swiss travel mart 2022

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IOANNIS Restaurant

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Learn more about Swiss Destinations, Services, Products and Expert Opinions on the Swiss Market. You’ll find the latest News regarding your favourite topic in one of Switzerland’s most significant and exciting industries, Tourism and Travel. Issues such as Sustainability, Marketing Education, Wellness and much more!

A Record-Breaking Summer Season of Inbound Tourism in Europe

Top 10 Riskiest Travel Destinations for Online Scams Revealed

Discovering the Beauty of Spring Blossoms in Zurich and around

A Glimpse into the Future of International Travel

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Switzerland Travel Mart - Luxury Edition 2022, Gstaad.

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Travel & Tourism - Switzerland

• Switzerland
• Switzerland is expected to witness a rise in revenue in the Travel & Tourism market in the coming years.
• By 2024, the projected revenue in the market is expected to reach US$5,777.00m.
• Furthermore, it is predicted that the market will grow at an annual growth rate (CAGR 2024-2029) of 1.29%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$6,159.00m by 2029.
• Among the markets, Hotels are expected to have the largest share with a projected market volume of US$3,203.00m by 2024.
• Additionally, the number of users in Hotels is expected to reach 6.92m users by 2029 with a user penetration rate of 82.7% by 2024, which is expected to increase to 90.0% by 2029.
• The average revenue per user (ARPU) is expected to be US$0.79k.
• In the Travel & Tourism market, it is projected that 82% of total revenue will be generated through online sales by 2029.
• It is noteworthy that in global comparison, United States is expected to generate the most revenue, with a projected revenue of US$214bn in 2024.
• Switzerland's Travel & Tourism market is renowned for its high-end offerings, including luxury hotels, spa retreats, and ski resorts.

Key regions: Malaysia , Europe , Singapore , Vietnam , United States

Definition:

The Travel & Tourism market encompasses a diverse range of accommodation services catering to the needs and preferences of travelers. This dynamic market includes package holidays, hotel accommodations, private vacation rentals, camping experiences, and cruises.

The market consists of five further markets.

• The Cruises market covers multi-day vacation trips on a cruise ship. The Cruises market encompasses exclusively passenger ticket revenues.
• The Vacation Rentals market comprises of private accommodation bookings which includes private holiday homes and houses as well as short-term rental of private rooms or flats.
• The Hotels market includes stays in hotels and professionally run guest houses.
• The Package Holidays market comprises of travel deals that normally contain travel and accommodation sold for one price, although optional further provisions can be included such as catering and tourist services.
• The Camping market includes bookings at camping sites for pitches using tents, campervans, or trailers. These can be associated with big chains or privately managed campsites.

Additional Information:

The main performance indicators of the Travel & Tourism market are revenues, average revenue per user (ARPU), users and user penetration rates. Additionally, online and offline sales channel shares display the distribution of online and offline bookings. The ARPU refers to the average revenue one user generates per year while the revenue represents the total booking volume. Revenues are generated through both online and offline sales channels and include exclusively B2C revenues and users for the above-mentioned markets. Users represent the aggregated number of guests. Each user is only counted once per year. Additional definitions for each market can be found within the respective market pages.

The booking volume includes all booked travels made by users from the selected region, independent of the departure and arrival. The scope includes domestic and outbound travel.

Prominent players in this sector include online travel agencies (OTAs) like Expedia and Opodo, as well as tour operators such as TUI. Specialized platforms like Hotels.com, Booking.com, and Airbnb facilitate the online booking of hotels and private accommodations, contributing significantly to the market's vibrancy.

For further information on the data displayed, refer to the info button right next to each box.

• Bookings directly via the website of the service provider, travel agencies, online travel agencies (OTAs) or telephone

out-of-scope

• Business trips
• Other forms of trips (e.g. excursions, etc.)

