The Alps are the highest and most extensive mountain range system that lie in south-central Europe. The mountain range stretches approximately 750 miles (1,200 kilometers) in a crescent shape across eight Alpine countries: France, Switzerland, Monaco, Italy, Liechtenstein, Austria, Germany, and Slovenia.

Geographically, the term "Swiss Alps" refers specifically to the portion of the Alpine range located within Switzerland's borders. However, the Alps are a continuous mountain chain, and many of the most famous peaks associated with Switzerland actually straddle the border with Italy. For example, the Matterhorn (known as Monte Cervino in Italy) and the Monte Rosa massif are shared between the two nations. In 2026, the term "Central Alps" is often used more broadly to describe this region. While the "Swiss Alps" do not technically "run through" Italy by name, the geological structures are identical, and you can easily cross from one country to the other via high-altitude passes or the Great St Bernard Tunnel. The Italian side of these shared mountains is known as the Italian Alps or the Dolomites further east. Travelers often find that the southern, Italian slopes are steeper and sunnier, offering a distinct cultural and climatic contrast to the verdant, glaciated valleys found on the northern Swiss side.