Explore Switzerland Basel | Bern | Geneva | Lausanne | Lucerne
Book with your local travel agent or call our travel specialists on 0800 988 3369
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Switzerland
You’re unique and that’s why Fred.\ Holidays always offers to tailor-make the perfect holiday, just for you. We’ll take into account the things you want to see, your budget and offer you the best possible way of making your trip become a reality. From ferry, rail or flying to cruise, expeditions and even independent holidays around the world, our dedicated travel specialists are on hand to offer advice and can give you valuable information that will be helpful both during the booking journey and whilst enjoying your holiday. Switzerland is a land of diversity, from mountains to lakes, waterfalls to cultural cities, breath-taking views atop glaciers and UNESCO sites, a visit to Switzerland is more than just a holiday. Within our specialist Switzerland brochure we have featured a selection of our favourite places to visit. For peace of mind – in addition to being a part of one of the UK’s most established travel companies, Fred.\ Holidays is ABTA and ATOL bonded ensuring that you are financially protected in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
Why not combine your Switzerland Holiday with a multi-centre journey including all of our featured destinations? Call our travel specialists today for more information and to tailor your own perfect holiday experience.
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Contents Insider information from Switzerland Tourism
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Basel
6-7
Bern
8-9
Geneva
10 - 11
Lausanne
12 - 13
Lucerne
14 - 15
Book with your local travel agent or call our travel specialists on 0800 988 3369
Insider information From Switzerland Tourism
Insanely beautiful landscapes, bucket-list mountain views and clear blue lakes – these images of Switzerland have all burrowed their way into the popular consciousness for a reason: they are an integral part of the country’s DNA. But what about its cities? It’s easy to forget that for all of its triumphant natural settings, Switzerland’s cities are worthy of the same attention – brimming with top galleries, venerated cultural institutions, innovative hotels and restaurants, and thriving night-life districts. And you’ll find all of these things right on the doorstep of those justly famous mountains and lakes. Swiss cities are made for exciting discoveries and new adventures. Here you’ll find a wealth of art, architecture, enticing pleasures and joie de vivre. The beauty is that the top sights can all be seen on foot – from churches and museums to Old Town lanes crammed with boutiques, cafés and speciality shops. The cities we’re going to tell you more about are all on the new Grand Tour of Switzerland, incidentally. This enchanting driving route leads through Switzerland’s most stunning landscapes and reveals highlights on every corner. Jam-packed with art, culture and architecture, Basel is Switzerland’s cultural capital. The city at the border triangle of Germany, France and Switzerland also entices with an incredibly beautiful Old Town, nostalgic bathhouses on the Rhine and numerous outstanding restaurants. There’s no doubt about it, when it comes to good-living, Basel stands head and shoulders above most cities. The Swiss capital ticks differently. Here the vibe is blissfully relaxed – perfect for enjoying the sights at your own pace. And Bern has more than enough sights. In the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, you can admire the Clock Tower and cathedral or simply take a stroll under the medieval arcades, which are ideal for all-weather shopping. There are beautiful cities and then there is Lucerne, sitting on the shores of dazzling Lake Lucerne and its snow-capped peaks. Right in the heart of Switzerland, this city is a must-see with its 14th-century Old Town, historic wooden bridge with tower, impressive baroque churches, fin-de-siècle lake promenade and avant-garde culture and congress centre. Sitting on the shores of Lake Geneva and surrounded by vineyards, Lausanne is incredibly scenic. The charm of a young university city, cool cafés, colourful flower markets and an upbeat party scene add to its appeal. The Olympic Museum
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is a must for sport fans. The harbour quarter of Ouchy oozes Mediterranean flair and belle époque grace. The world has always flocked to Geneva. The “Capital of Peace” is the European headquarters of the UN and home to the Red Cross and 33 other international organisations. Perhaps that is why Geneva is Europe’s most global city. Geneva also captivates with its charming Old Town, grand hotels and the Jet d’eau – Europe’s tallest fountain.
Did you know? On a hot summer’s day, locals in Swiss cities love to go for a dip in the river or lakes. Locals love floating down the Rhine in Basel or the Aare in Bern with their belongings safely packed away in a waterproof bag.
