4 Timeless Swiss Cities to Discover in Style
Some travel to see. Others travel to understand.
Switzerland rewards those who go deeper.
Switzerland is often defined by its Alpine peaks and panoramic trains, but it’s true soul lies in its cities. Here, history meets design, tradition meets innovation, and every cobblestone tells a story.
Beyond its snow-capped peaks and panoramic trains lies a country of timeless cities, where art, flavour, and culture meet modern luxury. With Ormina Tours, luxury is found not only in where you go, but in how seamlessly you arrive. Travel first-class by rail, stay in boutique 4- and 5-star hotels, and enjoy handpicked experiences curated for authenticity and depth.
Read on to discover Switzerland beyond the expected.
Grand Swiss Cities
Discover art, architecture, and lakeside charm across Switzerland’s cosmopolitan hubs
Zurich
Where History Meets Modern Elegance
Switzerland’s largest city blends historic charm with cosmopolitan sophistication. Stroll through Niederdorf, the Old Town’s cobbled quarter lined with artisanal chocolate shops and independent boutiques. Visit the Cabaret Voltaire, birthplace of the Dada art movement, or enjoy lakefront serenity with a glass of wine at sunset.
Insider tip: Take a day trip to Uetliberg Mountain for sweeping views of the city and Alps, just 20 minutes away by train.
Where to stay: Hotel Glockenhof Zürich, 4-stars
Basel
The Cultural Capital on the Rhine
Art pulses through Basel’s veins. Home to over 40 museums, including the Kunstmuseum and Fondation Beyeler, the city’s creativity spills into its streets and riverside cafés. Sample traditional Basler Läckerli, a spiced honey biscuit loved by locals, or sip a local brew at a beer garden along the Rhine.
Insider tip: Visit during Art Basel in June for a great immersive experience. Even if you’re not attending, the city buzzes with pop-up galleries and live performances.
Where to stay: Hotel Märthof, 4-stars
Bern
Switzerland’s Storybook Capital
The medieval capital of Switzerland feels delightfully untouched. Walk beneath the sandstone arcades, admire clock towers that have ticked for centuries, and cross the Nydegg Bridge for a view of the turquoise Aare River looping around the city. Visit the Rosengarten for sweeping skyline views or sample local wines in hidden underground cellars.
Insider tip: Don’t miss the Bundeshaus light show in autumn, bringing a stunning nightly projection celebrating Swiss history.
Where to stay: Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa, 5-stars
Geneva
Lakeside Luxury and Old-World Grace
A city of diplomacy and indulgence, Geneva glitters on the edge of Lake Léman. Wander the Old Town’s cobbled passages for boutique chocolatiers, antique stores, and intimate wine bars. Relax at Bains des Pâquis, a local favourite for lakeside swimming and fondue.
Insider tip: Take a scenic cruise across the lake to the Lavaux Vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where terraced vines meet stunning alpine views.
Where to stay: Hotel Bristol, 4-stars
Discover Switzerland’s Timeless Cities with Ormina Tours
Ormina Tours’ Grand Swiss Cities itinerary brings together the best of Zurich, Basel, Bern, and Geneva for a seamlessly connected private journey by first-class rail. Stay in boutique 4- and 5-star hotels, uncover hidden local experiences, and travel at your own pace with fully customisable itineraries.
Experience the art of European travel with Ormina Tours, where every moment feels effortless, authentic, and unforgettable.
Grand Swiss Cities
Discover art, architecture, and lakeside charm across Switzerland’s cosmopolitan hubs
