The land of milk and honey
Explore cheap flights to Switzerland to discover a classic fairy-tale scene nestled in the Alps. To the north you’ll find the larger, modern cities including Bern, the capital. Visit artisan shops, try authentic Gruyere cheese, and gorge on decadent Swiss chocolate. While visiting in the warmer months, celebrate the long-awaited arrival of summer by floating down the Aare River. To the south of Bern is the serene village of Gimmelwald. This culturally rich nook is ripe with traditional Swiss delicacies and surrounded by stunning mountain views. Try the locally made fondue and an assortment of locally produced goodies. There’s a saying here: “If heaven isn’t what it’s made out to be, send me back to Gimmelwald.”
Just metres from heaven
Visit the Bernese Oberland region famous for three great mountain peaks: the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau that oversee this majestic wonder. Take private guided tours, scenic train rides or just meander through the mountains yourself using the well-marked trails. The Matterhorn, the jewel of the Swiss Alps, is located between Switzerland and Italy and stands 4,478 metres high. For a cinematic view of the Alps there is the Schilthorn. This ski resort is known for its revolving restaurant featured in the James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. For a peaceful contrast, take a detour to the botanical gardens at Schadau Park to enjoy the lake and grounds in any season. And don’t forget to taste traditional Rosti and the local Hobelkäse, a mature, finely sliced cheese.
Architecture on the lake
In the south, admire the Chateau Chillon on the western side of Lake Geneva, shrouded in mountains and magic. Head back to Geneva and walk along the lake, taking in the French-Swiss culture and style. Visit the Flower Clock in the English Garden as well as St. Peter’s Cathedral, and the birthplace of the United Nations.
When to go
May through September is considered the Swiss summer meaning ideal weather conditions, long daylight hours and higher ticket prices. Before late May and after early October, you can enjoy fewer crowds and Switzerland flights will be easier to find, but the weather is cooler. Pack warm clothing for the Alps, no matter when you go as the weather can change in the blink of an eye.
Ski season is between December and March. Mountain resorts are crowded and flying in can be more expensive. Days are short which means it will be dark before dinner. Of course, Swiss Christmas festivities are traditional and the colourful markets and special holiday foods will warm up your trip.
Zwischenzeit or ‘between time’ is the period between summer and ski seasons. You will find cheaper flights and lodging deals. However, many hotels and restaurants are closed, and the weather can become inclement. Be sure to check weather reports and hotel schedules ahead of time to ensure adequate facilities.
Airports and airlines
Quick and painless searches for flights to Switzerland are at your fingertips with Netflights. Find the lowest rates for your flight by searching for any of the seven international airports in Switzerland in the ‘Going to...’ section. Planning in advance is best to score the cheapest deal, especially from December to March and May through early September.
There are plenty of direct flights from the UK to Switzerland, with popular airports being Bern, Geneva and Zurich. Switzerland flights from the UK can also involve a stopover in some of the world’s top destinations like Barcelona or Berlin for a multicentre European tour. The most accessible and cheapest point of entry for European visitors is through Zurich using carriers like KLM, Lufthansa, British Airways, SWISS, Alitalia and Air France.