Book with your local travel agent or call our travel specialists on 0800 988 3369
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Basel
Switzerland’s capital of art and culture The city sparkles with all kinds of culture. Nearly 40 museums with their long-established collections and spectacular special exhibitions are the foundation of Basel’s reputation as a city of art and museums. However, art is to be found not only in the many museums but is encountered all over the city, and exciting contrasts are created by the presence of classical patrician houses and medieval churches side by side with modern buildings designed by major international architects such as Herzog & de Meuron or Renzo Piano.
Some of Basel’s Popular Attractions Cathedral and Pfalz Basel’s landmark must be the Cathedral. With its red sandstone walls, colourful roof tiles and twin towers, no other building adorns the cityscape of Basel like this one.
Old Town of Basel The Old Town of Basel is one of the most well-preserved and prettiest in Europe. On every corner one can find buildings dating back as far as the 15th century.
Tinguely Fountain In summer, it cheerfully shovels water, in winter, an enchanting ice sculpture: this unique fountain was designed by the Swiss artist Jean Tinguely.
Mittlere Brücke The Mittlere Brücke was opened in 1226 and is one of the oldest crossing points on the Rhine between Lake Constance and the North Sea. A copy of the old bridge chapel, the so-called “Käppelijoch”, can still be found in the middle of the bridge.
Spalentor The Spalentor is the most magnificent and impressive of the three surviving entrance gates to the old walled city, which date back to 1400.
Dreiländereck A unique meeting place for three countries, languages and cultures. The border triangle is located in the middle of the Rhine port of Kleinhüningen. A metal pylon marks the spot where Germany, France and Switzerland meet and provides a popular photo opportunity.
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Fondation Beyeler Probably Basel’s best-known museum and the most visited art museum in Switzerland. Besides its own collection of contemporary art, three to four important temporary exhibitions are held here every year.
Museum Tinguely In this beautiful location on the Rhine, you will not only find the largest Tinguely collection in the world, but there are always exhibitions of other artists on display too.
Authentic Experiences & Local Delicacies Whilst on holiday, why not embrace some of the local charm and enjoy a dip in the Rhine during a warm summers evening. If swimming is not your forte, you can cross the Rhine on one of the city’s four ferries Wilde Maa, Leu, Vogel Gryff and Ueli using only the natural power of the river’s current. During your visit you can try Ueli beer, the first local beer brewed in Basel and Basler Läckerli. The Original Basler Läckerli from the Läckerli Huus are baked according to a top-secret recipe.
Suggested break: 3 nights in Basel What’s Included • Return flights from London • 3 nights 4 star accommodation • Private overseas transfers
From £399pp *Price is based on flights from London Heathrow departing 10th November 2017
Book with your local travel agent or call our travel specialists on 0800 988 3369
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Bern
Gateway to the Alps and the Bernese Oberland Region The Swiss capital Bern with its UNESCO World Heritage Old Town is the perfect hub. It is just one hour from other Swiss cities and a gateway to the Alps. With its architectural and cultural diversity, your adventure to Bern will be one to remember.
Some of Bern’s Popular Attractions Old Town There are many popular locations to visit in Bern and amongst these are the Old Town including the clocktower (Zytglogge), the arcades (Lauben), the cathedral (Münster) and the BearPark.
Einstein House The flat on the second floor of Kramgasse No. 49 was rented by Einstein from 1903 to 1905. It has been restored in the style of that period to reflect Einstein’s crucial years in Bern. Einstein’s contribution to 20th century physics is uncontested and has been described in countless publications of all kinds. In 1905, while living at Kramgasse No. 49, Albert Einstein developed the special General Theory of Relativity.
Museum of Fine Arts and Zentrum Paul Klee The Kunstmuseum Bern is Switzerland’s oldest fine art museum with a permanent collection ranging from Gothic times to the present. The Zentrum Paul Klee was designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano and is dedicated to the artist Paul Klee.
Rose Garden The Rose Garden is one of Bern’s most beautiful parks, offering an unrivalled view of the Old Town and Aare Loop. When the weather is clear, the view extends far beyond the city. Not only is the Rose Garden a welcoming recreational area, it’s also a popular spot for taking memorable photos.
Emmentaler Show Diary Emmental is situated about 30-40 minutes from Bern. The show dairy is a living museum where you can see how the cheese is made and make your own under the watchful eye of a cheese master.
