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.

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.

Visit the Swiss capital and unlock a city founded in the 12th Century. The mediaeval buildings constructed in its early years have given it the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site; its arcaded cobbled streets are a delight to explore. Don’t miss the St. Lambertus Church and the Castle Tower, both of which date from the 13th Century and of course the Federal Palace in which the Swiss Parliament meets.

Appreciating the breathtaking views in this mountain resort is simple: just look up. The iconic shape of the Matterhorn is hard to miss, forming a backdrop to the town. In winter, there are plenty of sporting activities to keep you opccupied; in summer, take a hike up into the flower-strewn meadows to breathe in the fresh mountain air.

Gaze out onto Lac Leman, popularly known by English speakers as Lake Geneva, and it’s easy to see why people settled here. In the heart of the Alps and Jura mountain ranges and with a clear view of Mont Blanc, nature is right on the doorstep. It’s also the headquarters of the Red Cross and the European base of the UN.