Great Swiss cities share many traits. Each city has a personality of its own, forged by its singular people and history. They are proud of their historic heritage and rich traditions whilst embracing modern life. Everywhere past and future seamlessly blend into a welcoming vibrant mosaic. Swiss people are much like their country, a comfortable alliance of contrasts. Generous and concerned, warm and fun.

Shopping in this environment is a positive joy, with shops that cater to all trends and classics. Established high quality stores mix with local more individual shops selling everything from haute couture to crafts of wood or stone. Jewelry and watches entice with real bargains to be had. Stop for some delicious pastries and a glass of wine or relax on welcoming benches, soak up the atmosphere and admire the displays of flowers. A feeling of safety prevails even in these changing times. 

Looking for some what-to-do-ideas, or what-to-see suggestions? Tourist offices are treasure troves able to answer all your questions.

Zurich is a city of parks and business. Stroll down the Bahnhofstrasse to beautiful Lake Zurich, then along the quays. Dine in a guildhouse. Stop by the Swiss National Museum. Visit a Romanesque cathedral. Shop on the Limmatquai. For a new vista see the city from the Uetliberg, Zurich’s own mountain.

Geneva, the city of worldly taste and tradition. International organisations – United Nations and Red Cross are at home here. Climb to the cathedral in the old quarter or stroll along elegant Lake Geneva.

Basel is the city of arts and learning. Cross the Rhine river on an old-time ferry. Shop for antiques and crafts up and down Spalenberg. Visit the Fine Arts Museum, the port, the zoo. Discover nearby Roman ruins. 

Berne, the capital city with covered arcades and bears. Listen and watch as the ancient Clock Tower chimes. Wonder about those whimsical fountains. The rich Klee collection awaits you. So do marvellous theatres and cellar bars.

Lucerne is the city of culture and style. Walls and watchtowers speak of bygone times. Stroll across the famous roofed Chapel bridge, visit the new landmark Concert Hall, a highlight of new architecture, or call at the Swiss Transport Museum. Take a steamer and cruise picturesque Lake Lucerne surrounded by jagged mountain peaks. 

St Gall is the cradle of Swiss textiles. Ornate oriel windows shelter doors. Wander past painted facades with wrought iron signs. Stop by the famous school of Economics or delve into the rare antiquities in the baroque cathedral and the world-famed Abbey library.

DMC Companies

(the links below will open a new window and bring you to another website)

• Fert International
• Welcome Swiss

Summary|Cities|Food & Wine|Panorama Tours
The Alps|Culture