When you travel to Switzerland, the first city you are likely to go to is Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland. The city is Switzerlands main commercial and cultural centre and sometimes called the Cultural Capital of Switzerland.
According to several surveys from 2006 to 2009, Zurich was named the city with the best quality of life in the world as well as the wealthiest city in Europe. It is also the sixth most expensive city in the world, where a 350 ml bottle of water costs as much as US$5.
However, don't let the high Swiss standard of living scare you, as there is plenty to see and do in Zurich. The city is situated where the river Limmat issues from the north-western end of Lake Zurich, about 30 km north of the Alps. Zurich is surrounded by lovely wooded hills.
You can stay at Leoneck Hotel as it is conveniently close (5 to 10 mins walk) to the main train station (Hauptbahnhof), Old Town attractions and the main shopping budget. The hotel is also right next to a tram stop. The hotel offers reasonable charges, at between US$ 155 and US$ 240, depending on the season, per night for a twin room. You may also want to check out the Crazy Cow Restaurant at the basement of the hotel. It serves Swiss food served in troughs and pails, and is also open to non-hotel guests
Do bring a pair of good walking shoes, even if you don't plan to go hiking. Many parts of Switzerland is on a slope. You can do your sight-seeing near the Old Town and along the Limmat River. Not to be missed are the Fraumunster Church, with its window paintings by Chagal, and the Landesmuseum, the biggest Swiss history museum. You can take a river bus and cruise down the Limmat River, soaking in the sights of Zurich.
The main shopping belt is the Bahnhofstrasse, with famous labels, fast food and upmarket restaurants, and cafes lining the promenade. The road also connects the main train station to Lake Zurich. At Lake Zurich, you can take a cruise to other parts of the city. It can get quite chilly, so don't forget to bring a jacket.
Nature-and-Sightseeing-in-Switzerland is one of the best holidays you can choose. Another place to visit is Lucerne, a German-speaking part of Switzerland. The Old Town of Lucerne is a concentrated patch of land and most of the tourist attractions can be easily covered within 20 minutes by foot. One of the highlights of Lucernes historical centre is the Lowendenkmal or Lion Monument.
This massive statue was erected to commemorate the massacre of the Swiss Guard while defending the Tuileries (Frances Louis XVI, Marie Antoinette and their family), who died in Paris in 1792 during the French Revolution. The weeping lion has a lance firmly implanted into his mid-section and his paw is resting upon the seal of France. This masterpiece is the work of Bertel Thorvaldsen and was completed between 1819 and 1821. From there, enjoy the view of the old iconic Chapel Bridge, the oldest wooden bridge in Europe.
Switzerland Tourist Attractions
Switzerland is known as The Land of the Alps, and rightfully so. Bordered by France, Germany, Italy and Austria, Switzerland offers the most breathtaking views of the panoramic Alps. Though small, it is also one of the richest countries in the world, which is why there is no wonder many tourists dream of a Swiss vacation. There are plenty of Switzerland tourist attractions, too, although there are five you should definitely stop to see.
1. The Chillon Castle
Also known as the Chateau de Chillon, the Chillon Castle is one of the most famous castles in Switzerland located near Montreux. It was home to the Count of Savoys from the 12th to the 14th century, and consists of 100 buildings, several dungeons, three courtyards and four great halls. Each hall provides spectacular views of Lake Geneva.
2. Zermatt
Are you fond of skiing? If so, Zermatt should be on the top of your list of Switzerland tourist attractions. Other than providing great slopes for the sport, it also offers great views of the Swiss Alps, particularly the famous Matterhorn. You can go shopping and dining around the town, too.
3. Geneva Jet Deau
This fountain in the heart of one of Switzerlands major cities is one of the tallest fountains in the world, projecting water up to 140 meters high. Built in 1891, it is also considered one of the symbols of the city of Geneva.
There are other sights to see in Geneva, too. While there, drop by the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum or the Cathedral de St. Pierre. There are many other museums and historical buildings worth visiting, too, as well as shops and restaurants to accommodate your lifestyle.
4. Swiss National Park
The only national park in Switzerland, the Swiss National Park covers almost half the area of the entire country. It has several hiking trails, too all of which offer various stunning views of the Alps, which is why it is one of the must-see Switzerland tourist attractions.
