ABOUT Switzerland

Switzerland was founded more than 700 years ago. Long years of peace have left their mark on our heritage, history and culture. The Swiss are a friendly and hospitable people, though somewhat reserved at times. Life in our towns and cities is secure. We share an independent spirit, a respect for tradition and no fewer than four languages and dozens of dialects. The Swiss love for partying isn't yet widely known. But the seasons are marked by traditional festivals and popular pageants.

Every major Swiss city honours its own symphony, opera or theatre, where acclaimed international artists appear. Smaller towns and villages prize their chamber groups or quartets. The Bern, Willisau and Montreux Jazz Festivals rival in recognition with the classical music events of Lucerne and Gstaad, to name just a few.

About 700 museums round out a rich cultural life. You'll find outstanding, internationally acclaimed art collections and specialized museums for every interest. Today scores of medieval castles and venerable mansions are open for a look around. Some house superb museums, other wonderful restaurants. Churches, monasteries and abbey libraries hold precious legacies of the ages.

Some examples of Swiss celebrations:First of August, the Swiss Independence day. Zurich's spring festival, the Sechseläuten. Carnival is celebrated all over Switzerland. Hornussen, a unique sport. Onion market in Berne. Harmless Cow fights in the Valais. Locarno's piazza is a splendid open air cinema during its International Film Festival.

Best time to be there

Variety throughout the year. From attractions, culture to sports golf, hiking and mountainbiking  skiing and winter walking, this little country has a mountain of activities to offer all year.

Temperature Ranges

December thru February: 12-20˚ Fahrenheit
March thru May: 20-29˚ Fahrenheit
June thru August: 37-47˚ Fahrenheit
September thru November: 27-35˚ Fahrenheit

Visitor Informations

Language: Germany, Francais, Italian, Romansh
Time zone: GMT +1 hour
Currency: Swiss Francs
Country code phone: +41

Fly to Cities Airport

Zurich, Geneva, Lugano.

Tourism Information

Switzerland Tourism
P.O. Box 695
CH-8027 Zurich
+41 1 288 11 11
www.myswitzerland.com