visit switzerland in september

15 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in September

By: Author Tiana Thompson

Posted on Last updated: March 16, 2024

Categories Switzerland , Travel Guides

Home » 15 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in September

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Looking for the best places to visit in Switzerland this September? You’re in the right place.

September’s weather offers the perfect blend for enjoying all things Swiss.

Mountain ranges? Check. Panoramic views? Absolutely. Average temperatures that won’t make you sweat like a cheese fondue pot? You got it! 

This guide to visiting Switzerland in September will go over the best cities and attractions in Switzerland to visit, average autumn temperatures, and practical tips for visiting Switzerland in September.

Weather in Switzerland in September

Ah, Switzerland in September! You may think cheese and chocolate are the nation’s best offerings, but I dare you to take a gander at the weather during this fine month.

Imagine average temperatures that are cooler than summer vacation but warmer than the ski season, nature dressed in autumn attire, and skies clearer than your grandma’s crystal vase. It’s the perfect time to visit, and here’s why:

• Mountains (Swiss Alps, Baby!) : Grab your camera and hiking trails because the surrounding mountains are calling. Snow-capped peaks start to appear, but without winter season’s chill. Ideal for nature lovers!
• Lakes (Hello, Lake Lucerne and Lake Zurich) : Expect blue lakes and beautiful scenery. Water sports? Maybe not, but a boat ride on Lake Thun or Lac Léman is the perfect way to enjoy the view.
• Cities (Zurich, Geneva, You Name It) : Spending time in the largest city or a small town, the temperatures are comfortable. High mountains in the distance, fruit trees nearby, and charming towns at every corner.

From scenic train rides to wine tasting, September is a great month for outdoor activities. Want to explore UNESCO world heritage sites or take cable cars to viewing platforms? September’s your month. It’s not the high season, but it’s the perfect time. Just don’t forget to pack a light jacket!

💡 Practical Tip: Opt for the Swiss Travel Pass for easy access around Switzerland. It’s like an all-access pass for public transport – including scenic train rides. Get the Swiss Travel Pass here

Notable Events in September in Switzerland

Here are a few notable events happening in Switzerland this September. Check out the full list of events here.

Valais Region Wine Festivals

In the Valais region, wine festivals in early to late October become communal celebrations, symbolizing the rich winemaking tradition of the area. Parades, music, wine tastings, and local culinary delights are part of the festivities that celebrate the autumn harvest.

Different villages in Valais host these festivals on varying dates, making it a unique cultural journey for visitors. Don’t forget to bring your Swiss Francs, as many vendors don’t accept cards.

Swiss National Heritage Days  

Swiss National Heritage Days, usually celebrated nationwide in September, is a special weekend dedicated to embracing and preserving Switzerland’s rich cultural and architectural legacy.

Historic sites, museums, and buildings open their doors for free or at reduced prices, offering guided tours, exhibitions, and local food markets. Planning your day trip early is advisable as popular sites fill up quickly, and you’ll want to check local listings for specific dates and participating locations.

Lucerne Festival

The world-renowned Lucerne Festival , held near Lake Lucerne from late August to mid-September, is a musical haven for classical enthusiasts. Concerts featuring international orchestras, conductors, and soloists offer a grand celebration of classical music, reinforcing Lucerne’s vibrant musical culture.

Tickets can sell out fast, so booking in advance is recommended!

⚡ Related read: The Ultimate 5-Day Switzerland Itinerary

15 Places in Switzerland to Visit in September

1. st. moritz.

🎟️ Best Tour: Bernina Express Red Train Tour

St. Moritz, located in the Engadin Valley in the Swiss Alps, is an epitome of elegance and outdoor activities. Known for its winter sports, it also offers hiking trails and stunning lake views. Rich in history, it was one of the first winter tourist destinations in the world, attracting royalty and celebrities.

September is a great time to enjoy St. Moritz without the winter crowd. The weather is pleasant, and the autumn colors are breathtaking. Cable cars offer panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, making it a perfect destination for photographers and nature lovers.

Where to stay in St. Moritz

• Budget:   St. Moritz Youth Hostel ($) – A charming hostel option without emptying your pockets.
• Midrange:   Hotel Reine Victoria ($$) – Classy ambiance with a Swiss touch.
• Luxury:   Badrutt’s Palace Hotel ($$$) – Where luxury meets alpine charm.

💡 Practical Tip:  Don’t miss a scenic train ride to St. Moritz via the Bernina Express .

🎟️ Best Tours: 1-Hour Panoramic Yacht Cruise , Mt. Pilatus Tour with Gondola, Cable Car, and Boat Rides

Lucerne is a vibrant city located in central Switzerland, surrounded by mountains and graced by Lake Lucerne. Its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the Chapel Bridge and Water Tower, makes it a great place for history enthusiasts.

There are tons of cool things to do in Lucerne , but it’s most known for being the home to the Swiss Museum of Transport, and other cultural attractions.

September in Lucerne is perfect for boat tours on Lake Lucerne and exploring local cultural events. The weather is warm, and the summer crowd is thinning, making it an ideal time for leisurely strolls around the Old Town.

Where to stay in Lucerne

• Budget:   Backpackers Lucerne ($) – Perfect for the adventurous traveler.
• Midrange:   Hotel des Balances ($$) – Experience the heart of the Old Town.
• Luxury:   The Hotel Lucerne – ($$$) Contemporary luxury with breathtaking views.

💡 Practical Tip:  Consider a day trip to nearby Mount Pilatus for jaw-dropping views!

3. Interlaken

🎟️ Best Tours: Scenic Jetboat Ride on Lake Brienz , Funicular Ticket to Harder Kulm , Tandem Paragliding Flight

Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers, and it’s become my favorite place in Switzerland after visiting twice. Situated in the Bernese Oberland region, it’s a gateway to the Jungfrau region, making it one of the most beautiful places in the country. Interlaken’s small-town charm, paired with picturesque views of snow-capped mountains, makes it a popular tourist destination.

September is an ideal time for hiking in Interlaken, with warmer weather and fewer tourists. The autumn season with its leaves and snow-capped peaks offers a breathtaking backdrop, providing some of  the best things to see and do in Interlaken . 

A boat ride on the blue lakes is a must-see attraction, and the surrounding areas, including beautiful city centers and mountain villages, are worth visiting. Don’t miss the Harder Kulm viewing platform for panoramic views. And if you’re feeling adventurous, I’d highly recommend going paragliding over the Swiss Alps !

💡 P.S.  If you’re wondering about expenses, read my post:  Is Interlaken Expensive?  to plan your budget and learn some budget activities Interlaken has to offer. 

Where to stay in Interlaken

• Budget:   Hotel Lotschberg ($) – A cozy, family-friendly option.
• Midrange:   Hotel Interlaken ($$) – Comfort with a touch of elegance.
• Luxury:   Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa ($$$) – Indulge in pure luxury.

⚡ Related read:  Check out my guide on the  best Interlaken hotels and hostels  to figure out where to base yourself while visiting Interlaken. 

4. Mont Blanc

🎟️ Best Tours: Full Day Trip to Chamonix & Mont Blanc (from Geneva) , Tandem Paragliding Experience

Mont Blanc is not just a mountain; it’s a symbol of natural grandeur. Straddling the French-Italian border near Switzerland, it’s the highest peak in the Alps. Though technically not in Switzerland, many travelers visit from the Swiss side, especially from the charming town of Martigny.

September offers a great window for mountain climbing and exploring nearby glaciers, with stable weather and less crowding. Even if you’re not up for climbing, cable cars provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Where to Stay near Mont Blanc: (Near Martigny, Switzerland)

• Budget:   Martigny Boutique-Hôtel ($) – Modern and affordable.
• Midrange:   Alpina Eclectic Hotel ($$) – A comfy retreat in Chamonix (France) near the Swiss border.

💡 Practical Tip:  Guided tours are advisable for mountain excursions. Make sure to check weather conditions, as they can change rapidly.

5. Chillon Castle

🎟️ Best Tour: Chillon Castle Entry Ticket

Chillon Castle, standing proudly on a rocky island on the shores of Lake Geneva, is one of Switzerland’s most visited historic sites. Near Montreux, this medieval marvel dates back to the 12th century and boasts a rich history entwined with counts, dukes, and literary legends like Lord Byron.

​ Visiting Chillon Castle in September is a treat. The weather is pleasant, and the view of the castle with autumn colors in the background is postcard-worthy. Special events like concerts and exhibitions are often held during this time, offering a glimpse into medieval life.

Where to stay near Chillon Castle (Near Montreux)

• Budget:   Hotel Le Bon-Port ($) – Comfortable and affordable.
• Midrange:   Eurotel Montreux ($$) – Lakeside location with classic Swiss style.
• Luxury:  Fairmont Le Montreux Palace ($$$) – Unparalleled luxury with breathtaking views.

💡 Practical Tip:  Consider buying a Swiss Travel Pass for free entry to the castle. Don’t miss the dungeon and Byron’s Chamber, where Lord Byron wrote his famous poem “The Prisoner of Chillon.”

🎟️ Best Tours: 50-Minute Lake Geneva Cruise , Chocolate Flavors Walking Tour , Half-Day Trip to Annecy from Geneva

Geneva, located where the Rhône River exits Lake Geneva, is a cosmopolitan hub known for international diplomacy (home to the United Nations and Red Cross), a rich cultural scene, and stunning parks.

The city’s Old Town offers a blend of quaint charm and history, while modern Geneva showcases world-class museums and shopping. Utilize public transport to explore the city efficiently. The Jet d’Eau fountain and St. Peter’s Cathedral are must-visit destinations.

Geneva is lively in September. With mild temperatures, it’s a great time to explore outdoor markets and lakeside paths.

Where to stay in Geneva

• Budget:   City Hostel Geneva ($) – Convenient location with great value.
• Midrange:   Hotel Cornavin Geneva ($$) – Unique design near the main railway line.
• Luxury:   Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva ($$$) – Ultimate elegance with lake views.

7. Rhine Falls

🎟️ Best Tours: Rhine Falls Boat Tour , Day Trip to Stein am Rhein and Rhine Falls from Zurich

Rhine Falls, located near Schaffhausen in northern Switzerland, is Europe’s largest waterfall and a popular destination for nature lovers. Accessible by train, car, or even a scenic bike ride, it’s a convenient day trip from cities like Zurich. Dating back to over 15,000 years ago, these roaring falls have captured the imaginations of visitors for centuries.

Rhine Falls offers various viewing platforms to marvel at the thunderous waters, and boat trips are available for those daring enough to get up close to the action. For hiking enthusiasts, there are trails surrounding the falls, offering spectacular views of this natural beauty.

September, with its mild weather and less crowded tourist scene, is an ideal time to visit Rhine Falls. The substantial water flow makes the falls particularly impressive, and the pleasant temperatures provide a comfortable environment for boat rides or picnics by the shores of the Rhine River. 

Where to stay near Rhine Falls (Near Schaffhausen)

• Budget:   Zak Neuhausen ($) – Friendly and wallet-friendly.
• Midrange:   Hotel Rheinfall ($$) – Comfortable rooms with waterfall views.
• Luxury:   Hotel Kronenhof ($$$) – Elegant and well-located.

💡 Practical Tip:  The Swiss Travel Pass allows you free travel to the falls, and if you can, catch the Rhine Falls during early morning or late afternoon for spectacular light.

8. Chapel Bridge

🎟️ Best Tour: Walking Tour to Chapel Bridge and Old Town Lucerne

The Chapel Bridge, or Kapellbrücke, stands as an emblem of Lucerne, located in central Switzerland. This remarkable wooden bridge, dating back to the 14th century, not only acts as a functional pathway but also as a historical canvas. The bridge’s interior is adorned with paintings depicting Lucerne’s rich history, while the adjacent Water Tower adds a picturesque touch, making it a popular spot for photographers.

Reaching Lucerne is convenient via train or car, and the Chapel Bridge is easily accessible from the main transportation hubs. Its strategic location makes it a central point for tourists exploring Lucerne.

September’s mild weather and clear skies in Lucerne offer a splendid backdrop to this iconic structure. The bridge, often adorned with blooming flowers, becomes a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a boat tour around Lake Lucerne. Visiting the Chapel Bridge in September provides a glimpse into the blend of Swiss beauty and cultural heritage that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.

