Mountains, valleys and culture in the pearl of the Alps
Welcome to Switzerland, where we can offer train travel and hiking in perhaps the most impressive country in the Alps.
Switzerland is without a doubt Europe’s number one mountain country and is thus a paradise for nature lovers, whether you prefer to enjoy the magnificent peaks on foot and with sweat on your forehead or in the peace and quiet of a comfortable train.
Switzerland offers endless opportunities to explore the wild nature – go to Switzerland with Tourist Travel, and experience the pearl in the middle of Europe.
It’s hard not to lose your lower jaw when you face Swiss nature for the first time. The impressive landscape is characterized by the Alps, which occupy more than half of the country’s area. You will therefore experience an abundance of mineral lakes, waterfalls and snow-capped mountain peaks.
But Switzerland does not only offer nature; here is also full of cultural and historical experiences in the small villages that, among other things, characterize the Mattertal Valley. With Tourist Travel, you can choose from a range of train journeys that let you glide effortlessly through the breathtaking landscape, while giving you the opportunity to explore Swiss culture.
Weather and climate in Switzerland
The climate in Switzerland is greatly affected by the Alps, which means that large regional weather differences can occur. South of the Alps, the country can reach almost Mediterranean weather conditions with sunny days from early spring to late autumn. In the Alps, on the other hand, the weather can change quickly and at times be characterized by precipitation and wind.
In terms of temperature, Switzerland is reminiscent of Northern Europe. In the summer months, the country reaches an average of 24-26 degrees, while the winter months reach temperatures close to zero. Therefore, Switzerland is perfect for both nature-rich experiences in the summer period and ski holidays in the winter period. The country may be characterized by precipitation from time to time, but there are often short showers that diminish rapidly.
You must experience this in Switzerland
Pilatus Bahn
It’s hard to believe your own eyes when you first see pictures of the Pilatus Bahn. Pilatus Bahn is the world’s steepest railway, which stretches from Alpnachstad to Pilatus Kulm. It is an experience you must not deceive yourself for.
The trip lasts about 30 minutes, where you get the opportunity to enjoy impressive mountain formations, and a view that is difficult to compete with. As the world’s steepest railway, you will experience a slope of 46% at the steepest point.
The railway has been in operation since 1889 and uses a special system called Locher that can handle slopes up to 50%. Pilatus Bahn is today the only public railway using that system.
Lauterbrunnen valley
When traveling to Switzerland, do not deceive yourself into visiting the Lauterbrunnen Valley. The valley is known for its almost adventurous landscape, which is distinguished by the 72 waterfalls that cascade down its many steep mountain sides.
In the middle of the valley lies the small town of Lauterbrunnen, which is a perfect base for exploring the surrounding villages. Here you will find, among other things, Grütschalp, Mürren and Stechelberg, which can be reached by train, cable cars or hikes.
The valley is not only loved for its nature – the variegated landscape makes it extremely attractive for sports enthusiasts who want to get involved in river rafting, mountain climbing or mountain biking.
Schilthorn
From Lauterbrunnen Dalen via the town of Stechelberg you can reach Schilthorn in just 30 minutes, which is an impressive mountain peak in the Western Alps. The mountain top is 2970 meters high and offers a panoramic view of, among other things, the city of Mürren.
At the top of the mountain you will find the revolving restaurant, Piz Gloria, which was the first of its kind in the world. The restaurant rotates 360 degrees in just 45 minutes, and is therefore a popular way to enjoy the breathtaking views of a bite to eat.
The mountain top can only be reached by cable car, all of which are based in the city of Mürre, and from here you can choose different routes. We especially recommend the Stechelberg route, which offers a fantastic view all the way up.
Mattertal Dalen
In the Mattertal Valley you will find the largest concentration of high mountain peaks in the Alps. This is also where you will encounter the Matterhorn, which is popularly referred to as the world’s most beautiful mountain. Mattertal The valley offers a breathtaking nature with small streams, snow-capped mountain peaks and wide grasslands – also known as “mats”, which have given name to the valley.
In the Mattertal Valley you will find, among other things, the town of Zermatt, which is one of the most famous mountain towns in Switzerland. It is easy to move around the valley with means of transport such as cable cars, and you can therefore easily visit the less populated villages.
If you want to get started with mountaineering, the Mattertal Valley has over 100 mountain peaks. You can advantageously hire a mountaineer who can guide you around the hilly landscape and up to the best panoramic views.
Cities to experience in Switzerland
Lucerne
At the foot of Mount Pilatus lies the city of Lucerne, which is believed to be one of Switzerland’s most beautiful cities. The city is especially known for its views of the green Lucerne lake, which is often characterized by white swans and sailors.
Here you can explore the perfectly preserved Altstadt (Old Town) or take a ride on the world’s steepest railway, the Pilatus Bahn.
Zermatt
Zermatt is one of the most recognized mountain towns in Switzerland. The city is especially known for its connection to the Matterhorn mountain, which is often referred to as the world’s most beautiful mountain.
Zermatt is surrounded by mountain peaks, making the city a mecca for mountaineers. Here there is plenty of opportunity to get around with cable cars, but if you are adventurous you can hire a mountaineer to follow to the top with the panoramic views.
Chur
Chur is Switzerland’s oldest city, which has been inhabited since 3000 BC, and is therefore a true historical and artistic experience.
The city is known for its historic buildings, medieval houses and ancient cathedrals, which can be explored in its Altstadt, which is car-free. The city is located between a wealth of natural gems, including a gorge that the locals call the Swiss Grand Canyon.
Types of travel in Switzerland
Cultural trips in Switzerland
Switzerland is not only rich in breathtaking nature, but also has a wealth of cultural experiences that you must not deceive yourself about. Cultural trips to Switzerland take you past some of the most valued villages that have managed to retain their original character.
Train travel in Switzerland
With train travel through Switzerland, you get the opportunity to experience a number of the country’s most beautiful highlights. The train journeys combine panoramic views of Switzerland’s adventurous nature with historical and cultural experiences. Treat yourself to a hike in the mountain landscape on trips to Switzerland.