5. Swiss Transport Museum
Take a look at the exhibit of locomotives, ships, aircrafts and automobiles at this popular Swiss museum or drop by the Planetarium for an out-of-this-world experience. You can also see the paintings and sculptures of Swiss artist Hans Erni or simply catch a film at the museums IMAX theatre.
These are just the top Switzerland tourist attractions. If you want to make the most of your trip, you can always see much more but as long as you visit these spots, you are sure to understand why Switzerland is a popular tourist destination, and one you will want to revisit in the future.
The Best Places to Travel in Switzerland
If you're seeking a place for a family trip away from the hustle and bustle of the city, then Stoos is a good option. This resort, which is car-free, is located in Schwyz above Lake Lucerne. It provides visitors with great outdoor views, exciting outdoor activities, and great views throughout all seasons. Another family-friendly destination is lake of Lungern, which is filled with crystal water clean enough to drink. The lake has a beach for swimming and, nearby, there are paths for biking and hiking.
Zurich Zurich, a metropolis located in northern Switzerland, has a blend of attractions, including museums, zoos, shopping and nightlife. Like most places in Switzerland, Zurich has great views. It's positioned by the water, with the Alps as a backdrop.
If you like museums, then you're in luck. Zurich has more than 50 of them, as well as more than 100 art galleries. Museums include Rietberg Museum, which houses Asian art, the Aathal Dinosaur Museum, and the Swiss National Museum. To experience art in a relaxed setting, visit Old Town, which boasts a range of galleries, bookshops and unique boutiques. Another great shopping area is the Bahnhofstrasse section of the city. This mile-long stretch features shops, boutiques and cafes.
The animal lover will enjoy an afternoon at the Zurich Zoo, which features an indoor rain forest ecosystem complete with plants and animals. However, if you want to experience the real deal, there are other opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in Zurich. Spend some time on the water at one of the lakeside public bathing areas or challenge yourself with a hike up nearby Uetliberg mountain.
Geneva Central Switzerland
Geneva, dubbed "the capital of peace," is a city on the shores of Lake Geneva in western Switzerland. Home to Europe's United Nations headquarters as well as the Red Cross, this unique city combines modern day amenities with the charm of yesteryear.
In Geneva's "old town" area, entertainment mingles with history. At the heart of this neighborhood is Place du Bourg-de-Four, the city's oldest square. Flanking the square are a number of historic buildings, including the famous St. Peter's Cathedral.
Enjoy some time on the water in Geneva. You can take a water taxi to get to your destination from one shore to the other, or make a day out of it on a tour of the water in a bigger boat.
Geneva has no shortage of culture. It has a number of unique museums, including a watch and jewelry museum, as well as the International Museum of the Red Cross
Place in Switzerland
Schwyz
This typical Swiss town is near Lucerne in central Switzerland. The surrounding canton of Schwyz (pronounced shfeetz) was one of three founding members of the Swiss Confederation and gave its name to the rest of the country (Switzerland is called "Schweiz" in German). The Victorinox factory, where the original Swiss Army knives are made are also available for sale. Travel by a train up to the resort town of Stoos which is worth watching.
This typical Swiss town is near Lucerne in central Switzerland. The surrounding canton of Schwyz (pronounced shfeetz) was one of three founding members of the Swiss Confederation and gave its name to the rest of the country (Switzerland is called "Schweiz" in German). The Victorinox factory, where the original Swiss Army knives are made are also available for sale. Travel by a train up to the resort town of Stoos which is worth watching.
St. Gallen
At St. Gallen (pop.73,000), visit St. Gallen's town square, the baroque cathedral and the world-renowned Abbey Library with an excellent collection of medieval manuscripts.
At St. Gallen (pop.73,000), visit St. Gallen's town square, the baroque cathedral and the world-renowned Abbey Library with an excellent collection of medieval manuscripts.
Heidi Area
Chalets in the mountains, ski lodges and horse-drawn sleigh rides that portray Switzerland can be seen live at the Bernese Oberland, and the Heidi Area near Chur in eastern Switzerland. Alphorn blowers, beautiful hilly pastures, waterfalls, glaciers and detailed wood carvings on houses and bridges is something not to be missed.
