HISTORIC CITIES. TIMELESS STORIES.
Switzerland
Explore medieval old towns, Alpine valleys, historic castles and centuries of Swiss traditions. From Bern’s arcaded streets and Lucerne’s wooden bridges to Geneva’s international heritage, Switzerland reveals a compelling story of confederation, independence and mountain life.
A COUNTRY SHAPED BY MOUNTAINS AND HISTORY
Discover Switzerland Through the Ages
From Roman settlements and medieval trading towns to the early Swiss Confederation, Reformation and modern federal democracy, Switzerland’s past is woven into its castles, cobbled streets and Alpine landscapes. Explore the places and stories behind the country’s remarkable cultural diversity.
EXPLORE BY DESTINATION
Discover Switzerland’s Destinations
Zürich
Explore Zürich’s medieval Old Town, Grossmünster, guild houses and the city’s influential Reformation and trading history.
Lucerne
Discover Lucerne’s Chapel Bridge, painted historic buildings, city walls and lakeside setting at the gateway to central Switzerland.
Bern
Wander through Switzerland’s UNESCO-listed federal city, renowned for its arcades, Zytglogge clock tower and medieval street plan.
Geneva
Explore Geneva’s Reformation heritage, historic Old Town, lakeside landmarks and the birthplace of the Red Cross.
Zermatt
Experience the Matterhorn region, traditional Valais mountain culture and the story of Alpine mountaineering and pioneering tourism.
SWITZERLAND THROUGH THE AGES
A Brief History of Switzerland
From alliances among Alpine valley communities and expanding medieval cities to the Reformation, the French revolutionary era and a modern federal state, Switzerland’s story is one of changing borders, local traditions and political cooperation.
1291
Federal Charter
The early alliance of Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden becomes a symbol of the Old Confederation.
1519
Swiss Reformation
Huldrych Zwingli begins preaching reforms in Zürich, transforming Swiss religious life.
1648
Recognised Independence
The Peace of Westphalia formally recognises Swiss independence from the Holy Roman Empire.
1798
Helvetic Republic
French intervention replaces the Old Confederation with a centralised republic.
1848
Federal Constitution
Switzerland becomes a modern federal state, with Bern chosen as the federal seat.
1863
Red Cross Founded
The International Committee of the Red Cross is established in Geneva.
Confederation Roots
The alliance traditions of central Swiss valleys helped shape the gradual formation of the Swiss Confederation.
Historic Towns
Bern, Zürich and Lucerne preserve medieval streets, guild heritage and important monuments from centuries of urban life.
Alpine Heritage
Mountain passes, farming traditions and early mountaineering are central to the history of Switzerland’s Alpine regions.
PLAN YOUR SWITZERLAND TRIP
Everything You Need for Switzerland
Everything you need to plan your journey through Switzerland, from historic city stays and guided tours to mountain transport and flights.
Hotels
Find places to stay, from heritage hotels in Swiss old towns to lakeside retreats and Alpine guesthouses.
Tours & Activities
Explore guided walking tours, medieval landmarks, museums and memorable Swiss mountain experiences.
Car Hire
Discover Switzerland’s lakes, mountain villages and scenic roads at your own pace.
Flights
Compare flights to Switzerland and choose a convenient route to begin your journey.
Trains & Buses
Plan rail and bus connections between Switzerland’s historic towns, lakes and Alpine destinations.