DK Travel - DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Switzerland

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t The crystalline River Limmat bisecting Zrich

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t Edelweiss blooming across Les Pliades, Vaud.

Forget yodelling, cheese, cuckoo clocks and chocolate, this country has so much more to offer. Magnificent natural beauty, charming medieval villages, cosmopolitan cities and a healthy dose of alpine air Switzerlands small size belies its beguiling charms. The varied scene is coloured by a fascinating history and the unique mix of four official languages only add to the appeal. Whatever your dream trip to Switzerland includes, this DK Eyewitness Travel Guide is your perfect companion.

Once a group of independent cantons, the Swiss Confederation has come along way since its foundation in 1291. Todays federal state is an intriguing blend of different customs, languages and dialects, lending the country a rich heritage. The years myriad traditional festivals, where alphorn players and Swiss wrestlers take centre stage, are woven into the countrys cultural tapestry. And there are stunning historic landmarks to explore across the land, from the castles of Bellinzona in the south to St Gallens abbey quarter in the north. As much as it is rooted in the past, Switzerland looks to the future, with cutting-edge nightlife in Zrich, world-class art galleries in Basel and superb fine dining across the country from Geneva to St Moritz.

Away from its buzzing cities, Switzerland is a land of the great outdoors, and the countrys network of hiking, biking and skiing trails is as well organized as its public transport system. In a single day, you can encounter breathtaking glaciers, high altitude lakes and iconic mountains, and be back in time for fondue and schnapps.

With so many different things to experience, Switzerland can seem overwhelming. Weve broken the country down into easily navigable chapters, with detailed itineraries, expert local knowledge and colourful, comprehensive maps to help you plan the perfect visit. Whether youre staying for a weekend, a week or longer, this Eyewitness guide will ensure that you see the very best Switzerland has to offer. Enjoy the book, and enjoy Switzerland

A warmly lit train passing the iconic Matterhorn.

Charlie Chaplin statue, overlooking Lake Geneva.

Evening in buzzy Zrich West.

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Small in size but big on experiences, Switzerland is awash with fascinating sights, exhilarating activities and intriguing traditions, presented in one remarkably beautiful package. Here, we pick some of our favourites.

t A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Swiss capitals medieval Old Town is a real beauty. Its charming lauben (covered walkways) shelter independent boutiques, little cafs and buzzing bars hidden beneath .

Discover Reasons to Love Switzerland

t Part of the fun of travelling around Switzerland is the journey itself. The countrys rail routes are truly extraordinary, both as feats of and for the incredible scenery they pass through.

Discover Reasons to Love Switzerland

Rural traditions

t From Schwingen (wrestling) to Hornussen (a combination of golf and baseball), via cowbell ringing and alphorn playing, the past is still very much a part of modern .

Discover Reasons to Love Switzerland

Lake Life

t Despite being a landlocked country, Switzerlands myriad lakes mean getting near the water is always easy. Lakeside beaches throng all summer with sunbathers and swimmers, while quiet hiking trails lead to remote alpine lagoons.

Discover Reasons to Love Switzerland

Sledging in the Jungfrau