Of fondues and fond memories – Switzerland

6 MinsSept 29, 2021

Travellers around the world are pinning their hopes on countries finally relaxing the norms related to travel, supported as they are by rapid vaccination drives. There is good news from Switzerland as well. The Swiss government is welcoming fully vaccinated Indian travellers to travel to the country and experience its many delights.

From the beauty of the Alps to the placid lakes, quaint villages and majestic castles, Switzerland’s beauty and charm have fuelled movies, music, and poetry. Add to it the shopping wonders, gourmet delights, chocolate attractions, delectable cheeses and you have a veritable cocktail potent with wanderlust.

what to do in switzerlan


5 places in Switzerland that should be on your bucket list:
Geneva is a global city, a financial centre, and a worldwide hub for diplomacy. The historical city is in the French-speaking part of Switzerland against the backdrop of the majestic Alps and Jura mountains. The city is also famous for its watches, cutlery, chocolate and of course, its lakeside scenery. 
Zurich is famous for luxury living, high-end shopping and of course, its chocolates. Seekers of history can lose themselves in the picturesque streets of Altstadt filled with medieval and Renaissance buildings. There is enough art to keep art lovers happy and indulged for days. 
Lucerne is loved for its beautifully painted frescoes on public buildings and churches and for being the base for some of the most majestic Alpine ranges including Mt. Rigi, Mt. Pilatus, Mt. Titlis, and Jungfraujoch. 
Interlaken offers some of the best sceneries in Switzerland. The capital city is also the place from where you start your journey to Jungfraujoch. 
Jungfraujoch – It is the highest point in the Alps that is reachable by train. Enjoy the high Alpine wonderland of ice, snow, and rock, which you can admire from the Aletsch Glacier or in the Ice Palace. There is an almost endless variety of attractions available to active travellers - from walks and climbs to outdoor excursions and many other sports like sailing and windsurfing on the lakes, paragliding, canoeing, horseback riding, and tennis. 

what to do in switzerlan


Here's what to do, while in Switzerland:

Capture a picture-perfect frame
Switzerland is home to the world’s most photographed mountain, the Matterhorn. Its lonely peak is alluring to the most avid climbers or simply those who love a good photo. Get breath at the ski resort of Zermatt. Those wanting to avoid the snow can head to the summit of the Rothorn, a short 30-minute cable car journey away.

Enjoy nature’s delight 
The GoldenPass Line is a scenic route through Switzerland that takes you from Lucerne to Montreux (or vice-versa) through six Swiss cantons via three mountain passes (including the Brünig Pass). Enjoy the landscapes complete with waterfalls, lakes and valleys lined with typical Swiss chalets. 

Take a leisurely train ride
The best way to soak in the Swiss Alps is by taking a train to the Jungfraujoch. Marvel at the dramatic peaks of the Eiger, Jungfrau and Mönch mountains on the way. From the summit at the Jungfraujoch, you’ll see the Great Aletsch glacier stretching out before you and holding you in its spell.

Do as the locals do 
Explore Swiss culture and its many traditions and festivals. There is something on, no matter what time of the year. Whether it is the carnival of Basel, or Swiss wrestling at Mount Rigi or the annual Witches Downhill Race, you’ll find something that you’ll want to be a part of.

Take a hike among scenic locales
Switzerland is packed with hiking trails, dramatic mountain peaks and picturesque valleys. Yet, finding your way around is very easy thanks to the numerous resorts and the extremely efficient public transport system. There’s also an app with routes of 32 hikes around the country.

what to do in switzerlan


Enjoy fine wines
Switzerland is a top destination to sample some fine wines. Some places where you can try these out are the Caves Ouvertes in early summer, the canton of Vaud and the Lavaux vineyards. With a great ambience, it promises to be an experience that you are likely to remember.

Tickle your tastebuds
While in Switzerland, you just have to gorge on some of the world’s best chocolates. Many of the world’s best chocolate brands started their journey from here and you can find chocolate tastings in almost every city. You may want to check out some of the iconic chocolate factories like the Lindt, Maison Cailler or Laderach. 

Switzerland manufactures over 400 varieties of cheese. Cheese lovers are encouraged to visit Gruyères and sample its fine cheeses or indulge in fondue in medieval villages.

what to do in switzerlan


Shop for top luxury watch brands 
If you are looking for an elegant, well-crafted watch, Switzerland is the place for you. Schaffhausen, Omega, Baume & Mercier, TAG Heuer and Rolex are just a few of the well-loved brands originating from Switzerland.

Easy gateway to other European destinations
Being in central Europe, access to Germany, France, Austria, and Italy is extremely easy.

As for the question on every traveller’s mind, yes, it’s safe and affordable especially with a suite of Forex Cards from Axis Bank that indulges you with offers, savings, and benefits wherever you go. So, go on, soak in new experiences, and expand your horizons, without worry. 

Forex Card for easy transactions 
While travelling overseas, a forex travel card is the safest and most convenient way to carry foreign currency. Some benefits include:

  • You can make cashless payments and not worry about your currency getting stolen
  • You can lock in the exchange rate at the time of purchasing the card. This ensures that you don’t have to worry about exchange rates every time you swipe the card.
  • You can also reload the card digitally if you run out of funds during your travel.

 

Why Axis Forex Card? 

  • Transact in 16 different currencies, at locked-in and discounted exchange rates
  • Apply anytime anywhere; do it in 3 steps and in 5 minutes
  • Enjoy 100% digital service. Reload, track the balance and lock in the exchange rate online
  • Enjoy exclusive offers only for Axis Bank Forex card customers
  • Get 24x7 emergency assistance in case you lose your card or money

 

Disclaimer: This article has been authored by Savita Nair, an independent writer. Axis Bank doesn't influence any views of the author in any way. Axis Bank and/or the author shall not be responsible for any direct / indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision