
Let's Plan Your Best Switzerland Vacation Ever
Discover your perfect Switzerland vacation, curated for Alpine adventure, authentic flavors, and unforgettable mountain moments.
Your Trusted Switzerland Vacation Planners
Dreaming of Switzerland's legendary Alpine magic but feeling overwhelmed by where to even begin? You're definitely not alone.
Between the four languages, countless mountain railways, and endless fondue options, planning the perfect trip to Switzerland can feel like navigating a maze blindfolded.
For travels looking for a curated Swiss experience, our team of experts can craft a personalized Switzerland itinerary that transforms you from confused tourist to confident Alpine insider.
We eliminate the stress of deciphering train schedules and hunting down authentic raclette by curating genuine Swiss experiences tailored to your interests, pace, and group dynamics.
After all, your Switzerland vacation should be as unique as the memories you create.
Salt & Wind Travel Has Been Featured In
Does Any Of This Sound Familiar?
You're drowning in research about Swiss trains, mountain passes, and seasonal closures but still worried you'll miss the magical moments locals treasure most during your trip to Switzerland.
You want authentic Alpine experiences beyond the Instagram-famous spots that are now overrun with selfie sticks and tour buses.
You need a Switzerland vacation that works perfectly for your group, whether you're balancing adventure seekers with relaxation lovers or multiple generations with different mobility levels.
You're overwhelmed by logistics and language barriers, terrified of booking the wrong mountain railway or missing out on that perfect fondue spot.
You want to feel like you belong in those cozy mountain chalets, not just another tourist clutching a guidebook.
Why Choose Salt & Wind Travel For Your Switzerland Vacation
Deep Expertise
Our team has spent over a decade exploring Switzerland's cantons, building relationships with locals, and discovering hidden gems through countless personal journeys across every season and region.
Personalized Journeys
We design each trip to Switzerland around your group's interests and energy levels, whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping mountain adventures or peaceful lakeside wine tastings.
Seamless Group Coordination
Whether you're traveling with different fitness levels, varying interests in outdoor activities, or accommodating grandparents alongside adventure-seeking teens, we’ll create a Switzerland itinerary that keep everyone engaged and comfortable.
Exclusive Access
We've cultivated trusted partnerships with family-run mountain dairies, boutique wineries, and local guides who welcome you like old friends rather than just another tour group.
Zero-Stress Planning
We eliminate the complexity of Swiss logistics, from coordinating mountain railway reservations to navigating seasonal restaurant closures, so you arrive relaxed and ready to embrace your vacation in Switzerland.
“We believe travel should be as delicious and memorable as the meals you share. Our mission is to connect you to the heart of Switzerland — its flavors, stories, and people — so you return home with more than photos, but with a sense of belonging.”
How To Get Started With Your Switzerland Vacation
Step 1 → Share Your Travel Dreams
Complete our inquiry form with your Switzerland vacation preferences, travel dates, and budget. Share any special interests or must-have experiences that will help our travel planners craft your perfect journey. This foundation ensures we understand your vision from day one.
Step 2 → Speak With A Swiss Travel Expert
We'll schedule your complimentary 30-minute Discovery Call to dive deeper into your travel dreams. Our expert planners will review your intake responses and discuss the best travel itinerary for Switzerland for you. No pressure, just possibilities.
Step 3 → Receive Your Custom Proposal
Within 3 business days, you'll receive a personalized service proposal tailored to your desired support level. Whether you need full-service planning, strategic bookings, or expert consultation, we'll outline the perfect approach for your vacation in Switzerland.
Switzerland Vacations Tailored For Travelers Like You
Your Switzerland dreams are as unique as Alpine snowflakes, and that's exactly how we plan every trip. Whether you're seeking family bonding over cheese-making, friends reconnecting on scenic railways, romantic moments overlooking pristine lakes, or culinary discoveries in mountain villages, our team will create a Switzerland itinerary that feels authentically you. Below are real examples of how we've brought Swiss travel visions to life across this remarkable country.
