Zurich

Knowing that we were only stopping in Switzerland for a day, I predicted that the country was far more unlikely to make a lasting mark than the countries we had previously visited.

That said as the train rolled through the snow capped Alps it was obvious to note just as to why Switzerland is regarded as one of the world’s most naturally beautiful countries. Unfortunately it has prices to match.

Zurich sits surrounded by mountains, the city itself however is far more low lying than other Swiss cities and has a tranquil river flowing through just as many other destinations that we visited do also.

Switzerland is a melting pot of different cultures. As our train travelled from Italy into the country it was obvious of the Italian influence in the lower regions of the country in terms of buildings and scenery. However, as we arrived in Zurich a German influence (German being the countries primary language) certainly prevailed.

Zurich is a beautiful city reminiscent of Vienna in many ways. Stunning architecture and quaint shops straddle cobbled streets.

Our full day spent in Zurich was one of crammed in sightseeing and eagerness to avoid the bitter cold.

Although the country is breathtakingly beautiful, with two simple pasta meals costing the equivalent of £40 Switzerland should only really be visited briefly unless money is of no object to you!