Travel & Tourism

• Vacation Rentals
• Package Holidays
• Analyst Opinion

Switzerland, known for its picturesque landscapes, charming cities, and high quality of life, has been experiencing notable developments in its Travel & Tourism market. Customer preferences: Travelers in Switzerland are increasingly seeking unique and authentic experiences, moving away from traditional tourist attractions to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. There is a growing interest in sustainable and eco-friendly tourism practices, with visitors showing a preference for environmentally conscious accommodations and activities. Trends in the market: One prominent trend in the Swiss Travel & Tourism market is the rise of adventure tourism. The country's diverse terrain offers opportunities for activities such as hiking, skiing, and paragliding, attracting thrill-seeking travelers from around the world. Additionally, wellness tourism is gaining popularity, with a focus on relaxation, rejuvenation, and holistic well-being. Local special circumstances: Switzerland's reputation for safety, cleanliness, and efficiency contributes to its appeal as a travel destination. The country's well-developed infrastructure, including an extensive public transportation network and world-class hospitality services, enhances the overall travel experience for visitors. Furthermore, Switzerland's multicultural heritage and vibrant arts scene offer a rich cultural experience for tourists. Underlying macroeconomic factors: The stability of Switzerland's economy and its strong currency make it an attractive destination for international travelers. The country's high standard of living and quality healthcare system provide a sense of security for tourists, contributing to a positive perception of Switzerland as a safe and reliable travel destination. Additionally, Switzerland's strategic location in the heart of Europe makes it easily accessible for travelers from neighboring countries, further boosting its appeal in the Travel & Tourism market.

• Methodology

Data coverage:

Modeling approach:

Additional notes:

• Sales Channels
• Travel Behavior
• Destination Shares
• User Demographics
• Global Comparison
• Key Market Indicators

Travel & Tourism in Switzerland (2023)

Unlock hidden opportunities in the Travel and Tourism industry

Published: May 23, 2024 Report Code: GDTTCS-22-52-MP-L5

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• Report Overview

Table of Contents

Methodology.

Discover untapped potential in the Travel & Tourism industry with our Travel & Tourism in Switzerland (2023) report and make more profitable business decisions.

GlobalData’s country series report titled ‘Travel & Tourism in Switzerland (2023)’ provides a wealth of key data for the travel & tourism sector in Switzerland. The data in this report includes demands & flows data on domestic travel, international arrivals and departures. Additionally, data is provided on traveler spending patterns, the airlines, hotels, car rental, and travel intermediaries sectors. The report also identifies the key themes impacting the tourism industry.

• Assess and seize new business opportunities in the current landscape of Switzerland’s travel and tourism sector.
• Future-proof your strategies by utilising historical and projected performance data from specific market segments that shape the industry.
• Effectively plan and allocate resources in response to evolving tourism behaviours, fostering sustainable growth.

Reasons to Buy

Uncover comprehensive data on the patterns and trends of travel within Switzerland. Dive into information related to travel destinations, purposes, and preferences of domestic tourists.

Capitalise on business opportunities by understanding how travellers allocate their expenditures based on their spending habits on accommodation, transportation, food, and other expenses.

Access data on inbound tourists arriving in Switzerland and outbound trips made by residents. This section includes popular destinations, factors driving these travel trends, and visitor demographics.

Understand occupancy rates for hotels, load factors for airlines, car rental trends, and the role of travel intermediaries in facilitating bookings and reservations.

Identify opportunities within the market and tailor your strategies to target specific customer groups in the travel and tourism industry of Switzerland.

Leverage historical and projected performance data to gauge the trajectory of the industry. Study how it has evolved over time and determine what can be expected in the future to enhance your strategies.

Key Players

Definitions & Research Methodology

Frequently asked questions

All the above details are then collated to build the end deliverable in an easy to consume format.

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Switzerland Travel Mart 2019

An additional 320,000 hotel overnight stays are triggered by the most important sales event of the domestic tourism industry.

“Speed Dating” at the Switzerland Travel Mart in Lucerne.

Find out more about:

Suggested reading

Maintaining relationships with tour operators is vital, particularly in the long-haul markets.

Speed dating concept Far in excess of 17 , 000 1-on-1 meetings took place at STM 2019. The purpose of speed dating is to quickly and informatively introduce buyers to the tourism options available in Switzerland or to maintain existing contacts between Swiss suppliers and buyers. The 360   Swiss tourism providers at this year’s event included 146   hoteliers – more than ever before. The Central Switzerland and Lake Geneva regions were the largest delegations in Lucerne with 52 and 36   providers respectively.

The STM is one of the most important key account measures of ST. The worldwide cumulative turnover of the 460   participating buyers is around CHF   28   billion. The turnover for Switzerland alone is CHF   400   million. In addition, the numerous meetings also trigger 320 , 000 additional hotel overnight stays in Switzerland.