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Authentic Experiences & Local Delicacies From a picnic at Rose Garden to a stroll around Mount Gurten and even time to enjoy a coffee in one of the little sidewalk cafés (Café Alpin) watching people pass by are just a few of the authentic experiences that guests staying in Bern like to enjoy. And like all great cities a few local delicacies have to be enjoyed and some favourites include Mandelbärli (Almond bears), Bernese hazelnut gingerbread, Ingwerer and Chilischnouz (two local liquors that locals love).
Bern Ticket Guests staying in Bern will receive a FREE Bern Ticket providing free travel on public transport in the city centre including: • The funicular up to Mount Gurten • The Marzili funicular • The elevator to the cathedral platform • Travel to and from Bern Airport
Suggested break: 3 nights in Bern What's Included • Return flights from London City Airport • 3 nights 4* accommodation • FREE Bern Ticket for the duration of your stay
From £549pp *Price is based on flights from London City Airport departing 4th August 2017
Book with your local travel agent or call our travel specialists on 0800 988 3369
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Geneva
The Capital of Peace and Freedom With an idyllic Landscape, Geneva offers its visitors exceptional views from the lake-shore with its “Jet d’Eau”, the Mont Blanc or the charming villages and vineyards. Also known as the Capital of Peace and Freedom, Geneva hosts the European headquarters of the United Nations and some 200 other organisations and, it is also the birthplace of the Red Cross and the Red Crescent Movement.
Insider tips Geneva Tourism has developed 9 thematic maps around Geneva featuring hidden gems and amazing experiences. Minutes from the heart of Geneva there are 1500 hectares of vineyards – the city’s best kept secret. Bikes can be hired from the city centre free of change for up to four hours, whilst vineyards are also easily accessible by car. Discover the delicate taste of the perch fillet, a specialty of Lake Geneva and with 30 master chocolatiers and 1 Geneva-based chocolate manufacturer, a taste of chocolate is a must. 10
Some of Geneva’s Popular Attractions The Palais des Nations With an air of peace and the winds of freedom, built between 1929 and 1936 and located at the heart of the Parc de l’Ariana, the Palais des Nations houses the European headquarters of the United Nations, and is the largest UN centre after New York. More than 25,000 delegates pass through the centre each year, and many works of art are on display there. Furthermore, the Palais opens its doors daily and provides fascinating guided tours.
The Globe of Science and Innovation (CERN) The Globe of Science and Innovation, representing the Earth, embodies CERN’s message to society in the fields of science, particle physics, cutting edge technologies and applications. Measuring 27 metres high and 40 metres across, the Globe is an unprecedented visual landmark both day and night.
Four World Exclusive Museums Make unique discoveries with: • International Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent • Musée international de la Réforme in the heart of Protestant Geneva • Patek Philippe Museum: dedicated to watchmaking • Bodmer Foundation
The Jet d’Eau, Geneva’s landmark See the harbour’s star attraction, the magnificent water jet is 140 metres high, with 500 litres of water passing through it per second at a speed of 200 km per hour! Used initially for distributing the Rhône’s propelling force to the city’s craftspeople, it became the Jet d’Eau when the workshops required an additional flow. Since 1891 it has graced the centre of Geneva’s harbour, and is the must-see tourist attraction.
Suggested break: 3 nights in Geneva What's Included • Return flights from London, Manchester or Edinburgh • 3 nights 4* accommodation • FREE Geneva Transport Card for the duration of your stay
From £349pp *Price is based on flights from London Gatwick departing 7th September 2017
Book with your local travel agent or call our travel specialists on 0800 988 3369
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Lausanne The Olympic Capital
Officially the Olympic Capital, Lausanne is a dream location on the shores of Lake Geneva with breath-taking views of the Alps. Rich in culture, Lausanne is a multifaceted metropolis where the living is good and the pace of life is easy. Lausanne is the fourthlargest city in Switzerland and certainly the most charming with its cobblestone streets, cafés and squares.
Did you know? Lausanne has the only underground in the whole of Switzerland with 14 underground stations, AND public transport is free with a Lausanne Transport Card, available to all guests staying in Lausanne.
Some of Lausanne’s Popular Attractions Watch the Watchman The cathedral bell strikes ten. Suddenly a lone figure appears on the snow-covered belfry and calls out into the night: C’est le guet! Il a sonné dix...Il a sonné dix! (It’s the night watch. It’s ten o’clock. It’s ten o’clock). Between 10pm and 2am, the powerful voice of the watchman can be heard echoing across the city to mark the hours. It’s a tradition that has existed since the Middle Ages.