The Grand Switzerland Rail Adventure
Iconic Peaks, Storybook Villages, and Scenic Rails
Duration: 14 Days
Destinations: Zurich, Lucerne, Zermatt, Valais
This two-week journey is a love letter to Switzerland’s legendary railways and natural wonders. Begin with the cultural pulse of Zurich, then ride the rails through Lucerne’s medieval charm and the snow-capped drama of Zermatt.
Marvel at the Matterhorn from Gornergrat, taste Valais wines, and glide along the Bernina Express to Lake Como. Each day blends adventure (like hiking the Eiger Trail or riding the Glacier Express) with moments of indulgence: lakeside fondue, chocolate tastings, and vineyard strolls.
Designed for travelers who want to see it all but savor every stop, this itinerary balances iconic sights with hidden gems and plenty of time to breathe in the Alpine air.
Alpine Food Lovers
From Gruyères Cheese Caves to Ticino Wine Cellars
Duration: 10 Days
Key Destinations: Zurich, Gruyères, Ticino Region
We designed this culinary expedition for passionate food lovers seeking authentic regional Swiss experiences. This couple wanted to dive deep into Switzerland's diverse food culture beyond fondue, so we crafted a journey through the country's most celebrated culinary regions.
They learned traditional cheese-making techniques in Gruyères' historic caves, discovered world-class wines in Ticino's sun-soaked valleys, and mastered regional specialties like Älplermagronen with local chefs.
Each destination offered hands-on experiences with local artisans, private tastings at family-run establishments, and meals that transformed them from tourists to culinary insiders through authentic connections they simply couldn't book online.
Family-Friendly Swiss Lakes & Peaks
Adventure, Relaxation, and Memories for All Ages
Duration: 8 Days
Key Destinations: Lucerne, Interlaken, Bernese Oberland, Lake Geneva
Perfect for families or groups with diverse interests, this eight-day itinerary weaves together adventure and downtime.
Cruise across Lake Lucerne, walk the historic Chapel Bridge, and let the kids marvel at Rhine Falls. In Interlaken and the Bernese Oberland, choose your own adventure: hike wildflower trails, ride the Jungfrau Railway, or simply picnic with mountain views. Cap it off with a few days on Lake Geneva, exploring Chillon Castle and the lakeside promenades.
Each day offers flexible options, chocolate workshops, alpine hikes, or spa afternoons, so everyone gets their Swiss wish.
Let’s Craft Your Perfect Switzerland Vacation
Discover what’s possible, no commitment required.
Curious if we’re the right fit? Our Discovery Call is a relaxed, risk-free opportunity to talk through your trip to Switzerland, including concerns and must-haves. We’ll share our expertise and you’ll get a feel for our approach — just genuine conversation about what matters to you most.
“Traveling with Salt and Wind Travel was hands down one of the best decisions we made for our couples getaway to Switzerland and France.
From the very first call, the team was incredibly attentive — listening closely to what we each wanted out of the trip and then weaving it all together into an itinerary that felt effortless yet deeply personalized.
We stayed in stunning 5-star hotels in Crans-Montana, Gstaad, and Geneva, but what stood out most were the one-of-a-kind experiences they planned: cycling past waterfalls in the Swiss Alps, wine tasting our way through the Valais, and even doing a fondue hike that we still talk about months later.”
Ivy B.
2024 Couples Trip to Switzerland & France
Not Ready To Plan Yet? Start With Some Swiss Inspiration
Download our exclusive Switzerland Travel Planner. It's packed with off-the-beaten-path Alpine experiences, authentic local finds, and the secret spots our clients can't stop talking about. Perfect for dreamers who want to explore possibilities before committing to planning a vacation in Switzerland.
