Switzerland: A Romantic Winter Getaway (without the skiing)
We only had a few days to get away and we aren’t big skiers, but because we heard Switzerland was so breathtaking, we wanted to go check it out for ourselves. We flew into Zurich and took the train every two days to the next city. It was so easy to get around in this country, and the views from the (impeccable) train were just breathtaking. I kept wanting to bust out singing “The hills are alive with the sound of music,” even though it was mostly chilly and cloudy. The weather could not have dulled the rolling hills that dip into untouched blue lakes, tall jagged mountains, and the incredible chalets!
Switzerland has 4 main languages and as you switch from city to city it changes- German, French, Italian and Romansh. It really added an interesting cultural element to traveling within the country.
In Zurich, they have a few streets with fancy stores that are just so nice to walk on and more watch stores than you’ve ever seen. There's a square called Weinplatz with 2 towers that's also super nice with a sunglass store called Stoffels Own- it’s specific to Zurich and definitely worth checking out. I also suggest the walk to the Opera House- we didn't have a chance to go in but what a beautiful building even from the outside.
Then it was on to Lucerne. Words cannot do this place justice. This is the prettiest place I've ever been to in my entire life, hands down! Make time to go to the Swiss Museum of Transport- it's so awesome and entertaining and if you can walk there from the hotel, even better- it's a stunning walk along the lake. Also, walk on the Kapellbrücke (famous bridge) over the water just for fun, and for great views.
Our next train ride brought us to Bern, with its signature grey-green sandstone clad buildings. I ate a lot of chocolate, tried spätzle and loved it, and enjoyed some great fondue.
We walked to the Nydeggbrücke (another bridge) to look down on bears- real bears in the Barengraben, and stopped by Einstein's house.
We were set to fly out of Geneva but were upset we didn't have more time here. Old Town or “Vieille Ville” is so charming, and there are some classic European restaurants there- think waiters in tuxedos! You MUST stop and eat at one.
Overall, Switzerland did not disappoint! I can’t wait to plan a trip for you and relive all over again!