Barbecues & Sand On the outskirts of Lausanne you can visit Vidy, a beach area perfect for swimming and a barbecue.
Panoramic Strolls Lausanne offers walkers plenty of extraordinary views. The panoramic stroll is 6 km in length and will take you to the 10 most beautiful vantage points in the city.
Other Popular Attractions Include • The old town and its Gothic Cathedral • The Olympic Museum • Lake Geneva and the Belle Epoque boats • Harbour of Ouchy • Paddle steamer of the 20th century • Lavaux UNESCO vineyards • Museum Art Brut • Museum Fondation de l’Hermitage • Glacier 3000 and its eternal snows, or other mountain resorts nearby 12
Authentic Experiences & Local Delicacies Papet Vaudois - Papet means mash and traditionally, this delicious hotpot made from leek and potatoes has to be cooked long enough to create a thickened base upon which the fat Saucisson vaudois, a sausage stuffed with fluffy meat, may settle comfortably on top. Bouchons vaudois - Only a handful of confectioners are permitted to produce these cork-shaped sponge delicacies. Their filling comes as a surprise: the finest almond praline mass. Their name is a wordplay that refers both to their form, in the shape of a cork (French: “bouchon”), as well as to the French word for mouth (“bouche”).
Suggested break: 4 nights in Lausanne What's Included • Return flights from London, Manchester or Edinburgh • 4 nights 3* accommodation • Return rail from Generva Airport to Lausanne • FREE Lausanne Transport Card for the duration of your stay
From £549pp *Price is based on flights from London Gatwick departing 5th September 2017
© LT/www.diapo.ch
Book with your local travel agent or call our travel specialists on 0800 988 3369
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Lucerne
The City. The Lake. The Mountains. Situated in the heart of Switzerland, the city of Lucerne itself is a stronghold of culture nestled in a magnificent landscape characterised by mountains and its eponymous lake. Brimming with things to do from century old sights such as the Chapel Bridge and historic Old Town to museums and shopping, the region also contains a wealth of mountain-based recreational opportunities and record-breaking railways and cable-ways. Mount Rigi, Mount Pilatus, Mount Titlis, Stanserhorn and many other corners of the mountains are popular and offer stunning views.
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Some of Lucerne’s Popular Attractions Contrast of Sights Centuries-old sights such as the Chapel Bridge, the Musegg Wall, the Lion Monument and the historic Old City form the exciting contrast to contemporary Lucerne: the KKL Luzern, the abundance of restaurants and an attractive range of shopping.
The Festival City Lucerne delights throughout the year, with blues, jazz, rock, comics or the splendidly colourful Carnival. The Lucerne Festival has a top class programme of classical events with world-famous artists.
Museums Aplenty For museum visitors, The Rosengart Collection, the natural monuments in the Glacier Garden and the Swiss Museum of Transport are key highlights.
Lucerne Itself Immerse yourself in the city, stroll along the docks and get to know the legendary charm of Lucerne.
Authentic Experiences & Local Delicacies The Vincafé “La Barca” serves excellent wines by the glass, the finest gourmet coffee from Rast Kaffee AG, coffee roasters in Ebikon, and a range of Mediterranean dishes. The Lucerne markets amaze with their variety. Stroll through the farmers’ market early on Saturday or Tuesday morning and then enjoy the first rays of sunlight with a coffee in a restaurant by the Reuss. A unique experience. The Luzerner Chügelipastete is the most famous example of local cuisine: a puff-pastry shell filled with diced veal and mushrooms in a creamy sauce – a must during your visit.
Suggested break: 4 nights in Lucerne What's Included • Return flights from London, Manchester or Birmingham • 4 nights 3* accommodation • 5 Day Tell Pass offering unrestricted travel on trains, buses, boats and aerial cable-ways throughout the Lake Lucerne Region
From £749pp *Price is based on flights from London Luton departing 10th October 2017
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All prices featured are based on 2 adults sharing accommodation and subject to availability and change and can be withdrawn at any time, Hotel classifications are hotels own. Full terms and conditions apply, please visit www.fredholidays.co.uk/terms. In addition to being part of one of the UK’s most established travel companies, Fred.\ Holidays is ABTA and ATOL bonded ensuring that you are financially protected in the event of unforeseen circumstances. E&OE.
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