Take in the wondrous views of the green-topped mountains surrounding this lake that’s located on the southern side of the Alps. Within this long, thin body of water are the three Borromean islands reached by boat from the lakeshore town of Stresa.

Discover the pretty lakeshore town of Lugano; it’s Swiss but a stone’s throw from the Italian border and thus heavily influenced by its southern neighbour. The city itself is surrounded by mountains, so there’s always beautiful scenery at which to gaze, and its squares are full of shops, restaurants and cafes perfect for losing track of time.

Soak in all of the scenery that makes this part of Northern Itlay a haven for photographers. A favourite of Hollywood actor George Clooney and the darling of Europe’s chattering classes, there are few better ways to pass the time than by taking a boat trip on the lake to view its waterfront mansions. Head for Como to buy silk and to Bellagio to wander amongst its cobbled streets and elegant boutiques.

Stroll around this lakeshore city surrounded by mountains. The Musegg Wall encloses the Old Town to the north, while the Chapel Bridge built in 1333 links it to the far side of the Reuss River. Nearby, the peaks of Pilatus and Rigi offer excellent hiking in summer and plenty of ski runs in winter, the former reached by the world’s steepest cogwheel railway. A cruise on one of Lake Lucerne’s steamers is perhaps the best way to appreciate this pretty Swiss city.

Walk among ancient timbered houses squashed between two lakes. The glacial ribbon lakes Brienz and Thun squeeze into a narrow valley and between them lies the pretty town of Interlaken. Against a backdrop of a trio of peaks - the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau - Interlaken is the perfect base from which to explore the surrounding countryside. Hiking, white water rafting, hang gliding, skiing – take your pick.

Visit this Swiss financial hub with a long history. Despite its role as a modern centre for banking, its Altstadt retains an old-world charm. Stroll down lanes like Augustinergasse and peer into the carved windows of what were once wealthy merchants’ houses. The city’s Fraumünster church is where you’ll find the world-famous stained glass windows designed by the Russian-French artist Marc Chagall.