General Switzerland Travel Information
-
If you've ever tried planning a Swiss adventure, you know the excitement can quickly become overwhelming. With four languages to navigate, countless mountain railways to decipher, and wildly different opinions on whether Zermatt or Grindelwald is "unmissable," it's easy to lose yourself in a maze of train schedules and Alpine advice.
That's where we come in. As your Switzerland insiders, we cut through the complexity to craft a trip that's authentically yours, filled with mountain magic, seamless connections, and those pinch-me moments you'll treasure forever.
Our team of expert travel planners handles every detail, from coordinating those famously punctual Swiss trains to securing tables at that hidden fondue spot locals guard like a secret, so you can actually embrace the Alpine lifestyle instead of stressing about the logistics.
-
The best way to begin planning your Switzerland vacation is to connect with our team of travel experts, who specialize in creating personalized journeys tailored to your interests, group size, and travel style.
We’ll listen to your dreams, whether you’re seeking Switzerland luxury trips filled with five-star hotels and private experiences, or you want the best travel itinerary for Switzerland that balances iconic sights with hidden gems. Simply share your vision, preferred destinations, and must-have experiences, and we’ll craft a custom itinerary that ensures your Switzerland vacation is seamless, memorable, and uniquely yours.
If you prefer to take the reins or research before reaching out, we recommend diving into our collection of Swiss travel articles. These resources are packed with insider tips, sample itineraries, and advice on everything from scenic train routes to culinary adventures, helping you decide whether you want a classic grand tour, a focus on Switzerland luxury trips, or the best travel itinerary for Switzerland based on your interests.
No matter your approach, our goal is to make planning your Switzerland vacation as enjoyable and stress-free as the trip itself.
-
We offer Switzerland vacation planning across the country's most breathtaking regions, each with its own Alpine character and mountain magic. Here's where we craft your Swiss adventure:
Zurich Canton & Lake Zurich
Switzerland's cosmopolitan heart beats strongest here, where world-class museums and boutique shopping blend seamlessly with lakeside promenades and vineyard-dotted hills. From Zurich's vibrant food scene to charming lakeside villages like Rapperswil, this region offers the perfect introduction to Swiss sophistication with easy access to mountain escapes.
Andermatt & The Uri Canton
This is Switzerland's wild heart, where dramatic mountain passes meet pristine alpine valleys. Andermatt's luxury resorts provide the perfect base for exploring the legendary Gotthard Pass, while the surrounding peaks offer some of the country's most spectacular hiking and skiing. Expect rugged beauty and that quintessential Swiss mountain village charm.
Interlaken, the Jungfrau, & The Bernese Oberland
Picture-perfect doesn't begin to describe this region of emerald lakes, snow-capped peaks, and flower-filled meadows. From Interlaken's adventure sports to the "Top of Europe" at Jungfraujoch, this is where Swiss dreams come to life. Charming villages like Grindelwald and Wengen offer front-row seats to some of the world's most iconic mountain scenery.
Lake Geneva, Montreux, Fribourg, & Gruyères
French-speaking Switzerland reveals its elegant side along Lake Geneva's shores, where Belle Époque grandeur meets world-famous vineyards. Montreux's jazz festival legacy, Gruyères' medieval castle and cheese-making traditions, and the UNESCO-listed Lavaux terraces create a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and lakeside sophistication.
Crans Montana, Sion, Zermatt & The Valais Canton
The Valais is where Switzerland reaches for the sky, home to the iconic Matterhorn and some of Europe's highest peaks. From Zermatt's car-free streets to Crans Montana's sun-soaked terraces and Sion's ancient castles, this region combines world-class skiing, exceptional wines, and that unmistakable Alpine grandeur that defines Switzerland.
Lugano, Bellinzona, & The Ticino Canton
Italian-speaking Ticino feels like Switzerland's Mediterranean secret, where palm trees flourish alongside snow-capped peaks. Lugano's lakeside elegance, Bellinzona's medieval castles, and the region's exceptional cuisine create a uniquely Swiss-Italian experience. Think al fresco dining, crystalline lakes, and a pace that's refreshingly relaxed.
