Travelling to Switzerland in 2026: A Practical Guide to Discovering the Country Like a Local

Travel to Switzerland: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Travel to Switzerland: Everything You Need to Know for an Amazing Trip

Switzerland is one of Europe's most iconic destinations. It blends elegant, cosmopolitan cities, picture-perfect Alpine villages, crystal-clear lakes, breathtaking mountains, and an exceptional quality of life.
We recommend that a first visit to Switzerland last at least 6 days. That said, if you're short on time, a long weekend can still be worthwhile. In this guide, we'll cover different travel styles: nature, culture, food, and family travel.

Our goal is to give you a guide that helps you experience Switzerland like a true local: we skip the tourist traps so your trip can be one of a kind.

What you'll find in this guide:

• Things to do in Switzerland
• Different travel styles
• Sample itineraries for Switzerland
• Local experiences: discovering Switzerland a different way
• The best time to visit Switzerland
• Getting around Switzerland
• Daily budget for a trip to Switzerland
• Practical tips before traveling to Switzerland
• Why travel insurance for Switzerland matters
• FAQ's

Tourism in Switzerland: What to See and Do on Your Trip?

Switzerland may be a small country, but it packs an overwhelming variety of landscapes.
If you're short on time, focusing on one specific area can be a great approach: the Bernese Alps (Interlaken, Jungfrau), the Zermatt and Matterhorn region, Central Switzerland (Lucerne and Mount Pilatus), the Lake Geneva area (Geneva, Lausanne, and Montreux), or the Alpine East (St. Moritz and the Graubünden).
To make it easier for you, we've handpicked everything from must-see icons that make the trip worthwhile to hidden gems that only locals know about.

The 10 Must-See Places in Switzerland

Switzerland offers a great mix of charming cities and truly breathtaking natural scenery. Below, you'll find inspiration from both categories to help spark your travel plans.

🏙️ Charming Cities Worth Exploring

• Zurich: the financial capital, renowned for its vibrant cultural scene and lively lakeside atmosphere.
• Geneva: a cosmopolitan city on the shores of Lake Geneva and home to major international organizations.
• Bern: Switzerland's official capital, whose medieval old town will take you back in time.
• Lucerne: a picture-perfect gem featuring its famous wooden bridge and stunning medieval architecture.
• Lausanne: the Olympic city, built on hillside terraces with sweeping views and a lively student atmosphere.

🏔️ Nature and Iconic Experiences

• Interlaken and Jungfrau: the adventure capital of Switzerland and the "roof of Europe" at over 11,150 feet (3,400 meters) above sea level.
• Lauterbrunnen: a fairytale valley famous for its 72 spectacular waterfalls.
• Zermatt and the Matterhorn: the car-free Alpine village nestled at the foot of the world's most photographed mountain.
• Lake Geneva and Lake Lucerne: stunning expanses of water perfect for a scenic ride on a historic paddle steamer.
• Scenic train routes: legendary journeys such as the Glacier Express for crossing the Alps with breathtaking panoramic views.

💡 Did you know...? Switzerland is home to more than a dozen UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ranging from the historic old town of Bern to the magnificent Jungfrau-Aletsch glacier.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations in Switzerland: Discover the Country's More Authentic Side

Beyond the most popular circuits, Switzerland also offers villages and regions that are deeply appealing to travelers seeking peace and authenticity. In these places, it feels like time has stood still:

Appenzell: a traditional region ideal for leisurely hiking, Alpine scenery, and rural architecture.

• The Canton of Uri: a great choice for travelers looking for mountain landscapes, lakes, and scenic routes, with a deep connection to Swiss history and the Gotthard Pass.

The Town of Olten: a small hidden gem tucked away in the canton of Solothurn, right on the banks of the Aare River.

• Thun: A city with all the charm of Lucerne but without the crowds. It sits on the shores of a beautiful lake and boasts a medieval castle.

4 Secret Spots in Switzerland: Local Recommendations

Here are some of the places a Swiss local would visit on vacation:

1. Bernese Alps: Head to car-free villages like Mürren or Wengen, where breathtaking Alpine views and a slower pace make for an ideal mountain escape.
2. French-speaking Switzerland: Don't miss the terraced vineyards of Lavaux (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and charming villages like Gruyères, renowned for its cheese, medieval castle, and storybook atmosphere.
3. Morcote: Nestled on the shores of Lake Lugano in the canton of Ticino, this village has the elegance of northern Italian towns, with its cypress and pine trees and hilltop church. It's a true hidden gem well worth adding to your itinerary.

