Visiting Switzerland
Switzerland is a dream destination for travelers, offering breathtaking natural landscapes, charming villages, and rich culture. It is the 6th most visited country in western Europe and for good reason! Located in Europe it is easy to get to and to travel around especially with its world class rail system. From the Swiss Alps, incredible chocolate and cheese, vibrant cobblestone streets and warm hospitality you will be blown away by all this vast country has to offer!
where to visit Switzerland
The great part about Switzerland is that each region has its own unique character and attractions, making Switzerland a country to visit time and time again (I’ve already been twice- and still have so much more to explore!). From from the modern cities of Zurich and Geneva, to Rhine falls the largest waterfall in Europe, to the Swiss Alps, to the medieval city of Bern, the skiing of St. Moritz, and the iconic Matterhorn. That is just the tip of the iceberg of all this country has to offer! Wherever you decide to go you will not be disappointed! This is just a list of the top places I have been in Swizterland.
Must visit places
Zurich
Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, is a blend of modern vibrancy and rich history, making it a top destination for travelers. Strolling through the old town reveals cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and landmarks. The city is also famous for shopping along Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping avenues. It sits on Lake Zurich which is a great place to catch the sunset or take a boat ride. Zurich is the largest city and also the most tourist visited city in Switzerland! (personally visited in 2024)
Lucerne
Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s most picturesque cities, known for its medieval charm and stunning lake and mountain scenery. Its iconic Chapel Bridge, a 14th-century wooden structure adorned with paintings, and the Lion Monument, honoring Swiss Guards lost during the French Revolution, reflect Lucerne’s rich history. Nearby Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi offer spectacular views and hiking opportunities. (Visited in 2024)
bern
Bern, Switzerland’s capital, offers visitors a unique mix of historical charm and cultural appeal. Its medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features cobblestone streets, historic fountains, and the iconic Zytglogge clock tower. It also has the Einstein Museum, Bear Park and the Rosengarten with panoramic views. (Visited in 2024)
Florence
Florence is a must-visit destination for art lovers and history buffs. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque Ponte Vecchio bridge, explore the Uffizi Gallery, and indulge in the delicious Tuscan cuisine. Some of the top iconic sites include the Duomo, Giotto’s bell tower, Accademia Gallery home to Michelangelo’s David, Basilica di Santa Croce, Piazza della Signoria and so much more. (Visited in 2001 and 2013)
Pisa
Pisa is a small city in Tuscany, famous for its iconic Leaning Tower, one of the world’s most recognized landmarks. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and explore the stunning Piazza dei Miracoli. Pisa is a popular day trip from Florence. (Visited 2001)
capri
Capri is a stunning island located in the Bay of Naples, known for its turquoise waters, stunning cliffs, and luxurious villas. Visitors can take a boat tour around the island, and explore the charming town of Anacapri. (Visited 2001)
bologna
Bologna is a city in northern Italy, known for its rich culinary tradition, medieval architecture, and vibrant university scene. Visitors can explore the city’s many porticoes including the longest in the world to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca. Other great landmarks to explore include the Two Towers, St. Stephen Basilica, and Piazza Maggiore No trip to Bologna is complete without sampling the famous local cuisine such as tortellini, pasta Bolognese and mortadella. (Visited 2023)
pompeii
Pompeii is an ancient Roman city near Naples, destroyed and buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins. Pompeii is a UNESCO World Heritage site. (Visited 2001)
Rimini
Rimini is a popular seaside resort town on the Adriatic Coast, known for its long sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and Roman history. Some of the top sites to visit include the Arch of Augusto, Malatesta Temple and Tiberius Bridge. It also is perfect city to day trip to San Marino from. (Visited 2023)
Lake Como
Lake Como is a breathtaking lake in northern Italy surrounded by picturesque villages, lush hills, and snow-capped mountains. Visitors can take a boat tour around the lake and visit some of the charming cities adorning the lake including Bellagio, Menaggio, Como and more. (Visited 2023)
My experience
I’ve been to Italy four different times and to different places and though these are some of the top places I’ve been I still have so much more to explore in Italy. Italy was part of my first international trip in 2001 (as you can tell by the picture quality!) and I kept going back. I went to Florence and Rome again in 2013 on my 3 month backpacking journey, to Venice in 2018 and then to Milan, Lake Como, Rimini and Bologna in 2023. Other top destinations I cannot wait to check out include Cinque Terre, Sicily, the Dolomites, Verona, Sardinia and so much more. Trust me and put Italy to the top of your travel bucket list- you won’t regret it!
