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We much prefer the
Oberland. You'll find it's easier to get around, the sights are superior and the variety
of things to do and see is
For us the mountains are best visited in summer, though the views can be spectacular at any time of the year. And you can even go hiking in the winter. Do be aware the weather is a little less predictable in the mountains off-season. If you're considering doing so take your sense of humor along and take a look at Timing Your Visit. We'd suggest you spend at least a couple of nights in the mountains (we spend two weeks at a time) to give yourself some time to explore, and the opportunity to enjoy a couple of wonderful mountain sunrises and sunsets. Less than that available? See One Day in the Mountains. You can reach the area from most parts of the country in under three hours by train, less in most cases. For an example of a well-planned and executed 8-day visit to Switzerland, see A Beautiful and Memorable Visit.
If you decide to ignore our advice, do check the weather. The spectacular views disappear on days when the mountains are shrouded by fog, clouds or snow.
The rail schedule is helpful even to those driving; the country is full of lakes and mountains which turn short trips as the crow flies into longer trips for humans.
If you've only a day for the mountains, One Day in the Swiss Mountains will help you make the most of it.
Visiting Switzerland Complete Index of Articles on Switzerland Our Favorites Trip Tips and Tools Copyright © 1997-2001 E.J.
Gehrlein Traveling |
e're flying from Paris to
Zürich," the inquiry begins. 
amiliar?
Whether by car, train or plane, Switzerland's worth a visit even if it's not the main
focus of your vacation. 
f time is
scarce, we'd stick with two destinations. Get a sample of the country, and you're sure to
want to come back for more.
uzern, on
the other hand, is a special city. It's quite picturesque; looking, we suspect,
much as Americans perceive a Swiss city 'should' look. 
There's nothing quite like it in Europe, or
Switzerland, and it's clearly worth a day or two when sampling the country. You'll find a
synopsis of Luzern's attractions in 
ountains (and lakes) are Switzerland's strong suit, and that's where we'd spend
most of our time. You've got three main choices of Alpine mountain areas:
greater. Interlaken is 'okay', but we strongly suggest staying in
the mountains, not outside of them.
he Glacier
Express is an interesting ride when the weather is good. And it is the best of
the scenic trains. But we find it long, and frankly boring for the most part.
You'll find our reasons and a description of all the scenic train trips in 
se 
Swiss train travel can seem expensive on a per-ticket basis, but
the Swisspass is an excellent buy, and usually makes public transport economical as well
as convenient. We have some helpful information on traveling by train, bus, boat and cable
on our 
witzerland is a great vacation
spot; take a well-planned taste now, and come back for more later.