Where to stay near Chapel Bridge (Lucerne)

• Budget:   Backpackers Lucerne ($) – Simple and friendly.
• Midrange:   Ameron Luzern Hotel Flora ($$) – Modern and well-located.
• Luxury:   Mandarin Oriental Palace Luzern ($$$) – Historic grandeur by the lake.

💡 Practical Tip:  Early morning or late evening visits offer quieter moments on the bridge. Don’t forget to explore the old town’s charming streets nearby.

🎟️ Best Tours: Walking Tour of Basel Old Town , Self-Guided Food Tour of Basel , Basel City Tour in a Vintage Streetcar

Basel, uniquely situated at the confluence of Switzerland, France, and Germany, represents a rich cultural melting pot that’s an art lover’s paradise. Nestled on the banks of the Rhine River in the northern part of Switzerland, it’s well connected by train, air, and road, making it an accessible destination for travelers.

With a history stretching back to Roman times, Basel’s evolution as a cultural hub is both significant and vibrant. Boasting over 40 museums, the city is home to the renowned Art Basel Fair , one of the world’s leading art shows. Strolling along the Rhine River, you’ll discover charming medieval buildings, the stunning Basel Minster, and numerous galleries and theaters that reflect the city’s artistic flair.

September in Basel is an exceptional time to visit. The weather is usually mild and inviting, ideal for exploring the city’s architectural treasures, the picturesque old town, and the contemporary art scene. Late September heralds the approach of the Basel Autumn Fair , a traditional event dating back to 1471, filled with fun, games, and local delicacies.

Where to stay in Basel

• Budget:   Ibis Basel Bahnhof – Comfortable and convenient.
• Midrange:   Hotel Spalentor Basel – A stylish choice near the old town.
• Luxury:   Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois – A touch of historical luxury.

💡 Practical Tip:  Consider a Basel Card for free public transport and discounts at museums.

10. Lausanne

🎟️ Best Tours : Gruyères Tour with Cheese and Chocolate Tastings , 2-Hour Lake Geneva Cruise Along Lavaux Vineyards , Olympic Museum Entry Ticket

Lausanne, nestled on the northern shores of Lake Geneva, is a sparkling Swiss city known for its vibrant culture, steeply terraced hills, and rich history. Located in the canton of Vaud, Lausanne is easily accessible by train, car, or plane, with excellent connections to major European cities.

Founded in Roman times, Lausanne’s heritage is vast, but one of its crowning glories is its status as the Olympic Capital, home to the International Olympic Committee. Visitors can explore the Olympic Museum , which pays tribute to the spirit and history of the games. Beyond the Olympics, the city’s lively nightlife, beautiful gardens, and proximity to the UNESCO world heritage site of Lavaux vineyards make it a sought-after destination.

September in Lausanne is truly enchanting. The weather leans towards the warm and pleasant side, offering the perfect backdrop for lakeside strolls, wine tasting tours, or exploring the city’s many gardens. Outdoor festivals and events come alive, and the city’s terraced streets invite you to wander and discover hidden culinary and artistic treasures.

Lausanne in September provides a palette of experiences where every steep hill leads to a new discovery, and every glass of local wine tells a story.

Where to stay in Lausanne

• Budget:   Hôtel du Marché ($) – Affordable and cheerful.
• Midrange:   Hotel Alpha-Palmiers ($$) – Unique garden setting.
• Luxury:   Lausanne Palace ($$$) – A true luxury experience.

💡 Practical Tip:  A day trip to nearby Lavaux for wine tasting is highly recommended!

🎟️ Best Tours: Lindt Museum of Chocolate (entry ticket) , Day Trip to Mount Titlis , Sightseeing Tour of Zurich with Lake Cruise

Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, is a vibrant metropolis that sits at the meeting point of river and lake, combining urban buzz with natural beauty. Strategically located in the central part of the country, Zurich is easily accessible by plane, train, or car, making it a travel hub for visitors.

The city’s history dates back over 2,000 years, and it’s steeped in culture and tradition, alongside a strong sense of modernity. From the bustling Bahnhofstrasse, a shopping haven for luxury brands, to the peaceful shores of Lake Zurich, there are tons of unique things to do in Zurich .

Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous museums and art galleries, like the Lindt Museum of Chocolate . Nature lovers can venture into the surrounding mountains like Mount Titlis for hiking and breathtaking views.

September is a fantastic time to visit Zurich because the weather is typically mild and pleasant, which is ideal for outdoor activities and city exploration. The Zurich Film Festival in late September adds a touch of glamour to the city’s cultural scene, attracting filmmakers and cinephiles from around the world.

Zurich in September offers a rich and diverse experience that caters to all tastes and interests, whether it’s cruising on Lake Zurich, wandering through the charming old town, or enjoying the culinary delights in trendy restaurants.

Where to stay in Zurich

• Budget:   easyHotel Zürich ($) – A budget-friendly base.
• Midrange:   25hours Hotel Langstrasse ($$) – Funky and central.
• Luxury:   The Dolder Grand ($$$) – Luxury hotel overlooking the city, pure opulence.

💡 Practical Tip:  Use the Zurich Card for free public transport and entry to many museums.

12. Grindelwald

🎟️ Best Tours : Gondola Ride to Mount First , Day Trip to Interlaken & Grindelwald (from Zurich) , Glacier Canyon Entry Ticket

Grindelwald, a postcard-perfect town in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, is a gem that captures the hearts of nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Sitting in the shadow of the imposing Eiger North Face, Grindelwald serves as a gateway to the popular Jungfrau region, boasting an array of hiking, climbing, and other outdoor activities.

This charming town is accessible by train from major cities like Bern and Zurich, providing an easy and scenic route for visitors. Grindelwald’s origins date back to the 12th century, and its historic wooden chalets and quaint streets exude a timeless Alpine charm.

September in Grindelwald is something special. As the high season crowds dissipate, the trails become a serene paradise, adorned with the early hues of autumn. The weather is often perfect for hiking, and the cable cars can whisk you to higher elevations for jaw-dropping panoramic views of snow-capped peaks.

And don’t forget to indulge in some local cuisine – the mountain air just seems to make everything taste better.

Where to stay in Grindelwald

• Budget:   Eiger Lodge Easy ($) – Perfect for backpackers.
• Midrange:   Derby Swiss Quality Hotel ($$) – Comfortable and centrally located.
• Luxury:   Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof ($$$) – Alpine elegance at its finest.

⚡ Related read: Grindelwald vs Interlaken: Which is better?

13. Montreux

🎟️ Best Tours: 2-Hour Riviera Cruise , Day Trip to Glacier 3000 , Footsteps of Freddie Mercury Tour

Montreux, tucked away on the scenic shores of Lake Geneva, is much like a dreamy melody that beckons travelers with its soft embrace. The famous Montreux Jazz Festival is the show-stopping event that draws music lovers from around the world, but the town’s charm doesn’t stop there. Stroll down the lakeside promenade, and you’ll find yourself entranced by gardens filled with exotic flowers, thanks to the town’s mild climate.

September is a sweet spot in Montreux’s calendar. The sweltering summer heat has eased, and a gentle, refreshing breeze dances across the lake. It’s the perfect weather for a lazy lakeside walk, a romantic boat ride, or a vigorous hike up to the panoramic views at Rochers-de-Naye.

The vineyards of nearby Lavaux, a UNESCO world heritage site, also beckon, their grape-laden vines turning golden in the early embrace of autumn. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado, a nature lover, or simply in search of beauty, Montreux in September offers a soothing symphony for the soul.

Where to stay in Montreux

• Budget:   Hotel Parc & Lac ($) – Simple and central.
• Midrange:   Hotel Eden Palace au Lac ($$) – Classic with lake views.
• Luxury:   Fairmont Le Montreux Palace ($$$) – Ultimate lakeside luxury.

💡 Practical Tip:  A visit to nearby Chillon Castle is a must. The Swiss Travel Pass will save you on travel and entry fees.

🎟️ Best Tours: Self-Guided food tour of Lugano , Mont Brè visit with Funicular Ride

Lugano, the largest city in the Italian-speaking Ticino region of Switzerland, is a fascinating blend of Swiss efficiency and Italian zest for life. Situated close to the border with Italy, it’s beautifully framed by the surrounding mountains, including the towering Monte Brè . The city is famed for its subtropical gardens like Parco Ciani, lakeside setting, and charming piazzas that buzz with outdoor cafés.

Lugano’s history as a cultural crossroad has endowed it with rich architecture and art, evident in sites like the Cathedral of San Lorenzo and the Lugano Arte e Cultura (LAC) center. The city is easily accessible by train, car, or plane through Lugano Airport, making it a popular destination for tourists.

September brings a touch of autumn crispness to Lugano, providing the perfect atmosphere for outdoor exploration without the summer crowds. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through the gardens, a boat ride on the cobalt waters of Lake Lugano , or savoring a cappuccino in a bustling piazza, the mild temperatures and clear skies add to the allure.

The vineyards around Lugano are also bursting into color and life as the wine harvest approaches, offering an added dimension for wine enthusiasts. Lugano, with its eclectic mix of nature and culture, is a perfect destination in September, providing travelers with a taste of Italy without ever leaving the Swiss borders.

Where to stay in Lugano

• Budget:   Lugano Savosa Youth Hostel ($) – Affordable and friendly.
• Midrange:   Hotel Federale ($$) – Central with a touch of elegance.
• Luxury:   Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola ($$$) – An exquisite lakeside retreat.

15. Appenzell 

🎟️ Best Tour : Day trip to Appenzell with cheese and chocolate-tasting (from Zurich)

Appenzell, a small town bursting with charm and tradition, is located in the northeast part of Switzerland. Nestled amid rolling hills and overshadowed by the rugged peaks of the Alpstein Range, this picturesque town is easily reached by train, with connections from Zurich, St. Gallen, and other major cities.

With a rich history that’s beautifully preserved, Appenzell invites visitors to step back in time. The town’s colorful buildings and narrow streets are a joy to explore, and you’ll find traces of its medieval origins around every corner. It’s renowned for traditional cheese-making – a practice you can witness firsthand. But that’s not all. Appenzell offers numerous hiking trails and outdoor activities that make it a nature lover’s paradise.

September is a magical time to visit Appenzell. The weather is usually crisp and clear, ideal for hiking, and the trails are less crowded, offering a peaceful experience. It’s also the time of year when farmers hold festive cow parades, known as “Alpabzug,” to mark the herds’ return from the high mountain pastures. These colorful processions are a sight to behold and a unique cultural experience.

Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of Swiss cheese, or a nature enthusiast, Appenzell in September offers a blend of tradition, flavor, and natural beauty that’s hard to resist.

Where to stay in Appenzell

• Budget:   Hotel Adler ($) – Cozy and full of character.
• Midrange:   Romantik Hotel Säntis ($$) – Centrally located with mountain views.
• Luxury:   Hotel Hecht Appenzell ($$$) – A luxurious base for exploration.

💡 Practical Tip:  Don’t miss the Appenzeller Show Cheese Dairy and the opportunity to taste local flavors.

Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!

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Switzerland in September: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re considering a trip to Switzerland in the late Summer, September should be on your mind. It’s the start of shoulder season for Switzerland until the skiers begin to flock the country in December.

September is a great month to consider when planning a trip to Switzerland if you are looking for cheaper travel and accommodations rates while still being able to enjoy some warm weather activities. You can still manage beautiful hikes, boat cruises and sightseeing while avoiding the bulk of the Summer tourist crowds.

We’ll explain all this and more to help you plan your September vacation to Switzerland!

Switzerland Weather in September

In the month of September, the last bit of Summer is preparing to turn into the beginning of Fall. The weather is still fairly warm, especially in the lower regions, but the mountain peaks that haven’t already retained snow for the full year are beginning to cool down. Some people goes as far as to say that September is the best weather month for visiting Switzerland.

Outdoor fun is in abundance this month as locals and visitors alike get in their last days of high altitude hiking in comfortable weather. The temperature will vary based on your destination, so it’s important to know the altitude and proximity of your location within the country. 