Read other stories

The Switzerland Tourism Organisation

The national marketing organisation aims to grow demand for Switzerland as a travel and convention destination domestically and worldwide as part of its federal mandate.

Overnight hotel stays 2019

More overnights than in 2019 have never been registered in Switzerland.

Global marketing report

In 22 markets a total of 33 regional offices ensure the country-specific adaptation of Switzerland Tourism’s marketing campaigns.

In focus 2019

The digital gateway to Switzerland

The new MySwitzerland.com website focuses even more on user needs. This has proven successful.

Media focus on meetings

The meetings sector received a great deal of media attention as a result of the incentive trip of Jeunesse Global and the new “Destination Weddings” visitor segment.

Hiking to fight stress

A new hiking study shows that people find they can relax while hiking.

Wine tourism

Switzerland is only known as a wine destination among connoisseurs. The aim is to change this.

What German visitors want

Attracting price-conscious guests from Germany to visit Switzerland. Jörg Peter Krebs, Market Manager Germany, explains what it entails.

This is the Annual Report 2019. You will find the Annual Report 2023 here .

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• Mountain excursions included: Rigi, Stanserhorn and Stoos
• Discount of up to 50% on other mountain excursions
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With the Swiss Family Card, children aged at least 6 and under 16 travel free of charge when accompanied by a parent with a valid Swiss Travel Pass. 

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Prices effective until 31.12.2024. Prices and product specifications subject to change.

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Swiss travel pass flex youth., important information about the swiss travel pass..

• The Swiss Travel Pass has been developed for guests from abroad. It is available to persons permanently resident outside Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein.
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• For online purchasing, purchase as a “guest”. You do not need a login.
• The Swiss Travel Pass and the Swiss Family Card cannot be loaded onto a SwissPass card. You will not receive a customer number or an additional card.
• Children aged under 6 travel free. 

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9 Christmas Markets along the Grand Train Tour It’s back – the most beautiful time of the year: snow-clad hills, frozen lakes and festively lit Christmas markets. Many of them are located right next to or directly in railway stations: perfect companions of public transport.

Zurich the most elegant of christmas trees.

21 Nov – 24 Dec 2019

No fewer than 7,000 Swarovski crystals adorn the 15-metre high Christmas tree in the great hall of Zurich main station. Surrounded by 150 market stalls, it is a striking highlight. The Christmas experience starts right at arrival: The moment visitors step off the train they are greeted by the sweet fragrance of spiced hot wine punch and cinnamon. The perfect start for travellers of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland.

Lucerne Glamorous Advent wreath with meter-high candles

05 – 22 Dec 2019

Every year, Lucerne welcomes the return of its "Lozärner Weihnachtsmärt" Christmas market on Franziskanerplatz. Its canopy of twinkling Christmas stars and the fragrance of gingerbread and spices, punch and mulled wine attract all ages to its stalls. On top of the Franciscan Well at the centre of the square the signature feature of the market is glowing: a huge Advent wreath, adorned with hundreds of lights and baubles and four metre-high candles. And there’s a very special service: at the wrapping booth you can have your shopping items gift-wrapped and turned into beautiful presents – for free!

Interlaken The most heavenly Christmas experience.

14 – 22 Dec 2019

Along the GoldenPass Line from Lucerne to Montreux, a stop over in Interlaken is well worth it. A truly heavenly Christmas experience awaits those who wish to enjoy the time before Christmas with all their senses. The visit to the Christmas market can be combined not only with Christmas shopping but also with ice-skating on the “Top of Europe Ice Magic Interlaken” ice rink – where fun for young and old is guaranteed!

Montreux Plenty of glamour and flying lights.

At Zweisimmen, the GoldenPass Panoramic or Belle Époque starts in the direction of the French-speaking Swiss region. Shortly before arriving at its destination, a fantastic view onto glistening Lake Geneva unfolds. And for those who look closely, the lights of Montreux’s most beautiful Christmas market are already visible. Only a few walking minutes from the station, the market impresses visitors with a glamorous 3D light show illuminating the entire façade of the Fairmont Le Montreux palace. Its location near the lake lends a very special, warm and festive atmosphere to the market. Each year, countless “flying lights” float on the lake. This one is not to be missed – whether from the lake promenade or by boat.

