English
Best Christmas Holiday Destination: 12 Days of Swiss Christmas
Looking for a place to spend your Christmas vacation? You might have missed the little, humble nation of Switzerland which boasts a number of must-see attractions. Enjoy a splendid experience when visiting a plethora of key attractions in the nation which will truly suit the interests of everyone. From a rich history to bountiful nature, Switzerland has anything you could wish for.
Sitting peacefully on the heart of central Europe, Switzerland might be small compared to its neighbors but it offers a wide variety of sceneries and activities for its visitors. Surely, every single minute you spend during your stay in the country is worth it as you get a chance to have the unique Swiss experience that truly stands out.
Even before Christmas comes in your way, enjoy these engaging surprises that the Swiss nation presents to you. Make sure to try it all.
First Day: Old Town of Bern
Stepping into this town in the country’s capital will make you get a glance of the Swiss rich history dating back to the Renaissance period. Amidst the bustling and vivacious establishments dominating the city center, this town takes you away from the stressful and loud vibe of the city.
Second Day: Lavaux Vineyards
A couple of rides away from the capital, taste the local delicacy of the Swiss people fresh from harvest in the nation’s longest vineyard region which takes up 834 hectares of arable land. The vineyard stretches out beyond your eyes can see so you have a huge range of products to choose and savor along with your trail which makes you forget that you have walked several meters.
Third Day: Gruyères
After spicing things up in the vineyards, it’s time that you treat yourself with something creamy in the cheese capital of Switzerland. Grab a bite of the world famous fondue which is the country’s trademark in the cheese industry. More than the delectable cheese you can found here, the nation’s cream and meringue must touch the tip of your tongue to complete your amazing Swiss food trip.
Fourth Day: Jungfraujoch
Get a little bit of heaven experience upon reaching the Roof of Europe which houses the region’s highest mountains. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the Alps from hundreds to thousands of meters above ground. Unless you’re afraid of heights, you can also take a ride on a train to reach Europe’s highest railroad station which lies on a staggering 3,454 meters above sea level.
Fifth Day: Schilthorn
If you want to take the extremes, you must try eating at the revolving restaurant located three kilometers above sea level. While completing a turn, you can get the splendid view of the Jungfrau and the Jura mountain range. The Vosges Mountains and Mont Blanc are only within your eyes’ reach as well.
Sixth Day: Matterhorn
Only if there is a beauty pageant for all the mountains in the world, Mt. Matterhorn will surely win the Most Photogenic category as thousands of photographs of this charming mountain are taken annually. There are no objections for this matter. Beyond its beauty, the iconic mountain can be a hotspot for mountain climbers and ski players.
Seventh Day: Great St. Bernard Pass
Stop wondering on where do the famous St. Bernard breeds of dog came from as you get to see their original home in St. Bernard Hospice. This structure is placed on the highest spot in this road which is the oldest in Switzerland.
Eighth Day: Trümmelbach Falls
From the peak of the mountains, follow the stream of water through the Lauterbrunnen Valley which is home to 72 magnificent falls including the largest chain of unfathomable waterfalls in Europe. Take a bath with the blistering cold water coming off the glacial-covered Jungfrau. These falls can be reached using a lift or passing through odd tunnels and paths.
Ninth Day: Lake Geneva
Your water adventure does not stop on jaw-dropping falls. Amaze yourself with the pristine waters of Lake Geneva which will take you to a lot of possibilities in all directions. Geneva sits on the western shore while the town of Montreux is located on the opposite side. Prepare your camera as the spot treats you with a superb view of the Alps which create dainty reflections in the lake waters.
Tenth Day: Château Chillon
Proudly standing on the islet floating in the waters of Lake Geneva, this is recognized as the nation’s most stunning castles ever built throughout the country’s history. Besides the ancient look and feeling this structure gives, the Alpine mountains add to the splendor this castle offers.
Eleventh Day: Kappelbrücke
Continue unfolding the vibrant history as you cross along Europe’s oldest wooden bridge hanging above the calm waters of Lake Lucerne. Showcasing the art styles and techniques popular during the 14th century, the interior of this bridge depicts some of the most significant events from the recorded Swiss history as early as the 17th century.
Twelfth Day: Bahnhofstrasse
End your Switzerland trip with a shopping spree on the busy and effervescent street of Bahnhofstrasse. Located in the luxurious city of Zurich, this place is perfect for your shopping desires as it houses some of Europe’s high-quality designer goods in the world. Take home with you the unforgettable moments you had in this magnificent country beyond the products you have purchased from this spot.
From 23 November until 23/24. December you can stroll through several Christmas Markets in the picturesque old town of Zurich. Or you visit the “Christkindlimarkt” at the main station, it’s one of the largest indoor Christmas market in Europe with more than 160 wooden chalets and its 50 feet tall Christmas tree with over 5000 ornaments Swarovski Cristal
There are certainly more than Switzerland can offer besides the aforementioned sites and it’s up to you if you want to extend your long vacation in this mighty nation. Not only these iconic places accentuate Switzerland on the map, but also the people who have been working hard to preserve the country’s treasured spots and culture for years.
Giving Switzerland a shot this Holiday season will make you feel grateful for everything you have tried in this wonderful paradise. Complete your twelve days of Christmas with these twelve must-visit spots in Switzerland. Having been able to travel around this fantastic place would give you a blissful feeling you are longing for this Christmas period.