If you plan to visit a low altitude region like Zurich, expect temperature lows and highs to range around 49˚F to 68˚F (10˚C to 20˚C) during the day. High altitude places such as Zermatt, where skiing is also possible all year, will see average lows and highs around 39˚F to 59˚F (4˚C to 15˚C).

Average September Temperature in Switzerland (By City)

Switzerland affordability & crowds in september.

September is the beginning of the Fall shoulder season for Switzerland. Like most areas of the world this time of year, tourism slows as the school year begins and workflow resumes. This leaves a gap of about two to three months where travel becomes a bit easier for those who prefer not to fight the crowds of Summer. 

While Switzerland begins it’s slow season, hotels, restaurants and small businesses may shutter their doors until ski season begins anew in December. This isn’t the case for the majority of places, but it’s something to keep in mind. 

The good news for frugal travelers is that rates on travel and lodging will go down this month, making a Switzerland trip on a budget more doable. While a Swiss vacation is never on the cheap side (it’s one of the most expensive places to visit) September will be one of the cheapest times of year to go.

Switzerland Snow & Skiing in September

In the Summer, snow is extremely rare and has likely stopped all over the country. But by the time September rolls around, the high mountain areas begin to see little flurries, though not much. It’s not uncommon for the glaciers to keep their snow year round, but low altitude regions will not have any snow on the ground. 

Skiing is still possible in September, but in very specific places. You’ll want to select from the short list of ski resorts that have snow in September, which include Zermatt and Saas-Fee. With the vast decline in tourists, the slopes will be empty. 

Best Switzerland Ski Resorts in September 

Both Zermatt and Saas-Fee are excellent ski resorts that remain open year round for powderhounds and casual skiers alike. In the Winter, they are two of the top resort destinations in the country. In September, the same is true, but there will be significantly fewer people on the slopes. 

Zermatt is a beginners paradise, with easy sloping glacier runs with minimal intermediate style skiing toward the lower parts of the trails. Since Zermatt is one of the only areas in the country that has a glacier, skiing is possible 365 days a year and is accommodating to just about any skill level. 

The village is a charming town to visit even if you didn’t want to ski, featuring Swiss chocolate box houses and buildings, extremely friendly residents and delicious dining at their eclectic restaurants. From the village, you’ll take a series of gondolas up to the Klein Matterhorn , where you’ll get a breathtaking view of the famous Matterhorn peak. 

Once you arrive at the Klein Matterhorn, guests can dine at the mountain restaurant, see the Swiss Alps from the viewing platform or ski back to town on nearly 20km of open pistes. If open, one of the runs actually leads you into Cervinia, Italy, where you can eat pasta and relax for a bit before heading back to town.  

Saas-Fee may not have the altitude that Zermatt has, but it offers more in the way of expert and intermediate skiing than Zermatt does. This is a perfect place for brushing up on your skills before the start of the ski season, since there are very few people on the slopes and the multiple ski parks with jumps and bowls. Saas-Fee also has 20km of skiable acreage in September.

The village is a great homebase for an early Fall ski trip, and will be much quieter this time of year. It will most likely be warm in comparison to the mountain temperatures. In addition to skiing, a trip to Saas-Fee could include hiking on beautiful trails, floating on the water, relaxing at the spa and or dining at one of multiple great restaurants.

Best Things to Do in Switzerland in September 

Just before the chilly breezes and early snowfall approach, vacationers can get their last bit of Summer fun inside a September trip to Switzerland. Most of the bigger cities will be a little quieter and your trip is sure to be a bit more relaxing than in peak season.

Marvel at Basel 

Basel is a truly enchanting city situated on the Northern border of Switzerland. September is perfect for visiting since this usually bustling city is more subdued. It’s conveniently located near France and Germany, making it a great jumping off point for visiting neighboring countries. Basel is known as a cultural hub with many museums and art galleries to see while you’re there. Some that are highly recommended include the Vitra Design Museum , Kunstmuseum , and the Spalentor Medieval Gate. 

Like most Swiss cities, it has a beautiful historic district, with Basel Minster at the center. This Gothic masonry extraordinair dates back to the 12th century and overlooks the Rhine River. Touring Basel by way of the Rhine is another fantastic experience and visitors can catch the ferry at four different docking points throughout the city. Alternatively, you could rent a wielding paddle boat and venture out on your own.

Shop in St. Moritz 

The clear nights and warm days of September make this month a great time to see St. Moritz, especially before the Winter crowd sets in. St. Moritz is a ritzy ski town that is a great place for relaxing during low season. The streets are lined with grand hotels, high end shops and five star restaurants which make it easy to stay in town. Loads of art galleries and museums offer a quiet reprieve and learning experience while in St. Moritz. 

To get a real appreciation for the outdoors, try dining at a rooftop restaurant or mountain view cafe like Panorama restaurant at the top of Corviglia . You can also still spend the day on the water in September, whether you choose to boat, paddle or sail on Lake Silvaplana. We also recommend you ride the Bernina Express when you travel to St. Moritz which has stunning views of vastly different climates, including glaciers, lakes and valleys. 

Sip Wine at Lavaux Vineyard

Switzerland is not particularly known for their wine, but the wine they do produce is equally as delicious as neighboring France and Italy. Since Swiss wine isn’t as highly regarded as others, local growers keep their stock for locals and visitors only, making this exclusive experience even more special. Several key places to visit for hand-harvested and locally pressed wine include La Cote, Neuchatel and Praz. 

The most notable of all is the Lavaux Vineyards on Lake Geneva, which is actually a UNESCO World Heritage site. Their vineyard is recognized for the steep incline, making machine harvesting impossible. Each year temporary harvesters are hired to hand-pick the grapes, and those planning to stay in the city for an extended time can call ahead for employment and lodging.

Visit Lausanne

Lausanne sits on Lake Geneva and is a hidden gem of sorts when compared to bigger cities on the lake. The one notable thing about this little town’s international presence is that the Olympic Committee has its headquarters here, along with the Olympic Museum , which guests can’t miss when visiting. 

September in Lausanne still feels like Summer, so many outdoor activities like boat cruises are still great for seeing the city. In addition to the cruise, take a tour through the famous Notre Dame of Switzerland: Cathedrale de Lausanne, the pinnacle of the city’s old town or get a bird’s eye view from Sauvabelin Tower.

Explore Lucerne 

Lucerne is fairly busy throughout the Summer, so September is a great month for missing the crowds while enjoying the last of the warm weather. This lakefront city is steeped in medieval architecture, showcased in the ramparts on the Northern end that still stand from the 14th century and a chapel bridge built in 1333. In addition to it’s old heritage, Lucerne’s boat cruises are the number one attraction. 

Getting out into the surrounding nature should be at the top of your list for Lucerne. You can see beautiful cobblestone streets and red brick homes of the Alstadt from a cruise, take the cogwheel train to hike Mount Pilatus or Mount Rigi, or walk the historic pathways on the covered bridges and rampart towers. You should also take advantage of Lake Lucerne’s unique bathing area while the warm weather permits. 

Play at Mount Pilatus 

Mount Pilatus sits atop Lake Lucerne and has incredible views of the lake and the mountains from the top. It’s a destination that the whole family will enjoy, which involves an easy sightseeing trip or hike. When September rolls around the tourist crowds really die down, so you won’t be fighting to get to the top. 

We suggest traveling here from Lucerne on the Golden Round Trip , which provides the ultimate experience when visiting Mount Pilatus. You’ll start by taking a bus through the country to Kriens, journey by cable car up to Pilatus and take in the stunning view from the Pilatus-Kulm platform. You’ll return by taking the cogwheel train from Pilatus to Alpnachstad and complete the journey by boat to Lucerne. This full day excursion is one of the best ways to take in the full sights of Lake Lucerne.

Via Ferrata in Murren 

September is the last safe month you can guarantee a great via ferrata climb and Murren is the place to do it. Via ferrata climbing is a big feat, one that the course at Murren takes quite seriously. Hikers love it for the sweeping views of the mountains and valley while traversing heights of 2000ft. The course is open for anyone, but we recommend going on a guided tour for the safest experience.

The course includes tight ropes, suspension bridges and steep ladders and sets off from the small town of Murren in the Jungfrau region. To complete the 2.2km trek, climbers will brave steep, rocky terrain from the valley floor at Murren to Gimmelwald on the other side of the mountain.

Visit Grindelwald 

Grindelwald is extremely popular for skiing in the Winter, but the shoulder season of September really provides a well-balanced warm weather haven for the adventure-seeker. In the Summertime, this popular ski resort serves as the gateway to both Lauterbrunnen 72 Waterfalls Valley and the famous Jungfraujoch. Both are incredible sites on their own, but there’s even more to experience closer to town.

Gletscherschult is a breathtaking journey through a ravine that’s existed since the Little Ice Age. First Cliff Walk is another stunner that puts visitors on edge – literally. You’ll walk a 45 metre metal walkway to the center where the views are out of this world. From here, you can also access the Bachalpsee alpine lake or the Grosse Scheidegg alpine trail. 

See Jungfraujoch 

Jungfraujoch has been dubbed the “Top of Europe”  with one of the tallest peaks in the world. It also claims the highest railway station in the continent. The attraction hosts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year, the majority of which come in Summer, so September will be less busy. This month will also bring cooler weather to this breathtaking view of the Bernese Alps and Glacier Valley (pictured above).

On the train up the mountain, you’ll get impeccable panoramic views of the mountain tops on the Jungfrau Railway. You’ll also be treated to a delicious meal on your journey. When you reach the top, a variety of activities await you. The Sphinx Terrace viewing station is the main attraction, but there are also glacier tours, the Ice Palace and sculptures, and the most modern tricable gondola in the world.

Tour the Rhone Glacier 

The magnificent Rhone Glacier is a contributing source to both the Rhone River and to Lake Geneva. This impressive landmark is located high above the popular ski village of Andermatt and welcomes visitors all year round. It’s most impressive in the Summer when you least expect to see ice and snow, and provides a welcoming cool down from the warm weather. 

Don’t miss a walk through the Ice Grotto , which is redrilled each year for tourists to walk through. The brilliant blue hues in the ice are starkly contrasted to the grayish tones of the mountain. There’s also an outdoor viewing platform that overlooks the exterior of the glacier and the lake below.

Hike the Swiss Grand Canyon 

The Rhine Gorge, otherwise known as the “Swiss Grand Canyon”, is one of the most spectacular and unassuming sights in all of Switzerland. Those who travel to Switzerland specifically to hike the Alps will not want to miss this unique feature. The Rhine Gorge has multiple hiking trails and viewpoints varying in difficulty. The family hiking trails are great for young kids.

Rhine Gorge will see the most visitors later in the Summer, so hikers will love the tranquility and warmer weather in May. If the day is warm enough, you can even cool off after a long hike by swimming in the Caumasee alpine lake.

Backpack Mont Blanc

September is the last month that is ideal for backpacking across the Mont Blanc trail, since colder and possibly snowy weather could come toward the end of October. Mont Blanc is the highest peak in Western Europe, so the cold weather sets in sooner than other places in Switzerland. The full Tour du Mont Blanc trail actually begins in France and takes hikers through Italy to Switzerland. If you begin in Switzerland, you can easily start in Champex-Lac or La Fouly via train from Geneva to Martigny. 

While hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc, backpackers will have access to rest stops every few miles that are stocked with refreshments and necessities. If you do the full tour, you’ll be able to stop in multiple places in each country. You can eat alpine cheese in Switzerland, get delicious pasta in Italy and robust wines in France. 

Tour Oberhofen Castle 

Oberhofen Castle is a gorgeous 13th century relic located in the Bern canton of Switzerland. It sits on Lake Thun and is considered a romantic getaway. Couples will love the journey through the renovated castle halls, dining on traditional Swiss fare at the castle restaurant and stealing a kiss inside the picturesque top tower smoking lounge.

September will be accompanied by lake breezes and warm sunny days. If you plan to spend the day in Oberhofen, take a boat cruise to neighboring Thun on the Aare River. Thun has many scenic walks through the old town, down the historic covered bridges and over to Balliz Island where you can shop at the market and dine at several local cafes.  

