Switzerland packs a lot of action into its small landlocked confines – it even has four official languages, and each region has a distinct feel. Sure you can cross the country on a train in a matter of hours, but the appeal here is lingering in the gorgeous lakeside cities and mountain towns. Famous for its efficiency, chocolate, cuckoo clocks, banking and watches along with mountains and Bernese Mountain dogs, Switzerland lives up to its reputation in all these areas. Make sure to explore vibrant cities like Geneva, Bern, Zurich and absolutely drop dead beautiful Lucerne, but also spend time in the mountains. Whether you head to the Jungfrau Region or the area around the Matterhorn, Switzerland is home to excellent skiing in winter and hiking come summer. To get off the beaten path, head to the Italian lake region around Lugano.