Switzerland

Switzerland is a country in Central Europe with no coastline. It is bordered by France, Germany, austria, Liechtenstein, and Italy. It is famous for its natural beauty, with the Alps covering a significant portion of its territory. It's known for its high quality of life, clean tap water, and efficient public transportation.

Language: Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. 

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Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)

• Most places accept major credits (like Visa and Mastercard), and cashless payments like Apple Pay. Specific card types like American Express may have restrictions.

Entry Requirements: 

• Passport (that doesn't expire for for at least 6 months)

• Starting in late 2026, US citizens will need an ETIAS authorization (an electronic travel authorization) to visit.

• Show proof of sufficient funds and a return ticket

• No Visa required for stays less than 90 days

Pros

• Nature, Hiking

Cons

• The country is expensive

• Many shops and stores are closed on Sundays

• The most popular and practical gateway for international travelers is Geneva Airport (GVA), which is about 185 km (115 miles) away, but with much more flight availability and a drive of around 2.5 hours.  
• The closest airport to Crans-Montana is Sion Airport (SIR), located approximately 37 km (23 miles) away, though it has limited international flight options. 

• Can take a train from the directly beneath the airport (Geneve Aeroport station) to the city center (Geneve-Cornavin station) in 7 minutes (Cost is around $4)
• Public bus: Several bus lines also serve the airport and go to the city center, with a journey time of 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic.
• Taxis and ride-sharing: Taxis and other private services are available, but they are significantly more expensive and subject to traffic delays. 

• Geneva
• Best most affordable form of transportation is Public Transportation: Subway system/metro, buses, trams
  • If you are staying in a hotel, hostel, or campsite, you will receive a complimentary Public transport card for unlimited travel on trams, buses, and some trains within Zone 10.
• Uber is available; but expensive
• Taxis are available; but expensive
• Walking is best for City Exploration

• Taking a water taxi offers a scenic way to cross Lake Geneva 
• Crans Montana: How to Get to Crans-Montana from Geneva
  • • Train (most affordable):
      • • Route: Take a train from Geneva Airport (or Geneva-Cornavin) to Sierre/Siders. From there, transfer to the Sierre-Crans-Montana funicular for the final leg to Crans-Montana. Alternatively, you can take a regional bus from Sierre or Sion.
        • Total travel time: Approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes, including transfers.
        • Cost: The average ticket price is around CHF 42–76 ($46-$83).
        • Tips: Look for Super Saver tickets on the SBB website for the best deals, as day-of tickets are more expensive.
    • Car (alternative):
      • • Route: Driving is an option, but it is generally more expensive, especially if you factor in fuel and parking.
        • Travel time: Approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.
        • Cost: You will need to rent a car, and costs vary, but it can be around CHF 26–37 ($28-$41) for fuel and parking costs per day.
    • Bus (alternative):
      • • Route: There are no direct bus connections between Geneva and Crans-Montana. You would need to take a train to Sierre or Sion and then transfer to a bus.
        • Travel time: The bus ride from Sierre to Crans-Montana takes about 12 minutes.
        • Cost: Costs are comparable to the train, but the train is usually the preferred option. 

• Spring (March–May) with mild weather and blossoms, 
• Summer (June–August) with warm, sunny days perfect for hiking, 
• Autumn (September–November) featuring cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, and 
• Winter (December–February) with cold temperatures and snow, ideal for winter sports.  