❤️ A local's favorite spot: if you're in Lucerne, don't miss the terrace at the Art Deco Hotel Montana. Sipping a cocktail or aperitif with sweeping views over the lake is an absolute must.

Where to go based on your travel style?

Switzerland, though small, offers a wide range of experiences that can be tailored to any type of traveler. Its Alpine geography, elegant cities, and cultural diversity mean there are options for every taste. Here are a few suggestions based on the kind of trip you have in mind.

Where to go in Switzerland for a food lover's trip?

The Swiss regions most celebrated for their cuisine include:

The canton of Graubünden (Grisons): this is the ideal region for travelers seeking hearty mountain dishes, including soups, cured meats, and local cheeses.

The canton of Vaud and French-speaking Switzerland: this area is known for its cheeses, the wines of Lavaux, and a refined cuisine that blends Alpine tradition with careful, polished technique.

• The canton of Ticino: Mediterranean-inspired cooking featuring excellent cured meats, risottos, polenta, and high-quality local produce.

🔑 Local tip: in Switzerland, it's common to order individual entrées, but sharing a fondue or raclette is a classic, delicious experience that's also more affordable when you're dining as a group.

Nature in Switzerland: spectacular landscapes beyond the Alps

Switzerland is a true natural paradise of high mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and glaciers — but also wild valleys and dense forests. Here are some iconic spots we highly recommend:

• Gimmelwald (Bernese Oberland): This village is accessible only by cable car — there are no roads in. It sits surrounded by glaciers, Alpine meadows, and iconic peaks.
• Creux du Van (Switzerland's Grand Canyon): A stunning natural spectacle near Neuchâtel, with rock walls rising 650 feet (about 200 meters) and diverse wildlife.
• Swiss National Park, in the Engadine valley. It offers over 62 miles (100 kilometers) of hiking trails and organized excursions.
• Ela Nature Park. The largest nature park in Switzerland, covering 255 square miles (659 square kilometers) of landscapes that are sure to take your breath away. A full third of the park is pristine wilderness!

The 5 best cities in Switzerland for a cultural city break

Switzerland isn't just a destination for mountains and outdoor adventure — its cities blend a fascinating historical heritage with a vibrant urban scene. If you're looking for the perfect city break destination, these five stops are not to be missed:

• Zurich: The financial capital stands out for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, cutting-edge museums, art galleries, and a lively café culture along the lake.
• Geneva: Elegant and multicultural, it's the hub of international diplomacy and home to the Museum of Art and History, along with a stunning lakeside promenade along Lake Geneva.
• Bern: The country's official capital, whose medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site — highlights include the iconic Clock Tower and the impressive Cathedral.
• Lausanne: A dynamic, youthful city built on hillside slopes above Lake Geneva, known for its Olympic spirit, lively neighborhoods, and rich entertainment scene.
• Bellinzona: Located in the canton of Ticino, this historic gem will take you back in time with its three imposing medieval castles of Roman origin (Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro).

❤ Anastasia's favorite spot: "Did you know Einstein developed the Theory of Relativity while living in Bern? At the Einstein Museum you can explore his life in Switzerland through interactive experiments, letters, and original artifacts. It's so fascinating that you'll walk out feeling like a genius!"

Traveling to Switzerland with Kids: the Best Family Activities

Switzerland is an ideal destination for families with children, thanks to its safety, excellent transportation, and a wide range of leisure options designed with families in mind. Here are four experiences your kids will love:

• The Chocolate Train: Ride the scenic route between Montreux, Gruyères and the Cailler chocolate factory in Broc. You'll also visit a cheese dairy. Both stops include tastings.
• BEO-FunPark: Located between Bern and Fribourg, this park is a true paradise for fun, with both indoor and outdoor play areas.
• The Tropical Gardens of Papiliorama and Nocturama (Kerzers): A tropical oasis where kids can walk among thousands of exotic butterflies and discover nocturnal rainforest animals.
• Swiss Museum of Transport (Lucerne): Switzerland's most visited museum. An interactive space where kids can climb aboard historic trains, planes, and boats, and enjoy simulators.

