TORONTO — Canadian arrivals in Switzerland increased 1.9% in 2013.

And they spent 230,189 overnights in hotels representing a slight drop of 0.6% (stays at friends and family, hostels and rental apartments are not included).

Canadians spent on average about 220 Swiss francs, or $250, per day for a total spending of almost $50.6 million.

The most popular places for Canadians were the Zurich Region with 60,395, the Geneva Region with 47,220, the Valais with 19,706 overnights and the Lake Lucerne Region with 19,261.

The largest increase of 10.8% was recorded in the Bernese Oberland, best known for Interlaken and the Jungfrau Region, featuring iconic excursions like the Top of Europe and the Schilthorn.

“While the overnights are flat compared to 2012 and after an increase of overnights over several years, the high season months of summer 2013 (July, August) as well as December show exceptional growth of overnights by Canadians in Swiss hotels,” said Mirko Capodanno, Country Manager Canada.

Even though Switzerland is known for some of the best skiing in the world and the birthplace of winter tourism 150 years ago, the Alpine peaks are also attractive in summer and two-thirds of Canadians go to Switzerland in the summer months. This year’s summer theme: ‘Views. Swiss Made’ highlights the incredible hiking, walking and biking opportunities in the summer time in the Alps or along the lakes.

Canadians have direct air connection to Zurich, Geneva and Basel with Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS), Air Canada, Air Transat and Edelweiss Air.