Switzerland is a small country in the middle of the Alps. It borders Austria, France and Germany. While Switzerland offers many cultural attractions such as world-class museums and vibrant cities, as well as renowned festivals, most tourists visit Switzerland for its stunning mountain scenery. The “rooftop”, Europe’s continent, is home to Switzerland. Its stunning mountain peaks and huge glaciers are the source of many powerful rivers like the Rhine or the Rhone. Glitzy ski resorts, pristine lake, and green rolling hills offer unparalleled winter outdoor adventures. There are many sights to see in Switzerland, including giant glaciers, majestic mountain peaks, wild rivers, vibrant cities, museums and scenic train journeys. Swiss Epic Tours is an inbound travel agency located in Switzerland. Swiss Epic Tours offers private, chauffeur-guided tailor-made services throughout switzerland tours and neighboring countries. We are based in Zurich and can help you create the tour that suits your needs. We can help you whether you want to book an existing tour with more privacy and comfort, or if you need a custom-made offer that meets your needs.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Switzerland’s climate is moderate, with little heat, cold, or humidity. The daytime temperature ranges from July to August at 18 to 28 degrees Celsius (65deg to 82deg F), while January to February is between -2 and 7 degrees Celsius (28deg to 45deg F). The daytime temperature range for the rest of the year is 8-15 degC (46deg-59deg F). The altitude may affect the range.
There are four distinct seasons in Switzerland:
Autumn (September to November) is when the fruit begins to ripen and deciduous leaves change colour. The Indian summer is characterized by less rain than the summer months. There are often longer periods of crisp clear nights and warm sunny days. This is a great time to plan outdoor activities in the mountains. However, morning fog can persist around lakes and the central plateau.
Winters used to be cold and snowy. However, freezing temperatures and snow are not the norm, especially in the lowlands. Many ski resorts located at lower altitudes could not survive without artificial snow. You can find guaranteed snow in the high Alpine regions from mid-January through mid-March if you are interested in winter sports.
The trees bloom in spring, which is March to May. The meadows turn green in spring. Sometimes, April is when winter returns but sometimes it’s only for a brief time. Other times, summer can return as early as May. The spring months are generally wetter than the autumn months.
Summer temperatures can reach 25 to 30 degrees Celsius (77 to 86 degrees F) during summer. In hot summers, they may even exceed the 30degC mark (86degF). Ironically, summer brings lots of sunshine but it is also the wettest season, particularly on the northern side of the Alps. July and August are the most popular months for Switzerland tourism, due to skyrocketing hotel rates and large numbers of tourists.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
To enter Switzerland, you must have a valid travel document. However, the country may allow EU/EFTA citizens who have expired documents to cross the border. However, travel documents from third-country citizens for a short visit not exceeding 90 days must be valid.
Valid for at least three (3) months following the departure date from Switzerland in the past ten years.
No matter how many extensions are granted, the date of issue is what matters. You may need a visa in some cases. You can find out if you require a visa or if any restrictions apply to your travel documents by visiting the Swiss online authority.
GETTING AROUND
Switzerland has one the most efficient public transport systems in the entire world. I recommend it highly, even if you don’t have a car. The Swiss Travel System is a combination of rail, bus, and boat travel. It will take you from the largest cities to the smallest hamlet, hassle-free.
It’s the most popular way to travel in Switzerland, and it’s also economical. Swiss trains are clean, modern and comfortable. InterCity trains take you from one city to the next in 30-minute or hourly intervals. Regional trains, which run from express trains to trains that stop at each station, connect you to smaller towns, villages and rural areas. You can travel comfortably and quickly to any destination with extremely reliable departure and arrival times.
It is more efficient and less comfortable to take a bus across Switzerland than a train. To reach smaller towns that are not served by trains, buses are required. A bus stop is only a few hundred meters from the train station.
Many Swiss lakes have both regular passenger ships and ferry service as well as tourist steamers and cruise ships. They operate on the same schedule as buses and trains.
All trains, buses and ships, whether they are privately owned or operated by the State, can be connected via the Swiss Travel System. You can use the same pass for all. You can purchase multiple passes for the traveling public here. You can get discounts on selected cog railways or funiculars as well as special events and festivals.
INSPIRATION, HIGHLIGHTS & TRAVEL TIPS
- Switzerland should be on your bucket list for many reasons.
- Winter skiing in the Alps
- Outdoor activities (e.g. Walking, biking, etc during the summer season
- The famous Swiss cuisine
- Enjoy a stay at a world-class hotel
- Visiting vibrant cities (e.g. Zurich, Geneva, Basel)
- Enjoy spectacular train rides (Glacier Express, Bernina Express).
- Tour UNESCO World Heritage Sites, e.g. Jungfrau region)
- Explore scenic lakes (e.g. Lucerne, Lugano)