Chalets in the mountains, ski lodges and horse-drawn sleigh rides that portray Switzerland can be seen live at the Bernese Oberland, and the Heidi Area near Chur in eastern Switzerland. Alphorn blowers, beautiful hilly pastures, waterfalls, glaciers and detailed wood carvings on houses and bridges is something not to be missed.
Neuchatel
A truly sparkling little city (its yellow sandstone buildings glitter in the sun), Neuchatel, is situated at the foot of the Jura Mountains on the largest lake in the entire Switzerland. The city is acclaimed academically because of its outstanding prep schools and universities.
The Art and History Museum and Swiss clocks and watches that are made in the city tempt the tourists to be a part of the city for long.
A truly sparkling little city (its yellow sandstone buildings glitter in the sun), Neuchatel, is situated at the foot of the Jura Mountains on the largest lake in the entire Switzerland. The city is acclaimed academically because of its outstanding prep schools and universities.
The Art and History Museum and Swiss clocks and watches that are made in the city tempt the tourists to be a part of the city for long.
Valais Area
This area is home to some of the most dramatic Alpine sceneries in the country, including the town of Zermatt. The Matterhorn, Eiger and Mt. Blanc can all be seen (on clear days) on a trip via bus and cable car along the Pillon Pass. Other sights in the canton include a fresco that tells the story of William Tell (it's painted on a house in Ernen/Muhlebach) and Grand St. Bernard. Sion has enough old cathedrals and interesting buildings to justify an overnight.
This area is home to some of the most dramatic Alpine sceneries in the country, including the town of Zermatt. The Matterhorn, Eiger and Mt. Blanc can all be seen (on clear days) on a trip via bus and cable car along the Pillon Pass. Other sights in the canton include a fresco that tells the story of William Tell (it's painted on a house in Ernen/Muhlebach) and Grand St. Bernard. Sion has enough old cathedrals and interesting buildings to justify an overnight.
Winterthur
This city (pop. 85,000) is quite famous for its artwork. Visit the Oskar-Reinhart Foundation Museum, where paintings by Swiss, German and Austrian artists are on display. There is also a nice fine arts museum in town, as well. The Collegium Musicum (founded in 1629) stages wonderful concerts. Nearby is the Kyburg Castle that is worth watching.
This city (pop. 85,000) is quite famous for its artwork. Visit the Oskar-Reinhart Foundation Museum, where paintings by Swiss, German and Austrian artists are on display. There is also a nice fine arts museum in town, as well. The Collegium Musicum (founded in 1629) stages wonderful concerts. Nearby is the Kyburg Castle that is worth watching.
Basel
This northern city (pop. 170,000) on the Rhine River, is situated at the meeting point of Switzerland, France and Germany. Known as the centre for fabric-dye production in medieval times; Basel is now the base for many of the international pharmaceutical companies. It is also one of the most frequently visited tourist destinations in Switzerland.
The city's tourist attractions while on Switzerland Tour include the Munster (9th-century red sandstone cathedral), the 11th-century cathedral (which holds the tomb of Erasmus), University of Switzerland (the oldest in the country), Three-Country Corner and Market Square (with its surrounding medieval-era houses). Drei Konige, or the "Three Kings on the Rhine," is Europe's oldest hotel.
There are a number of museums: the Kunstmuseum (one of the country's best fine arts museums), Antikenmuseum (ancient Greek and Roman artifacts), a small Jewish Museum and the Paper Museum (covers the history of printing). The Museum Jean Tinguely offers a sampling of the Swiss sculptor's delightfully whimsical mechanical contraptions. The Fondation Beyeler contains works by Monet, Cezanne, Van Gogh and other well-known artists.
If the time permits, you can also enjoy a dinner cruise on the Rhine in the evening. If the date of your Switzerland Tours is likely to coincide the city's Carnival, make the accommodation arrangement in advance in Zurich or Bern from where you can get special morning trains for Basel.
This northern city (pop. 170,000) on the Rhine River, is situated at the meeting point of Switzerland, France and Germany. Known as the centre for fabric-dye production in medieval times; Basel is now the base for many of the international pharmaceutical companies. It is also one of the most frequently visited tourist destinations in Switzerland.
