Switzerland could begin welcoming vaccinated visitors on June 28
Switzerland is about to become the latest European country to begin welcoming back vaccinated international travelers, according to a Bloomberg report.
Beginning June 28, vaccinated tourists from the U.S. and other countries are expected to be permitted entry, just in time for the busy Fourth of July travel period.
While it seems likely that Switzerland will reopen soon — neighboring countries France and Italy already have — the Swiss government has yet to finalize its plan. The country is expected to make a final determination on June 23, so I would wait until after that date to book any nonrefundable trips.
Unlike its neighbors, Switzerland is not a member of the European Union. Still, the country is part of the Schengen Area, permitting free travel across its land borders.
Technically, COVID-19 entry restrictions still apply, however, so I'd recommend waiting for the policy update to become official before crossing into the country.
Related: Want to travel to Europe this summer? Here's what you need to know
Once travel is officially permitted, you'll be able to fly nonstop to Geneva (GVA) or Zurich (ZRH) from a handful of U.S. gateways.
Swiss International Air Lines offers the most flight options, with nonstops from cities like Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), Newark (EWR) and San Francisco (SFO). American Airlines, Delta and United all fly between the U.S. and Switzerland, too. As of this writing, nonstop flights are available on many dates from between $600 and $800 round-trip.
Switzerland is a fantastic year-round destination — while it may be too late for some travelers to visit this summer, with alternative trips already locked in, the country could be a great option for winter travel.
Personally, I'm eager to return to Zermatt — one of my favorite ski destinations, and the future home of what's sure to be an incredible Ritz-Carlton resort.