If you’re looking for an unhurried, relaxing escape to Europe this summer, look no further than Switzerland. This stunning country beckons travelers to trade the hectic hustle and bustle of daily life for a quieter, easier vacation where they can sit back and soak in the beautiful calm. 

Nonstop from Seattle to Zurich

Many Seattle-based travelers are used to flying to Europe with connecting stops along the way.

But now there’s an alternative that will get you to Switzerland faster, so you start your journey of relaxation and exploration right after takeoff. Now in its second year operating directly from Seattle to Zurich from June to September, Seattle residents can board an Edelweiss Air flight and in just under 11 hours, wake up in Zurich. That simple schedule removes the hassle of trying to make various connecting flights, keeping you more rested and stress-free.

The airline also offers a free baggage allowance that includes sports baggage for all your Swiss adventures. Plus, savory food and lighthearted entertainment on board to keep your mind engaged and your belly full.

Built for Slow Travel

Switzerland has everything figured out for you: from an expansive and reliable transportation system of trains, buses, boats, and railways, there are thousands of miles waiting to be experienced.  

And while traveling from destination to destination can often be exhausting, travel days in Switzerland are part of the fun. You can see spacious lake views, vineyards and luscious green valleys, and majestic mountain peaks from your window as you go by. And with a convenient Swiss Travel Pass purchased through RailEurope, you can travel via any of those above modes seamlessly and visit certain museums for free along the way.

Jean-Claude Raemy, head of corporate communications and Switzerland Tourism spokesman said, “For visitors from the Seattle area, Switzerland will feel immediately familiar — we share the same easy combination of outdoor adventure and urban pleasure.”

An Unforgettable Itinerary 

There’s so much to love about Switzerland, but it’s not so overwhelming that you feel like you need to ‘do it all’. No matter how long your itinerary is, summer travelers can have layered, contrasting experiences that are unlike anything else in the world.

Once you arrive in Zurich, settle in for a few days. Consistently ranked as one of the world’s most livable cities, it offers a unique blend of urban living, rich history, and dramatic natural beauty, blended with a relaxed, lakeside lifestyle. It also features a preserved medieval Old Town, art found nowhere else in the world, a vibrant nightlife, and easy access to alpine scenery.

Next, put on your walking or hiking shoes and set out on one of the country’s many trailheads or mountain walkways that take you straight up to panoramic viewpoints. In the last part of your trip, consider visiting some of Switzerland’s most charming towns that are bursting with life and character. From local markets, wine tastings, and other traditional happenings that introduce visitors to the Swiss way of life, this is the most relaxing – and heartwarming – ways to wind down your vacation.

Raemy shared, “Whether you come for the skiing, the quiet vineyards, the alpine trails, the lakeside towns, or simply the assurance of a safe and welcoming country — Switzerland has what you are looking for.”

Switzerland Awaits
Ready to plan a summer to remember in Switzerland? With non-stop flights from Seattle and everything you need to make your vacation memorable, Switzerland is just waiting for you to discover it. Learn more and plan your route at Switzerland.com.