-
As Switzerland borders many countries, there are four national languages spoken - Italian, German, French, and Romansch. English is a language also commonly spoken in major cities and well traveled towns that helps connect travelers speaking the various languages.
-
Here are a few must-have apps when visiting Switzerland:
Citymapper: Great for navigating public transportation in major cities.
Google Maps: Download offline maps for seamless navigation.
Google Translate: Download the languages you need for offline use.
XE Currency Converter: Helps track the exchange rate between euros and your home currency.
Go!: For taxis in some cities in Switzerland
Uber: in major cities in Switzerland
-
The best time to travel to Switzerland depends largely on your interests, whether they lean towards winter sports, summer hiking, or experiencing cultural events. Switzerland offers a wealth of experiences across all seasons, each with its unique attractions and considerations.
Winter (December to February) is ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and winter sports enthusiasts. Towns like Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Davos come alive with a vibrant apres-ski culture.
Spring (March to May) is a great time for those looking to enjoy the scenic beauty without the crowds of peak season. Prices are generally lower, making it a more budget-friendly time to visit.
Summer (June to August) is peak tourist season in the cities and scenic areas like Interlaken and Lucerne, so expect higher prices and more tourists. The weather is warm, though it can be variable, so packing layers is advisable.
Fall (September to November) is an excellent time for hiking and enjoying the outdoors in cooler, more comfortable temperatures. Many wine regions have festivals during this period, and it's also a good time to visit cities as the summer crowds have dispersed. Accommodation prices tend to drop before the winter season starts.
-
Swiss weather can be quite variable, especially in the mountains. Always check local weather forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes, particularly if you're planning outdoor activities.
-
Yes, if you are traveling to Switzerland from another country, you will need a passport. For travelers from most countries, the passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the planned date of departure from the Schengen area. However, some countries have agreements that allow their citizens to enter with a passport that is valid for their intended stay duration.
Additionally, Switzerland is part of the Schengen Agreement, which means travelers from Schengen member states can enter Switzerland with a valid national ID card in some cases. For non-Schengen area travelers, besides having a valid passport, you may also need to obtain a visa, depending on your nationality and the purpose and duration of your stay.
Citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan, among others, do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism, business meetings, or family visits.
-
It’s not required by law, but we always suggest you have travel insurance. There are various services for providing trip insurance, and note that many credit cards (such as Chase Sapphire and AmEx) include travel insurance as part of a trip purchase. Check with your credit card to confirm.
-
If you plan to rent a car in Switzerland and can only drive an automatic, be sure to reserve this well in advance as manual is the most common car type, and automatics are less available. We don’t suggest driving through the country in winter when roads can be icy and shut down. This can also be true for late fall and early spring.
When planning your trip and traveling in one direction, if you are renting a car, be sure to check they have a rental option to your starting and ending destination. It is not advisable to rent one way between countries as fees can be extremely high.
Some towns are car free (for example Zermatt does not allow cars - you will have to park at the nearest train station and train over if you have a car) so you will not be able to drive in them.
Switzerland has tolls and you will need to purchase a toll motorway vignette, or special sticker, when driving if you have not been provided one with your rental car. Here’s a link to more info about getting one.
Landslides are not common but can occur. Small sloughs of rocks can occasionally come off the highway as this is more common in spring when snow is melting and can cause block roads. Avalanches can also occur in the snow-laden seasons as well.
Check any of the places linked here for current traffic and road conditions in Switzerland.
-
Switzerland follows daylight savings and generally a 24-hour clock is used (Military Time). Switzerland is on the Central European Standard. The Time zone in Switzerland (GMT+1) so it is 4 hours behind New York City and 7 hours ahead of Los Angeles.
-
Many smaller shops close midday on Saturdays and Sundays as well as Mondays.
