Cities Of Switzerland

Basel

Basel, the oldest university town in Switzerland, is a markedly open city. It stands at the point where Switzerland, Germany and France meet.

These multiple facets influence the artistic and cultural life of the place. Apart from its contrasting architectural styles, it has over 30 museums and galleries as well as many small theatres - besides the City Theatre with its repertoire of operas, operettas and plays - and the first Musical Theatre in Switzerland, all waiting to be visited.
The new art and cultural scene is nothing like the traditional version. For example, many industrial buildings have been converted and now serve as the setting for concerts and club evenings. The possibilities of Basel are unlimited and its borders are always open for a quick trip into neighbouring France or Germany.

Geneva

Geneva, the smallest metropolis in the world, is characterised by its international population. They are there for many reasons, from cultural activities to humanitarian commitments.

This is also the European HQ of the United Nations and the home of the Red Cross. The town is situated in an unspoilt natural landscape yet it is still a pleasure to stroll within the city limits, along the shores of the lake with its famous water jet (140m high) or up into the Old Town. Once night falls on the town, there is nothing more to prevent its multi-cultural life from awakening. And when they start to enjoy themselves, you feel that you are nearly in France.

Lucerne

Centrally located, Lucerne is easy to reach. Once you've arrived, you may want to linger in the picturesque old town, which is car-free and small enough to be explored on foot.

Don't forget to stop for a cup of coffee and marvel at the famous covered bridge, the kapell brucke , that spans the Reuss river. And should there be water everywhere, why not take refuge in one of the ten town museums - among them the famous Swiss Transport Museum? Once the rain lets off, you may feel inspired to board a steamboat that takes you to every nook and cranny of Lake Lucerne or one of the nostalgic mountain railways that lift you up high to one of the surrounding pre-alpine summits. But sightseeing is not all there is to do. The people of Lucerne just love to party and this very same spirit has kept alive many different customs and traditions which, together with more recent events, shape the local cultural scene. The new Culture and Congress Center is but one welcome addition to this abundant variety. Once you've enjoyed your day and explored the nightlife, you may appreciate sinking into a soft pillow in a special place such as a room with a view in a five star hotel. There is something for everyone and you will certainly feel at ease in Lucerne, the town with the highest quality of life in Switzerland!

Berne

The Old Town of Bern, which figures on the UNESCO list of World Cultural Heritage sites has one of the longest "weatherproof" shopping malls in Europe under its six kilometres of covered arcades. The mediaeval atmosphere, with shops in the cellar vaults must be unique.

There are so many museums, theatres, landmarks, cafés, restaurants and shops - not to mention the weekly market (and the lovely Christmas market) - all of which can be easily reached on foot. But this is also the Capital of Switzerland so there you will find the Parliament Building from where Switzerland is governed. The imposing building is right at the heart of the Old Town. Bern is built on a peninsular formed by a meander of the River Aar and it is centrally located and easy to reach. This makes it an ideal starting point from which you can discover the whole of Switzerland by taking day trips.

Zurich

The variety of scenery in Zürich will catch you unawares. At times, it will strike you as a rowdy, throbbing major city, at others - especially in the Old Town - you will find the narrow alleys peaceful and leisurely.

The Zürich Lake gives you a feeling of well-being. On the shores of the Lake, you can sit and admire the Alps or stroll through the parks and watch the yachts on the water. Many public bathing facilities are open in Summer. If it is more adventure you are after, just wait for nightfall. The Zürich night-life is famous beyond the Swiss borders. There are countless concert halls, dance clubs in old factory buildings, snug bars and little dives for the nightbirds. It is all here. Whether you want it loud or quiet, big or small - Zürich can satisfy your every wish.