Zermatt Charm around the Matterhorn.

01 Dec 2019: Christmas tree inauguration 12 Dec 2019: Façade lighting of Hotel Mont Cervin Palace

Leaving Montreux, the train passes by Martigny as well as the famous Stocker Palace in the Rhonetal Valley and drives through Switzerland’s deepest-incised valley, the Nicolaital Valley. After a train ride of roughly two-and-a-half hours, the passengers of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland arrive in fashionable Zermatt. Countless lights turn the station square into a festive colour spectacle and make for a warm welcome – against the backdrop of the world famous Matterhorn, which is visible from every point in the village.

St. Moritz In style: Christmas mood and winter ambiance.

04 Dec 2019

The Glacier Express, the slowest express train in the world, takes passengers across the Oberalp Pass towards the Engadine. In the glittering village centre of St. Moritz, the “Delightful Christmas Market” offers cheerful Christmas mood and winter ambiance. Local producers place great value on the highest quality and an appealing range of products. Also, a Christmas stroll along the decorated shopping mile is certainly a must.

Lugano Mulled wine and other delicacies.

30 Nov 2019 – 06 Jan 2020

During the winter months, the journey continues on the Palm Express. The PostBus ride is rich in contrasts and leads from St. Moritz down the Bregaglia Valley to the urban and cultural centre of Lugano in Ticino. On the Piazza Riforma, not far from the train station, the local residents celebrate the Christmas period. During this time, the city centre turns into a brightly lit village with stalls, musical performances and booths offering delicious spiced hot wine punch. Travellers shouldn’t miss the stop over in the only Italian-speaking city on the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland for the world.

St. Gallen Switzerland’s stellar city.

28 Nov – 24 Dec 2019

The Voralpen-Express takes guests from Lucerne to St. Gallen, a city steeped in tradition. Each Advent, St. Gallen turns into the most atmospheric “Schweizer Sternenstadt” (starry city). No fewer than 700 stars sparkle over the squares and lanes and wrap the historic facades of the UNESCO World Heritage city in festive splendour. The atmosphere in the cheerfully decorated alleys of the old town makes the period before Christmas in St. Gallen a truly special experience.

Schaffhausen Small but excellent.

Schaffhausen.

14 – 15 Dec 2019

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland continues along the Rhine back to Zurich. A stop over in Schaffhausen counts as a must. The traditional Christmas market is located in and around the over 800-year-old cloister of the monastery “zu Allerheiligen” (All Hallows) – only a few walking minutes from the train station Schaffhausen. At this small, exclusive market, a handpicked selection of exhibitors offer products that are all connected to Christmas. Whoever is still looking for Christmas decoration or a suitable present: this is the place to go.

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Festive Holiday Guide: Montreux Christmas Market in Switzerland!

• December 2, 2022

The Montreux Christmas market is arguably one of the best and the prettiest christmas market you can visit in Switzerland!

Every November to December, it takes place right by the city’s lakeside and offers an array of treats and activities for all ages.

With its beautiful twinkling lights, wooden stalls selling the most delicious treat and exquisite ornaments, it’s no wander why people from all over flock here to join the merriment of the season. Not exaggerating here, but a mere visit to the Montreux Christmas market can spark the Christmas spirit even in the most Scrooge-like visitors!!

Table of Contents

Where is Montreux Christmas Market?

Located along the shores of Lake Léman with its snow-capped mountain backdrops, Montreux is a city located in French-speaking Switzerland.

How to get to Montreux Christmas Market

Montreux is well-connected by train to major cities, and is less than an hour away from Geneva and Lausanne.

Unlike the ones in other parts of Switzerland such Zurich, Basel and Lucerne (typically made up of multiple smaller christmas markets), the Montreux Christmas Market is essentially one single main market that snakes along the city’s lakeside promenade.

By foot: To get to the Montreux Christmas Market, come down from the escalator right outside Montreux train station and cross the zebra crossing. You will see a flight of stairs with the festive sign which marks the start of the Christmas market. You can choose to head eastwards towards the Place du Marché. This is where you will find the Freddie Mercury Statue, the Ferris Wheel. Otherwise, turn right or westwards where you will find the long stretch of stalls.

