Switzerland's tourism has grown over the years, mainly due to the well-developed transportation network and the maintenance of tourist spots in the country. Switzerland vacation packages are customized for families, honeymoon couples, friends, and also categorized based on seasons. Nature, architecture, nightlife, and food are some of the main attractions in Switzerland. Geneva is one of the most popular and largest cities in the country.
10 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland
As a holiday capital of Europe, Switzerland has numerous places for a person to visit. The Alps, lakes, museums, art galleries, beaches, etc. We have compiled a list of 10 best places to visit in Switzerland which you should not miss.
1. Lake Geneva
One of the largest lakes in Western Europe, Lake Geneva is shared by Switzerland and France. The lake is divided into three parts due to its different forms of sedimentation- Haut Lac (Upper Lake), Grand Lac (Large Lake), and Petite Lake (Small Lake). Pack warm clothes as the lake is always cold, even during summers.
2. Chillon Castle
Dated back to 1005, Chillion Castle is an island castle in Lake Geneva. It is the best way to spend the weekend. The scenic beauty of the place is mesmerizing. The Chillon Castle in Montreux is well preserved. It has furniture and paintings that make the place look authentic.
3. Ariana Museum
Ariana Museum or the Musée Ariana has more than 25,000 objects which have been collected through the last 1200 years. The museum is dedicated to ceramic and glassworks and is a magical place to step into.
4. Lavaux Vineyards
Located on the northern shores of Lake Geneva, the vineyards are stretched across 30 km and protected as the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The vineyard sources the Grand Crus wine of Switzerland and is a treat for wine lovers.
5. Water Jet
The water jet has become a symbol of Geneva from the past few years. It is one of the places you must visit during the Switzerland holidays. The Geneva Water Jet Fountain is visible from any part of the city.
6. Palace of Nations
Located in Ariana park, the palace was initially built for the League of Nations. It currently houses the European Headquarters of the United Nations. It is the largest UN center after New York. More than 120,000 visitors visit the palace every year.
7. Hiking in Geneva
Hiking has to be on your list of the best things to do in Switzerland. With around 30 hiking spots, you can choose a trail and embark on a trip that will fill you with energy and offer a treat for your eyes in the form of the beautiful lakes.
8. Shore Path
If you are looking for a place to relax with your family and friends, Shore Path in Geneva is the right place for you. You can also take a cruise, though be sure to make reservations in advance and arrive on time.
9. Rafting
With six levels of rafting to choose from, pick a level that excites you. The lowest level is the easiest and most suitable for children. Be careful to remember the tips the professionals teach you before you go on rafting.
10. The Reformation Wall
Also known as the International Monument to Reformation, the wall is built inside the old city walls of Geneva. Inaugurated in 1909, the wall was constructed to commemorate the 350th anniversary of the University of Geneva and the 400th anniversary of the University’s founder, John Calvin.
The Means of Commuting
The best way to visit Switzerland from India is by taking a flight. With about 6,900 km distance between the countries, air travel takes around 7 hours. There are direct flights available from New Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, and other cities.
How to Move Around After You Land At Geneva International Airport?
Switzerland has international airports in Geneva, Basel, and Zurich. All the airports are connected to the rest of the country through buses or trains.
Switzerland has a well-connected network of transport system. Local transport such as buses and trains are cheaper when compared to taking a taxi or renting a car. Taking a train is the best choice. Carry the rail map at all times so that you can enjoy your journey and also save time.
If you prefer the buses, get a road map of the country and plan your Switzerland tour according to the routes and timings.
Best Time To Visit Switzerland
The best time to visit Switzerland would be during August and September. The weather is perfect for all outdoor activities like cruise rides, train rides, going to the beach, and marveling at the beauty of the Alps.
Summers and winters see a lot of tourists in Switzerland, depending on their choices of places and events to visit. Honeymooners would find early November the best time to plan their Switzerland vacation, while early summers find tourists who love the coastal charm and outdoor activities.
Summer festivals like Paleo, Gauklerfest, and Montreux Jazz attract a lot of crowds as much as the International Balloon Festival in the winters. The popular Geneva International Motor Show held in March.