Boat Lake Thun & Lake Brienz

Speaking of Thun, it’s located on the gorgeous Lake Thun, which is too cold for swimming in September, but perfect for boat cruising this time of year. This alpine lake was formed from a melted glacier and sailors love the light breezes that are prevalent on the lake all year long. 

Lake Brienz is a neighboring waterway that feeds into Lake Thun, featuring brilliantly blue water. The paddle steamer runs regularly throughout the month and guests can choose their tour time based on the cuisine they would like. When you opt for a boat cruise on one of these lakes, you’re served a delicious meal with relaxing entertainment while touring romantic villages with giant mountains as the backdrop.

September Events in Switzerland

Federal Day of Thanksgiving, Repentance and Prayer

This unique federal holiday takes place on the third Sunday in September and is recognized by people of all faiths, including but not limited to Christians, Catholics, Muslims and Jews. While the focus is on mindfulness and fasting, the holiday is also seen as patriotic and the entire country usually ceases any sort of work this day.

Alpine Cattle Descent

Switzerland is known internationally for cheese and dairy products, all made lovingly by their well-attended and cared-for cows. These cows get special treatment each Spring by ascending to the mountains for fresh and delicious grass in a cooler climate for the Summertime. In the Fall, they make their descent all over the country and local villages celebrate their return. As the herds come back to town, the farmers greet them with a decorative parade.  

Grape Harvest Festival

The Grape Harvest Festival is an annual celebration that takes place at the end of September in Neuchatel Country. The festival is celebrated by all the residents who put together a harvest procession and dress in cultural costumes. Elaborate floats decorated with floral bouquets and wine harvesting tools take to the streets as the countryside prepares to press the season’s grapes. Other similar events take place in wine regions like the village of Praz.

September is the perfect month to visit Switzerland to enjoy the last bit of Summer weather with fewer tourist crowds. You can still get out onto Switzerland’s famous lakes for a warm boat cruise, hike with less foot traffic on the trails and you can tour the big cities with ease.

Not only can you get in a lot of iconic tours and refreshing activities, you can also avoid some of the larger crowds and get better deals on pricing your vacation in the month of September.

This article is part of Roundtript’s series of expert Switzerland travel guides for every month of the year.

For a summary of each Switzerland month & season all in one place, check out our big guide to the Best Times of the Year to Visit Switzerland .

Switzerland in June: Everything You Need to Know

Switzerland in August: Everything You Need to Know

© 2024 by Roundtript

What to know if you're traveling to Switzerland in September

If you are planning on travelling to Switzerland in September, you probably have stacks of questions, like is September the best month to visit? Is Switzerland warm in autumn? Will there still be big crowds? When does Switzerland’s autumn foliage appear? Can I still see snow?

This article will answer all your questions about what it’s like to explore Switzerland in one of the best months of the year. Here’s why you should choose September for your next Swiss escape. 

Get a great deal on a Swiss getaway in September with our Seasonal Travel Sale

Switzerland weather and crowds in September

September marks the beginning of autumn or fall, and the low season for tourism as the masses of European summer holidaymakers return to work and school. With generally warm, sunny weather across parts of the country, you can still enjoy blissful outdoor activities with much thinner crowds.

Of course, it’s a mountainous country, so if you are planning on travelling to Switzerland in September you’ll need to pack warmer layers and jackets for those high altitude adventures. There’s no fresh snow, and that means no winter ski sports, but there’s plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy and you’ll still see snow covering the highest peaks.

Weather wise, September is a lovely month to visit. The city of Zürich averages between 10.5°C (51°F) and 19°C (66°F), Lucerne receives similar weather while Geneva is a little warmer. If you head up into the high altitude of the Swiss Alps, expect average temperatures of around 7°C (45°F). September in Switzerland can bring a little bit of rain so pack a raincoat or umbrella too.

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Switzerland

RELATED BLOG: 6 unmissable natural wonders to discover in Switzerland

Where to go in Switzerland in autumn

Everywhere! With weather this brilliant, thinner crowds and all activities and stores open, September is the best month to visit Switzerland. This time of year Switzerland is overflowing with beauty and you’ll want to visit the lakes, mountains and cities to experience it all.

In the cities, like Zurich, Geneva, Lucerne, Bern and Basil, the streets are alive with locals enjoying the last weeks of pleasant weather before the cooler days of winter start to creep in. Enjoy lunch in the sunshine on warmer days, or get cosy indoors with fondue as the weather dips.

It’s harvest time for vineyards and fruit trees. Look for workers in the fields and grapevines hanging heavy with fruit as you journey through the countryside. If you pass through Valais, Switzerland’s top wine region, you can trek through the vines or enjoy a tasting.

If you like mountain hiking the trails will be quiet with no fresh snowfall, making it easier to navigate the trails without any icy surprises. Towards the end of the month the tree foliage will start changing to golden hues, a glorious contrast to the snowy mountain peaks. 

GET INSPIRED BY: Switzerland & Austria

September events in Switzerland

September is a time of harvest in Switzerland. Expect every town and village to celebrate the grape or apple harvests with festivals and fun. There are also loads of traditional folklore festivals with Alpine horns, traditional costumes and celebrations called “Désalpe” where the cows return from mountain pastures after the summer. Later in the month these cows are often judged and prizes are awarded for the most beautiful cows.

GET INSPIRED BY: Contrasts of Switzerland

Here are events you can enjoy if you’re travelling to Switzerland in September.

Horlofolies, La Chaux-de-Fonds Expect three days of music, concerts and street artists, along with pop-up bars and markets at this traditional watch town.

Biedermeier Festival, Appenzellerland Every four years, the village of Heiden in Appenzellerland returns to the 19th century. Over two days, locals stroll through the village in traditional typical Biedermeier costumes. There’s a big parade on Sunday, plus a market with old crafts.

Jeûne Genevois, Geneva  This is a special thanksgiving day held in Geneva, Switzerland’s French-speaking city. It’s always held on the Thursday after the first Sunday of September and it’s a public holiday for this canton.

S-chargiada d’Alp, Müstair At the end of summer the herdsmen and cattle descend from the mountain pastures with a big folklore event. The best dairy cows are decorated with headdresses and proudly parade through their village where the locals welcome them with a party, dancing and traditional food.

La Désalpe de Charmey, Charmey   Charmey, a village near Gruyères, also celebrates the return of the dairy cows from their summer vacation, where they graze high up in the green pastures of the mountains. 

Food Zurich, Zurich Love food? The city of Zurich does too. Dive into 11 days of street food, workshops, marketing, tastings and courses.

Chästeilet, various towns During the summer, the shepherds make cheese from the cow milk up in the mountains. At the end of the summer, there’s a centuries-old ritual called “Chästeilet” where the cheese is divided among the farmers. 

Federal Day of Thanksgiving, Repentance, and Prayer, nationwide except Geneva  The rest of the country celebrates this interfaith festival with a public holiday on the third Sunday in September. 

Grape Harvest Festival, Lutry, Neuchâtel and other towns. Lutry marks the end of the grape harvest with a three-day festival with open cellars, open canteens and a touch of madness! Neuchâtel puts on a huge parade, marching bands and fancy dress.

Flea Market Festival, Landeron   Experience Switzerland’s largest open-air antiques festival over three days. The fair pops up in the magnificent mediaeval town of Landeron.

Unlock Switzerland in September for less with our Seasonal Travel Sale . Book now before the sale ends!

Are you planning on travelling to Switzerland in September? Let us know about your travel plans in the comments below….

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Best Time To Visit Switzerland: A Month-by-Month Guide

Wondering when is the best time to visit Switzerland? If you’re already planning your visit to the Swiss Alps, then you know that choosing the best time of year isn’t as obvious as you might think.

You wanna maximize your experiences, enjoy perfect weather with minimal crowds, and to top it off, you’d love to do it on a budget . But does this idyllic time of year even exist?

>>Just here for the free download? Here it is !

Prefer to WATCH instead of READ? Here ya go!

Hey, we’re Jana and Brett , and this beautiful slice of Switzerland has become our adopted home for the past 2 summers (since 2021). But we don’t just spend time here for our enjoyment — we’re on a mission to help you maximize your trip to Switzerland while minimizing your budget and planning time .

So today we’re gonna help you decide when is the best time to visit Switzerland, based on questions you often ask us about in the comments of our YouTube videos:

• What’s the weather like?
• Which months are cheaper or more expensive?
• What’s open and which trains/mountain lifts are running?

We’ll answer these questions month-by-month using real data. But you know we’re gonna give you more than just the facts, right? So after working our way through the calendar, we’re gonna get down to the nitty gritty—sharing when we would choose to visit based on sightseeing priorities and travel preferences that are way more personal than any amount of research.

So are you ready to plan your trip to Switzerland? Let’s go.

Follow along using our free spreadsheet download of month-by-month weather data, average Airbnb costs, and train openings!

Weather in Switzerland Year Round (Month-By-Month)

As we work through the calendar, here’s what we’ll highlight for each month using data for Interlaken, Switzerland since that’s the hub of the region (and may be one of the best places to visit in Switzerland):

• Average high temperature
• Average # of days with sunshine
• Average # of days with precipitation (rain or snow)
• Average cost of an Airbnb during the month
• Which railways and cable cars are open or closed

Keep in mind, though, that averages only tell some of the story. This region frequently has extreme weather swings, so your experience could be quite different than the averages indicate. And of course, it can change quite drastically depending on the altitude.

So use this as a guide to help make your decision, and then commit to having a great time on your trip to the region no matter what the weather throws at you!

Switzerland Weather in January

• Temperature : 36°F
• Sunshine : 7 days
• Precipitation : 9 days
• Lodging : 4th least expensive

It’s no surprise that the first month of the year is also the coldest, with an average high temperature of 36 °F, 7 days with sunshine, and 9 days with precipitation.

It’s also the 4th least expensive month based on airbnb data.

During January, you’ll find that most of the important mountain trains and cable cars are running, with the exception of ones that run only in summer such as the funicular to Harder Kulm, the cogwheel train to Schynige Platte , and the steam train to the Brienzer Rothorn.

The Berner Oberland Regional Pass (our favorite!) won’t be available for a few more months, but in the past few years a winter version of the Top of Europe pass has been available.

If you love snow or snowsports, then January is obviously a great month to visit, and there are even sledding, snowshoeing, and winter hiking tracks too.

Switzerland Weather in February

• Temperature : 40°F
• Sunshine : 5 days
• Precipitation : 3 days
• Lodging : least expensive month

February looks a lot like January in many ways. The average high temperature is slightly warmer at 40°. 

You’re likely to see snow or rain just as often as in January. But it has one of the lowest amounts of total precipitation for the entire year.

But It’s typically not as sunny, with an average of just 5 days with sunshine—however, February also has fewer days, so there is that 😉

A benefit of traveling in February is that it’s the least expensive month to book a rental on Airbnb . And as for rail operation and travel passes, you’ll pretty much find the exact same availability as January.

When is the best time to ski in Switzerland? Possibly February because that’s when the locals go. Schools typically close for a week or two in February and lots of Swiss use this time to go skiing. So if you’re coming primarily for a ski trip you might want to avoid this month, or at least be aware of how school holidays might impact the crowds and prices.

Switzerland Weather in March

• Temperature : 48°F
• Sunshine : 10 days
• Precipitation : 11 days
• Lodging : 5th least expensive

March is kind of a weird month in a lot of ways. Winter is starting to say goodbye, especially at lower elevations, but it really isn’t spring yet either.

There’s an average high temp of 48° in Interlaken with 10 days with sunshine and 11 days with precipitation. But your experience could really vary depending on where you visit.

Lower elevation ski areas such as Oeschinensee and the Niederhorn wrap up their winter season and close for maintenance by the middle of the month.

And airbnb prices are beginning to pick up, but it’s still the 5th least expensive month of the year.

Switzerland Weather in April

• Temperature : 54°F
• Sunshine : 14 days
• Precipitation : 12 days
• Lodging : 7th least expensive

April really is the beginning of Spring in Switzerland, especially at lower elevations. Interlaken sees an average high temp of 54°, but you’ll probably see days in the 60s as well, especially later in the month.