If you want to take public transport, take bus 201 towards “Rennaz, Village” and alight at “Montreux, Marché”.

Montreux Christmas Market Opening Hours

When does the Montreux Christmas market start?

For 2022, the Montreux Christmas market starts on 18 November and ends on 24 December.

Is the Montreux Christmas market open on Sunday?

Yes, it is open on Sunday, and closes at 10pm.

Is the Montreux Christmas market till open after Christmas?

Unfortunately, no. 24 December is the last day of the Montreux Christmas Market! I had visited it last year on the very last day the 24th, and by then, most of the shops are already preparing to close or are vacated already.

My advice is to come latest by 21 or 22 December so you catch the market at its prime beauty.

Hours for the Montreux Christmas Market

You should take note that the hours for the Montreux Christmas market varies vary for the food and beverage booths and the artisanal booths. Check the Montreux Noël website for full details.

Where to stay in Montreux, Switzerland

In terms of where to stay in Montreux during Christmas, I will pick the Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic in a heartbeat. I stayed there during my last trip to Montreux in April and fell in love with it. There’s two main reasons why I would wholeheartedly recommend this accommodation: One, it is literally RIGHT NEXT to the christmas market entrance, you can’t find any location any closer than this!

Secondly, to have the views of the lake and the christmas market scenes right in front of your balcony sounds like a holiday dream come true!

• Budget:  L a Rouvenaz
• Mid-Range:  Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic
• Luxury:   Fairmont Le Montreux Palace

What to do at Montreux Christmas Market

Visit the market, duh.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Montreux Noël (@montreuxnoel)

The yuletide cheer is found in the lakeside christmas market.

Take your time to stroll under a canopy of twinkling lights while being inspired by different goods and ornaments sold by over 170 artisans and traders. You’ll find exquisite handicrafts and jewelleries, christmas decorations and wooden figurines for your homes, scented bath bombs and candles…just to name a few things!

Each stall is lavishly decorated and adds on to the festive, convivial atmosphere., even if you’d bought nothing, the experience itself is worth the time!

Flying Santa

Fairy tales do exist…in Montreux! One of the most enchanting highlights of the Montreux Christmas Market is the Flying Santa Claus. Every hour, market-goers can catch Santa as he gets pulled by flies across the sky on his fireworks-spewing sleigh! From above, he will shout out greetings, play on his guitar and sing christmas songs everyday until Christmas Eve.

This is a sight that would take one back to their childhood, and is certainly not to be missed!

You can catch the Flying Santa Claus daily at the lakeside promenade, between the Lumberjack Village and the Place du Marché.

Time: Daily at 5pm, 6pm and 7pm, plus 4pm on Saturdays.

Giant Ferris Wheel

Enjoy a view of Montreux and the surrounding lake and mountains from the top! While I didn’t take the ride up, the Ferris Wheel looks equally spectacular from the ground with its ever-changing lights.

On the Market Place, the Ferris wheel takes visitors high above the illuminations and enjoy a breath-taking view of the lake and the mountains. It costs 8 CHF for adults and 5 CHF for kids.

Eat at the Market Hall

If you’re feeling peckish, then head into the main festive market hall where there are dozens of stalls selling hot food and snacks. If you’re tired from all the walking, luckily enough there are tables and chairs inside for you to dine inside and also get some respite from the cold.

La Redoute House of Wishes

While you are at the market hall, don’t forget to make a wish at the famous House of Wishes of La Redoute! With over 12,000 wishes sent in last year, Santa has decided to extend the wishlist to 2022! Simply enter and leave your wish message. I took a little peak at what others had written and saw quite a myriad of wishes from simple ones for good health and happiness, to others wishing for a Hermes bag or a vacation to see the nothern lights, haha!

Depending on whether you are naughty or nice…your wish might actually just come true!  You can also send in a virtual wish here .

What to eat at Montreux Christmas Market

There are no lack of food options at the Montreux Christmas Market. Wander around, take in the scents and flavours of Christmas, warm yourself with mulled wine, and enjoy the atmosphere! Here are some food recommendations I suggest:

Vin Chaud (Mulled Wine)

Nothing screams  Christmas like stand out in the cold with a cup of Vin Chaud (Glüwein)while looking at all of the passers-by! Sold across Switzerland and Europe during Christmas, mulled wine is essentially made up of red wine heated with spices, lemon and sugar.