The city's tourist attractions while on Switzerland Tour include the Munster (9th-century red sandstone cathedral), the 11th-century cathedral (which holds the tomb of Erasmus), University of Switzerland (the oldest in the country), Three-Country Corner and Market Square (with its surrounding medieval-era houses). Drei Konige, or the "Three Kings on the Rhine," is Europe's oldest hotel.
There are a number of museums: the Kunstmuseum (one of the country's best fine arts museums), Antikenmuseum (ancient Greek and Roman artifacts), a small Jewish Museum and the Paper Museum (covers the history of printing). The Museum Jean Tinguely offers a sampling of the Swiss sculptor's delightfully whimsical mechanical contraptions. The Fondation Beyeler contains works by Monet, Cezanne, Van Gogh and other well-known artists.
If the time permits, you can also enjoy a dinner cruise on the Rhine in the evening. If the date of your Switzerland Tours is likely to coincide the city's Carnival, make the accommodation arrangement in advance in Zurich or Bern from where you can get special morning trains for Basel.
BERN
The ancient capital of Switzerland, its also known as 'Berne' by Switzerland's French-speaking citizens. The whole city was renovated after it was ruined by fire in 1405. It has many fine examples of early-15th-century architecture - so U.N. declared it a 'World Heritage Site'. The Old town is identified by its thick-walled stone houses brightened by the boxes of geraniums on the balconies overlooking the Aare River.
Bern's 11th-century arcaded streets provides wonderful opportunities for tourists for sightseeing and shopping. Mountains around Bern provides a beautiful backdrop - the northwest is dominated by the Jura and the Alps and their foothills provides a wonderful backdrop to the south. The city centre with its beautiful medieval architecture is located on the Aare River between the the striking copper spire of the Nydegg church (Nydeggkirche) and the 13th-century clocktower (Zeitglockenturm). Vegetable and flower markets are held everyday during the summers. A celebrated onion market is also held here on the fourth Monday of November.
Bern's 11th-century arcaded streets provides wonderful opportunities for tourists for sightseeing and shopping. Mountains around Bern provides a beautiful backdrop - the northwest is dominated by the Jura and the Alps and their foothills provides a wonderful backdrop to the south. The city centre with its beautiful medieval architecture is located on the Aare River between the the striking copper spire of the Nydegg church (Nydeggkirche) and the 13th-century clocktower (Zeitglockenturm). Vegetable and flower markets are held everyday during the summers. A celebrated onion market is also held here on the fourth Monday of November.
Chur
One of the oldest city in Switzerland, Chur has been inhabited since at least 3000 BC. Chur is the capital of the canton of Graubunden (or Grisons in French). A Stone Age relics which was found here has been displayed in the splendid archaeological museum in the Old Town.
The main tourist attractions at the city are the Rhine River and spectacular mountains and valleys in the area. The world famous ski resorts of St. Moritz, Arosa and Davos are also nearby. A special treat in Chur is the Romantik Hotel Stern, with its impressive collection of old coaches and sleighs.
One of the oldest city in Switzerland, Chur has been inhabited since at least 3000 BC. Chur is the capital of the canton of Graubunden (or Grisons in French). A Stone Age relics which was found here has been displayed in the splendid archaeological museum in the Old Town.
The main tourist attractions at the city are the Rhine River and spectacular mountains and valleys in the area. The world famous ski resorts of St. Moritz, Arosa and Davos are also nearby. A special treat in Chur is the Romantik Hotel Stern, with its impressive collection of old coaches and sleighs.
Fribourg
Fribourg is the Swiss region where the French and German languages and cultures merge together. Fribourg is a beautiful little town built on a hillside. Red-tiled buildings in the old section lead your way up from the Saane River to the Gothic St. Nicholas Cathedral. It also has a pretty Town Hall and a Museum of Art and History.
Fribourg is the Swiss region where the French and German languages and cultures merge together. Fribourg is a beautiful little town built on a hillside. Red-tiled buildings in the old section lead your way up from the Saane River to the Gothic St. Nicholas Cathedral. It also has a pretty Town Hall and a Museum of Art and History.