There are an average of 14 days with sunshine and 12 days with precipitation, but it also ranks 7th for your budget, indicating that international tourism is beginning to come out of hibernation.

The Top of Europe summer pass is usually available around the middle of the month, but it’s a complicated time to plan your sightseeing. More cable cars and mountain trains are shut down part of the month for maintenance, with the Schilthorn included in that mix.

But the funicular to Harder Kulm opens midway through the month, and might just be the best spot for a sunset view on a clear day.

And around this time, you also see Lake Thun and Lake Brienz spring back to life, with boat cruises beginning to run regularly. It’s not a great time for hiking or skiing in the high mountains, but at lower elevations it might be one of the most beautiful times of year.

Waterfalls and rivers flow freely, wildflowers begin to bloom, and it’s all set against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

Keep in mind that schools also closed for a week or two around Easter for a spring break of sorts. So you might find more Europeans traveling and perhaps some smaller shops or restaurants closed for the break.

Need a cheat sheet?

I know, this is a lot of technical information. But when you’re planning a trip to the mountains, this is the stuff you need to know!

So we created a free download with all of the weather data and Airbnb stats we’ve been referencing, plus we made a comprehensive chart of 23 trains, cable cars, and funiculars in the Jungfrau Region and which months they’re open or closed.

Sign up for the free download and it will be sent straight to your inbox!

But for now, let’s dive into the next few months which are the peak tourism season in the Swiss Alps.

Switzerland Weather in May

• Temperature : 64°F
• Sunshine : 11 days
• Precipitation : 19 days
• Lodging : 9th least expensive

May feels more like the springtime you might be used to with average high temperatures of 64° and plenty of days well into the 70s.

It also rains like the spring you might be used to—with just 11 days with sunshine and 19 days with precipitation on average, making it the rainiest month of the year. (Maybe that’s why they call it “spring?”)

But as colleges in the U.S. wrap up their spring semesters, you’ll see the return of more international tourists, as well as higher prices on airbnb.

There are still times of maintenance for some of the mountain railways and cable cars; but very few of them are shut down for the entire month.

The cable car and train from Lauterbrunnen to Mürren is closed for maintenance for a couple weeks. But thankfully the Schilthornbahn is open once again so you can reach Mürren using that cable car instead.

On top of that, the cogwheel train to Schynige Platte and the gondola to the beautiful blue lake at Oeschinensee are running by the end of the month, and you’ll finally be able to use our favorite train pass: the Berner Oberland regional pass.

Oh and we forgot to mention that our free download also shows you which train passes are available for every month of the year.

Switzerland Weather in June

• Temperature : 70°F
• Sunshine : 12 days
• Precipitation : 18 days
• Lodging : 2nd most expensive

When June comes around it’s officially summer in Switzerland—both in terms of weather and tourism.

The average high temperature is just 70°, but you’ll likely see temps reach well up into the 80s at some point.

June sees an average of 12 days with sunshine. But along with the heat, you’ll also see plenty of precipitation.

The first part of the month can still feel like Spring in Switzerland, depending on the year. But by the middle of the month we’re very much into high season, making this the 2nd most expensive month according to airbnb data.

A couple of mountain trains and funiculars, like the one to Allmendhubel , wait until the first or second weekend of the month to open for the summer season, but by the middle of the month, everywhere you’d like to visit in the mountains is open.

Schools break for the summer starting early in the month, which means you’ll definitely notice a difference in how busy this place gets as June moves along.

And that definitely won’t show any signs of slowing down as we move into July.

Switzerland Weather in July

• Temperature : 75°F
• Precipitation : 17 days
• Lodging : Most expensive

July could probably be thought of as the high of high season, and there are plenty of good reasons for that:

• Schools and universities are on break in Europe and North America, bringing tons of international travelers.
• The snow has melted at most higher elevations, making world-class hiking trails available all over the region.
• The weather is the warmest and the days are the longest.

While the average high temperature is only 75°, don’t be surprised to see that thermometer stretch up into the high 80s or even the 90s.

Your chances of sunshine tend to be higher than during the Spring, but you’re probably going to see your fair share of rain as well.

Unfortunately all that means July is also the most expensive time to book an airbnb . But along with high prices and lots of daylight, you also have every summer activity imaginable at your disposal.

All of the mountain trains and cable cars are running throughout the entire month, and this is also the perfect time for cruising on—or even swimming in—the lakes.

If you’re coming for summer sports activities and are willing to pay a premium and endure the crowds, July is a safe choice.

Switzerland Weather in August

• Sunshine : 16 days
• Precipitation : 15 days
• Lodging : 3rd most expensive

Moving on to August, it would be a mistake not to mention that the 1st of the month is the Swiss National Day, kind of like Independence Day in the U.S.

There are activities and parades in nearly every village and town, and we think it’s a lot of fun to be in Switzerland during this time. But you’ll likely see a lot more of the Swiss traveling to the area and some small shops might be closed at least for the day, so keep that in mind.

August has the same average high temperature as July, and the first part of the month is almost certainly going to feel like the heat of summer. But as the month goes along, you just might find hints of Fall temperatures around the corner.

It also tends to be a little more stable than Spring and early Summer, with an average of 16 days with sun compared to 15 days with precipitation. 

August is the 3rd most expensive month on airbnb. But just like July, all of the mountain trains and lifts will be running, making it another fantastic month for summer sports of all kinds.

Switzerland Weather in September

• Temperature : 68°F
• Sunshine : 20 days
• Precipitation : 10 days
• Lodging : 5th most expensive

By early September, schools are back in session in Switzerland, Europe, and North America, so you’ll notice a discernible decrease in the number of tourists.

The average high temperature drops back to 68°, but there is normally still an abundance of sunshine and quite a bit less rain, and you’ll probably see plenty of days with temperatures in the 70s.

It’s the 5th most expensive month on airbnb, but all of the mountain trains and cable cars are still running, making it a solid option for those traveling on a budget who still want high mountain hiking options.

The last two years we’ve noticed pretty drastic weather changes between the first and second half of the month. And while that might not be typical every year, it’s worth mentioning that Autumn really has arrived by the end of the month.

All that to say, if you crave warm temperatures and long, sunny days, both are likely gone by the time the calendar changes to October! But to us, the blue September skies just look a little clearer and this is one of our favorite months to visit this region.

Switzerland Weather in October

• Temperature : 57°F
• Sunshine : 22 days
• Precipitation : 8 days
• Lodging : 6th least expensive

Speaking of October, this is the month when the locals enjoy spending time in their mountains.

Schools are on break for a couple weeks and most international tourists have packed up and left, so October is perhaps one of the most authentic times to enjoy the Jungfrau Region.

The weather tends to be pretty cooperative too, even though it’s quite a bit cooler, with an average high of 57° and temperatures rarely reaching beyond the 60s.

If you like sunshine and cooler temperatures, this just might be the month for you. 22 days with sunshine compared to just 8 with precipitation makes this one of the sunniest and driest months of the entire year.

Having said that, October will also bring a few more planning complications compared to the summer in Switzerland. By the end of the month, lots of mountain trains and lifts start closing for maintenance, with Grindelwald First included in this group.

But all in all, October (which is the 6th least expensive month) might just be an all-around bargain. With Fall colors on full display, and fresh mushrooms and local game on offer at restaurants, there’s a lot to love about this time of year.

Switzerland Weather in November

• Temperature : 45°F
• Sunshine : 15 days
• Lodging : 3rd least expensive

What can we say about November? For starters, it seems to have a bit of an identity crisis. It’ll make you think it’s Autumn in Switzerland and it’ll also tell you it’s Winter—and sometimes both at the same time!

The average high temperature is 45°, but you might see days with highs in the low 30s and other days in the low 60s.

The amount of sunshine also drops quite a bit, though you likely won’t see huge amounts of precipitation either. Gray, misty fog just might be the best picture of an average day in November.

But November is also the 3rd cheapest month according to airbnb.

Most of the summer trains and cable cars have shut down by this point, and even the Schilthorn goes into maintenance mode partway through the month.

Jungfraujoch is open 365 days a year, but even a visit there could be more complicated. Both the Eiger Express from Grindelwald and the train from Wengen to Kleine Scheidegg are closed for maintenance for part of the month, meaning it could take up to an hour longer than normal to reach Jungfraujoch depending on where you’re staying.

Answers to your travel questions

Travelers just like you have asked us a ton of questions about when to visit, what’s the weather like, and what to do if the lifts are closed—and this post and our free download are made to give you a realistic picture of what it’s like to visit Interlaken during each month of the year.

Just want to remind you to snatch up the free-and-helpful goodness using the form below!

And now, let’s wrap up with the final month of the year.

Switzerland Weather in December

• Temperature : 38°F
• Lodging : 2nd least expensive

If Christmas markets, mulled wine, puffy coats, and snow sound charming to you, then you’re probably going to love December.

I’m sure we don’t need to tell you it’ll be cold, with average high temperatures in the upper 30s. But that’s what gets you in the holiday spirit, right?

Unsurprisingly, the amount of sunshine drops along with the temperatures, but average precipitation for the month remains pretty low.

If you avoid the days surrounding Christmas and New Years, December is pretty budget friendly, with airbnb ranking it the 2nd cheapest month of the year.

Though the first half of the month still has quite a few closures, all the important ski areas and sightseeing spots—including Grindelwald First and the Schilthorn —will be open and waiting for your visit.

So if you like the holiday season and know how to pack your layers, December in the Jungfrau Region could be an experience unlike anything you’ve enjoyed before!

That was helpful but…now what?

We’re all about helping you maximize your trip while minimizing your budget and planning time, so here are some bonus tips that will help you decide when to visit based on specific priorities and activities.

We get lots of questions like, “When is the most beautiful time to visit the Swiss Alps?”

While that’s an impossible question and every time of year is beautiful here, we know this usually means a few things: wildflowers in bloom, green alpine meadows, and waterfalls filled to the brim with snow melt.

To enjoy scenes like these that inspired even great writers like Tolkien, there’s nothing like Springtime in the Jungfrau Region. Particularly, aim for mid-April to mid-June .

Giessbach Falls will be raging, the Sprutz and Staubach falls will be plunging mightily, and the entire Lauterbrunnen Valley will look like a fantasy.

If you’re looking for the best combination of springtime beauty and hiking availability, look to June. You might not be able to access the highest of alpine hikes, particularly early in the month, but you’ll find plenty to keep all of your senses busy!

If you’re like us and you love hiking in the Swiss Alps , then plan your visit sometime from June to September . A word of caution though about June: snow sometimes covers trails above 2000m well into the month. So if it’s really important to you to have the best trails available with good conditions, you might wanna wait until at least the second half of June . 

And if you’re looking for fewer tourists and perhaps a lower budget, the first half of September has proved to be a great time to visit. You’re less likely to experience extreme heat, the weather is a little more stable, and the snow usually hasn’t yet returned even at higher elevations.

Now if the hiking you’re more interested in isn’t so high in the mountains, mid-May to mid-June and mid-September to mid-October could be a great choice as well. But don’t count on being able to hike mountain trails above 1700 or 1800, even though it might be possible depending on the year.

It goes without saying that if you like to swim in the lakes and you’re not cold-blooded, July and August will be the best times to visit.

But enjoying a nice boat ride on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz can happen anytime from mid-April until the last week or so of October . This entire time is also great for lakeside strolls .

Winter in Switzerland

If you love winter wonderlands yet winter sports aren’t your reason for traveling, it’s hard to imagine a better time to visit than December , when the Christmas markets and decorations are in full swing, and the charm level is dialed up to a 10 out of 10.

If winter sports are your jam, we’ve heard that January and February are the best time to ski in Switzerland, although February is particularly busy due to school breaks. So December and March might offer fewer crowds and better prices.

But admittedly, we aren’t skiers, and we haven’t yet been here for Winter in Switzerland. But we wanted to share our perspective with you based on our own experience as well as lots of research.

When is the best time to visit Switzerland?

Our goal is to help you travel with confidence by reducing your planning time and stretching your budget, and that’s exactly what our free download does!

So check your inbox for the free guide , and we’ll see you in Switzerland!