It is THE festive drink of the season, to the extent that there are special decorated cups just for it! You pay a deposit for them (2 CHF) and get it back when you return them or just keep the cup as a souvenir of your visit. Best served hot and steamy in the company of good friends!

Swiss Fondue or Raclette

A typical Swiss classic would be Cheese fondue,which is essentially Swiss melted cheese dish served in a communal pot, paired with bread and potatoes and it’s absolutely DELICIOUS.

Its close counterpart raclette, is based on heating cheese and scraping off the melted part, then typically served with boiled potatoes.

Lately I have been preferring this over fondue as it is less heavy on the stomach.

Gaufres & Crepes: 

Gaufres, or waffles, are always popular to walk around a market with. You will usually find waffles and crepes from the same stall, and top it up with a slab of chocolatey nutella and bananas, my favourite combi!

Chestnuts: 

Roasted chestnuts are found all over markets, and you can usually smell them roasting before you see them!

Apple Cider, Spiced Tea & Hot Chocolate: 

If you don’t want mulled wine or are non-alcoholic, these are great options and no less chrismassy!

Important things to note at the Montreux Christmas Market

There are a few important tips to remember when buying food and drinks at the Montreux Christmas Market.

First, it’s best to bring along some spare cash with you (in CHF, not Euros!) While credit card payment is mostly accepted, some stalls may not allow this mode of payment for items below a certain amount e.g. 10CHF.

Second, it’s best to come early to the Montreux Christmas Market by 3pm. This way, you get to see the market while it is still bright. Still, I like to stay for about 1 to 2 hours until dusk sets in to see the Flying Santa during night time!

What to buy at Montreux Christmas Market

If you are hoping to do some Christmas shopping, there are plenty of cool gift ideas that are available at the Montreux Christmas Market.

Metallic bookmarks

A great unique gift that caught my eye while exploring the Montreux Christmas Market are these special metallic bookmarks! They coming in a variety of mythical designs and will transform any read to look like a Book of Spells. Get this for yourself or the bookworm friend you have!

Wine Bottle Holder Metal Sculptures

From knights to robots, these  metal sculptures  hold your favorite  bottle  of  wine  and make you smile at the same time! It’s the ultimate gift for that wine-loving family member or friend of yours.

Swiss wooden frames

One item that is very unique to Switzerland are this black wooden frame that depict idealised scenes of traditiional alpine life. The woodmakers are certainly skilled, managing to cut away heavy sections of wood to create sillhouttes of mountains, sheeps, farmers and chalets! The black frame also creates a nice contrast and will definitely add a nice Swiss touch to your home.

Food Products

However, I think that for the most authentic local gift possible, you should consider buying local food products from the Vaud Region. From swiss chocolates and nougats, to delicious jams, spreads and honey, this would be the perfect foodie souvenir for yourself or for the hungry hordes of people waiting back home!

I hope you spend a magical Christmas in Montreux! If you are looking for further suggestions on what to do in December in Switzerland, the following posts below might be interesting for you to check out:

Christmas in Zurich, Switzerland

Jungfraujoch, Switzerland: is it worth it?

How to pack for winter in Switzerland (or Europe!): 20 Essential Packing Tips

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Your Trip to Switzerland: The Complete Guide

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Switzerland Airports
• Getting Around
• Places to Visit in Switzerland
• Top Things to Do in Switzerland
• Top Things to Do in Geneva
• One Week Itinerary
• Most Scenic Train Routes
• Switzerland's Nature Parks
• How to Go Skiing
• The Top Hikes
• Matterhorn Complete Guide
• The Most Beautiful Lakes
• Foods to Try
• Best Restaurants

If you've ever ogled over photos of Switzerland's Alpine peaks, rolling meadows, and pristine lakes, you'll be happy to know that it's even more beautiful in person. The central European country is small compared to its neighbors, but it packs a lot into its 16,000 square miles, including 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites , more than 1,500 glaciers, and at least that many lakes.

