Switzerland vs France

Switzerland and France are more alike than any other two countries. Their history may be different but culturally, they are fairly similar. While the French pride themselves in their intellectual and artistic achievements, the economic progress and national unity of the Swiss is hard to compete with. France has one national language, French, whereas Switzerland has four, among which one is French.

Switzerland is one of the most visited countries in the world by travellers looking to soak in the serenity of their surroundings. The natural beauty of the majestic Alps is unmatched. Switzerland is bestowed with placid lakes, historical castles and museums, quaint villages and cosmopolitan cities.

France too is easily one of the most visited European destinations frequented by tourists. Those looking for history, culture, the arts, beaches, vineyards and overall, a charming and quaint holiday experience will especially identify with all the country has to offer. 
 

Here’s a look at what a holiday in Switzerland and France brings…

SWITZERLAND

Zurich
The largest city in Switzerland, Zurich, is often mistaken to be its capital. However, the city of Bern holds that title. Zurich has plenty to see and do starting with the Old Town where you can stroll down the pedestrian promenade Niederdorf with its row of shops, cafes and bars. Cultural travellers can visit Schweizerisches Landesmuseum or the Swiss National Museum, which houses collections from prehistory through the 20th century, the 13th century Fraumünster church and Museum Rietberg with its collection of non-European art. Also enjoy some time at the world-renowned shopping boulevard Bahnhofstrasse and at the riverside shopping street Limmatquai.

Geneva
On Lake Geneva’s western shore, the city of Geneva is ensconced by snowcapped Alpine peaks from all directions. Geneva is best explored on foot but if you’re in the mood to burn some extra calories, rent a bicycle and make your way to the city’s famous landmarks. These include the iconic Jet d'Eau, a large waterjet fountain shooting up to the skies, L'horloge Fleurie, a flower clock spanning 5 metres in diameter, the historic Cathédrale St-Pierre and the 19th century Grand Théâtre de Genève. Geneva is also where several international organisations are headquartered like the United Nations, the International Labour Organization and the International Committee of the Red Cross.

Lucerne
The most populated city in Central Switzerland, Lucerne lies on the shores of Lake Lucerne within sight of Mount Pilatus and Rigi in the Swiss Alps. The town’s landmark is the famous Chapel Bridge, constructed in first half of the 14th century and one of Europe’s oldest wooden bridges. Other monuments that warrant a visit in Lucerne are the octagonal shaped Water Tower standing over 34 metres high and the Dying Lion Monument, which is carved out of natural rock in memory of the heroic deaths of the Swiss mercenaries at the Tuileries in 1792. Other historical attractions in Lucerne are Spreuer Bridge, Musegg Wall, Town Hall and Ritterscher Palace.

How To Get There
Major international airlines including Swiss Air, Air India, Jet Airways Emirates operate flights from India to Zurich. Check for available flights from your city here.

FRANCE

Paris
Fondly known as the ‘city of love’, plan a holiday to Paris and if you’re not already in love, you definitely will be by the time you leave. A destination for lovebirds, Paris uncovers surprises every step of the way. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the world’s most visited art museum, the Louvre, other notable landmarks in the city include the Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile, the Paris Opera and Champs-Élysées.  Take a stroll down the picturesque Canal St-Martin or wander through the city’s gardens including Jardines des Palntes, a botanical garden.

Nice
The heart, soul and capital of the gorgeous French Riviera, Nice lies in thee Côte d'Azur area on the southeast coast of France on the Mediterranean Sea. It’s no surprise then that the city is often called ‘Nice la Belle’, which means Nice the Beautiful. If you can tear yourself from lounging on Nice’s many beaches or strolling on the promenades along the shoreline, art lovers may be interested to explore the Musée Matisse dedicated to the famous French artist, the historic Basilique-Cathédrale Sainte-Marie et Sainte-Réparate de Nice and if time permits, catch a ballet performance, opera or classical concert at the Opéra de Nice.   

How To Get There
Major international airlines including Air France, Air India, Jet Airways and Etihad Airways operate flights from India to Paris. Check for available flights from your city here.

 

Destination	Zurich Switzerland	Paris, France
Hotels (centrally located)	Rs. 7,825 per night (Standard room at Arte Swiss Quality Spreitenbach Hotel ) Rs. 9,078 per night (Superior room at Moevenpick Hotel Zurich-Regensdorf ) Rs. 14,183 (Classic room at Hilton Zurich Airport)	Rs. 8,337 per night (Standard room at Fertel Etoile Hotel) Rs. 11,675 per night (Standard room at Hotel Saint Augustin Elysees) Rs. 14,385 (Classic room at Normandy Hotel Paris)
Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner without alcohol)	Rs. 4,500 per day	Rs. 4,500 per day
Local Transportation (public bus)	Rs. 295 per ticket	Rs. 140 per ticket
Miscellaneous	Rs. 3,500 per day	Rs. 3,800 per day

*All prices are approximate and subject to change.

It’s an impossible task to pick one over the other! A holiday in both Switzerland and France are highly recommended. They both have a lot to offer but your decision comes down to what you’d like to get out of your holiday. If you’re looking for buzzing cities or relaxing beaches, then France it is. If you’re looking for serenity and a chance to experience nature in it untouched form, then Switzerland is the way to go.