34 days in Switzerland Itinerary

Immerse yourself in a snow-capped mountain wonderland in Switzerland's serene Alpine setting. See the world-renowned Matterhorn, Switzerland's second-highest mountain at 4,478 m (14,962 ft) tall, or zoom down the mountains on toboggan, ski, or snowboard. In the warmer seasons hike around the rolling green hillsides covered with pine trees and picturesque aqua blue lakes. Luxurious cities dotted with cozy wooden chalets and colorful flowerbeds balance quaintness with first-class cultural offerings. Indulge in the country's opulence of milk chocolate, cheese fondue, and keg-carrying St. Bernard dogs.

The predominantly French-speaking district of La Gruyère is perhaps best known for its cheese so well-loved around the world. Dotted with small towns, including Gruyères, home of this famous Swiss cheese and a spectacular castle, the area offers culinary, cultural, and natural attractions. The capital Bulle features interesting museums, while the countryside offers year-round outdoor adventures. If you visit La Gruyère, save room for a fondue of Gruyère and Vacherin cheeses, as well as the chocolates from the local chocolaterie.

Surrounding Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Bernese Oberland embodies Swiss-style comfort with its richly decorated chalets. The region abounds with famous, family-friendly ski resorts; ski tours take you to pristine Alpine peaks offering skiing for all skill levels. Itineraries here can include ice climbing, ski sailing, and marvelling in the beauty of the Alps and mirroring lakes below. Find yourself at the top of the continent with a ride to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe at 3,454 m (11,332 ft) above sea level.

Experience Switzerland's Mediterranean side with a visit to Ticino, where Italian flair dominates. Palm trees, beaches, piazzas, and old churches fill this Italian-speaking canton. Mirroring blue lakes reflect the majestic Alps not far off. Enjoy "la dolce vita" with an espresso among the sub-tropical gardens, romantic landscapes, and historical architecture. Rich indigo flowers dot Alpine pastures and wooded hills rising around the shores of Ticino's lakes, while delicate white camellia line lakeshore promenades. The furthest southern state, Ticino boasts a much milder climate that the rest of the country and offers plenty of sunshine.

Featuring over 50 museums and 100 art galleries, world-renowned shopping and exuberant nightlife, the Canton of Zurich is home to the bustling metropolis of the same name that overlooks Lake Zurich at the base the of the snow-capped Swiss Alps. Bahnhofstrasse is Zurich's main downtown street and one of the world's most expensive and exclusive shopping avenues, where you'll find high fashion labels, jewelry, and watches. Art lovers will relish the Kunsthaus and Rietberg museums, while hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby trails. The places to visit offer a little something for everyone, from the hundreds of animals at the Zurich Zoo, to the party animals at the many nightclubs.