Switzerland Travel Guide

– A Complete Journey into Europe’s Alpine Wonderland

Switzerland stands as one of the world’s most captivating destinations, a land where snow-capped peaks rise like grand monuments, emerald lakes reflect untouched beauty, and quaint villages exude an old-world charm rarely found elsewhere. For Indian travellers, Switzerland is more than a holiday—it is a dreamscape of cinematic landscapes, refined hospitality, seamless transport systems, and cultural richness. This comprehensive travel guide presents a detailed overview of Switzerland, covering its major attractions, distances, transport options, visa procedures, travel routes from India, accommodation types, and the best season to plan the perfect journey.

Overview of Switzerland

Located in Central Europe, Switzerland is bordered by France, Italy, Germany, Austria, and Liechtenstein. It is celebrated for its Alps, pristine lakes, luxury watches, chocolates, and a lifestyle that perfectly balances modern innovation with cultural heritage. Switzerland is extremely safe, tourist-friendly, and well-connected by trains, cable cars, funiculars, and panoramic routes, making it one of the easiest destinations to explore.

The country’s major regions include:

• German-speaking Switzerland – Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken
• French-speaking Switzerland – Geneva, Lausanne, Montreux
• Italian-speaking Switzerland – Lugano, Bellinzona
• Romansh-speaking region – Engadine valleys

Major Attractions in Switzerland

Switzerland is packed with extraordinary landscapes and architectural wonders. Below is a detailed list of must-visit attractions along with distances from major cities.

1. Zurich

Zurich is Switzerland’s financial capital and one of the cleanest cities in the world. Known for its luxury shopping streets, serene lakes, and vibrant old town, it is often the first destination for international travellers.

Main attractions:

• Bahnhofstrasse – one of the world’s most exclusive shopping avenues
• Old Town (Altstadt) – medieval lanes, historical churches, and museums
• Lake Zurich – boat cruises and lakeside promenades
• Lindenhof Hill – panoramic viewpoint

Distances:

• Zurich to Lucerne – 52 km
• Zurich to Interlaken – 119 km
• Zurich to Rhine Falls – 47 km

2. Lucerne

Lucerne offers the perfect blend of lake-and-mountain scenery. Its medieval charm is embodied by wooden bridges, ancient towers, and shimmering blue waters.

Main attractions:

• Chapel Bridge – Switzerland’s oldest wooden covered bridge
• Mount Pilatus – accessible via cable car or cogwheel train
• Mount Titlis – famous for its revolving cable car and snow activities
• Lake Lucerne cruise

Distances:

• Lucerne to Mount Titlis (Engelberg) – 35 km
• Lucerne to Interlaken – 68 km

3. Interlaken

Interlaken is the adventure capital of Switzerland, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, with the majestic Jungfrau region rising behind it. It is the gateway to Switzerland’s most photogenic mountain destinations.

Main attractions:

• Jungfraujoch – “Top of Europe”
• Harder Kulm – Interlaken’s best viewpoint
• Schilthorn – Piz Gloria 007 filming location
• Lauterbrunnen Valley – 72 waterfalls

Distances:

• Interlaken to Jungfraujoch – approx. 2 hours by train
• Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen – 13 km
• Interlaken to Grindelwald – 20 km

4. Zermatt

Zermatt is a car-free mountain paradise dominated by the iconic Matterhorn peak. It is ideal for skiing, winter sports, and world-class panoramic train rides.

Main attractions:

• Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
• Gornergrat Railway
• Sunnegga Funicular

Distances:

• Zermatt to Geneva – 230 km
• Zermatt to Interlaken – 85 km

5. Geneva

Known for its international institutions, lakeside beauty, and impressive monuments, Geneva offers an elegant blend of diplomacy and natural charm.

Main attractions:

• Jet d’Eau Fountain
• United Nations Headquarters
• Lake Geneva cruise
• Montreux and Chillon Castle (nearby)

Distances:

• Geneva to Montreux – 95 km
• Geneva to Lausanne – 63 km

6. Lausanne & Montreux

This region exudes French charm with vineyards, lakeside promenades, and cultural richness. Montreux is known for the annual Jazz Festival and its postcard-perfect landscapes.

