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Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Switzerland

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This landlocked central European country is home to two mountain ranges, the Alps in the south and the Jura in the northwest. But Switzerland’s natural attractions don’t stop with peaks and glaciers. You’ll also find glimmering turquoise lakes, emerald valleys where tingling bell-wearing cows and sheep graze, charming chalets, and flower box-filled villages that look ripped from the pages of a fairytale storybook.

Amid all this natural beauty are also some fantastic urban diversions and places to visit. With four official languages (French, German, Italian, and Romansch), Switzerland has a multicultural sophistication to its cities, which all offer something different when it comes to history and culture.

French speaking Geneva is home to four major offices of the United Nations and has a large international population. German speaking Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city and financial center, known for its shopping, museums, and nightlife. The capital city of Bern boasts a medieval old town with a famous moving puppet clock tower and a stunning riverfront locale.

Switzerland is a four-season destination with countless things to do for outdoor adventurists. In winter you can partake in snow sports at world-class resorts, while summers are perfect for hiking, biking, climbing, and paragliding.

Getting around Switzerland is easy. Although you can rent a car and drive, we recommend utilizing its excellent train system that goes almost everywhere in the country. Trains are fast, mostly on time, and allow you to just sit back and soak up the stunning scenery.

Explore in more depth by checking out our list of top attractions and places to visit in Switzerland

The Matterhorn

You’ll never forget the first time you see Switzerland’s most symbolic mountain, the Matterhorn. Maybe you arrive in the charming village of Zermatt, at its base, on a clear blue day and the 4,478-meter high, tooth-shaped mountain looms clearly in front of you. Or maybe it is spitting rain when you first set foot in the car-free town, and it isn’t until the next morning that you witness the emblematic peak emerging from a sea of dissipating clouds. Whichever way you first see this legendary mountain, it will remain seared into your memory for years to come. It’s that impressive.

One of the highest mountains in the Alps, the Matterhorn sits on the border with Italy. It has four steep faces rising to its craggy tip. Climbers have been intrigued by this mountain from the first successful summit in 1865 by British climber Edward Whymper and his team. The trip still ended tragically when four of the climbers fell to their deaths during the descent.

Today, thousands of experienced climbers come here in a summit bid each summer. There are several routes to the top of this mountain, which is not accessible by cable car. The easiest route is the Hörnligrat, which begins in Zermatt.

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New York: The City of Dreams

New York: The City of Dreams

New York City is one of the most exciting and inspiring cities in the world. With its famous landmarks and cultural diversity, it attracts millions of tourists every year. Let's explore some of the top attractions that make New York an unforgettable destination:

1. Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty stands tall on Liberty Island, symbolizing independence and freedom in the United States. Presented as a gift from France in the late 19th century, it is now one of the most famous tourist landmarks in the world. Visitors can take a boat trip to the island and climb the statue to enjoy stunning views of New York City.

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2. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the largest and most important art museums in the world. The art displayed here spans thousands of years and includes works from various civilizations and cultures. Visitors can spend hours enjoying the paintings, sculptures, and artifacts.

3. Central Park

Located in the heart of Manhattan, Central Park is one of the largest urban parks in the world. Covering 843 acres, it offers numerous recreational activities such as cycling, walking, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. You can also visit the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, the Central Park Zoo, and many expansive green spaces.

4. Times Square

Times Square is known as the "Crossroads of the World" and is a major tourist attraction in New York. The nighttime scene in this square is filled with dazzling lights and giant digital screens. This area is a hub for theater performances, shops, and restaurants, making it a great place to experience the vibrant atmosphere of New York City.

5. Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest and most famous suspension bridges in the United States. It connects Manhattan and Brooklyn, offering spectacular views of the East River and the New York skyline. You can walk or bike across the bridge and appreciate the architectural beauty.

Visiting New York City is an unforgettable experience. From the bright lights, towering skyscrapers, and cultural diversity, you'll find yourself enjoying every moment in this amazing city.

Note: The image URLs provided are examples and not actual links to images. You can search for images of these landmarks to visualize the beauty of New York City.

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Odd Roar Lange has explored many of these destinations during his journeys all over Norway. He is a widely travelled journalist and the founder of The Travel Inspector, one of the most popular blogs of its kind in the Nordic countries.

Lange has picked seven captivating winter getaways in Norway. This is your ticket to some special moments that you and your partner will be talking about for years to come.

Keep each other warm in Kirkenes

If you're looking for romance, there’s no better place to kindle it than at the snow hotel in Kirkenes. The core of this hotel is snow and ice, elements that are an important part of everyday life for the locals in Finnmark.

"Here, you can go dog sledding during the day, enjoy some time in the sauna before dinner at Gabba Restaurant, and end the day by marvelling at the northern lights," says Lange.

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Kirkenes

Stay in one of Norway’s cool ice hotels

Heat it up in Oslo

Top-class restaurants, cosy streets, and snowy nature just a short distance away. Oslo has a lot to offer in winter. And if you really want to warm things up with your partner, book your own sauna for the evening at SALT and take part in a ritual that is deeply rooted in the Nordic lifestyle.

SALT is a nomadic art project currently situated along Oslo’s harbour promenade and overlooking the capital’s Opera House. In addition to a private sauna experience, SALT offers fresh food, concerts, and festivals.

“It is simply a romantic experience in the middle of Oslo,” promises Lange.

