We're planning 7 nights in Switzerland in January. We're flying into Zurich, and are curious where a couple of 30-something year olds who like great views, pubs and drinking with locals could go. Should we plan to stay in Zurich, or go elsewhere?
Posted by
Florida
65 posts
We visited Switzerland and went to Murren. Definately had great views. We were there in the spring time and there were not very many tourists there, we were surpised as the weather was beautiful and the town was great. There was some neat bars, some with large decks over looking the mountians. You will definately be with the locals. During the day you can visit Schilitzhorn and hike down (or ride). If you are looking for more hopping night life, you might be better staying in the down at the base of the mountain in Lauterbrunnen and just day tripping up to Murren.
Posted by
Kent, Washington, USA
7 posts
Switzerland is a fantastic place to visit, and 7 nights should allow you real freedom to visit many places. I just returned from there and had a perfect visit using Lucerne/luzern as my base. I drove, but winter might be better travelled by train.
Luzern is an easy drive or train trip from Zurich, and it is iconically picturesque. I highly recommend that side trip, and at least an overnight. The train station is perfectly located with awesome areas within walking distance.
I greatly enjoyed Pilatus (mountain overlooking Luzern), although I do not know if the Tram and cog railway runs in the winter (I was there in July). At the top of Pilatus is a hotel (Pilatus Kulm) that is an awesome location in good weather (not so great in bad weather).
I also enjoyed Bern, spending a very enjoyable day there. Easy train access and plenty to see within walking distance (just follow Rick's books).
Have a great trip!
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
Where you go in January to drink with the locals? Let me ask this, do you ski?
Posted by
Paris, France
506 posts
Zurich is actually a big party town. Stay in town - old town - try the Hotel California - it is central to the whole area near the lake where there are party boats, pubs (i.e. Oliver Twist, Papa Joes and more).
I am just back from a weekend there - had a great 5 hour boat ride with too much grappa.
Posted by
Gettysburg, PA
1589 posts
Ski rentals are available at nearly all the resorts in Europe. BTW, 33 is hardly ancient!
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
So, if you want a great laid-back drinking atmosphere, plus or minus skiing, try Flims or Davos. Both are in the Alps, and you won't find too many Americans in the area.
Posted by
OP
San Antonio, Texas, USA
2 posts
Sorry it took so long to reply.
Do I ski? That's a good question. I Used to ski a lot - but that was when I was twenty. Now Im 33 and a little intimidated to try again, especially there. We've talked about it, and may try it if you can rent skis there like you can in the states (can you?) In either case, we love to drink and hang out in cool places. Any suggestions?