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7 Unmissable Experiences for Your First Trip to Switzerland (Part 1)

Switzerland has become a dream destination for many, with its snow-capped peaks, quaint towns, serene lakes, and scenic trains. For busy professionals, it offers an ideal getaway to unwind. But with so much to see and do, how should you explore Switzerland? What attractions are worth visiting? What unique experiences should you try? And what local delicacies should you taste? This guide is perfect for those planning a trip to Switzerland, giving you a deeper understanding of this enchanting country in advance!

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1. Dear Traveler, the Train is About to Arrive

The best way to travel in Switzerland is not by car but with a rail pass that allows you to journey freely through snowy mountains, lush meadows, and crystal-clear lakes—all while soaking in breathtaking scenery from your seat.

If you’ve heard of Switzerland, you’ve likely come across this iconic phrase: “Smart travelers take Swiss trains.”

This is because Switzerland’s train network is extensive and incredibly convenient, connecting even the most remote destinations—including snowy peaks—with ease. Riding a train in Switzerland is as simple as hopping on a city bus!

Switzerland also boasts a series of panoramic trains that take you through its most iconic landscapes:

GoldenPass Line: Connects stunning lakes such as Lake Geneva, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and Lake Lucerne, combining them into one scenic route.

Glacier Express: Known as one of the top 10 luxury trains in the world and the slowest express train, it travels at an average speed of just 30 km/h. The 7.5-hour journey crosses 291 bridges, 91 tunnels, and the 2,033-meter Oberalp Pass, offering unparalleled views of icy wonders.

Bernina Express: Links central Switzerland with northern Italy, passing through 55 tunnels, 196 bridges, and gradients as steep as 70%. The route is so breathtaking that the section from Thusis to Tirano is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as the Rhaetian Railway.

Traveling independently allows you the freedom to truly immerse yourself in the Swiss way of life, beyond just snapping photos at tourist spots. This autumn or winter, live like a local in Switzerland.

2. The Alps: Beauty at Every Step

The movie Heidi beautifully captures the charm of the Swiss Alps, leaving many of us yearning to live in a cozy wooden cabin nestled amidst these majestic mountains.

Among the many peaks of the Alps, Jungfrau is hailed as the “Queen of the Alps.” Its summit is often veiled in mist, giving it a shy, mysterious allure. Lonely Planet describes it as “scenic at every step.” Take the cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe, and enjoy the winding journey with panoramic views of the mountain through the train’s large windows.

At the top, the Sphinx Observatory offers 360-degree views of a stunning snowy wonderland. Another highlight, Mount Titlis, is famous for its glacier and crevasses. Its rotating cable car—the first of its kind—gives you a 360-degree view of the surrounding beauty.

For skiing enthusiasts, Engelberg, located on Mount Titlis, is one of Switzerland’s top 10 ski resorts, attracting visitors worldwide every winter. In Switzerland, skiing is a skill everyone, young or old, seems to master.

Then there’s the iconic Matterhorn, known as the “King of the Mountains.” Its sharp, pyramid-shaped peak towers into the sky, reflecting golden hues at sunrise and sunset. This peak is also the inspiration for the triangular shape of Toblerone chocolate.

3. Zermatt: The Car-Free Haven

Nestled between the Matterhorn and surrounding valleys, the charming town of Zermatt is the gateway to this legendary peak. To preserve the pristine mountain air, fuel-powered cars are banned here. Visitors must take the train, and local transport is limited to electric buses and horse-drawn carriages.

Zermatt’s air has been compared to Evian’s spring water, pure and invigorating. Strolling through the town’s streets, you’ll find flower-adorned wooden houses that exude a warm and welcoming charm.

Sitting in a café or enjoying a drink here offers an unparalleled sense of contentment. Alongside the Matter Vispa River, the open views make it one of the best spots to witness the sunrise over the Matterhorn.

Zermatt is also a world-class skiing destination, boasting the second-largest vertical drop globally, with a total vertical range of 2,200 meters. Its ski slopes stretch over 245 km, with most catering to intermediate and advanced skiers. Skiing down the slopes next to the Matterhorn is a lifelong dream for many snow sports enthusiasts.

Stay tuned for the next chapter of this guide, covering even more must-see Swiss experiences!