I've been lucky enough to visit Switzerland twice. The first time, I ended up celebrating New Year's Eve in Lucerne. Beautiful city. Most people recognize Lucerne by the beautiful Chapel bridge. Most recently, I spent a couple of days in Basel, ahead of heading out on a river cruise. Did you know that Basel is split between three countries? Yup. You can be in Germany, France, and Switzerland within a half-hour walk.
What makes Switzerland special?
Switzerland sits on the European continent surrounded by France, Germany, Liechtenstein, Italy, and Austria. It is a land that is defined by its mountains, lakes, rivers, and stunning views. The mountains and the water help to shape daily life in Switzerland, and it is a part of how people conduct their lives.
Switzerland is a unique country when it comes to its politics. It is not a member of the European Union, nor is it a member of NATO. It is considered an armed neutral country. It didn't play any role in either of the World Wars. It is a member of the United Nations and other international organizations.
Bucket List Things To Do While in Switzerland
The Matterhorn
The Rhine Falls
The Aletsch Alpine Glacier
Chillon Castle
Bernina Express
Museum of Transportation
Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory
Doll Museum
Papa Moll Land
Splash and Spa Aqua Park
Lido Locarno
Boat Tour on the Rhine
Blonay-Chamby Museum Railway
GWunderwald
Foods to try
Fondue
All the cheeses (I mean really - all the cheeses)
Leeks with potatoes and sausage
Rosti
Basel-style roasted flour soup
Raclette
Polenta and braised beef
Veal and Mushroom Ragout
Vacherin Mont D’Or
Chocolate
Drinks to try
Swiss Beer
Swiss Wine (many of them are white because they are served with Fondue and other cheese dishes)
Ramseier (carbonated apple juice)
Rivella (soft drink)
Souvenirs To Buy (and usually the least expensive purchases you can make)
Chocolate
Swiss Army Knife
Watches
Cowbells
Cheese
Cuckoo Clocks
Have you been to Switzerland? What did you like the most? And did you try the cheeses and cheeses? It is a great country to visit as an add on to a river cruise, or a quick stop from a land tour. I would certainly love to visit again and cross off a few more things from these lists.
Leave a comment below.