5 Best Indian Restaurants in Switzerland
Indian food is available in all parts of the world. The following are some of the best Indian restaurants in Switzerland.
1. Rasoi by Vineet
A vegetarian-friendly restaurant that serves Indian, Asian, and contemporary cuisine. They have vegan options and gluten-free options.
Must-try: Chicken with Aubergine sauce, Biryani.
Address: quai Turrettini 1 | Mandarin Oriental, Geneva, Geneva 1201, Switzerland
Contact: +41 22 909 00 00
2. Little India
A vegetarian-friendly restaurant that serves Indian, and Asian cuisine. They have vegan options and halal meat.
Must-try: Butter Chicken, Mango Lassi.
Address: rue du Prieure 20, Geneva 1202, Switzerland
Contact: +41 22 731 11 71
3. Indian Curry House
A vegetarian-friendly restaurant that serves Indian cuisine and has vegan options.
Must-try: Naan, Lamb.
Address: rue de la Servette 76 | Close to town and International Organisations, Geneva 1202, Switzerland
Contact: +41 22 525 44 22
4. Indian Restaurant Royal Palace
A vegetarian-friendly restaurant that serves Indian and Asian cuisine and has vegan options, gluten-free options.
Must-try: Garlic Naan, Thali.
Address: Spalenring 160, Basel 4055, Switzerland
Contact: +41 61 301 42 11
5. Tamarind Hill Restaurant
A vegetarian-friendly restaurant that serves Indian and Asian cuisine and has vegan options, gluten-free options.
Must-try: Malai Kofta, Butter Chicken.
Address: Schaffhauserstrasse 306, Zurich 8050, Switzerland
Contact: +41 43 535 25 95
Best Native Dishes to Try & Where, When In Switzerland
1. Restaurant Les Armures
A vegetarian-friendly restaurant that serves Swiss and European cuisine and has gluten-free options.
Must-try: Swiss sausage, Cheese Fondue, Swiss White wine, Wild Mushrooms.
Address: rue du Puits-Saint-Pierre 1, Geneva 1204, Switzerland
Contact: +41 22 818 71 71
2. Bistrot du Boeuf Rouge
A vegetarian-friendly restaurant that serves French and European cuisine and has gluten-free options.
Must-try: Onion soup, Steak, Red wine sauce.
Address: rue Dr-Alfred-Vincent 17, Geneva 1201, Switzerland
Contact: +41 22 732 75 37
3. Cafe du Soleil
A vegetarian-friendly restaurant that serves Swiss, French, and European cuisine and has gluten-free options.
Must-try: Bread, Meringue, Fondue.
Address: place du Petit-Saconnex 6, Geneva 1209, Switzerland
Contact: +41 22 733 34 17
4. Restaurant Atelier im Teufelhof
A vegetarian-friendly restaurant that serves Swiss, European, International, and Contemporary cuisine. They have vegan options and gluten-free options.
Must-try: Homemade Pasta, Wine, Filo pastry.
Address: Leonhardsgraben 47 | 4051 Basel, Basel 4051, Switzerland
Contact: +41 61 261 10 10
5. Restaurant Zunfthaus zur Waag
A vegetarian-friendly restaurant that serves Swiss, French, European, and International cuisine. They have vegan options and gluten-free options.
Must-try: Local fish, Chocolate Mousse, European wine.
Address: Muensterhof 8 | 8001 Zurich, Zurich 8001, Switzerland
Contact: +41 44 216 99 66
Emergency Helpline
When visiting a new country, it is important to carry helpline information with you. In case of emergencies, contact the Indian Embassy in Switzerland.
Address: Kirchenfeldstrasse 28, 3005 Bern, Switzerland
Contact: +41 31 350 11 30
Switzerland is one of the most beautiful places to visit in this world. Switzerland has a lot to offer to the tourists. From the vibrant nightlife to the lush green landscape and the Alps, Switzerland is loved by millions of travelers. Planning to explore Switzerland? Travel with PML Holidays.