• Geneva
  • Landmarks and outdoor activities
    • • Jet d'Eau: A massive water fountain in Lake Geneva that is an iconic symbol of the city.
      • Lake Geneva: Take a cruise or walk along the shore path for stunning views. TripAdvisor.
      • Geneva Old Town: Wander through the historic cobblestone streets, visit St. Pierre Cathedral, and see the Reformation Wall.
      • Palais des Nations: Tour the European headquarters of the United Nations, and see the Broken Chair sculpture nearby.
      • Conservatoire et Jardin botaniques: Enjoy a stroll through this large botanical garden with a diverse collection of plants.
      • Bains des Paquis: A popular public spot on the lake, perfect for swimming in the summer and relaxing by the water. 
  • Museums and culture
    • • Patek Philippe Museum: A must for watch enthusiasts, this museum showcases the history of Swiss watchmaking.
      • Red Cross Museum: An interactive and moving museum dedicated to the history of the International Red Cross.
      • Museum of Art and History: Features a diverse collection of art, archaeology, and historical artifacts.
      • CERN Science Gateway: Discover the world of particle physics and the European Organization for Nuclear Research. 
  • Shopping
    • • Carouge: Explore this bohemian district known for its artisan shops and unique atmosphere.
      • Flower Clock: See the famous "L'horloge fleurie," a large clock made entirely of flowers.
      • Chocolate and Patisserie Walking Tour: Sample some of Geneva's famous sweet treats on a guided walking tour. 
  • Day trips: 
    • Consider a day trip to Chamonix for mountain views or Annecy in France for its picturesque canals and castle.

• Crans Montana
  • A ski resourt town locatedin the canton of Valais in southwest Switzerland
    • Ski - 1 day Lift Ticket - Swiss Franc CFH 59 = $75 USD
  • Outdoor and scenic attractions
    • • Plaine Morte Glacier: A high-altitude plateau accessible by gondola, offering stunning panoramic views.
      • Bisse du Ro: A scenic and relatively easy hiking trail that follows an old irrigation channel, providing beautiful views of the mountains and waterfalls.
      • Cry d'Er: Reach this viewpoint via a blue gondola for spectacular panoramas of the Alps, including the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc.
      • Golf Club Crans-sur-Sierre: A world-renowned golf destination with courses set in the heart of the resort, overlooking the Rhone Valley. 
  • Culture and leisure
    • • Fondation Suisse des Trains Miniatures: A museum dedicated to miniature trains, popular with both children and adults.
      • Crans-Montana Art Museum: A key cultural spot in the region.
      • Casino de Crans-Montana: Offers entertainment options.
      • Hameau de Colombire: A historic hamlet that provides insight into the region's past. 
  • Activities
    • • Skiing and Snowboarding: Crans-Montana is a major ski resort with extensive slopes. The Snow Island area is particularly great for families and beginners.
      • Hiking: In addition to the Bisse du Ro, the area offers numerous other trails for all levels.
      • Swimming: The Crans-Montana swimming pool provides a great way to relax.
      • Gondola rides: Several gondolas, such as the one to Cry d'Er or the Plaine Morte, are attractions in themselves, offering easy access to high-altitude views. 

• Top Choice: Old Town
• Options

  • Old Town: Stay here for a historic experience, putting you close to major attractions like St. Pierre Cathedral and the Reformation Wall. One of the biggest historic centers in Europe. It's home to many hotels nestled within the city's oldest part. Both cental and historic. Short walk to the sites. Many places to eat and drink

  • City Centre: Ideal for first-time visitors, this area offers a mix of upscale shopping, dining, and easy access to Lake Geneva and attractions like the Museum of Art and History.

  • Les Eaux-Vives: Located on the left bank of the Rhône, this neighborhood is known for its shopping, parks, and access to Lake Geneva, including the Jet d'Eau fountain. The Museum of Natural History is also located here.

  • Le Grand Saconnex: A good choice if your visit is focused on international organizations, as it's home to the Palais des Nations (United Nations European headquarters) and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum.