🔑 A local's recommendation:
"My kids absolutely love Arolla, in the Val d'Hérens (at 6,560 ft / 2,000 m elevation). It's a storybook landscape surrounded by wild mountains and just a short distance from the breathtaking Lac Bleu. The kids can spot marmots, explore safe trails, and feel like true adventurers in the Swiss Alps." - Stéphane, father of two, based in Zurich.

💡 Quick tip: If you're traveling by train in Switzerland, look for "Ticki Park" cars on double-decker trains. These are family-friendly cars that feature a play area with a slide and jungle-themed décor. The ride will fly by for the little ones!

Switzerland Itineraries: Perfect Routes Based on How Many Days You Have

We recommend different itineraries depending on how much time you plan to spend in Switzerland — whether it's a long weekend, a week-long trip, or even 12 days. The following suggestions are especially tailored for couples or groups of young travelers.

Route 1: Long Weekend Getaway (3 Days)

A long weekend is perfect for combining Zurich and Lucerne. You can start in Zurich with a stroll through the old town, a walk along the lake, and a hike up Uetliberg for sweeping views of the city; spend the evening in the Niederdorf neighborhood.
On the second day, dedicate the day to Lucerne — explore the historic old town, the Chapel Bridge, and take a walk along the lake. On the third day, you can visit the Rhine Falls before heading back to Zurich.

Route 2: Switzerland's Highlights in One Week (7 Days)

A week gives you time to connect Zurich, Lucerne, and French-speaking Switzerland.
Spend the first two days in Zurich and Lucerne; then head to Interlaken to soak in the Alpine scenery. Continue on to Montreux or Lausanne for a stroll along Lake Geneva, and set aside a full day for Lavaux, where vineyards, a castle, and local cuisine all come together.

Route 3: The Grand Tour of Switzerland (10 to 15 Days)

The ultimate road trip for those who want to experience lakes, mountains, heritage, and culture at a leisurely pace.
After kicking things off with Zurich and Lucerne, venture into the heart of the Bernese Alps to discover picture-perfect villages like Lauterbrunnen and Wengen.
From there, make your way to the iconic village of Zermatt to take in the silhouette of the Matterhorn, Europe's most famous mountain. Wrap up your journey with the calm charm of Montreux, the landscapes of Lavaux, and the medieval beauty of Bern, the country's capital.

You're in luck! To make things easier, we at AXA have put together a complete itinerary for your next trip to Switzerland, tailored to your traveler profile and the length of your stay.

Must-Have Experiences in Switzerland: Food, Festivals, and Traditions

A trip isn't truly complete until you sit down to taste the local cuisine and enjoy the local festivals and customs. Switzerland is no exception. Here's a curated selection to help you make the most of your visit.

7 Local Specialties You Have to Try in Switzerland

Swiss cuisine is the perfect example of "comfort food": warm, hearty, and flavorful dishes with German, French, and Italian influences. Beyond the famous fondue, make sure to try these unmissable dishes:

1. Raclette: the most famous melted cheese dish, a specialty of the canton of Valais, served alongside potatoes and pickles.
2. Rösti: a delicious crispy shredded potato cake, originally from German-speaking Switzerland.
3. Zürcher Geschnetzeltes: a traditional Zurich dish made with strips of veal in a creamy mushroom and cream sauce.
4. Ticinese polenta: a slow-cooked, creamy cornmeal dish that is a staple of the Ticino region and its strong Italian influence.
5. Capuns: a traditional Graubünden dish made with dough and cured meats wrapped in Swiss chard leaves.
6. Meringues with double cream: the quintessential classic dessert of French-speaking Switzerland, especially in the Gruyère region.
7. Artisan chocolate: a must-stop at local chocolatiers and pastry shops to truly understand Switzerland's worldwide reputation.

Why is Swiss chocolate so famous around the world?

The secret behind its success has a name: Rodolphe Lindt (yes, the very founder of the world-famous brand). In 1879, this Swiss chocolatier invented the conching process — a continuous kneading technique that transforms gritty, bitter chocolate into the smooth, creamy texture that melts in your mouth today. Switzerland was also the first country to successfully combine cocoa with Alpine condensed milk. Pure historical innovation!