Dreamland Beach Bali
Bali has many great beaches - good for swimming, surfing, or just lounging on the sand. Some hotels and villages provide daily clean up and grooming of beaches. Also, the quality of a beach can change drastically between seasons, depending on the location of the beach and the direction it faces.
Here is the subjective Bali Best Beach list:
1. Nusa Dua from Hyatt to St Regis/Geger Temple.
Known as Mengiat Beach and Geger Beach. The most beautiful blue water, pristine white sand, minimal vendors. You can use this beach anytime (without staying at one of the hotels) at the Yasa Segara village or Geger village beach cafes, which are open to the public. The cafes rent beach chairs for about 20k rupiah per day and food/beverage is available from the cafe. There is also a parking lot. Geger is one of the few beaches at which topless sunbathing is allowed.
2. Jimbaran. Waves and white sand.
Beach is accessible from the Jimbaran barbecue restaurants, but is really best when staying at a beach front resort. Most of the beach is not really suitable for use unless staying in one of the local hotels. At the south end of the beach is the Four Seasons, with a private beach club and restaurant (PJ's - recommended). The beach directly in front of the Four Seasons is rocky and rough, not really suitable for swimming. The beach is more inviting 50 meters away towards the beach cafes.
3. Sanur area.
Favorite of many visitors for its old time flavor and local feeling. There is a 7km paved walkway along the beachfront which is great for early morning walks. Excellent spot to take sunrise photos. Numerous breakwaters with shelters have been placed along the beach to protect the beach from erosion. The area around the Bali Hyatt seems to be the nicest white sand beach. This was the first developed resort area on Bali and is very popular.
4. Kuta/Legian/Seminyak/Kerobokan/Batu Belig.
Nightlife, sunset and beach. Beach is not as clean as Nusa Dua and most areas of Jimbaran and the water is rougher. Lately, clean up crews have been noticed in the morning. Close to great restaurants and night life. Nightly sunset is a plus and many beach front resorts and restaurants have beach side lounges to enjoy this scenery.
5. North Nusa Dua area, from Melia Hotel to Novohotel Tanjung Benoa
6. "Echo Beach" Cangu
Increased in popularity recently due to the vibe from the restaurants built on a cement seawall facing the ocean. Echo beach really isn't suitable as a swimming or relaxation beach, but has a solid reputation as a surf beach. The beach is a bit rocky and the sand is blackish and the seawall on which the restaurants are built is not attractive. The surfing attracts a crowd of surfers and watchers, and it is enjoyable to watch the action from the seawall while enjoying the cuisine from the The Beach House or other warungs. The road to Echo beach has become very pitted and is in need of improvement.
Italy Tourism Resort
Milan
Milan, one of Europe's richest cities, is known for stylish shops, galleries, and restaurants and has a faster pace of life than most Italian cities. It also has a rich artistic and cultural heritage. Its Duomo, with its beautiful marble facade, is magnificent. La Scala is one of the world's most famous opera houses.
Milan, one of Europe's richest cities, is known for stylish shops, galleries, and restaurants and has a faster pace of life than most Italian cities. It also has a rich artistic and cultural heritage. Its Duomo, with its beautiful marble facade, is magnificent. La Scala is one of the world's most famous opera houses.
Venice
Venice is a unique city built on water in the middle of a lagoon. Venice is one of Italy's most beautiful and romantic cities as well as one of the most popular for visitors to Italy. The heart of Venice is Piazza San Marco with its magnificent church. There are many museums, palaces, and churches to visit and wandering along Venice's canals is interesting. Venice is in the northeast of Italy and historically was a bridge between East and West.
Venice is a unique city built on water in the middle of a lagoon. Venice is one of Italy's most beautiful and romantic cities as well as one of the most popular for visitors to Italy. The heart of Venice is Piazza San Marco with its magnificent church. There are many museums, palaces, and churches to visit and wandering along Venice's canals is interesting. Venice is in the northeast of Italy and historically was a bridge between East and West.
Bologna
Bologna is known for its beauty, wealth, cuisine, and left-wing politics. Its streets are lined with beautiful arcades, making it a good place to walk even in the rain. It has one of Europe's oldest universities and a nice medieval center. There are several attractive squares, lined with buildings with nice porticoes. Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy.