Jana is an SEO copywriter and content editor plus travel YouTuber. She loves all things gelato, sunshine, and words. Her perfect day? Tossing on sunglasses to read a book and catch some rays, then dinner with her husband and friends. In her free time, Jana disciples teen girls and cooks from scratch (like homemade pasta). Jana lives in Switzerland with her husband, Brett.

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Best Time To Visit Switzerland: Monthly Guide By A Local & Tips [2024]

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 55 mins read
• Post last modified: February 8, 2024
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Are you thinking about exploring Switzerland and want to enjoy the best possible time ? Choosing the right season (month) for your visit is one of the most important factors.

I lived in Switzerland for 3 years and experienced every month and season in the country, cities, and the mountains. So in this article, I’ll tell you when the best months to visit Switzerland is ( for different purposes ), and we’ll break each month down.

Let’s get to it!

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

Best Time To Visit Switzerland: Answered!

The best time to visit Switzerland is June, September, and winter , especially December and January . These months are also less crowded, prices are slightly lower, and temperatures are mild.

June is the best month to visit Switzerland overall because you’ll enjoy the scenery in its best beauty.

Imagine green meadows with cows and flowers, snowy mountains with glaciers, rivers full of water from the melting snow, and crystal blue lakes. The landscape in June is incredibly unique . Besides, everything is open, and you can enjoy all the excursions and hiking.

September is another great month, similar to June. The only difference is that it might snow in the mountains towards the end. It’s not every year and is rather unusual, but I experienced it.

Switzerland is also great to visit in winter , with perfect skiing slopes, winter landscapes, and Christmas markets. Prices are also lower in the first two weeks of December and January than in other winter months.

👉 READ ALSO: Best Of Switzerland Itinerary: 8 Days By Train

Best Time For Hiking In Switzerland

June, July, August, and September are the best months for hiking in Switzerland. The hiking trails and mountain huts are open, and the landscape is full of beauty.

The landscape colors and views at this time of year, especially June, are breathtaking .

Best Time For Snowfall In Switzerland

January and February are the best times to visit Switzerland for snowfall . These two months, snow in the mountains, its towns, and Swiss cities is 99% guaranteed.

December is also a great month to visit Switzerland for snowfall. Still, it mostly snows in the mountains , and cities in the north, like Zurich, Basel, and St. Gallen, might still be without snow.

Best Time For Honeymoon In Switzerland

June, September, December, and January are the best months to visit Switzerland for the honeymoon .

June and September because the landscape colors are the most beautiful, everything is open and less crowded, and there are mild temperatures.

December and January are amazing for experiencing the Swiss winter wonderland , staying in wellness hotels, treating yourself, skiing, and enjoying winter hikes. These months are also less crowded, and the prices are slightly lower than other winter months.

Best Time To Visit The Swiss Alps

June, September, and January are the best months to visit the Swiss Alps . The landscape colors are the most beautiful, temperatures are mild, and you can enjoy both summer and winter hikes .

In January , you can also go skiing and sledding and enjoy other winter activities.

Hotels and some activities will be slightly cheaper than the rest of the year, too.

Travel Itinerary Planning Services

Seasons in switzerland: weather & best time to visit.

Let’s break it down to seasons. In the section below, I’ll give you an idea of what Switzerland looks like in each season , what the weather is like , what temperatures are there, and which month of the season is best to visit.

Best Time To Travel To Switzerland In Spring

The best months to visit Switzerland in spring is the beginning of April or the end of May . Generally, you can enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds in spring in Switzerland.

Temperatures in spring in Switzerland range between 8°C/46°F and 14°C/57°F . It might still snow in the mountain towns at the beginning of April. And it gets warmer at the end of April and in May.

You can still enjoy skiing in many places at the beginning of April . Yet, the snow melts significantly, so there won’t be any snow in the mountain towns, only on the slopes.

Bear in mind that at the end of April (last two weeks) and the beginning of May (first two weeks) is a shoulder season in Switzerland , when many places close after winter and prepare for summer.

It doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit Switzerland at this time (if you can’t choose another time, stick to your schedule). But if you can choose, avoid visiting between 15th April and 15th May .

The end of May is the start of the summer season, so you can go hiking in some places, but some might still be closed, so check the status of the place online.

Best Time To Travel To Switzerland In Summer

The best time for visiting Switzerland in the summertime is June .

It’s the best time overall as everything is open, the landscape colors are incredibly beautiful , and you can enjoy Switzerland with everything it offers, with fewer crowds than during the peak summer season, which is July and August.

The summer temperatures in Switzerland range between 17°C/62°F and 30°C/86°F . It doesn’t have to be that it’s cold in the mountains. It’s usually the opposite; sun shines directly onto you in the mountains, so it’s quite hot , and there is a high risk of getting sunburned , so put on sunscreen .

It also rains a lot in the mountains in summer with many thunderstorms .

Best Time To Travel To Switzerland In Autumn

September and the beginning of October are the best autumn months to visit Switzerland. They have stunning autumn colors , and the mountains are usually covered by snow. So you can enjoy picturesque train rides and still some hiking trails.

Avoid visiting Switzerland in November if you can, as it’s the shoulder season . Many businesses are closing to prepare for the winter season, and many cable cars are in maintenance.

While you can still do a lot, it’s important to check the status of each activity and see whether the things you want to do are open.

Autumn temperatures in Switzerland range between 6°C/43°F to 14°C/57°F . September is the warmest autumn month, October has mild temperatures, and November starts getting much colder.

It usually starts snowing in November . And the Swiss Alps get the first snow around the end of September or the first 2 weeks of October.

Best Time To Travel To Switzerland In Winter

Switzerland in winter is amazing. It’s the perfect winter wonderland ; even nonskiers can enjoy its beauty.

You can go skiing and snowboarding in one of the best ski resorts in the world. As a nonskier , you can benefit from many activities such as winter hiking, mountain excursions, spedding, panoramic train rides, or enjoying a spa.

The winter temperatures in Switzerland range between 0°C/32°F and -10°C/14°F . Switzerland is usually covered in snow in December, except in the northern part, where it starts snowing later towards the end of December.

January and February are the coldest months in Switzerland.

Is December A Good Time To Visit Switzerland?

Yes , December is a great time to visit Switzerland. It usually starts snowing, so you can enjoy the winter wonderland with beautiful snowy views and go skiing and snowboarding.

In the first 2 weeks of December , hotels and activities are slightly cheaper than the rest of the winter season.

👉 READ ALSO: Grindelwald In Winter: Complete Guide For Your Visit

Monthly Guide For Visiting Switzerland: Weather In Switzerland, Places To Visit & Things To Do

Now, let’s jump into the details. Below, I’ll give you an overview of what each month in Switzerland looks like , the best places to visit, and which activities you should do.

Note that every season is slightly different . I experienced snow in Grindelwald in September, but it might not happen next year.

So, all these numbers and temperatures are approximate to give you an idea of how Switzerland feels each month.

Switzerland In January

January is the coldest month in Switzerland . Most of the places are covered in snow. It’s the best time to go skiing and snowboarding and enjoy the Swiss winter wonderland .

January is a great time to visit the country as you can enjoy fewer crowds and prices are slightly lower in some places.

The average temperature in January in Switzerland is around 0°C/32°F up to -11°C/12°F . The northern part is warmer, while the Swiss Alps can experience temperatures up to -11°C/12°F.

❄ BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN JANUARY IN SWITZERLAND : Zermatt, Grindelwald, Lucerne, Davos.

❄ BEST THINGS TO DO IN JANUARY IN SWITZERLAND : skiing, snowboarding, mountain excursions, winter hikes, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, visiting chocolate museums, and cruising on Swiss Lakes (only some lakes).

SWITZERLAND IN JANUARY OVERVIEW:

Switzerland in february.

February is similar to January in terms of the weather and temperatures . It’s the coldest month in Switzerland , along with January. Temperatures range between -1°C/30°F and -11°C/12°F .

The only difference between January and February is that February is more crowded , and prices can be slightly higher. It’s winter school holidays for many people, and so many families with kids set off to the mountains for skiing.

❄ BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN FEBRUARY IN SWITZERLAND : Zermatt, Grindelwald, Lucerne, and Davos.

❄ BEST THINGS TO DO IN FEBRUARY IN SWITZERLAND : skiing, snowboarding, mountain excursions, winter hikes, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, visiting chocolate museums, and cruising on Swiss Lakes (only some lakes).

SWITZERLAND IN FEBRUARY OVERVIEW:

👉 READ ALSO: Is Switzerland Expensive? Ultimate Guide To Budget Your Trip

Switzerland In March

In March, it gets warmer , and snow starts melting in some parts. I remember skiing in March in Switzerland when the mountain peaks were not fully covered in snow anymore.

Yet, you can still ski and snowboard . But the conditions , especially for free riders , are slightly worse than in January and February.

Average temperatures in March are between -2°C/28°F and 4°C/39°F in Switzerland. The northern part with cities gets warmer, around 4°C/39°F , and snow melts. The Swiss Alps still have snow.

If you were to hop on a panoramic train , it might not be 100% winter wonderland anymore as the snow starts to melt, so it might be grey and gloomy.

The winter season is fully in operation , and you can still enjoy all winter activities.

❄ BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN MARCH IN SWITZERLAND : Zermatt, Grindelwald, Lucerne, Lugano.

❄ BEST THINGS TO DO IN MARCH IN SWITZERLAND : skiing, snowboarding, mountain excursions, winter hikes, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, visiting chocolate museums, and cruising on Swiss Lakes (only some lakes).

SWITZERLAND IN MARCH OVERVIEW:

Switzerland in april.

April is the shoulder season in Switzerland , and many businesses close to prepare for the summer season at the end of the month.

Some cable cars and trains are in maintenance , so check the status of your activity and place if you plan to visit Switzerland in April if they’re operating.

Temperatures in April range between 6°C/43°F to 13°C/55°F.

Depending on the season, you can still go skiing and snowboarding in the Swiss Alps at the beginning of April ( first 2 weeks ). Mainly in Mt. Titlis, Jungfrau region, and Zermatt, the snow is more and less guaranteed.

But it’s not for free rides , and the snow melts significantly in the mountain towns, so you might have to take a cable car back to town instead of skiing down the slopes.

April is less crowded , and prices are significantly lower . It’s due to the shoulder season and many things being closed.

🔆 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN APRIL IN SWITZERLAND : Zermatt, Grindelwald, Lucerne, Zurich, Lugano, Rhine Falls.

🔆 BEST THINGS TO DO IN APRIL IN SWITZERLAND : skiing, snowboarding, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, and visiting museums.

SWITZERLAND IN APRIL OVERVIEW:

Switzerland in may.

In May, when winter is gone in Switzerland, the summer starts knocking on the door . At the beginning of May ( first 2 weeks ), it’s still shoulder season , so many things might be closed or in maintanance, prepareing for the summer.

Temperatures in Switzerland in May range between 10°C/50°F and 16°C/61°F .

So it’s better to visit Switzerland in the last two weeks of May (if you can choose). It’s when the grass turns lush green, the glacier and snow from the mountain melt, locals bring cows to the meadows, and everything is super beautiful .

May is generally one of the cheapest months with fewer crowds , and you can enjoy most things.

🔆 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN MAY IN SWITZERLAND : Lucerne, Zurich, Lugano, Bern, Rhine Falls, Grindelwald, Geneva, Montreux, Scuol.

🔆 BEST THINGS TO DO IN MAY IN SWITZERLAND : mountain excursions, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, visiting chocolate museums, cruising on Swiss lakes, and hiking.

SWITZERLAND IN MAY OVERVIEW:

👉 READ ALSO: Does Switzerland Use The Euro? All You Need To Know

Switzerland In June

June is overall the best month of the year to visit Switzerland .

The landscape colors are the most beautiful , and Switzerland brings you everything that you picture it to be: lush green meadows with flowers and mowing cows, mountain peaks covered in snow, rivers full of water, and crystal clear lakes.

Everything is open again after the shoulder season. Yet, there are still fewer crowds, and the hotels are slightly cheaper than during the peak summertime.

In June, temperatures in Switzerland range around 16°C/61°F to 24°C/75°F.

🌄 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN JUNE IN SWITZERLAND : Entire Switzerland

🌄 BEST THINGS TO DO IN JUNE IN SWITZERLAND : everything from mountain excursions , hiking, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, visiting museums, cruising on Swiss Lakes, and visiting Swiss cities.

