ZURICH

[curtiejoe]

Switzerland is a small country with a rich past and an utterly spectacular natural environment comprised of the Matterhorn and other amazing mountain peaks, long green valleys, and several shimmering Alpine lakes. Since my wife and I are thinking of a possible trip to Europe that would likely encompass visits to southern France and northern Italy, we thought that catching the sights of Switzerland along the way would make the vacation extra special. While in the Swiss nation, we'd like to stay in Zurich, for we've heard from friends who recently returned from there, that the city is a gem! They say its affordable, amazingly clean and spotless, as well as simply beautiful. Better yet, anyone can apparently 'rent' a bicycle and pedal around the city for free to their heart's content. Amazing! If you've recently travelled to Switzerland, we'd be thankful for any suggestions or comments you have about accommodations, restaurants, galleries, and cafes, particularly in Zurich. Thanx.



curtiejoe

[swimcoach10]

On my most recent trip to Zurich I stayed with a friend outside the city, so I am not much help on places to stay. Do be sure to go by the Sprungli chocolate shop on Hauptbahnhaufstrasse. You can easily get around the city on buses, and there are many bike riders (although I haven't done that). There are many old churches and things to see in the city, which you can get from any website. I would recommend a trip to Lucerne (by train). Do remember that the Matterhorn (Zermatt) are quite far from Zurich and not directly accessible. I went by train through Bern and around. I would recommend going to the Eiger & Jungfrau (neighboring mountains) - especially if you ever saw Eiger Sanction. You can take a train to the station near the top and then walk down (depending on time of year). It is gorgeous. The town of Zermatt was probably my favorite, and of course, seeing the Matterhorn was wonderful. There is lots of hiking in that area, too.
Have a great trip. I love all of the Alps area, and know you will love your trip!

[baurco]

Stay best in a smaler hotel outside Zurich - e.g. the Belvoure in Rschlikon. Best location at night: the Kaufleuten club - a bit snobby, but always pretty people.

Apart from zurich - which is not the most interesting city in the world - I recommend to go and see the graubnden county - cities like Klosters and Davos are very pretty. Do not miss St. Moritz during winter time! Or even posh Gstaad!

recommend also to have a trip to Geneve- nice mix between Swiss andFrench - or stay in the region of Tessino - close to Italian boarder.

Nice panoramas all around, but be aware of the costs!