Switzerland Overview

By Meggan Rau

Known for yodeling, world-class chocolate and cheese, political neutrality, and last but certainly not least, the breathtakingly beautiful Swiss Alps, Switzerland is a travel destination like no other. Whether you come for sport or leisure—to ski or snowboard Switzerland’s world-renowned ski resorts, or to experience Swiss urban life in one of its clean cosmopolitan cities--Switzerland will not disappoint.

Switzerland’s small size (41,295 sq. km, roughly the size of Vermont and New Hampshire combined), and its speedy and efficient public transportation system, make it easy for visitors to experience everything this magnificent mountainous country has to offer. It’s no secret that Switzerland’s natural beauty is its biggest attraction. With awe-inspiring mountain ranges, pristine sparkling lakes, cascading waterfalls, as well as gorges and glaciers, anyone with even the slightest appreciation for nature will find Switzerland enchanting.

Switzerland is divided into three general geographical regions—the Alps, the Swiss Plateau, and the Jura Mountains. The Alps, a high mountain range running across the central-southern region of the country, are home to one of the most famous mountains in the world—the Matterhorn. The Swiss Plateau, or Middle Land, is located in the north, and is the most densely populated region of the country. Here you’ll find the capital city of Bern, as well as the other internationally recognized cities of Lucerne and Zurich. The Jura mountains are situated along the northwestern border with France, and it is here that the lakeside city of Geneva, headquarters of the United Nations, and considered one of the most chic and sophisticated cities in Switzerland, is located.

Switzerland is truly a multicultural country. German, French, Italian, and Romanch are all national languages of Switzerland, and most citizens are at least bilingual. Not surprisingly, this multicultural flair is reflected in the country’s cuisine. There is no shortage of excellent French, Italian, and German food options to choose from, as well as famous Swiss chocolates and cheeses.

Whatever your reason for visiting Switzerland—be it the sports, the cities, or simply the breathtaking scenery, one thing is certain: your trip to Switzerland will be one to remember.