Discovering Switerland
As your future welcoming country, Switzerland has a lot to offer to those who take the time to discover it.
Most of the people consider Switzerland as just a country of great mountains and landscapes but it's so much more than that.
You'll discover that the Swiss Culture is an Avant-Garde Culture in term of Arts and Architecture. You can find art galleries in almost all the major cities of the country. The Musée d'Art Moderne et Contemporain in Geneva, Basel's Frank Gehry-designated Vitra Design Museum, Lugano's Mario Botta-splashed center and state of the art MASI Gallery and way more...
Let's do now a quick review of the major cities of the country!
Zürich
At one hour by from Olten, Zurich is the largest and wealthiest metropolis of Switzerland. The city is a perfect mix of old and new architectures, you can find stone buildings and churches (especially in the center) but also design monuments and modern structures. They're plenty of things to do in Zurich without spending one franc! Almost all the museums have a free-entrance policy during precise days. You can also rest yourself in one of the green parks of the city or enjoy a cup of coffee in front of the Limmat.
My advice: Enjoy that special coffee in front of the Limmat
Basel
At 30 mins by train from Olten, Basel is the closest big city near Olten. Its location at the juncture of the French, German and Swiss borders makes it one of the most multicultural cities of Switzerland. You can feel that energy by walking into the center where French and German shops are everywhere.
Going to this city is also an occasion to meet up with the others exchange students located in Basel' Staff house.
You can also take a walk in the Basel' docks. Because Yes! Basel has docks. The city is crossed by the Rhin which make the walking more enjoyable than, ever.
My advice: If you have to bring souvenirs to your family and friends, the chocolate shops in Basel are the best places to go to.
Lausanne
Simply my favorite city in Switzerland.
At one hour and a half by train from Olten, Lausanne is located in the French part of Switzerland. The city is well known for his upbeat vibe which is improved by his location on the edge of the Lake Geneva.
If the weather allows it, you can enjoy the beauty of the lake by walking on the different pontons which surrounded and looking at the swans which calmly slide on the water.
Lausanne offers amazing spots for students to hang out and enjoy the city. For the Athletes, you can also be tempted by visiting the Official Olympic Museum
My advice: When the weather is great, its the best places to be in Switzerland!