Fri, 10 February 2012
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Explore our guide to popular expat locations including Bern, Zurich, Geneva, Basel and Lugano.Bern
With a population of 128,393, half the size of Zurich, newcomers to Switzerland may be surprised to learn that Bern is the capital city. Located near the linguistic border between French and German Switzerland, the city combines the plateaus of the western region with the eastern mountains. As the capital, all major Swiss political decisions are made in Bern, a surprisingly international city for its size. The medieval city centre is recognised by UNESCO as a Cultural World Heritage Site and still retains elements of its 12th century origins. The city also possesses one of the longest shopping promenades in Europe. Transport connections to other major Swiss cities are very good, with various motorways, an extensive rail network and an airport nearby.
More information about Bern:
Family activities in Basel and Bern
Bern onion festival
Expat groups in Bern
Zurich
Zurich is often considered the economic powerhouse of Switzerland. The city was recently ranked second in a quality of living survey due to its high standards of education, health and transport. Consequently, it is a popular destination for companies relocating employees as well as families setting up a new home. The cost of living is high, especially in the city centre, despite the authorities’ efforts to expand the city by building new suburbs.
The city is arranged in 12 different districts, which contain one to four neighbourhoods each. Main sights include the Kunsthaus, a classic modern art museum, Bahnhofstrasse, considered the Champs d’Elysees of Zurich, and Grossmunster, a 9th century church.
More information on Zurich:
The best of the wurst
The best deals in Zurich
Zurich guide: shopping
Photo credits: Lake Lugano by Ahmed Rabea; Zurich's Bahnhofstrasse at night by stephenhanafin; Lake Geneva by Pear Biter; Lugano at night by Jukka1; Winter sunset in Bern by GenevaLife (all Flickr.com)
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