Major festivals and cultural events worth experiencing in Switzerland

Switzerland celebrates its traditions with a blend of local identity, heritage, and strong community spirit. If you can time your trip around any of these events, you won't regret it:

"L'Escalade" Festival (Geneva): held every December, it features a grand torchlit historical parade commemorating the 1602 victory against the Savoyard troops. Perfect if you're visiting in winter!

The Désalpe Festival: each fall, cattle descend from the Alpine heights to the valleys for winter. Farmers adorn their cows with floral crowns. This tradition is celebrated across several regions of Switzerland.

• Fasnacht in Basel: the most important carnival in Switzerland, held in February or March)
• Montreux Jazz Festival: one of the most important jazz festivals in Europe.
• The Advent and Christmas markets in cities such as Zurich, Basel, Bern, and Lucerne.
• The Locarno Film Festival, highly prestigious and known for its unique cultural atmosphere.

✨ Did you know? The Vevey Winegrowers' Festival is a celebration with roots dating back to the 16th century that takes place only 5 times per century. The next one is in 2039 — so if you happen to be in Switzerland that year, don't miss it!

Traditional Swiss crafts: souvenirs and local products worth bringing home

Switzerland has a rich artisan tradition deeply tied to its landscape, its watchmaking heritage, and its Alpine culture. Bring home something more meaningful than a trinket from a tourist shop.

Watches: a symbol of precision and one of the most iconic products the country has to offer.

Swiss Army knives: synonymous with quality and practicality. A timeless classic that never disappoints.

Regional cheeses: pick up an authentic Gruyère or Emmental bought directly from a local fromagerie.

Chocolate: you simply can't leave Switzerland without picking up some great chocolate. The country is world-renowned for it. (Especially if you're traveling with kids.)

Wool textiles: Swiss wool is legendary. A warm, quality sweater is always a welcome addition to your winter wardrobe.

Alpine honey: in the valleys of Valais and Graubünden, you'll find exceptional honey and beekeeping products such as propolis and candles.

💡 Local tip: The secret about cuckoo clocks
"Kids love having one in their room — parents, not so much, thanks to the noise. The trick to gifting one guilt-free? Choose a modern model with a light sensor: when the lights go off at bedtime, the cuckoo automatically silences itself. Peace and quiet guaranteed for the whole family!" - Loïc, a neighbor from Nyon

Sports and Outdoor Activities in Switzerland: What Should You Try?

Sports and outdoor activities in Switzerland revolve around its majestic Alps and ever-present lakes. The must-try options include:

• Hiking: the quintessential national sport, with an impeccably maintained trail network.
• Skiing and snowboarding: at world-renowned resorts such as Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Verbier.
• Water activities: boat trips, water skiing, and fishing on lakes like Lake Geneva or Lake Lucerne.
• Cycling and mountain biking: spectacular routes and top-notch infrastructure throughout the country.
• Adventure in Interlaken: paragliding or bungee jumping with breathtaking views of the Alpine peaks.

🛡️ AXA at your side: Enjoy the mountains with complete peace of mind. AXA Schengen Travel Insurance includes search and rescue expense coverage in the event of an accident during your outdoor activities.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Switzerland?

The answer depends entirely on the type of trip you're looking for:

May through September (Spring and Summer): The best time for hiking, enjoying the lakes, and taking in the Alpine scenery at its most spectacular green, with warm and pleasant weather.

December through March (Winter): The ideal choice if your goal is to experience postcard-perfect snow, Christmas markets, and winter sports.

Shoulder months (April, October, and November): Offer stunning snowmelt or fall foliage scenery with fewer crowds, though keep in mind that some cable cars and high-altitude routes close for maintenance.

Getting Around Switzerland: Train, Public Transportation, or Car

Switzerland has one of the best transportation networks in the world. Whether to choose a train or a car depends entirely on your travel style:

Traveling by Train and Public Transportation (The Recommended Option)

The rail network (SBB/CFF/FFS), along with buses and boats, connects every corner of the country with legendary punctuality. It's the most practical, eco-friendly option — and it saves you the headache of finding parking.

