersive, you can head to the Aletsch Glacier for some yodelling taster sessions.
- Choosing from Switzerland’s alpine adventure options can be a bit overwhelming. If you're looking for the perfect mix of relaxation, nature and heart-pumping outdoor fun, Arosa is a good start. Set in the Swiss Alps, this village is a winter wonderland for world-class skiing and a summer haven for hiking and biking. Its crystal-clear lakes are perfect for paddling in, or you can hop on a cable car to the Weisshorn summit for panoramic views. It’s not just a pretty face either, in Arosa you’ll find its main street buzzes with innovative eateries, cute boutiques and decent apres-ski.
- For a taste of tranquillity, head to the shores of Lake Thun and discover the enchanting village of Oberhofen. Perfect for couples or families seeking a peaceful retreat, it’s home to the fairy-tale Oberhofen Castle, a 13th Century fortress turned museum. Stroll through the lakeside park with stunning Alpine views, and enjoy the picturesque, cobbled streets, traditional Swiss chalets and bright blooms tumbling from flower boxes. For a change of pace, hike up Niesen Mountain or visit local vineyards for some wine tastings.
- On the shores of Lake Geneva lies the lively city of Lausanne, with its charming streets and nearby stunning Lavaux vineyards. It’s a nature lover’s dream, whether you’re hiking through the vineyards or soaking in the lake views. Delve into sporting history at the Olympic Museum or enjoy the quirky Lausanne Underground Film & Music Festival.
- If you’re seeking the epitome of alpine luxury, look no further than St Moritz. Renowned for its exclusive skiing, you’ll find the slopes blissfully uncrowded. But there’s more to St Moritz than just skiing; explore the mesmerising ice caves of Morteratsch Glacier or indulge in culinary delights, from rustic cheese fondue to Michelin-starred dining experiences. It’s also home of the legendary Cresta Run, the natural ice toboggan track that’s 1,200 metres long and dates from 1884. Beginner lessons are available, but with top speeds of up to 80mph, taking part is not for everyone. However, it’s worth looking out for dates throughout winter when you can watch the experts and club members race.
- A stroll along Lake Zurich is a must, especially in warmer months when parks are perfect for picnics. Don’t miss a boat cruise for a unique view of the city. Art lovers will like Kunsthaus Zurich which showcases an impressive collection and has free entry on Wednesdays. Explore the historic Old Town (Altstadt) for boutiques and the incredible Grossmunster church. By evening, rooftop drinks call in the vibrant Zurich West district where you can take in the skyline views. Visit the city in winter for the magical Christmas markets.
- Imagine hurtling down a water slide with mountains as your backdrop. Water parks in Switzerland include Splash & Spa, which is ideal for all the family with a range of slides for all ages, some beautiful pools and spa facilities. Others include Aquaparc on the shores of Lake Geneva, complete with wave pool and lazy river. Alpamare, the country’s largest water park, has some thrilling slides, including Jungle Run, where you race against another person along a 220-metre-long course. It also offers thermal baths for those less inclined to elevated heart rates.
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