Most shops, museums and restaurants are closed on public holidays. Major holidays are included below and a full list of Swiss holidays can be found here:
January 1 - New Year's Day
April 19 - Good Friday
May 30 - Ascension Day
August 1st - National Day
December 25 - Christmas Day
-
Switzerland boasts one of the world's most efficient and comprehensive public transportation systems, making it incredibly easy to explore the country without a car. The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) forms the backbone of this network, connecting major cities and towns with legendary punctuality and comfort.
Trains are the star of Swiss public transport, with frequent services linking everything from bustling cities like Zurich and Geneva to charming mountain villages. The network includes high-speed intercity trains, regional connections, and those famous scenic routes like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express that transform transportation into sightseeing experiences1.
Buses provide excellent access to smaller towns and villages throughout Switzerland, seamlessly connecting with the rail network1. Many routes venture into areas where trains can't reach, including remote Alpine valleys and traditional farming communities.
Boats and ferries operate across Switzerland's numerous lakes, offering both practical transportation and scenic journeys1. Lake Geneva, Lake Lucerne, and Lake Zurich all feature regular ferry services that are often included in Swiss travel passes.
Urban transportation in major cities includes trams, buses, and metro systems. Zurich operates an extensive tram network, while cities like Basel and Bern offer efficient bus and tram combinations for easy city exploration.
The beauty of Swiss public transport lies in its integration. A single ticket or pass often covers trains, buses, boats, and even some cable cars and funiculars. The Swiss Travel Pass is particularly popular with visitors, providing unlimited travel on most public transportation for set periods, plus discounts on mountain railways and museum entries.
Most importantly, Swiss public transport runs with clockwork precision. Connections are timed to the minute, and delays are rare, making it remarkably stress-free to navigate the country using only public transportation.
Switzerland Travel Etiquette
Understanding local customs and cultural nuances will help you navigate this Alpine paradise like a seasoned traveler. Here's your insider guide to Swiss etiquette and essential travel tips.
-
Respect Swiss Punctuality: Swiss trains, buses, and appointments run with legendary precision. Arrive on time or even a few minutes early for reservations, tours, and social engagements. Being late is considered disrespectful and can impact your entire day's schedule.
Learn Basic Greetings in Local Languages: Switzerland has four official languages depending on the region. A simple "Grüezi" in German-speaking areas, "Bonjour" in French regions, or "Buongiorno" in Ticino shows respect for local culture and often earns you warmer interactions.
Keep Your Voice Down in Public: Swiss culture values quiet, respectful behavior on public transportation and in restaurants. Loud conversations, especially phone calls, are considered impolite. This extends to hotel hallways and mountain railways.
Validate Your Train Tickets: Always validate tickets before boarding trains and trams, even if you purchased them online. Conductors regularly check tickets, and fines for invalid tickets are substantial.
Dress Appropriately for Mountain Weather: Alpine weather changes rapidly. Layer clothing and bring waterproof gear even on sunny days. Many mountain restaurants and cable cars have dress codes that exclude flip-flops and tank tops.
Tip Modestly and Appropriately: Round up restaurant bills to the nearest franc or add 5-10% for exceptional service. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory, as service charges are typically included.
Respect Sunday Quiet Hours: Most shops close on Sundays, and noise restrictions are strictly enforced. Avoid loud activities like laundry, lawn mowing, or playing music. This is deeply ingrained in Swiss culture.
-
Don't Expect Shops to Be Open Late: Many stores close by 6:30 PM on weekdays and remain closed on Sundays. Plan your shopping accordingly, especially in smaller towns where hours can be even more limited.
Don't Jaywalk or Cross Against Lights: Swiss pedestrians wait for walk signals even when no traffic is visible. Jaywalking can result in fines and disapproving looks from locals who take traffic rules seriously.
Don't Assume Everyone Speaks English: While many Swiss speak excellent English, especially in tourist areas, don't assume it's universal. Learning basic phrases in the local language shows respect and often leads to better service.
