Switzerland Things to Do : Tours, Top Attractions & Local Recommendations

May 11, 2012

Hiking the Simplon Pass in Switzerland

Wending its way through the Alps between the villages of Brig and Valais, the Simplon Pass is home to stunning mountain views and historical structures offering both public and private residences.

The original road through this high mountain pass was originally constructed at the behest of Napoleon during the first years of the 19th century during the period of occupation. Since that time, numerous improvements have been undertaken, including several avalanche shelters and an iconic sculpture of an eagle designed by the Swiss architect and sculptor Erwin Friedrich Baumann in the early 1940s. Today, the pass is one of the few high alpine routes that remain open year-round.

Notte Bianca in Roma. Photo courtesy of bluviolin via Flickr.

April 27, 2012

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Celebrating White Night in Locarno

If you happen to be in Locarno on May 12, count yourself lucky, as the town goes into a frenzy for Notte Bianca, or white night. Watch as the town opens up with events at every turn with up-tempo parties all over the place, concerts in the open air, as well as a wide selection of exhibits and museums to go see.

April 13, 2012

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Traveling by Train in Switzerland

The public transport system in Switzerland is one of the great added perks of visiting the country. With modern train cars and renowned punctuality, the typical hubbub and foul experiences of riding on board trains is transformed into a lovely and memorable way to soak in the spectacular Swiss countryside.

March 29, 2012

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Lake Activities in Switzerland

Switzerland is known for breathtaking views, and Lake Hallwil and its surrounds have a lot to offer tourists looking to soak up some stunning scenery, Swiss culture, and recreation at prices that can be relatively affordable. Zoning restrictions have prevented construction along the banks of the lake, leaving it, and the lovely countryside around it, unmarred by entrepreneurs more interested in turning a profit than preserving the views. Many couples in search of a romantic setting come to Meisterschwanden on the lake’s eastern shore for no other reason than to take in the sunset. That said, there is a great deal more to do and see in and around the lake. The following are a few that come highly recommended.

March 16, 2012

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Augusta Raurica

For six centuries, Switzerland was part of the Roman Empire and several ruins from Roman settlements still remain today. Along with an accompanying Roman castle, the restored ruins and open-air theatre/museum of Augusta Raurica are listed on the Swiss Inventory of Cultural Property of National and Regional Significance.

Situated on the south bank of the Rhine near the villages of Augst and Kaiseraugst, Augusta is the oldest known Roman settlement in the region. Visitors interested in taking in the former colony should set aside a full day at a minimum, as the site consists of a full scale Roman theatre (home to an annual summer festival that is attended by tens of thousands), a museum with a collection including more than a million artifacts, an animal park wherein ancient Roman practices of animal husbandry are still practiced, and a fully restored example of a working Roman home complete with period-specific décor.

March 2, 2012

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Riding the Centovalli Railway

Situated on the Swiss-Italian border, the so-called “hundred valleys” train line known as the Centovalli Railway is an excellent bet for a day trip or weekend excursion. The trip to Locarno on Lake Maggiore from Domodossola in Italy is among the most memorable and picturesque means of entering Switzerland. During the trip (a minimum of two hours each way), you’ll see beautiful chestnut forests, jagged cliffs and gorges, rushing waterfalls, vineyards, monasteries and quaint villages. What you won’t see are the spectacular bridges that make passage along the vertiginous route possible, but then, you can’t have everything.