  • Plainpalais: This is a vibrant and more local neighborhood known for its large public square which hosts markets and festivals, making it a lively area to stay

• Accommodations
  • Hostels
    • Meininger Geneve Centre Charmilles - 3.7km from city center - $44 a night dorms, $111 a night private rooms
    • Geneva Hostel - 2.1km from city center - $60 a night dorms, $170 a night private rooms
  • Boutique Hotels
  • Luxury Hotels

• Geneva
  • Spinella Restaurant & Bar - cuisine: Italian, European
  • Living Room - cuisine: French, International
  • Restaurant Les Armures - cuisine: Swiss, European
  • Cafe du Soleil - cuisine: French, Swiss
  • Fishebar - cuisine: Michelin, Seafood, Grill
• Crans Montana
  • Restaurant Le Mayen - cuisine: Swiss, European
  • Le Bistrot Des Our - cuisine: Michelin, French, Swiss
  • LeMontBlanc - cuisine: Michelin, French, Swiss
  • Gueuleton Crans-Montana - cuisine: French, Swiss

• Some of the best foods in Switzerland include cheese fondue, raclette, and rösti. 
  • Raclette - melted cheese over boiled potatoes, pickles, and onions
  • Rosti - crisy golden pancake made from graded and fried potatoes
• Other must-try dishes: 
  • Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (veal in a cream sauce), 
  • Älplermagronen (alpine macaroni and cheese), 
  • Swiss chocolate and muesli. 
• Swiss cuisine is a delicious mix of German, French, and Italian influences

EXCURSIONS

(Here you will find links to book excursions like walking tours, day trips, beach/snorkeling days, hiking, etc.)

Switzetland Sample Itinerary

This four-day itinerary balances city exploration with mountain scenery, starting with two days in Geneva and then moving to Crans-Montana for the remaining two. In Geneva, explore the Jet d'Eau, the Old Town, and museums before traveling to Crans-Montana to enjoy mountain views from Cry d'Er and other local attractions. 

Day 1: Geneva Arrival and Old Town Charm

• Morning: Arrive in Geneva and check into your accommodation. Begin by seeing the iconic Jet d'Eau, a high-powered water fountain in Lake Geneva.

• Afternoon: Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, visiting St. Pierre Cathedral and enjoying the historic atmosphere.

• Evening: Have dinner in the Old Town and perhaps stroll along the lake promenade. 

Day 2: Geneva Culture and Lakeside

• Morning: Visit the United Nations European Headquarters (Palais des Nations) or explore the museums, such as the Palais de Rumine, which houses several museums.

• Afternoon: Take a boat trip on Lake Geneva or visit the Jardin Anglais (English Garden) to see the Flower Clock.

• Evening: Enjoy a dinner in Geneva. Consider a restaurant with lake views. 

Day 2: Day Trip from Geneva

• Take a day trip to Montreux, visit the Chillon Castle, and walk along the Flower-decked promenade.

• Alternatively, visit Lausanne to see the Olympic Museum.

Day 4: Travel to Crans-Montana and Mountain Views

• Morning: Travel from Geneva to Crans-Montana. You can rent a car for more flexibility or use the public transport system. The journey will take you into the heart of the Alps and takes around 2.5 to 2 hours by public transport.

• Afternoon: Settle into your accommodation. Take the blue gondola up to Cry d'Er at 2,200 meters for spectacular panoramic views of peaks like the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc. Or take a cable car up to a high viewpoint, such as to the Bella Lui or Roost, to admire the views of the Swiss Alps.

• Evening: Relax and have dinner in Crans-Montana, enjoying the fresh mountain air. 

Day 5: Crans-Montana Activities and Departure

• Morning: Explore the area around Crans-Montana. Options include a gentle hike or skiing in the winter, visiting the local shops, or enjoying the mountain scenery from a different viewpoint.

• Afternoon: Depending on your departure time, you could visit a local spa or take a final cable car ride before heading back to Geneva or your next destination. 

Budget

• Roundtrip Flights from US: $500 - $1,200

• Daily budget: 

  • Budget: CHF 100 = $125 USD

  • Modest: CHF 225 = $280 USD

  • Semi-Luxury CHF 400+ = $500+ USD

• Taxis are around: Short rides CHF 35; Airport transfers CHF 440

• Restaurants charge between: CHF 20-30 for simple casual meal or CHF 40-70+ for more formal dinner

• Tip = Tipping is not mandatory. However, it is a polite gesture to round up a bill or leave a small tip of 5%-10% for exceptional service if you wish.