Don't Be Loud on Public Transportation: Phone conversations, loud music, or boisterous behavior on trains and buses are considered extremely rude. Swiss public transport maintains a library-like atmosphere.
Don't Ignore Recycling Rules: Switzerland has strict recycling regulations with specific days and methods for different materials. Hotels and accommodations will provide guidance, but ignoring these rules can result in fines.
Don't Touch or Feed Wildlife: Mountain animals like marmots and ibex may seem friendly, but feeding them is illegal and dangerous. Maintain respectful distances and never attempt to pet or photograph animals up close.
Don't Expect Bargaining: Swiss prices are fixed, and attempting to negotiate in shops, restaurants, or markets is considered inappropriate. The culture values fair, transparent pricing.
Don't Underestimate Mountain Safety: Weather conditions change rapidly in the Alps. Don't venture into mountains without proper gear, weather updates, and route planning. Mountain rescue services are expensive for unprepared tourists.
Money Matters
-
That depends on the type of trip you’re doing (budget or luxury or adventure or lounging around). However, we suggest budgeting a minimum of $5,000 for a solo traveler from the United States looking to do a week-long midlevel trip as follows: $1,200 for flights, $300/day for lodging, $1,100 for meals for the week, and a few hundred dollars for activities or tours. Of course, these prices will increase or decrease depending on if you’re sharing lodging, if you need a rental car, and what sort of meals and activities you plan.
-
Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in Europe, especially when it comes to meals out. Most restaurants and attractions accept credit cards. Amex is accepted in some places, but not all. And many places are also now accepting contactless payments like Google Pay or Apple Pay as well. Always carry some cash.
-
We recommend you pull out some Swiss Francs at ATMs once you land in Switzerland as opposed to using a currency exchange service at a stateside airport. Keep in mind your bank will most likely charge you a fee so it’s best to pull out the max amount each time you visit an ATM.
-
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted. Just a reminder to let your credit cards know that you will be traveling abroad. Also, keep in mind that many spots in Switzerland will not accept American Express so it is best to always have another type of credit card (ie Visa or Mastercard) in addition to American Express.
-
The monetary unit is the Swiss Franc, abbreviated CHF. Visit https://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/ for the current exchange rate.
-
Tipping is not required throughout Switzerland, nor the norm among Europeans traveling throughout Switzerland in restaurants. For guides, it is not required however 5-10% if you feel so inclined would be customary among travelers.
Health & Safety
-
Switzerland is widely recognized for its strong environmental policies, commitment to sustainability, and high quality of life. The country has implemented rigorous measures to protect its natural landscapes, air, and water quality, making significant efforts to reduce pollution levels. However, like any country, it faces environmental challenges.
-
Switzerland has varying landscapes from lakes to high mountain peaks. Altitude sickness is a real possibility when exploring the latter. Travelers going by plane from sea level to high elevations may suddenly experience shortness of breath, fatigue, headaches,nausea, and other symptoms resembling the flu. This condition, called acute mountain sickness (AMS) , is the most common type of altitude sickness. The best ways to deal with it are to stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and rest.
General Travel Safety
-
Switzerland is considered one of the safest countries in the world for travelers. Its low crime rate, high standard of living, and well-maintained infrastructure contribute to a secure environment for both residents and visitors. However, like anywhere, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take standard safety precautions.
-
Traveling alone in Switzerland is not only feasible but can also be a highly rewarding experience. The country's reputation for safety, coupled with its efficient public transportation system and the widespread use of English, makes it an excellent destination for solo travelers.
-
The local emergency number in Switzerland is 112. Dial it in case of any emergency.
Still Have Questions About Switzerland?
We're here to share our expertise, no strings attached.
Whether you're wondering about the best time to visit for fewer crowds, curious about train pass options, or trying to figure out if Switzerland fits your budget, we love talking about all things Alpine. We're happy to share our knowledge and help you think through your Switzerland vacation, even if you're just in the early dreaming stages.