SWITZERLAND IN JUNE OVERVIEW:

Switzerland in july.

July is the hottest and the most crowded month in Switzerland. Many people come for a vacation, whether they want to enjoy Swiss lakes, mountain excursions, beautiful cities, or go hiking in nature.

It’s overall a great time to visit if you don’t mind crowds.

Temperatures in July in Switzerland range between 20°C/68°F and 28°C/82°F .

🌄 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN JULY IN SWITZERLAND : Entire Switzerland

🌄 BEST THINGS TO DO IN JULY IN SWITZERLAND : everything from mountain excursions, hiking, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, visiting chocolate museums, cruising Swiss Lakes museums, and visiting Swiss cities.

SWITZERLAND IN JULY OVERVIEW:

Switzerland in august.

August is a similar month to July . It gets slightly less crowded towards the end of August. But it’s pretty much the same. It’s another hot month in Switzerland ; you can enjoy everything it offers and its full beauty.

Temperatures in August range around 20°C/68°F up to 29°C/84°F .

🌄 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN AUGUST IN SWITZERLAND : Entire Switzerland

🌄 BEST THINGS TO DO IN AUGUST IN SWITZERLAND : everything from mountain excursions, hiking, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, visiting chocolate museums, cruising Swiss Lakes museums, and visiting Swiss cities.

SWITZERLAND IN AUGUST OVERVIEW:

👉 READ ALSO: How Many Days In Switzerland Is Enough? Revealed!

Switzerland In September

September is the second best month to visit Switzerland (right after June). It’s the time of the year when it gets less crowded , and prices for some activities get lower at the end of the month.

The autumn colors start to shine throughout the Swiss landscape, and it is another beautiful time of the year. Everything is still open , so you can get the most out of your time in Switzerland.

It’s specifically amazing for panoramic train rides, hiking , and mountain excursions.

It might snow a bit in the Swiss Alps in September, but it depends on the season. I experienced it when it snowed in Grindelwald and the mountains on the 17th of September. But again, it depends on the season .

Temperatures in September in Switzerland range between 15°C/59°F and 6°C/43°F.

⚜ BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN SEPTEMBER IN SWITZERLAND : Entire Switzerland

⚜ BEST THINGS TO DO IN SEPTEMBER IN SWITZERLAND : everything from mountain excursions, hiking, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, visiting chocolate museums, cruising Swiss Lakes museums, day trips from Interlaken , and visiting Swiss cities.

SWITZERLAND IN SEPTEMBER OVERVIEW:

👉 READ ALSO: Is Swiss Travel Pass Worth It? All You Need To Know

Switzerland In October

October is a beautiful month to visit Switzerland . It’s when summer is gone, and many people are busy working, so it’s much less crowded . Prices are significantly lower .

Most things are still open in October, and the autumn landscape colors are beautiful.

Temperatures in October range between 10°C/50°F and 3°C/37°F.

I loved spending October in Switzerland . When the crowds were gone , I went up to the mountains, and while it was slightly more chilly, I enjoyed hiking and walking around.

It’s a special time of the year and one of the best to visit.

⚜ BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN OCTOBER IN SWITZERLAND : Entire Switzerland

⚜ BEST THINGS TO DO IN OCTOBER IN SWITZERLAND : everything from mountain excursions, hiking, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, visiting chocolate museums, cruising Swiss Lakes museums, and visiting Swiss cities.

SWITZERLAND IN OCTOBER OVERVIEW:

Switzerland in november.

November is a less popular time to visit Switzerland. While I always say that if you only have a chance to visit Switzerland in November, it shouldn’t put you off. But if you can choose, I recommend to avoid visiting the country at this time of the year .

The weather in November is usually gloomy , and the trees lose leaves , so the landscape is less pretty than in October. Temperatures range between 5°C/41°F and 0°C/32°F.

November is also the shoulder season ( similar to April ), when businesses close and prepare for the winter season. Also, many cable cars and trains are in maintenance .

So check the status of your activity and place before visiting and whether it’s open .

It usually starts snowing at the end of November in Switzerland, especially in the Swiss Alps.

You can already enjoy skiing in some resorts, such as Zermatt, Saas-Fee, Diavolezza, Glacier 3000, and Mt. Titlis.

⚜ BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN NOVEMBER IN SWITZERLAND : Zermatt, Grindelwald, Lugano, Diavolezza, Mt. Titlis, Lucerne, Geneva.

⚜ BEST THINGS TO DO IN NOVEMBER IN SWITZERLAND : visit Swiss cities and museums, eat Fondue, visit chocolate museums, cruise on Swiss Lakes (only some lakes), some mountain excursions, skiing and snowboarding in some resorts.

SWITZERLAND IN NOVEMBER OVERVIEW:

👉 READ ALSO: Switzerland In November – if you’re visiting, see what you can do to get the most of your time

Switzerland In December

December is another great month to visit Switzerland and one of the most magical times . Everything is back in operation after the break, and you can go skiing in all the ski resorts.

It starts snowing in the entire of Switzerland . You can enjoy Christmas markets with a special atmosphere in the Swiss cities or the beautiful mountain towns and their winter wonderland.

December is a great month to visit; even if you’re a nonskier , you can enjoy many activities like panoramic train rides, winter hikes, or adventure activities.

The first two weeks of December are less crowded, and prices are still lower before they skyrocket for the festive season.

Temperatures in December in Switzerland range between 2°C/35°F and -10°C/14°F .

❄ BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN DECEMBER IN SWITZERLAND : Zermatt, Grindelwald, Davos, Mt. Titlis, Lucerne, Geneva, Jungfraujoch .

❄ BEST THINGS TO DO IN DECEMBER IN SWITZERLAND : skiing and snowboarding, visiting Swiss cities for Christmas markets, museums, eating Fondue, cruising on Swiss Lakes (only some lakes), mountain excursions, and winter hiking.

SWITZERLAND IN DECEMBER OVERVIEW

👉 READ ALSO: 11 Cheapest Ways To Travel Switzerland On A Budget

I’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions for you. Check my answers below:

What Is The Best Month To Go To Switzerland?

June is the best month to go to Switzerland. It has mild temperatures, fewer crowds, slightly lower prices, and beautiful landscapes.

What Is The Cheapest Month To Visit Switzerland?

The cheapest month to visit Switzerland is November . It’s shoulder season, so many businesses are closed or are in maintenance, yet some are still open, so you can enjoy activities for less.

The weather is mostly gloomy , and while it’s not the best time to visit the country, it’s certainly the cheapest.

Which Month Is The Most Beautiful In Switzerland?

June is the most beautiful month in Switzerland. The landscape colors are the most beautiful, with melting glaciers, rivers full of water, lakes crystal clear, and meadows lush green with flowers, and everything is so lively and beautiful.

What Is The Rainy Season In Switzerland?

The rainy season in Switzerland is from May until the beginning of November . It usually rains the most in May and October .

The summer months (July and August) also get a lot of rain with thunderstorms , especially in the mountain towns.

WRAP-UP: Best Time To Visit Switzerland

This is how Switzerland feels each month of the year. While some months are better for your visit than others, Switzerland is just beautiful all year round . So check the weather forecast and the status of activities in the region you want to visit, and I’m sure you’ll have a great time all year round.

If you have any questions or need a customized travel itinerary , contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll gladly help you.

Happy Swiss Travels!

More Tips For Switzerland Travel

Looking to get more tips for Switzerland? Check out my related articles:

Best Of Switzerland Itinerary: 8 Days By Train

3 Days In Switzerland: 11 Itineraries For All Travelers & Seasons

22 Amazing Day Trips From Interlaken

23 Incredible Things To Do In Jungfrau Region

Is Jungfraujoch Worth It? Ultimate Guide

5 Best Panoramic Trains In Switzerland

8 Best Mountains In Switzerland To Visit

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Swiss Travel Pass: Unlimites Travel In Switzerland

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About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

SWITZERLAND : Interested in more articles for Switzerland? Check out my Switzerland Travel Page .

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Switzerland in September: Weather and Travel Tips

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• ~ mins read

If you hate crowded vacation spots and wish to save money on your trip, you might want to head for Switzerland in September. This month signals the start of fall and is part of a low tourist season in the country. With not many visitors around, the ‘playground of Europe’ is all yours to enjoy. Barring occasional rain showers, the weather conditions of Switzerland in September are mostly favorable for outdoor activities such as hiking in Gstaad and mountaineering in Valais.

Switzerland Weather in September

Temperatures across Switzerland start dropping in September. Still, the weather is pleasant in most parts of the country. Low-lying areas in the country have mild to warm weather, particularly during the first few weeks of September. In cities like Zurich, Geneva and Lugano, the daytime average temperature is 20°C. High-altitude areas, on the other hand, are colder. In the mountain resort town of Zermatt, the average temperature is 4°C.

For a seasonal overview, check out our article on the best time to visit Switzerland .

Weather in Switzerland in September - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit switzerland in september.

From photogenic weather to fewer crowds, there are many things to love and enjoy about Switzerland in September. We have listed some of them below.

• Streets are quieter: If you are visiting Switzerland in September, expect the streets to be somewhat quiet and subdued. This is the start of the low season, so there will not be many tourists around. Sparse tourist numbers offer you the opportunity to enjoy the country’s attractions in a quiet environment. Here are our city sightseeing tours in Switzerland .
• Pleasant weather: The temperature in Switzerland is just right between September and October. Summer is over and winter has not quite set in yet. So enjoy the fine weather on the cusp of winter as you explore highlights. If you plan to go hiking, you will find the trails uncrowded and the weather pleasant.
• Lower rates: When you travel to Switzerland in September, most hotels will be cheaper since it is part of a low season. There is also a possibility that you will come across great off-season deals at some of Switzerland's top attractions. Check out our best deals for a Switzerland tour .
• Photogenic hiking trails: While September may not be the best time to hike in Switzerland, it still offers plenty of opportunities to do so. And when you do, you will be rewarded by trails that look more photogenic than ever. Gorgeous fall shades dominate the landscapes as though they had jumped out from a fairy tale.
• Vineyard visits: September is the perfect month to visit Swiss vineyards as autumn hues make them more beautiful. It is that time of year when grapes are ripe and ready for harvest. Switzerland is home to several vineyards and the most popular of these is the Lavaux Vineyard Terraces.

Where to Go and What to Do

One of the best things to do in Switzerland in September is to explore the picturesque Matterhorn, more popularly known as the ‘Toblerone Mountain’. In fact, the ideal time to climb this iconic mountain is during autumn, from June to September.

The country is also famous for its scenic train rides and there is no better time to do this than during the autumn season. The spellbinding Alpine scenery looks even more enthralling in September as leaves change their hues. Take the Zermatt to Saint Moritz route for a memorable train journey.

September is also a great time to explore Zurich . Stroll through its streets and visit museums like the Swiss National Museum and Kunsthaus Zürich. You can also spend some time in the city’s old town or take a tour of historical sites like the 17th-century Rathaus. Alternatively, you might also want to go on a short hike to the city's surrounding hills and enjoy al fresco dining at some of its top restaurants.

September is a great time to travel to Switzerland on budget and in style. There are not too many tourists in the country during this time, so the prices are lower and you will get to discover local attractions without any distraction. The weather is also right during this time — not too warm and not too cold either. Have a look at our Switzerland budget tours .

Click here to plan a customized tour of Switzerland in September with the help of our local travel specialists. Here are our tours to Switzerland in September .