Bologna is known for its beauty, wealth, cuisine, and left-wing politics. Its streets are lined with beautiful arcades, making it a good place to walk even in the rain. It has one of Europe's oldest universities and a nice medieval center. There are several attractive squares, lined with buildings with nice porticoes. Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy.
Florence
Florence is one of the most important Renaissance architectural and art centers. Its Duomo and Baptistery are magnificent but crowded with tourists as is their large piazza. Florence has several interesting museums with many famous paintings and sculptures. There are also Medici palaces and gardens. Florence is in Tuscany.
Florence is one of the most important Renaissance architectural and art centers. Its Duomo and Baptistery are magnificent but crowded with tourists as is their large piazza. Florence has several interesting museums with many famous paintings and sculptures. There are also Medici palaces and gardens. Florence is in Tuscany.
Genoa
Genoa, on the northwest coast of Italy, is Italy's principal seaport. Genoa was a 2004 European Culture Capital; money flowed into the port city made famous by Columbus and now it's a better place than ever to visit. Genoa has a fascinating aquarium, an interesting port area, and a historic center said to be the largest medieval quarter in Europe, with a wealth of churches, palaces, and museums.
Genoa, on the northwest coast of Italy, is Italy's principal seaport. Genoa was a 2004 European Culture Capital; money flowed into the port city made famous by Columbus and now it's a better place than ever to visit. Genoa has a fascinating aquarium, an interesting port area, and a historic center said to be the largest medieval quarter in Europe, with a wealth of churches, palaces, and museums.
Rome
Rome is the capital of modern Italy. Rome is full of history everywhere you look. It has many ancient monuments, interesting medieval churches, beautiful fountains, museums, and Renaissance palaces. Modern Rome is a bustling and lively city and has some excellent restaurants and nightlife. The Vatican and St. Peter's are also found in Rome.
Rome is the capital of modern Italy. Rome is full of history everywhere you look. It has many ancient monuments, interesting medieval churches, beautiful fountains, museums, and Renaissance palaces. Modern Rome is a bustling and lively city and has some excellent restaurants and nightlife. The Vatican and St. Peter's are also found in Rome.
Naples
Naples is one of Italy's most vibrant cities. It lies on the coast south of Rome and is the most important city in southern Italy. Naples has recently undergone some renovation but still retains much of its old character. It holds many historical and artistic treasures.
Naples is one of Italy's most vibrant cities. It lies on the coast south of Rome and is the most important city in southern Italy. Naples has recently undergone some renovation but still retains much of its old character. It holds many historical and artistic treasures.
Ephesus and Pergamum City
Ephesus is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world with a history dating back the 12 C BC. It was an important trade and religious center. During the Roman period its population reached approx. 250,000.
One of the seven wonders of the world, Temple of Artemis was in Ephesus. It is also the site of one of the Seven Churches of Revelation.
St. Paul lived and preached for about 2 years in Ephesus.
One of the seven wonders of the world, Temple of Artemis was in Ephesus. It is also the site of one of the Seven Churches of Revelation.
St. Paul lived and preached for about 2 years in Ephesus.
Today it is estimated that between 15-20% of the city has been excavated. Some of the highlights are the Odeon, Celsus Library, Great Theater, Commercial Agora, Terrace Houses, Blue Marble Street, Scholistica baths and Brothel.
The history of the city starts in the 8th C BC when Aeolian Greek colonies settled in the area. The city was founded on a hill overlooking the Caicos plain. During the reign of Eumenes II in the 2nd C BC, it became one of the cultural and intellectual centers of the day.
With the invention of pergamena (parchment) its library grew to rival in size, the great library of Alexandria. The famous Altar of Zeus was here.
Pergamum was one of the Seven Churches of the Revelations. The famous Roman physician, Galen was born and studied in Pergamum.The
ruins are separated into 3 parts, the Acropolis, Red Courtyard and Asclepion, which was the cure center of Pergamum.
With the invention of pergamena (parchment) its library grew to rival in size, the great library of Alexandria. The famous Altar of Zeus was here.
Pergamum was one of the Seven Churches of the Revelations. The famous Roman physician, Galen was born and studied in Pergamum.The
ruins are separated into 3 parts, the Acropolis, Red Courtyard and Asclepion, which was the cure center of Pergamum.
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