Destination Guides

Switzerland Travel Planning: A Guide for First-Time Visitors

Trains, lakes and peaks - how to plan a relaxed first visit to the Swiss Alps.

Switzerland rewards a slower pace. With its trains, lakes and mountain railways, it is one of the easiest alpine destinations to plan - you just need to know where to base yourself and how to string the days together.

1Choose one or two bases

Rather than moving every night, base yourself in a lakeside town and take day trips. Lucerne and the Jungfrau region make a classic pairing.

2Let the trains do the work

The rail network is the experience. A travel pass simplifies it and the scenic routes - Glacier Express, Bernina - are worth planning around.

3Pick your season

Summer for hiking and wildflowers, winter for snow scenery and festive towns. Each gives a completely different alpine experience.

4Pack for mountain weather

Conditions change fast at altitude - layers, sun protection and good walking shoes make every day easier.

The takeaway

Base yourself in one or two towns, lean on the trains, and pick the season that matches what you want. We can build the route around it.

Turn this guide into your journey.

Tell us where you'd like to go and we'll help you plan it from the ground up.