💡 Practical money-saving tip: If you're planning multiple journeys (more than 3–4 trips within Switzerland) , consider getting the Swiss Travel Pass. It includes:

• Unlimited travel by train, bus, and boat
• Premium scenic train routes
• Free public transportation in more than 90 cities
• Free admission to more than 500 museums
• Mountain excursions included
• Up to 50% off on many mountain excursions
• And much more!

Renting a Car in Switzerland (For Specific Traveler Profiles)

It's only worth it if you plan to explore very remote valleys, are traveling with a lot of luggage, or need to transport your own ski and snowboard gear to the slopes.

⚠ ️ What you need to know before driving: Traffic laws are extremely strict and fines are very high.
The highway speed limit is 120 km/h (about 75 mph) (a mandatory road vignette is required) and 80 km/h (about 50 mph) on main roads.
Keep in mind that many cities and Alpine villages (such as Zermatt) have strict pedestrian zones where private vehicles are not permitted.

Daily Budget for Traveling to Switzerland

Switzerland is an expensive destination, especially when it comes to accommodation, transportation, and dining. To help you plan, here is an estimate of the daily budget per person along with the main expenses to expect:

📌 Mandatory costs to budget for: On top of day-to-day expenses, factor in the cost of a Schengen visa if your nationality requires one. To obtain it, you are required to purchase travel insurance — a protection that is highly recommended for all visitors.
Don't think of it as just a formality: in a country with such high medical costs, a solid travel medical insurance plan is the best way to protect yourself from bills that could run into the thousands in the event of an accident or emergency evacuation.

How to Travel to Switzerland Without Breaking the Bank: 8 Money-Saving Tips

It's entirely possible to enjoy the country without draining your account — just apply these practical tips:

1. Smart accommodation choices: Consider hostels or budget lodging located outside city centers.
   
2. Collaborative options: explore alternative accommodation options or hospitality platforms like Couchsurfing to cut down on the cost of overnight stays.
   
3. Supermarket meals: the Coop and Migros chains offer ready-made dishes, salads, and sandwiches that are delicious, nutritious, and much more affordable than restaurants.
   
4. Free water: always carry a reusable bottle. Switzerland is full of public drinking fountains, and tap water is of excellent quality and completely free.
   
5. Choose your excursions wisely: ultra-famous summits like Jungfraujoch come with steep price tags. Look for less crowded Alpine alternatives that are just as breathtaking.
   
6. Discounted train tickets: if you're not using the Swiss Travel Pass, book your journeys in advance on the SBB website; supersaver tickets (supersaverr) offer discounts of up to 50% for travel during off-peak hours.
   
7. The free ski trick: Most Alpine resorts offer free lift passes for children under 6. Resorts like Zermatt and Jungfrau extend free access (or major discounts) to children under 16 on Saturdays or with online booking.

💡 Backpacker tip (for a hot meal without breaking the bank): If you want to sit down for a meal without spending a fortune, look for Manor department stores. Their cafeterias (called Manora) offer fresh food buffets and delicious daily specials at unbeatable prices — and they very often feature terraces or rooftop areas with spectacular panoramic views of the city.

Preparation and useful tips before your trip to Switzerland

Before your trip to Switzerland, it's worth reviewing the required documents, your health coverage, and the country's basic rules. Switzerland is not a member of the European Union, though it is part of the Schengen Area, so it's essential to know the specific entry requirements.

Passport, visa, insurance: what documents do you need to travel to Switzerland?

For stays of less than 90 days, requirements depend on your nationality.

EU citizens and residents or Schengen Area nationals: may enter with a valid national ID or passport.

Citizens of visa-exempt countries: may enter with a passport, provided they meet the conditions of their stay.

⚠️ ETIAS notice: starting in the last quarter of 2026, travelers who previously did not need a Schengen visa for short stays in Europe will be required to apply for the new ETIAS electronic travel authorization.

Citizens of countries that require a Schengen visa: must obtain a Schengen Type C visa and mandatory travel medical insurance with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros, including repatriation.

👉 AXA has you covered! If you need this visa, we walk you through step by step
how to easily obtain a Schengen visa for Switzerland and what requirements you need to meet for a successful application.