All these geologic wonders add up to some of the more stunning scenery in the world. And that's enough to bring travelers—about 12 million of them per year —to Switzerland. When you factor in the countless opportunities for hiking, skiing, and boating; hearty Swiss food; modern, interesting cities; and what is probably Europe's best public transportation system, you're met with an accessible, exciting, and altogether satisfying vacation destination.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit :  The best time to visit Switzerland depends on what you want to do while you're here. Ski slopes are open November through March (though there is year-round skiing in a few places), while hiking and swimming are glorious in the summer months. But to beat the crowds, consider a visit in spring or fall.
• Language:  Switzerland's cantons, or states, are mostly either French- or German-speaking. In the southern Ticino canton, Italian is the first language and in the Graubünden/Grisons canton, Romansh, a form of ancient Latin, is still spoken by about 60,000 people. The good news for travelers is that English is widely spoken, especially in hotels, restaurants, stores, and tourist attractions.
• Currency:  Despite being in the middle of western Europe, Switzerland is not part of the EU, though it participates in the European Common economic market. The official currency here is the Swiss franc (abbreviated CHF). That said, your euros will probably be accepted at most places, though they'll give you change in francs.
• Getting Around :  The clean, convenient, and comprehensive Swiss Travel System is the pride of Switzerland, and rightly so. The system includes trains, buses, lake and river ferries, funiculars, cogwheel trains, ski lifts, and gondolas that permit access to virtually every corner of the country. Because the system is so complete, we recommend touring Switzerland by public transportation, instead of by rental car. From airports and larger train stations, taxis are always available for those who don't feel like schlepping their bags.
• Travel Tip:  If you plan to do a lot of travel within Switzerland, consider purchasing the Swiss Travel Pass , which grants the holder unlimited first- or second-class travel across the country's network of trains, buses, and boats, and most scenic railways. Plus, you'll get admission to more than 500 museums, as well as discounts on mountain excursions. However, if you just plan to visit a couple of places in the country, you can get by with individual train/transit tickets.

TripSavvy / Michela Sieman

Things to Do

While every traveler has their own reasons for visiting Switzerland, the big draws here can more or less be broken down into three categories: scenery, outdoor activities, and Swiss history and culture. Your trip will likely start or end in one of Switzerland's big cities, where that history and culture are on full display. Be sure to plan at least one (or several) excursions into the Swiss countryside, either on an easy or challenging hike, a boat ride across an iconic lake, or a cable car ride up to some of the highest peaks in Europe.

Here are some ideas for planning your Swiss itinerary:

• Explore one of the country's culturally rich cities. If you're flying into Switzerland, you'll most likely arrive in Zürich or Geneva. Zürich , Switzerland's largest city, is a delightful place to spend a few days taking in art and history museums, dining in centuries-old restaurants, and strolling down the River Limmat. Geneva , in French-speaking Switzerland, is the diplomatic center of Europe, with plenty of history and classical appeal, and an idyllic setting on the shores of Lake Geneva.
• Hike, bike, swim, or ski. No matter what time of year you visit, you'll find a huge range of outdoor activities in Switzerland—though admittedly, swimming is a bit brisk from October to June! There are biking and hiking routes for every level of fitness, extensive networks of ski "arenas" across the Alps and the Jura mountains, and rivers and lakes waiting for you to jump in for a swim or a paddle.
• Choose a mountain excursion. In Switzerland, it doesn't matter if you're not a skier or hiker. You can answer the call of the mountains just the same, thanks to dozens of scenic mountain excursions that whisk you—by cogwheel rail, cable car, or ski gondola—for close-up looks at the Matterhorn , the Eiger, the Aletsch Glacier, and more. At most places, you can have lunch on the mountaintop while you enjoy the view. Don't leave Switzerland without partaking in at least one of these thrilling rides.

For more trip-planning ideas, check out our full-length articles on the top things to do in Switzerland , Switzerland's most scenic train rides , and Switzerland's top lakes .

What to Eat and Drink

Swiss cuisine is hearty, to say the least. Cheese, chocolate, potatoes, and meat feature heavily on Swiss menus everywhere, and risotto is popular in the cantons bordering Italy. Swiss wine, from vineyards mostly south of the Alps, is so popular among the Swiss that only 2 percent is exported!

