The number of arrivals also increased over 2013 by 4.7 percent. The average stay was about 2.2 days and the results locked in America’s eight percent market share of all foreign overnights in Switzerland. The United States is in fourth place after the Swiss themselves, the United Kingdom, and Germany. Typically Americans spent about 220 Swiss Francs, which equates to $250, each day. This adds up to a total spending of about $400 million, contributing vastly to Switzerland’s annual tourism revenue.
Alex Hermann, Director Americas of Switzerland Tourism, says, “In 2013, once again, an increasing number of American travelers visited Switzerland. Particularly exciting is the fact that the strongest growth was recorded in the mountain regions of Switzerland. We are very excited to see Americans rediscover the Swiss Alps!”
Americans found the best places to visit in Switzerland to be the Zurich Region, the Geneva Region, and the Lake Lucerne Region. The largest increase in tourism from Americans was in Graubunden. This site is widely known for its resorts at St. Mortiz and Davos in addition to the Bernina and Glacier Express scenic train excursions.
Switzerland is mostly respected for its skiing opportunities and for becoming the birthplace of winter tourism 150 years ago but the country also has sites to offer during the summer months. The Alpine peaks are beautiful in the summer and the country is boasting this year’s summer theme as: “Views. Swiss Made.” The theme will highlight hiking, walking, and biking opportunities in the Alps and along the lakes.
