With the many fascinating things to do in Switzerland, there will be no reason to not visit this scenic country. From skiing the soaring slopes to relaxing in a hillside café, Switzerland offers a wide range of unique experiences for travelers.

Zurich: This city provides a sharp contrast to the serenity of the mountains. With the largest population of any Swiss city, Zurich is alive with culture, including music, shopping, dining, and art galleries. Be sure to visit the popular strip known as the Bahnhofstrasse, located along Lake Zurich.

Hiking: The people of Switzerland are passionate about hiking, and who wouldn't be in such a beautiful country? If you're a hiker, you'll have a practically unlimited selection of hiking trails available to you. Over 31,000 miles of trails (or 50,000 kilometers) exist, with choices for the novice and experienced hiker alike. The Swiss are proud of their hiking trail systems and the Swiss Hiking Federation is in charge of maintenance of all trails. Expect well maintained and informative tail markings and take advantage of the hiking organizations who take tourists on group hiking trips lead by local volunteers.

Geneva: In the West, located in the popular town of Geneva, is The Jet d'eau. At the intersection of Lake Geneva and the Rhone, The Jet d'eau is the world's largest water fountain. This amazing sight is an icon of Switzerland as well as one of its most popular attractions for tourists of all ages.

Bicycles: With Switzerland's wide open spaces and trails, anyone who wants to experience more of the outdoors will love the bicycle touring available. No need to be a seasoned cyclist, even beginners will find trails that suit their fitness level. Bicycles are allowed on passenger trains which makes it easy to take your bike to explore a neighboring city then be back at your hotel the same evening.

Zermatt: Switzerland is well-known for its scenic mountainous landscapes; the famous Alps span the entire country. One of the most picturesque tourist destinations in Switzerland is the Alps peak known as the Matterhorn, located in the town of Zermatt. Here you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this quiet resort town. Mountain climbing is also an option for the more adventurous tourist.

Graubunden: If winter sports are what you enjoy, then Graubunden is the place for you. Located in the East of Switzerland, its valleys are home to several Swiss ski resorts. Whether you plan to hit the slopes, or just sip hot cocoa by the fire, this place is a haven for the winter lover in every tourist.

Museums: Like all of Europe, Switzerland abounds with an amazing variety of museums to choose from. In Geneva, children will love the Museum of Natural History. This museum features a permanent display of over 88 animal and 193 bird species. The dinosaur skeletons will thrill everyone with their lifelike poses. The museum has a gift shop and cafe so you can schedule lunch during your visit. Volunteer guides are placed throughout the museum to answer any questions. Take advantage of their local knowledge and learn more than you ever expected.

Lausanne: Also bordering Lake Geneva is a city that has been compared to San Francisco in both landscape and attitude. Its most notable attraction is the impressive cathedral Notre-Dame, featuring original Gothic architecture. While in this hillside haven, be sure to stop at one of the quaint street-side cafes for a snack. When you are looking for more serene things to do in Switzerland, look to their many natural wonders.

Lugano: In the South of Switzerland, situated on picturesque Lake Lugano, is the city of Lugano. Here, you can enjoy the warmer climate, as well as the panoramic views from the top of Monte San Salvatore, which is nearly 3,000 feet above sea level. Don't worry; there's a cable car to take you up.

Interlaken: Jungfraujoch, also known as "The Top of Europe" is the highest-altitude railway station on the continent. It is much more than just a railway station, however; there is also a restaurant, observation terrace, ice palace, and husky-drawn sled rides. All of this, plus guaranteed, year-round snowy landscapes make for a winter wonderland.

Skiing: With all that snow and amazing mountains, skiers will never want to leave Switzerland. Some of the best skiing in all of Europe can be found here at resorts such as Graubunden, Vilais and Berner Oberland. Cross country or alpine are both popular and all ski centers have a wide selection of equipment rentals offering state of the art equipment.

Lucerne: Cobblestone streets line this charming Swiss town, known for its historic covered bridges. The highlight of a visit to Lucerne, however, is the popular experience known as "The Ascent of Mt. Pilatus." Visitors make the ascent by cableway and return by cog-railroad. Relax and take in the sights of Lake Lucerne and the picturesque mountainside.

Shopping: Who can leave Switzerland without at least window shopping for a famous Rolex watch or one of those delightful Swiss cuckoo clocks? Geneva boasts the Rue du Rhone and the Rue Basses which is lined with unique and quaint boutiques. At Lucerne you'll find Bucherer's, known for their jewelry and watch displays.

If you need another reason to plan a visit to these attractions in Switzerland, consider the country's relatively small size, making all of the destinations easily accessible. With the many exciting things to do in Switzerland and the magnificent scenery, no matter which direction your path (or your tour guide) should lead you will fall in love with this Alpine country.

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