5 must-do activities to get to know Switzerland after relocating

Moving to Switzerland? Featuring stunning landscapes, a rich cultural heritage and a high standard of living, Switzerland is the dream destination for many expats. Relocation expert Pelichet offers you complete peace of mind when relocating, including this list of must-do activities when you finally arrive in Switzerland.

You're ready to move to Switzerland, your relocation experts have got everything under control - now you can start planning how you will enjoy the first year in your new country! Here are the top five activities you can experience to help you get to know your new home a little better.

1. Explore the Swiss Alps

No visit to Switzerland is complete without experiencing the majestic Swiss Alps. The Alps offer plenty of activities all year round.

In the snowy winters, you can indulge in skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing. Resorts like Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Verbier are world-renowned for their excellent slopes and après-ski scenes.

During the summer, the Alps transform into a hiker's paradise. Walking routes like the Eiger Trail and the Haute Route famously offer breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature, but every mountain has its own network of paths and villages waiting to be discovered.

If you are not a hiking person, take advantage of two of the most scenic train journeys in the world being on your doorstep. The Glacier Express, also known as the slowest express train, gives panoramic views of the stunning alpine scenery as it travels from Zermatt to St Moritz. 

In south-eastern Switzerland, the Bernina Express travels from Chur, the oldest town in Switzerland, to Tirano along the UNESCO World Heritage Rhaetian Railway. From your seat you will see some of the great Alpine passes as well as historic cities and mountain villages.

2. Visit the Rhine Falls

The Rhine Falls is Europe's largest waterfall and is a spectacular natural wonder. The falls are particularly impressive during the summer when the water flow is at its peak. You can get up close to the crashing waters with a boat ride or enjoy the view from one of the many observation platforms.

Located near the town of Schaffhausen, not far from the German border, it can be reached by train in about an hour from Zurich. You can also visit the castles of Wörth and Laufen by river boat, and the more daring visitors can rent canoes.

The surrounding area also offers beautiful walking trails and picnic spots, making it a perfect day trip destination.

3. Discover Swiss cities

Switzerland's cities are a great mix of modernity and tradition, and each has something unique to offer.

Zurich, the largest city, is known for its vibrant cultural scene, shopping, and nightlife. Don't miss the Kunsthaus Zurich, which houses an impressive collection of modern art.

Geneva, home to numerous international organisations, has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and beautiful lakeside promenades. The Jet d'Eau, a large fountain in Lake Geneva, is a must-see.

Basel, with its medieval old town and world-class museums, is another city people love exploring. The Basel Art Museum and the Tinguely Museum are highlights for art lovers

4. Enjoy Swiss cuisine

Swiss cuisine is a delicious mix of German, French and Italian influences. You will love trying traditional dishes like fondue, raclette and rösti.

Internationally famous, fondue is the perfect dish for a cosy winter's evening. It's a social meal, with a communal pot of melted cheese, into which you dip bread.

Raclette is another melted cheese dish, but in this case, it is usually served up alongside potatoes, pickles, viande des grisons (smoked beef) and onions.

A rösti is a potato pancake, and often considered by locals to be the Swiss dish. It's not eaten as a set meal in itself, but is often served as a side to accompany other dishes. 

While fish is eclipsed by the amount of pork eaten in Switzerland, in certain regions, particularly French and Italian cantons, fresh lake fish are a popular delicacy. In the summer, you can visit the picturesque Montreux Riviera for fresh perch on a sunny terrace.

For dessert, you can't go wrong with Swiss chocolate and pastries. The Swiss invented solid milk chocolate in 1875 and have continued to make tasty innovations in the chocolate-world ever since.

Like everything else in Switzerland, preferred foods can vary immensely from canton to canton. Many cities have food festivals and markets where you can try their local specialities and artisanal delicacies.

5. Experience Swiss festivals and traditions

Switzerland is rich in traditions and festivals that offer a glimpse into its cultural heritage. The Fasnacht (Carnival) in Basel is one of the most famous, featuring parades, music and elaborate costumes.

The Montreux Jazz Festival, held every summer, attracts music lovers from around the world. The Fête de l'Escalade in Geneva celebrates the city's victory over invaders in 1602 with parades, re-enactments, and chocolate cauldrons.

There are also plenty of more up-to-date festivals to interact with, such as film festivals like the Locarno Film Festival, Zurich Film Festival and the Neuchâtel International Fantastic Film Festival, and music festivals like the free Zurich Street Parade - the largest techno-parade in the world! Participating in these festivals is a great way to immerse yourself in Swiss culture and meet locals.

Discover your new home

Switzerland offers incredible experiences to its lucky residents, from outdoor adventures in the Alps to cultural explorations in its cities. Get ready to immerse yourself in Swiss living as soon as you arrive!

Hiring relocation experts like Pelichet ensures that you have a seamless moving experience, allowing you to not only enjoy your time in Switzerland, but also to gain a deeper appreciation for its rich heritage and lifestyle.