So, if you’ve put down roots in Switzerland, your goal as an expat should be to figure out what to do with your free time. There’s a lot to explore in Switzerland - it’s an amazing place, and there are plenty of things that you can do with your weekends.
It should not come as a surprise that a lot of what you can do in Switzerland to enjoy yourself involves going outside. Switzerland is a beautiful place to live, and many popular activities have capitalized on this by being outdoors in nature. Don’t worry, though - you can still do many enjoyable things while staying indoors and avoiding bad weather.
If you are still in the process of moving your personal belongings from the UK to Switzerland, make sure to contact Pinnacle Removals & Storage to guide you through the process. Let's now take a look at what you should do with your time in Switzerland as an expat.
1. Ride the Glacier Express
You can’t live in Switzerland and never visit the mountains - they are a crucial part of the gorgeous scenery. The Matterhorn is the most famous peak in all of Switzerland, so it is an excellent place to visit if you’re looking for something new to explore. You can get there by taking the Glacier Express from places like St. Moritz, Disentis Muster, or Chur. The train will take you to the foot of the mountain.
Once you do get to the town, then you’ll want to take the mountain railway up to the Gornergrat Observatory. You'll be able to experience the Swiss Alps from there in their full splendor - a worthwhile sight for anyone.
2. Rhine Falls
Rhine Falls is a core part of Switzerland and is worth checking out if you’re visiting the area. It’s only an hour from Zurich by train - a few extra hours for those further out - but it is well worth the trip. As the most powerful waterfall in all of Europe, Rhine Falls is a behemoth, with 600 cubic meters of water falling over it every second during the summer months.
You can view the waterfall from either the south or the northern sides of the falls, and boats connect both banks during summer months, so visiting the area and seeing it from every angle is easily possible. There’s even a special boat tour that goes right up to the falls, but you’ll get a little wet in the process.
3. Lake Geneva
One of the great things about life in Switzerland is that all of the lakes are swimmable unless expressly stated, and most benefit from the fantastic climate is warm and agreeable. Considering that Switzerland can get up to an average temperature of 25 degrees or more during summer months, this is a welcome part of life.
Lake Geneva has earned a reputation for being one of the best to swim in, as it has clear blue water and a backdrop of amazing ridgelines. It is well worth exploring and seeing for yourself.
4. Chillon Castle
Chillon Castle is far and away the most beautiful castle in Switzerland, and this has earned it a spot on every list for an expat who is looking to explore Switzerland properly. It is located on the banks of Lake Geneva, so you could easily stop by and do both.
We recommend touring the area and then taking a stroll back to Montreux via the banks of the lake. It’s a beautiful locale, and you can either stop for a swim or admire the flower beds on the route - whichever pleases you most.
5. Rigi
If you want to see the Swiss countryside in a wholly unique way, then your best bet would be to check out the mountain railway to Rigi and enjoy it in a 360-degree panorama. You’ll start by taking the boat from Lucerne to Vitznau or getting on the train at Arth-Goldau. From there, you’ll be able to get to the Zahnradbahn railway. It’ll take you to the top of the mountain.
The mountain views are sublime and give you a panorama of central Switzerland - you might even spot Zurich in clear weather. The other mountains might beat Rigi in overall fame, but if you want good views, this is for you.
6. Engadine Valley
The Engadine Valley has earned a reputation as being beautiful in every sense of the word. Locals and expats alike have visited the valley for generations, and it is a lovely escape from life for an afternoon. Bring sensible hiking shoes and some supplies, though - you’ll want to look around properly.
The takeaway
Switzerland is one of the best places in Europe to live, and it offers a lot to an expat. You won’t have any shortage of places to visit or outdoor activities to enjoy - that’s a big part of life for the locals. The great outdoors is vital for Swiss living, and you’re encouraged to spend time out in nature.
However, you can also pick and choose the lifestyle that works best for you, so it’s your decision. We recommend tackling one thing on the list every weekend - you’ll find new adventures along the way.
If you require a removal service to Switzerland, then we can help you - we’re here to give you the support you need during the move.
Comments