Free in Switzerland

This item appears on page 79 of the July 2009 issue.

Free sightseeing and free activities are among suggestions from Switzerland Tourism (New York, NY; 212/757-5944, www.myswitzerland.com).

• When purchasing an adult Swiss Pass, Swiss Card or Swiss Transfer Ticket, you can ask for a free Swiss Family Card, which allows children under 16 to travel for free when accompanied by at least one parent. The pass allows travel throughout the rail, bus and boat Swiss Travel System network as well as on trams and buses in 37 cities.

• For a refuge from summer heat, enjoy free entry to Bern’s swimming area Marzili (Marzilistrasse 29, Bern). The complex includes swimming in the Aare River and a large pool complex.

• In Bern, Zürich and Geneva from May through October, visitors can rent bikes for a refundable deposit of CHF20 (near $17.50).