The Harbour promenade in Oslo

Oslo Opera House: please walk on the roof

Oslo

Stargaze in Trysil

Escape your everyday life and walk hand-in-hand into the cold, dark wilderness in Trysil. Here, not far from the village and your wooden cabin, you can experience a starry sky that is so bright, it lights up the snow under your feet. Romantic, right?

“If you're really lucky, you might even witness the northern lights,” says Lange, who also points out that Trysil is Norway's biggest skiing destination.

That means inviting slopes and groomed trails, delicious eateries serving local food, and hotels that suit any budget.

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Trysil in winter

Svalbard – an adventurous destination

Find a map and slide your finger from Northern Norway to the North Pole. Do you see the group of islands in the middle of the Arctic Ocean? That’s the Svalbard Islands – a haven for adventurous couples. Here, you will experience rich wildlife, Arctic nature, and old mining towns with a stark and eerie beauty.

“A romantic getaway to Svalbard and the town of Longyearbyen is something you’ll never forget,” says Lange. He recommends a stay at Basecamp Hotel, where you can enjoy an informal atmosphere and rooms decorated with driftwood, sealskin, and slate.

The hotel is located in the middle of Longyearbyen and close to the restaurant Huset, an eatery that isn’t just known for its exquisite flavours – the restaurant takes your date night to the next level with one of the largest wine cellars in Scandinavia.

The white wilderness at Svalbard also offers lots of adventurous activities such as dog sledding and northern lights safaris. You might even spot a polar bear from a distance! Just remember that if you do, keep your distance and do not attempt to approach it.

The Svalbard Islands

Find time for each other on Skrova island

“A walk on Kjærlighetsstien (‘The love trail’) is a must during your stay on the island. It’s also possible to book a room at the Skrova lighthouse,” says Lange.

Venerable Skrova lighthouse is 24 metres high and surrounded by white, wooden houses that form a small village. Today, the lighthouse offers more than just a beacon for the local fishermen. It welcomes travellers from all over the world who want to experience a vacation out of the ordinary.

The Lofoten Islands

Fall in love with Lillesand

Dress warmly and take a relaxing stroll in the town centre, along the narrow streets that curve elegantly between white wooden houses. Or find a big smooth rock along the scenic coastal line and share a blanket and something hot to drink while enjoying the view together.

Lange recommends that you end the day with a romantic dinner and a night at the charming Lillesand Hotel, which is located close to the town centre.

Lillesand

Step into a fairytale in Kvitfjell

Surrounded by steep mountains and wooden houses with snowy roofs, Kvitfjelllooks like a scene from a Norwegian fairytale. Here, in the middle of the Gudbrandsdalen valley, you will find everything you need for a romantic weekend.

Gudbrandsgard Hotel is popular with couples and is a top-class ski resort that is just a short walk from groomed trails.

“This is a place where you can enjoy fresh food, spa facilities, and an evening in front of the fireplace,” says Lange.

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Exploring the Historic Cities of Portugal

Portugal is a small country in the Iberian Peninsula, full of history, culture, sun-kissed beaches, and delicious food. It’s not surprising that tourism is one of the largest contributors to its economy. If you’re planning a trip to Portugal, it’s important to know what to see and experience. This Portugal itinerary will take you through some of the must-see destinations and experiences to help make your trip unforgettable.

Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal’s capital city, is full of charm, energy, and stunning views. Start your day by visiting the historic neighborhood of Alfama, known for its narrow, winding streets, colorful houses, and traditional Fado music. Make your way to the top of the hill to visit the Castelo de São Jorge and soak in the panoramic views of the city. Afterward, make your way to the famous neighborhood of Belém, home to some of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks, including the Jerónimos Monastery, the Torre de Belém, and the Pasteis de Belém bakery.

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Sintra & Cascais

On day two, it’s time to explore some of the surrounding areas near Lisbon. Take a day trip to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its beautiful palaces, gardens, and castles, including the Pena Palace and the Quinta da Regaleira. Afterward, head to nearby Cascais, a charming coastal town known for its sandy beaches and seafood restaurants.

Algarve

Now it’s time to head south to the stunning region of Algarve. Known for its dramatic cliff-lined coastline and turquoise waters, Algarve is a beach lovers’ paradise. Spend your day exploring some of the picturesque towns of southern Portugal, such as Faro, Lagos, and Portimão, each known for their unique

Porto

On day four, head north to Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, known for its historic old town, colorful buildings, and the Douro River. Take a walk along the riverfront promenade, visit the famous Port wine cellars, and enjoy a traditional Portuguese meal at one of the local restaurants. Don’t forget to try the famous Francesinha sandwich, a local delicacy made with layers of ham, sausages, and steak smothered in cheese and a tomato-based sauce.

Douro Valley

On your final day in Portugal, take a day trip to the Douro Valley, one of the world’s oldest and most famous wine-producing regions. Take a scenic drive through the winding hills and valleys, stop at some of the local wineries for a tasting, or enjoy a relaxing river cruise. End your day with a beautiful sunset at one of the viewpoints along the river.

Portugal is a country full of history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences that are sure to make your trip unforgettable. This itinerary covers some of the must-see destinations, but there’s still plenty to see and experience in this beautiful country. Whether you’re a foodie, beach lover, history buff, or wine enthusiast, Portugal has something special for everyone. So go ahead, plan your perfect Portugal itinerary, and get ready to make some wonderful memories!

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