2020 seems to have eluded the wanderlust for many. If you are one of those yearning for that much awaited break with your family, then Switzerland is all you need! It is a destination that will enthrall you with its spectacular snow-capped peaks, glistening lakes and charming old towns, adrenaline pumping adventure sports and delicious cuisines. It makes for an ideal getaway for families as it has something for every kind of traveler across age groups.
Before you jet-set-go to Switzerland with your family, here is what you should know about this picturesque alpine country.
Travel together with the Swiss Travel Pass – Family Card
Switzerland’s public transport system is the best and most comfortable way to explore this scenic country. Whether it is by train, bus or boat, all of this is covered with just one single ticket: the Swiss Travel Pass. The Swiss Family Card is a free add-on ticket and with this pass children up to 16 years can travel free. The pass can be booked for 3, 4, 8 or 15 consecutive days and also gets you discounts upto 50% off on mountain railways.
The Mountains are calling – Scenic Excursions
Switzerland is famous for its Snow Capped mountains and the ease with which you can enjoy snow and the views from 10,000 ft height
- One can visit the famous Mt. Titlis – which has the world’s first revolving aerial cable car – Titlis Rotair – which gives you a 360-degree view of the fantastic panorama.
- Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe is the highest railway station in Europe and is one most visited mountain excursions by Indians due to the various activities on top.
- Glacier 3000, is located in the western part of Switzerland, close to Lake Geneva Region and Gstaad one of its USP is the Alpine Coaster which will quickly raise your adrenaline level with the 520° circles, 10 somewhat steep curves, 6 waves and 3 jumps with a promised action-packed speed of up to 40 km/hour on a one-kilometer stretch.
- At Matterhorn Glacier Paradise in Zermatt, one can enjoy a 360° ride in the crystal gondola which has a glass bottomed floor and on the top has the highest viewing platform in the alps with breathtaking views of the famous Matterhorn mountain.
Museums are fun
In Switzerland, museums aren’t only restricted to art but go beyond. You can visit the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne where you can try your hand at flying planes, driving trains and even trying the feeling of weightlessness. The Olympic Museum in Lausanne is a great way to experience the spirit of the Olympics. At the museum one can view exhibits of famous athletes across the globe. You can even catch a glimpse of Mary Kom’s gloves and Dhyan Chand’s hockey stick that left actor Ranveer Singh spellbound. The FIFA World Football Museum in Zurich is another interesting museum with an interactive experience for football fans.
Others on the bucket list
- Zurich Zoo is a must for all animal lovers. With more than 380 animal species from around the globe, it shows the incredible diversity of wildlife within 27 hectares including some Gir lions from Gujarat.
- One has multiple options to explore Rope Parks in Interlaken, Engelberg , Zermatt or on the way up to Mt. Pilatus and they all offer various fun activities such as ziplining, flying fox – suitable for funlovers of all ages.
- There is no better way to experience Lake Geneva Region than on a boat which offers you a view of the many villages as famous monuments like Chillon castle, You can also enjoy lunch or a drink on the cruise. This boat ride is one of the inclusions on the Swiss Travel pass.
- The GoldenPass line which takes from glaciers to vineyards in a few hours with panoramic views one also has an option to ride with a front view cabin.
Variety of food
Food in Switzerland is amazingly varied due to its influences by neighbouring Germany, France and Italy and would keep any food lover happy with choices for everyone in the family.
The kids will love the schnitzels and Rosti (similar to hashbrowns), the alpine macaroni (the swiss version of Mac and Cheese) Other dishes like Pizzas and pastas, cheesy fondues and raclettes as well as gelatos, icecreams and tons and tons of chocolate are available everywhere.
You can also explore a variety of international cuisines like Thai, Japanese and of course, Indian. And If you are looking for restaurants that serve vegetarian food only, Switzerland will surely surprise you with several options that are easily available. A special mention for Haus Hiltl, the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant in the country that offers vegetarian dishes from around the world.
So, what are you waiting for? If a Family holiday is on your mind, you know where to head!
