Landlocked Switzerland is bordered by Germany to the north, France to the west, Austria to the east, and Italy to the south. Its population of 8.57 million speaks four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. Wealthy and pristine, alpine Switzerland boats a highly efficient economy alongside its sophisticated cities, charming alpine villages, and majestic mountains. Switzerland’s rugged landscape fostered a tradition of isolationism and a commitment to political neutrality, best reflected in its historical aversion to entangling alliances with neighboring states, and its more recent resistance to joining the European Union. A coveted place to work and reside in central Europe, Switzerland has one of the most advanced free market economies in the world, its city Zurich is one of Europe’s financial and banking centers. Its capital, Bern, extends from its medieval city center, which is a UNESCO Heritage Site. The city of Geneva, with its views of Mt. Blanc, is a diplomatic center and the seat of many intergovernmental organizations, including the International Red Cross. With artists like Alberto Giacometti and Felix Vallotton and architect Le Corbusier as native sons, Switzerland boasts important museums and galleries such the Fine Arts Museum in Basel, location of the world’s most important art fair. Tourists come from all over the world to ski and hike the stunning Swiss Alps–the Matterhorn is its most famous. Its luxurious ski resorts draw wealthy Europeans, while its clear alpine lakes, charming villages, and rolling hills dotted with caramel-colored, bell wearing cows, delight visitors of all budgets. In addition to pristine mountain air, visitors to Switzerland can enjoy its decadent chocolates and fondues, and shop for a Rolex in the world’s watchmaking capital. Expensive to both reside in and visit, Switzerland has its own currency; the Swiss Franc. One of the 4 non-EU Schengen Member States, Switzerland signed the Schengen Agreement in 2004, becoming part of the Schengen area in 2008.

Switzerland