Must see places in Switzerland?

I would suggest that the most popular area would be the Berner-Oberland and more specifically, the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Stay in Murren for the best views of the mountains and travel to the tops of the Schilthorn and Jungfrau if you have the time.

Beyond that, you have several choices and I'm sure that you won't be able to do all.

- A ride on one of the scenic trains.
- Zermatt.

- Lugano.

- Bern/Lausanne.
- The great art museums in Zurich and Basel.

I echo Steve and Larry's comments, the Berner Oberland and Lauterbrunnen Valley are must sees while in Switzerland...incredible scenery. Since you've been to Luzern, I can assure you that if you enjoyed the scenery there, the BO and LV will knock your socks off...

Thanks all for the tips....Luzern was beautiful the last time, and we are looking forward to seeing other parts of Switzerland.

Dwight,

One more vote for the Berner Oberland. The scenery in the Lauterbrunnen Valley is incredible! You could also take a few hours to look around the elegant city of Interlaken.

If you prefer more "conventional" Hotels, Murren is a good location to stay. If you don't mind B&B's, you could also consider Gimmelwald (which is basically a small farming village that also offers tourist accommodations). Check the Gimmelwald website or the Guidebook for details.

The trip to Piz Gloria on the top of the Schilthorn is a bit pricey, but well worth the cost IMHO. Having a fine hot meal in one of the world's first revolving restaurants is awesome! It's where the James Bond movie "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" was filmed (back in the '60s, I believe).

The Guidebook lists other sights to see in that area. If you're adventurous, you could also consider Paragliding from Murren (it's about a 20-minute flight).

BTW, I was just in Lucerne a few weeks ago, and it is a very beautiful and interesting city!

Happy travels!

Thanks Ken for the great tips....we are thinking about spending a couple days in OB for sure. Yes, Luzern is very scenic, love dit there.

Another question...we arent really the B&B type - we kind of like to spend our evenings in the heart of a city where there are some places to go relax and have some cocktails and mingle with people, maybe listen to some music??...any suggestions?

Defintely Berner Oberland. Go to Gimmelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Murren, Grindelwald and Interlaken

agreed that the Bernese Oberlans is the region to visit. So much to see & do- you'll get the full "alpine experience." I agree w/ Vernon above-- Piz Gloria/Schilthorn (series of several cable cars to the Piz Gloria restaurant/observation deck- and Vernon is correct, it is where the Bond movie "OHMSS" was filmed) is nothing short of spectacular. On a sunny day, the mtn views go on forever! Other must dos -- the Jungfraujoch (sp!) - literally, the top of Europe. Rick lists the details in his book- the series of trains you take to get to the top. Also, an awesome, unforgettable experience. Another amazing experience for hiking-- from Grindelwald, take cable car to the First Mountain range. Great views on way up and from top, MANY hiking options (short ones to all-day hikes) that take you though cow pastures, mountain/glacier views, lakes, etc. If you have more time in Europe, Lucerne is also a great stop (beutiful lake are and meandering around the town) and Montreux is also worth a visit- gives you a bit of a "mediterranean" flavor in Switzerland. But if pressed for time, then I would stick to the Berneses Oberland- you will NOT be disapointed.

last yr I stayed in Berner oberland area for 5 nights. Magnificent! do not miss it.

I agree...seeing the museums is not our intent while in Switzerland - although we definitely appreciate the tip :) Thanks again for all the great ideas and suggestions! The B.O. area sounds like it has a few days worth of adventure and fun. We are looking forward to the trip next summer!

I should have also asked if any of you have any suggestions on where to stay in O.B.? Looking for possibly a hotel in an area where there are some great restaurants and places to go in the evening to relax with some good wine or drinks....thanks again!

Our favorite place to relax with a glass of wine in the evening is on our own hotel room balcony, looking at the view. Most of the hotels in both Wengen and Mürren have nice restaurants, and some are downright excellent.

We prefer Mürren for the views.

Visit both the Schilthorn and Jungfrau while staying in Murren. Views are once in a lifetime with cows wearing bells as well. Book your room early in October or earlier- they close everything for a month just before the heavy snow begins the busy season. Happy travels-Robert,Napa,Ca

I lived there for some time and here are a few suggestions: Berner Oberland (Kleine Scheidegg, Lauterbrunner Valley and First/Faulhorn are my favorites) Boat trip on Brienzersee and/or Lake Luzern. Brienzer Rothorn train Glacier Express (the part from Brig to St Moritz is the most spectacular) Bernina Express (make sure you ride in one of the open cars). Driving the Dreipassefaht is pretty impressive (Grimsel, Furka, Susten)