💡 Did you know? A Schengen visa for Switzerland doesn't just let you enter the country — it also gives you free access to visit any of the other member countries of this European area during your trip.

Safety, health, and risks in Switzerland: what you need to know

Switzerland is one of the safest countries in the world for tourists, but its mountainous environment and private healthcare system call for a couple of basic precautions:

• Medical care: healthcare in Switzerland is world-class but entirely private and extremely expensive for foreign visitors. Travel insurance is essential to avoid bills running into thousands of dollars in the event of a ski accident, sudden illness, or the need for medical evacuation.
  
• Vaccinations and hiking: no vaccinations are required. If you plan to do a lot of hiking in forested areas, it is recommended that you be vaccinated against tick-borne encephalitis.
  
• Natural hazards in high-altitude areas: Alpine weather can change within minutes. Before heading out on any excursion, it's essential to check the forecast on the national meteorological agency MeteoSwiss and review alerts on Switzerland's official natural hazards page always respect storm warnings and avalanche danger signs.

Essential information and useful facts about Switzerland

Here's a quick-reference overview of the country so you can hit the ground running:

Capital: Bern.

Official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh.

Currency: Swiss franc (CHF). Card payments are widely accepted, but carry some cash for small mountain shops.

Time zone: UTC+1 (UTC+2 in summer).

Electrical outlets: Type J (230V). You'll need an adapter if your plugs are the standard flat or three-prong type.

Emergency numbers: Police (117), Fire (118), Ambulance (144), Air Rescue/Rega (1414), and European Emergency (112).

Local etiquette:
- Punctuality is taken very seriously.
- Silence and orderly behavior are highly valued in public transportation and shared spaces.
- Tips are not mandatory, as service is included in the bill.

Official tourism website: myswitzerland.com

What travel insurance should you choose for Switzerland?

International medical insurance is a mandatory requirement for those applying for a Schengen visa and an essential recommendation for all other travelers.
It gives you complete peace of mind during your stay by covering serious unexpected events such as medical emergencies, hospitalizations, repatriation, or baggage issues.

Why trust AXA Schengen coverage?

With over 65 years of experience in international assistance and protection, AXA offers solutions tailored to your needs:

• Officially accepted for your visa: Your digital certificate is issued instantly and is accepted by all consulates and embassies.
  We also guarantee a full refund if your application is denied.
  
• High coverage limits: Medical expenses covered up to 2 million euros, organized medical repatriation, and comprehensive protection against any setback at your destination.
  
• Your pass to worry-free travel across the continent: Full coverage not just for Switzerland, but for the entire Schengen area, European Union countries, and the United Kingdom.
  
• 24/7 continuous medical support: A team of multilingual professionals available at any hour, with free access to medical teleconsultations to answer your questions.

Enjoy nature and the Alpine mountains with complete peace of mind. Find the perfect plan for your stay with AXA Schengen Travel Insurance for Switzerland.

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FAQ

What should I do if I get sick in Switzerland?

With your policy number on hand, contact AXA Schengen assistance right away or use our digital tool so we can direct you to the right medical center or emergency service.
For minor issues, you can use the free telemedicine service Doctor Please!. Remember to keep all medical reports and receipts to file your reimbursement claim.
In the event of a serious emergency in Switzerland or any Schengen country, call 112 directly.

Is Switzerland an expensive destination?

Yes, Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world. Because the Swiss franc (CHF) is a strong currency, hotel, transportation, and dining prices are significantly higher than the European average. A typical daily budget tends to range from 120 to 180 CHF per person, so traveling with reservations already made and a detailed plan is essential to keep spending under control.

What driver's license do you need in Switzerland?

Swiss authorities accept an international driver's license for stays of less than one year. Driver's licenses issued by EU countries (as well as Liechtenstein, Iceland, and Norway) are also accepted.

If your trip includes a road trip and you plan to cross into neighboring countries, we recommend checking out our complete guide on driving in Europe for all the regulations and requirements in each country

What time of year should you avoid visiting Switzerland?

If you want to save money and avoid large crowds, try not to travel in July and August or during the winter school holidays.
We also recommend booking well in advance if your trip falls around any of the many public holidays in Europe or local long weekends in Switzerland, as availability fills up quickly and accommodation prices rise significantly.