Here are some of the foods and beverages you shouldn't miss in Switzerland:

• Fondue. This classic dish of melted cheese, served with bread and vegetables for dipping, is as iconic as the Matterhorn. Fondue originated in French-speaking Switzerland , but it's pretty much ubiquitous across the country.
• Raclette. Sort of a cousin of fondue, raclette is melted cheese served on a plate with bread, potatoes, and gherkins. Its roots are high in the Alps, where farmers would make meals from their abundant cheese reserves.
• Rösti. Pancakes made of grated, fried potatoes, rösti may be served as a side dish or, when paired with eggs, meat, or cheese, as the main course.
• Chocolate. Thanks to milk from grass-fed Alpine cows, plus a few "secret" recipes, Swiss milk chocolate is among the creamiest in the world. Brands to look for include Toberlone, Lindt, Sprüngli, and Läderach.
• Swiss wine. Largely produced in the more temperant cantons south of the Alps, Swiss wine is equally celebrated in its red and white varieties. Chasselas and pinot noir are among the most common grapes, but across the country's wine-growing region, micro-vineyards specialize in small-batch wines. Be sure to sample the wine while you're here— Swiss wine is hard to find outside Switzerland.

Read more in our guides to the top foods to try in Switzerland and where to eat in Zürich .

Where to Stay

Switzerland's accommodation options range from rustic mountain bunkhouses for hikers to luxurious 5-star hotels with spas, Michelin-star dining, and every imaginable amenity. In between those extremes, there are concept hotels, ski-in/ski-out lodges, and a host of B&Bs, small inns, and vacation rentals.

If you're staying in a city, we usually recommend basing yourself in the historic center so that you're within walking distance of popular tourist attractions, restaurants, and bars. But cities like Zürich also have creative, modern districts outside of the center, which make for interesting bases as well. In an Alpine destination such as Zermatt, Saas-Fee, or Gstaad, we like cozy, traditional hotels that really impart a sense of place.

For a taste of what Zürich has to offer, check out our articles on Zürich's top neighborhoods and best hotels.

Getting to Switzerland

International flights to Switzerland, especially those originating outside of Europe, will likely arrive in Zürich or Geneva. Some intra-Europe flights might land at Basel's airport, which is actually located just over the French border.

You can reach Switzerland by train from the neighboring countries of Austria, Germany, France, and Italy. Note that if you're traveling to Switzerland from an adjacent country, your ticket will likely only cover you until your first stop in Switzerland; for example, if you're traveling from Milan, Italy, your ticket will take you as far as Lugano. After that, you'll need a travel pass or ticket from the Swiss Travel System if you want to change trains.

If you're driving to Switzerland, you need to purchase or make sure your car already has a motorway vignette —a sticker that permits access to Swiss highways.

Learn more by checking out our guides to Zürich airport , traveling to Switzerland from Italy , and Zürich's public transportation .

Culture and Customs

While there are no special "rules" for visiting Switzerland, travelers here might find the Swiss somewhat reserved, especially when compared to Mediterranean cultures to the south. Here are a few basic customs and courtesies to keep in mind:

• Be on time. Trains aren't the only thing that runs on time in Switzerland. Plan to arrive on time, or even a few minutes early, for restaurant reservations or other reserved activities.
• Don't be noisy. In restaurants, on public transportation, and especially in the evenings in residential areas, keep your voices at a conversational level.
• Tip in moderation. While tipping waitstaff is appreciated in Switzerland, it's not expected. Tips for your hotel cleaning staff and bellhops are the norm, however.

Money Saving Tips

Here's something you should know about Switzerland before you start planning your trip: it's expensive. Hotels, dining, trains, and attractions are all costly compared to many other European countries, but there are a few ways you can save money:

• Travel in the shoulder seasons. Visit Switzerland in the spring or fall to save money on airfare and hotels.
• Drink tap water. Unless otherwise posted, tap water in Switzerland is clean and safe to drink. Bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up at any tap.
• Pack a picnic. Before you head out for a day of adventures, stop at a grocery store and pick up bread, cheese, cold cuts, or whatever else you want for a picnic. Just don't forget to grab a chocolate bar for the road!

https://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/ch

https://www.worlddata.info/europe/switzerland/tourism.php

Switzerland Tourism. "Language distribution." Retrieved on November 9, 2021.

Switzerland Tourism. "Currency." Retrieved on November 9, 2021.

BBC. "Tracing fondue’s mysterious origins." February 12, 2013.

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