Swiss National Museum, Zurich

Housed in an impressive 1898 building, made in the form of the French Renaissance city chateaus, the National Museum details Swiss history from prehistoric times, through the Roman era, right up to the present. A sprawling collection of arms and weapons puts the modern Swiss army knife to shame. Visitors can also find a model of the Battle of Morat, along with frequent special exhibitions tackling various aspects of Swiss history, art and culture. A relaxing stroll around the museum's picturesque sprawling gardens is worth a visit in itself.