Now boarding: Switzerland

As Switzerland opens to quarantine-free travel for residents of the GCC, here are some of the most popular sights to take in and things to do in Interlaken, Lucerne and Geneva

- VARUN GODINHO

On the eve of schools and colleges closing for the summer vacation earlier this year, there was reason to cheer among avid travellers. The Swiss government said that starting June 26, fully vaccinated travellers from the GCC – including UAE residents – could travel to the Alpine country on tourist visas without having to quarantine on arrival, or requiring a pre-travel PCR test. That move opened the doors to a wave of visitors from the GCC, which historically contributes to around one million overnight stays annually and an average spend of CHF420 per day per person.

With the travel routes between the UAE and Switzerland now remaining open – and Switzerland additionally being added to Abu Dhabi’s green list of countries – the flow of tourists doesn’t look likely to slow down anytime soon.

Specifically, the Swiss Travel Pass has been a boon to visiting tourists. It allows unlimited travel by public transport across the country including buses, trains and boats. Additionally, it also offers free admission to several tourist attractions including over 500 museums, a few mountain excursions such as Rigi, Stanserhorn and Stoos and a 30 per cent discount on SBB RailAway offers.

While you plan your next holiday, here are three famous regions in Switzerland to help you get the best out of your cross-continental trip from the GCC.

INTERLAKEN

There’s plenty to do in the central Swiss region. Opt for the boat tours on Lakes Thun and Brienz – the Swiss Travel Pass should come in handy here. Alternatively, there are several private hikes and excursions that can be enjoyed in this region which received its first visitors as far back as the 17th century.