Planning a holiday in Switzerland but don’t know what to do aside from visiting generic attractions? We’ve got you covered with this selection of cool and exciting activities to look into then you visit the country.

Learn how to make Chocolate

Visiting Switzerland would be undeniably incomplete without a tour of at least one of the many chocolate factories.

At the Lindt & Sprüngli Chocolate Factory, guests can experience the art of praline making. Open to the public their chocolate workshops are such a hit that the aprons run out fast. Not only will you learn how to make some of these tasty treats, but you also get to bring them home as well. If you happen to snack on them before the tour is over, fear not because their shop is filled with chocolate you can purchase.

Visit the Musée et Chiens du Saint Bernard

A dog lover’s nirvana, Musée et Chiens du Saint Bernard or more simply known as “Barryland” is a museum and breeding facility for enormous fluffy Saint Bernard pups! These tail wagging, tongue lolling fluffy pooches can be found amidst the picturesque mountain scenery near the city of Martigny. The breed is known across the globe for their iconic role in Alpine mountain rescues. Around their massive, furry necks were spirits they carried as they braved the elements in search of wayward travelers.

Barryland not only exists to pay tribute to Barry, the legendary Alpine pup, but it also lets travelers enjoy a hike with one of the many adorable dogs. There are also small exhibits that further tell the narrative history of the local zoology, geology, religious, and even political aspects that center on a canine theme.

Ride the Niesenbahn

The engineering marvel Niesenbahn holds the record for being the longest funiculars in the entire world. The tracks that allow the Niesenbahn to traverse the steep Alpine slopes measure 3,500 meters with an elevation of 1,642 meters. This astounding build, albeit pretty extreme, was constructed before helicopters and cranes were in existence. The cars carry passengers from the train station in Mülenen to the nearby peak of Niesen. Each car can accommodate a staggering 65 passengers and will take 30 minutes to complete its full trip.

Perfect for adventurous travelers the cars climb a severe incline that can be a bit dizzying. The Niesenbahn is perfectly safe with cables engineered to carry eight times the total weight capacity of the train. Each car is designed with automatic braking systems. Enjoy a day of sightseeing on the Alps with this thrilling transport system.

Spend an afternoon at Bärengraben

Just right on the edges of Aare River from the town of Bern, is one of Switzerland’s favorite attractions. Bear Park, or more commonly known as Bärengraben, is filled to the brim with all things bear-related. Tourists will find bear flags, bear cookies, bear statues, doorknobs, and even real live bears. The park is not without controversy as its earlier years involved the incorrect treatment of these furry creatures. The turn of the century has, however, provided the bears with better living conditions. Their tiny old pit is amusingly a concert venue now and then.