Main attractions:

• Chillon Castle
• Lavaux Vineyards (UNESCO Site)
• Montreux Riviera

How to Reach Switzerland from India

Switzerland has multiple international airports: Zurich (ZRH), Geneva (GVA), and Basel (BSL). Indian travellers have convenient connections from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata.

From Kolkata

• Kolkata → Delhi → Zurich
• Kolkata → Mumbai → Zurich
• Kolkata → Dubai/Doha → Zurich/Geneva

From Delhi

• Direct flight: Delhi → Zurich (Swiss International Airlines)
• One-stop flight options via Dubai, Doha, Istanbul, Frankfurt, or Paris

Average flight duration from India: 8–11 hours (depending on stops).

Switzerland Tourist Visa Guide (Schengen Visa)

All Indian tourists must obtain a Schengen Visa to visit Switzerland. Below is a complete guideline for the visa process.

Visa Type

• Short-Term Tourist Visa (Schengen Visa – Category C)
• Validity: Up to 90 days

Documents Required

• Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity
• Completed visa application form
• Recent photographs
• Flight booking details
• Hotel/resort booking vouchers
• Travel insurance (minimum coverage 30,000 EUR)
• Bank statements (last 6 months)
• Income tax returns
• Employment/Business proof

Where to Submit Visa – Switzerland Visa Application Centres in India

Swiss Visa Application (VFS Global) – New Delhi
E-Block, International Trade Tower, Nehru Place, New Delhi

Other VFS Centres:
Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Pune, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh (appointments may vary based on availability)

Processing Time

• Standard: 10–15 working days
• Peak season: Up to 30 days

How to Travel Within Switzerland

Switzerland has one of the world’s most efficient transport networks. The Swiss Travel Pass is highly recommended.

Swiss Travel Pass Benefits

• Unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats
• Free entry to 500+ museums
• Major discounts on mountain excursions

Additionally, panoramic trains like Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and Golden Pass Line provide immersive views of the Alps.

Where to Stay in Switzerland (Sample Accommodation Options)

Switzerland offers a variety of accommodation categories suited to all travellers. While contact numbers will not be included, the types of properties commonly preferred by Indian visitors are listed below.

Zurich

• City-centre business hotels
• Luxury lakeside hotels
• Boutique hotels near Bahnhofstrasse

Lucerne

• Hotels near Chapel Bridge
• Lakeside heritage hotels
• Mid-range mountain-view hotels

Interlaken

• Hotels facing Jungfrau peaks
• Resort-style mountain lodges
• Victorian-era heritage properties

Zermatt

• Luxury chalets
• Hotels overlooking the Matterhorn
• Cozy Alpine-style inns

Geneva & Montreux

• Lake Geneva waterfront hotels
• Classic European-style villas
• Resort properties with vineyard access

Best Time to Visit Switzerland

1. Summer (June – September)

Ideal for mountain excursions, lake cruises, adventure sports, hiking, and sightseeing.

2. Winter (December – March)

Best for skiing, snowboarding, Christmas markets, and winter festivals.

3. Spring & Autumn

Blooming landscapes, pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and excellent photography conditions.

Practical Tips for Indian Travellers

• Weather can change rapidly—carry layered clothing
• Swiss water is drinkable everywhere
• Train punctuality is exceptional—arrive early
• Carry basic medicines; Swiss pharmacies are expensive
• Pre-book mountain excursions during peak season

Suggested 7-Day Switzerland Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Zurich – Explore Old Town & Lake Zurich
Day 2: Excursion to Rhine Falls – Transfer to Lucerne
Day 3: Mount Titlis or Mount Pilatus
Day 4: Travel to Interlaken – Explore town
Day 5: Jungfraujoch excursion
Day 6: Interlaken to Zermatt – Matterhorn views
Day 7: Zermatt to Geneva – Departure

Conclusion

Switzerland is a destination that elevates the senses and enriches the soul. Its unmatched natural splendour, architectural heritage, serene lakes, snow-crowned mountains, and impeccable transportation system make it one of the world’s most rewarding travel experiences. From Kolkata or Delhi, the journey into this Alpine paradise is smooth, well-organised, and fully supported by modern infrastructure and excellent hospitality. Whether you’re seeking adventure, romance, cultural discovery, or scenic relaxation, Switzerland promises a journey that remains etched in memory forever.