Experiences: Urban

The “Ufschötti” – the extensive expanse of greenery by the lake – is the place half of Lucerne heads for in the summer A 200-metre-long strip of sandy beach gives all its visitors real seaside vibes.

This gem among the parks of Zurich was built in the middle of the beautiful park for a high-classicist style villa at the start of the 19th century. Today, this villa is home to the renowned Belvoirpark hotel management school and a restaurant.

Founded in 1871, the Lange Erlen Animal Park is a popular destination for families.

In the green parks around the lower basin of the lake, there’s always something going on in the summer months. Inline skaters, water sports enthusiasts, jewellery sellers and street artists all gather here to create a colourful scene. Anyone looking for peace and quiet will be able to escape the hustle and bustle on the Zürichhorn at the end of the lakeside promenade, in the wonderful Chinese Garden.

The Uferpark recreational area on the outskirts of Solothurn invites old and young alike to linger, relax and enjoy themselves. With a wide bike path, a promenade for those out for a stroll, barbecue areas complete with wooden benches, as well as windows to nature with access to the Aare river and a beach, who could ask for more?

The Grossmünster is Zurich's landmark. You will visit the Romanesque church, climb the Karlsturm and discover the medieval stained glass windows – right in the heart of the old town, between Limmat and Niederdorf.

High up on the «Stählibuck» mountain of Frauenfeld a steel giant of the same name is keeping watch: the Stählibuck Tower. With a height of 27 meters, it is a challenge for anybody who attempts to climb its 148 stairs.

Just a few minutes from the city centre, shady green spaces, tall trees and a pebble beach offer the perfect spot for fun in the water and relaxation. Walking trails wind their way through the expansive lawned areas, and the view of the Bernese Alps is simply marvellous.

At the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne, you will discover mobility, technology and communication on land, on water, in the air and in space. History comes alive, the future is tangible – an excursion in any weather.

The water tower and the surrounding fields are among the most attractive green spaces in Basel. In early summer the area is dominated by large fields full of flowers where storks are frequent guests.

La Chaux-de-Fonds is more closely associated with watches than perhaps any other town or city. Located at an altitude of 1,000 metres above sea level, its streets are laid out in a chessboard pattern. This successful symbiosis between urban development and the watchmaking industry has led to the city being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. La Chaux-de-Fonds is also the birthplace of Le Corbusier.

Each year, there are some 2,900 roses, of which there are 300 varieties, blooming in Winterthur’s Rose Garden. These also include rare and historic roses such as the French rose, which is the oldest cultivated species still available today, or the deep-pink Queen of Denmark rose. Aside from all the flowers that are in bloom, you’ll also find a place of relaxation here, and glorious views over the city of Winterthur.

At the Swiss Science Centre Technorama in Winterthur, touching is encouraged. Here you can explore scientific phenomena with all your senses. Over 500 experiment stations, shows and workshops invite you to discover.

Andeer is famous as a spa resort with curative mineral baths. Relax in the gorgeous mountain setting of the Val de Schons.

Rheinfelden is the oldest town in the canton of Aargau. Offering over 15 different themed tours, city guides present Rheinfelden’s rich history and illuminate its journey into a modern future.

Rochers-de-Naye offers a unique panoramic view of the Swiss and French Alps: from the Eiger to Mont-Blanc and down to Lake Geneva – the cog railway takes guests up to an altitude of around 2,000 meters above sea level, where various experiences and opportunities for discovery begin.

The Chapel Bridge is Lucerne's landmark and one of the oldest wooden bridges in Europe. Walk across the 204-meter-long bridge, discover the historical paintings and enjoy the view of the Reuss River and the Old Town.

A natural haven of peace located on Montriond hill in the heart of Lausanne. In this little green paradise, full of brightly coloured flowers and large trees, you’ll be able to escape into a haven of relaxation – even though you’re practically in the city centre still.

From Ouchy, the quays open out into a vast public park with extensive lawned areas and magnificent age-old trees. The grounds are graced by a 16-metre-high Thai pavilion.

The Musegg Wall towers over Lucerne and offers you history and views in one. Climb the medieval towers and enjoy the view of the lake, the city and the Alpine panorama.

Is it the Aare River that lets inspiration flow or the milk which used to be given out during school breaks? There’s hardly another city in Switzerland that has produced as many writers as Olten.

The Minster Terrace with its green spaces and large chestnut trees is perfect for picnics, playing and relaxing. The breathtaking view of the Aare river, the Alps and Bern’s Matte neighbourhood make the old churchyard a popular place to meet and hang out.

There is always something to experience aboard the flotilla of the Basle passenger cruise company: lock passages between Basle and Rheinfelden, city and harbour tours, rich brunch offer and much more.

A petting zoo and large playground make the Dählhölzli an ideal family outing destination.

Drei Weieren (Three Ponds) are an oasis of peace in the middle of the city. The ponds, which were originally built by the monastery for their water needs with their art nouveau bath houses, are a popular destination for outings and as swimming spot.

The romantically lit ice rink in front of the Quader Schoolhouse is THE meeting point in winter. Indulging in some ice-skating on a beautifully lit rink accompanied by suitably lovely music in the middle of the city is a wonderful winter experience.

The ridge between Lake Neuchâtel and the Val de Ruz valley is Neuchâtel’s local mountain. It boasts stunning views, a hotel and a path that tells the story of the earth, and is the starting point for many hikes in the Jura.

In St. Gallen you'll find history at every turn. The city's landmark is the Convent of St. Gall with its Baroque cathedral. The convent, including the library and monastery archives, was added to the Unesco World Heritage List in 1983.

Walk through the car-free old town of the oldest city in Switzerland. Between winding alleys, boutiques and restaurants, you will immerse yourself in over 5000 years of history.