Because Switzerland is a small country, its attractions are near each other and can be reached quite easily. Mountain resorts, lakes, forests, castles, museums, and ancient and modern architecture make this federal republic an excellent tourist destination. With its low crime rate, it is also very safe for tourists.

1)  The Jungfrau Region
The Jungfrau Region offers spectacular scenery to bewitch the eye. The white peaks of three towering mountains-the Jungfrau, Monch, and Eiger-contrast with the green valleys and meadows in this Alpine wonderland. Enjoy the fresh mountain air while visiting this place.

2) Chateau de Chillon, Montreux
The town of Montreux is located in the heart of the Swiss Riviera on the shores of Lake Geneva. Walk by the lakeside and explore the Chillon Castle, or take a tour of the tower, courtyards, dungeons, and rooms of this eleventh-century castle, the most frequently visited historical building in Switzerland where its numerous rooms house weaponry, frescoes, and furniture. The castle can be reached by walking along the lakefront or taking the train or trolley bus.

3) Fasnacht Spring Carnival, Basel
Be sure to visit Basel, Switzerland's second largest city for the Fasnacht Spring carnival. Its world-famous three-day carnival features participants in colourful costumes and masks parading in the streets. The carnival starts on the Monday after Ash Wednesday, and cafes and bars are open all night as confetti, sweets, and flowers are thrown to the crowd.

4) Swiss National Park, Zernez
The Swiss Natural Park is 169 square kilometres of mountains and woodland. It is home to a variety of wildlife such as large red deer, chamois, ibexes, and marmots. Walk around its trails and admire its breathtaking views.  
Photo right: Ofen Pass-Zernes (Flickr/mstefano80)

5) Geneva
Hugging the shores of lovely Lake Geneva, this city is the third biggest in the country. You can find the world's tallest fountain, enchanting museums, and fine restaurants here. For those with a turn towards alternative arts, Geneva is a place not to be missed.

The Matterhorn, Zermatt (photo Flickr by dr2)

6) The Matterhorn, Zermatt
The most famous peak in the Alps, the Matterhorn in Zermatt stands 4,478 meters high. Mountaineers flock to this town to conquer this technically difficult peak, and Zermatt also offers skiing and beautiful views. There are also non-skiing activities, best restaurants and lots of energetic nightlife for visitors to enjoy.

7) St. Moritz
A famous playground of the wealthy, St. Moritz is a winter resort which offers skiing and a variety of summer and winter sports as well as mud and mineral baths and mud therapies. Savour caviar and truffles in some of the resorts' fine restaurants or spa treatment at the Health Spa Centre. This town is also known for its active and expensive nightlife.

8) Mt. Pilatus
Near the lakeside city of Lucerne stands Mt. Pilatus, a 2,120-meter-tall mountain. Tourists can take a cable car to reach its top and enjoy the thrilling view. It is also a great venue for walking with numerous trails, and the visitors here can witness the spectacular scenery of the Swiss Alps.

9) St. Gallen
An Irish monk founded St. Gallen in 612 AD. What was once a medieval centre has now grown into the seventh largest city in Switzerland, and this old town has a lot of picturesque buildings, with carved balconies, colourful murals, and relief statues. The large twin-towered cathedral has remarkable ceiling frescoes and stucco designs.

10) The Rhine Falls
Situated near the town of Schaffhausen, Europe's largest waterfalls, is a magnificent natural wonder. Near the falls is the medieval castle, Schoss Laufen, which houses a restaurant, a youth hostel, and shops. On Swiss National Day, 1 August, the Rhine Falls is host to fantastic display of fireworks which attracts thousands of tourists.

Rhinefall (photo Flickr by-zcreem)

Jonathan Williams is the travel writer for Destination Guide TV - the place to share travel videos. Visit www.destinationguide.tv/switzerland to view or share Switzerland travel videos.

Reprinted with permission of articles.com