Switzerland is one of Europe's top destinations for American travelers, with year-round sports and activities. Experience breathtaking snowcapped mountain vistas and flowered lakeside promenades; a five-course meal at a luxury spa or a steaming hot fondue in an Old World chalet; unforgettable winter sports and summer walks; fairy-tale villages and modern cities alive with art and music.Switzerland is a fascinating mix of Germanic, Gallic, and Mediterranean cultures in the heart of Europe. It's a unique nation whose inhabitants enjoy one of the world's highest standards of living; a modern country that boasts the world's finest hotels and most advanced transportation network, and yet Switzerland is a deeply traditional society where travelers will come face to face with history every day. The reader will find extensive coverage of Switzerland's world-famous tourist attractions, but will also get an inside look at Swiss customs and culture. You'll learn the history behind Bern's medieval arcaded streets, find the best open-air cafes along Montreux's Quay of Flowers, and select a ski resort in the Berner Oberland or the Grisons to suit your tastes and budget. We'll tell you when to catch the wild and crazy Carnival celebrations in Basel and Luzern, and the horse races on the frozen lakes of Arosa and St. Moritz. We'll show you where to find a delightful collection of Impressionist paintings in Geneva, and the best jazz clubs in Zurich. And whether your budget runs to the luxurious Grand Hotel in Gstaad or to an inexpensive but scenic hostel or campground, we'll help you get the best value for your money.