Related articles: Switzerland in August Switzerland in October

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45 great things to do in Switzerland this September

Don't miss these events, pop-ups, shows and exhibitions happening across the country this month

From art exhibitions to comedy shows, the Knie Circus to LGBT night clubs, street food fairs and yoga workshops, there's stacks of great stuff to do in Switzerland during September

1.  Bruno Weber Skulpturenpark • Spreitenbach

2.  Flon Plage • Lausanne

• 3 out of 5 stars
• Bars and pubs
• Recommended

3.  The Bird's Eye Jazz Club • Basel

• Altstadt Grossbasel (central Grossbasel)

4.  La Parenthèse • Nyon

• Folk, country and blues

5.  Museum of Communication • Bern

6.  Daniel H • Zurich

• 4 out of 5 stars
• price 2 of 4

7.  Chillon Castle

8.  Monte San Salvatore • Lugano

9.  Swiss Museum of Transport • Luzern

• Würzenbach/Schädrüti

10.  Rolli's Steakhouse • Zurich

• Restaurants
• Argentinian

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Rachel En Route

SWITZERLAND IN SEPTEMBER: A QUICK ITINERARY

Switzerland was never a top priority on my list of countries to explore in Europe. Luckily, my travel partner at the time, was dead set on seeing the Swiss Alps. Now, I couldn’t imagine my trip without frolicking atop the luscious hillsides, climbing above the clouds, and gazing at the most stunning landscapes.

With less than a week to discover everything Switzerland had to offer, I knew I would be missing out on some of the magic, no matter how many destinations I hit. With that being said, I was satisfied with the villages, and cities, I did visit. Each had something different to offer, and every stop we took was just as breathtaking as the next.

The first stop on the journey, and a home base during my stay in Switzerland, was Interlaken. Interlaken gets it’s name from the two large lakes {thun and breinz} that surround it. Interlaken is home to many young travelers, and offers a plethora of outdoor activities {think parasailing, hiking, and canyoning}.

It is also very central and close to surrounding villages like Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, Wengen and Murren. You can read more about the things to do in Interlaken here .

Lauterbrunnen

Oh, Lauterbrunnen . If you don’t already know of my love for this charming village, you can catch up here . Lauterbrunnen quickly stole my heart and became my favorite of the locations I visited in Switzerland. With over 70 waterfalls, traditional Swiss cottages, and grazing brown cattle on every hillside, you truly feel as though you stepped into a Swiss dream.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald sounded like a wizard in Harry Potter… which obviously, then, prompted me to visit. Although I only found muggles in this small village, the scenery itself was enough to leave me speechless. The snow bunny inside me suddenly came to life thinking about how Grindelwald must perform during the winter months. Grindelwald is a popular ski resort, offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Switzerland. Since I visited during autumn, I was left without these options.

Nonetheless, I had a great time wandering and shared a delicious lunch outdoors with the most ‘you-would-think-it-was-photoshopped’ backdrop. I must say, there is something to be said for witnessing this country in the warmer months. Find out more about Grindelwald in winter here .

Our final destination in Switzerland was the one and only Zurich. We only had an afternoon to spend in Zurich, which we spent walking along the river and admiring the beautiful city. Switzerland was much more expensive than I had anticipated, which {as a budget traveler} left a bit of a sour taste in my mouth by the time we reached Zurich. I had also realized by this time, that I had not yet tasted the fondue that Switzerland was famous for. A post on my experience trying traditional fondue will be up shortly!

Old Town Zurich was {unsurprisingly} charming. And very, very clean. I attempted to spend a few Swiss Franc in the downtown area, but after finding the prices to be three times the American counterpart, I simply had to refuse.

Overall, my time in Switzerland was magical. It may have been the most expensive country I visited in Europe, but to be fair it put on quite a show. I was blessed with beautiful blue skies, gorgeous backdrops, and fell asleep to dreams of returning in winter.

Over to you, have you been to Switzerland? When is the ideal time to visit?

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Autumn in Switzerland – Ultimate Guide to the Golden Season

When the days start to get shorter, and temperatures drop, autumn in Switzerland surely can’t be very far off.

If you were to ask 99 Swiss about their favorite season in Switzerland, you would realize that autumn ranks behind spring and summer on the popularity scale. But if you ask this author, what's more magical than hiking through golden pines on a sunny autumn day?

Autumn hides Switzerland’s true gold.

When Indian summer takes hold in the Engadine, when the vineyards of Lavaux turn golden, and the apple harvest is in full swing, I love to go outdoors as much as possible before that first snowfall. This is the time when it pays to go for extended walks in the forest, visit little towns on a Saturday morning, or stop by a winery for an apéro.

Autumn in Switzerland is a time of abundance on so many levels: from agriculture to culinary and from nature to customs. Here is our ultimate guide to autumn in Switzerland - the golden season.

When is autumn in Switzerland?

The official dates and months for autumn are:

• Official dates for Switzerland autumn: September 21 to December 20
• Official months for Switzerland autumn: September, October, November

And when is the best time to visit Switzerland in autumn?

September marks the entry of autumn, yet there are still 12 to 13 hours of daylight. In the flatlands, temperatures in September can reach nearly 20 degrees Celsius on nice days. In the mountains, you will find ideal temperatures for hiking, averaging 11 to 12 degrees Celsius.

By the end of October, daylight hours in Switzerland have decreased to 10 hours and temperatures turn noticeably chilly. The temperature in places like Zürich or Bern averages 10 degrees Celsius, but Ticino offers warmer days at 12 to 16 degrees Celsius.

On the last Sunday in October, daylight savings time ends. The later in November you visit, the further south you will need to venture to find comfortable temperatures.

But frankly speaking, November is not an opportune time to visit Switzerland. The weather is unpredictable, there may be weeks of heavy fog, and all the fun events and customs are over.

A piece of advice for autumn seekers: wear layers of clothing. While days may be warm and sundrenched, temperatures tend to drop by sunset. Before you know it, you will be freezing unless you packed a down jacket...

Where to see the fall foliage in Switzerland?

Switzerland has four major trees displaying fall foliage: beech, birch, larch, and maple. The best places to see fall foliage in Switzerland are:

Consult the fall foilage tracker by Switzerland Tourism for up-to-date information. Here is a map showing the above places for seeing fall foliage in Switzerland:

The fall season in Switzerland brings about many traditional festivals. Here are 11 of the best:

Alpine descent of sheep in leukerbad.

You may have seen that iconic photograph of sheep negotiating a narrow zig-zag path in Switzerland… This ritual happens once a year in September when the farmers of Leuk bring down their sheep from the alpine meadows.

To witness the descent of the sheep, which takes place on a Sunday, make Leukerbad your vantage point. Some 800 sheep are gathered at Gemmi a day before the main event. The day after, on Sunday, the flock makes their way down the steep rock face to Leukerbad - a 1700-meter descent. An alternative sheep descent is Schäful at Belalp.

Chästeilet cheese festival on Mäglisalp

After producing cheese all summer, the local farmers will gather at Mäglisalp for the Chästeilet - a “cheese sharing” event. Each local dairyman and woman stakeholder will receive their fair share of the summer’s cheese during this must-see ritual. Luckily, onlookers can get a share, too - in exchange for Swiss francs.

Farmer horse races in Schwarzenburg

The annual farmer horse races are so popular that the audience will show up in drones regardless of the weather. The stars of the day are working horses that would normally pull carriages or help with logging. On race day, various horse breeds await various challenges: harness races, costumed races, and even a Roman chariot event.

Raclette Festival in Le Châble

It would not be the Valais without a festival dedicated to raclette. For one weekend every September, the village of Le Châble hosts the ultimate cheese-lover event: Bagnes Capitale de la Raclette.

What all the raclette variations on the menu have in common is that they feature melted cheese. Once a poor man’s food, this festival is special in featuring various local cheese varieties. And if you time your visit just right, stop by an open wine cellar to wash down all that cheese...

The Best Autumn Road Trips in Switzerland (2024)

Chestnut festival in bregaglia.

The authentic Bregaglia Valley in the southern part of Grisons is home to the largest chestnut grove in Europe. The sweet chestnut dates back to Roman times and is the staple food in this rugged region.

Every autumn, the valley dedicates an entire month to its favorite fruit. During the Chestnut Festival , there are several guided tours, tasting events, and even concerts. Taking the one-hour round-trip hike from Castasegna is a good way to acquaint yourself with this scenic valley.

Alpine cheese market and cow races in Flumserberg

Trust me when I say an entertaining autumn tradition is the cow races at Flumserberg! (I have tried riding a cow there myself…) Since cows are stubborn by nature, fun is guaranteed as the riders try to maneuver their bovine partners across the finish line at Alp Tannenboden…

During this day-long event starting at 10 AM, there is also an alpine cheese market where local dairy farmers hawk their summer’s production.

Cow beauty contests in the Appenzell region

While cattle shows are omnipresent in Switzerland, the Appenzell region is known for the most decorative ones. At the beginning of October, once their cows have returned from the alpine meadows, several places hold cattle shows, such as Appenzell (the town) or Heiden.

These events showcase local culture more than they are showcasing the cows. People of all ages wearing their traditional outfits will congregate to socialize and yodel.

Autumn and Cowbell Fair in Romainmôtier

In mid-October, those interested in bells meet in the town of Romainmôtier, Vaud. The autumn and cowbell fair is an attraction for bell collectors and foodies. While some producers are hawking bells of all sizes, others serve delicious regional specialties.

Olma Fair in St. Gallen

Calling the Olma Fair a farmer’s market would be doing a huge disservice. Switzerland’s largest agricultural fair has grown to be a folk festival that attracts visitors from afar. While the focus of Olma remains to be agricultural equipment, cattle shows, and food, there is also a popular fairground, a parade, and even pig races.

Apple Cider Festival at the Hallwyl Castle

The moated Hallwyl Castle in Seengen is a destination in its own right. But during the golden days of fall, the romantic castle is home to the Apple Cider Festival. There are demonstrations of the traditional apple cider techniques. Those who want to try their hand at pressing their own juice may give it a try. And finally, various booths are selling autumnal products and regional produce.

Pumpkin exhibit at Jucker Farm

Visiting Jucker Farm has become an autumn tradition for many families, friends, and couples living near Zurich. Two locations offer a wide range of activities: a maze through an apple orchard, petting zoos with farm animals, and a pumpkin exhibit.

The pumpkin exhibit is the highlight for many, as Jucker Farm interprets a different yearly theme with hundreds of pumpkins. In 2020, the theme was “Under the Sea,” so there were pumpkins depicting dolphins and seahorses...

Jucker Farm in Seegräben Pumpkin Exhibit (Ultimate Guide)

Dimitri Burkhard

As the founder, editor, and community manager of Newly Swissed, Dimitri owns the strategic vision. He is passionate about storytelling and is a member of Swiss Travel Communicators. Dimitri loves discovering new trends and covers architecture, design, start-ups and tourism.

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The Best Time to Visit Switzerland

Weather in Switzerland

Crowds in switzerland, tourist attraction availability, key holidays, festivals, and events.

Dominated by the Alps and dotted with large, clear, and clean lakes, the visually stunning country of Switzerland has plenty to offer year-round. It's an outdoor playground in all seasons, and its cities range from exciting and modern to historic and charming to a little bit of both. Becuase Swiss cities don't draw the same number of tourists as other popular European cities they're unlikely to feel overcrowded.

The best time to visit Switzerland depends on what you want to see and do. If you want to enjoy winter sports in the Swiss Alps, January and February are the best months to visit. Those same mountains are a hiker’s paradise in summer, and Switzerland's many lakes are at their warmest in July and August. If you want to avoid the crowds, autumn and spring are traditionally the country’s shoulder seasons, so you might find more affordable accommodation and fewer crowds.

Broadly speaking, Switzerland enjoys a moderate climate, with low humidity and four seasons. However, the mountainous terrain of the country means the weather can change quickly, especially as you ascend to higher altitudes. In summer, temperatures hover around 65 to 82 degrees F (18 to 28 degrees C) but it can get much hotter at lower elevations. Summer is the rainiest season in Switzerland, but it's rare to find a day without at least a few hours of sunshine.

Winters are cold and snowy (though snow is not guaranteed), especially at low altitudes. There's always a high chance of finding a winter wonderland in higher-altitude areas like Zermatt and Saas-Fee, especially during the months of January and February. However, some of the country’s ski resorts will boost their base layer at the start of the season with snow cannons. Winter temperatures generally range between 28 to 45 degrees F (-2 to 7 degrees C), but it gets much colder as you venture higher into the mountains.

Spring and autumn see mostly dry weather and cool temperatures, usually between 46 to 59 degrees F (8 to 15 degrees C). These are the best months to beat the crowds and are also excellent seasons for hiking and other outdoor pursuits. However, both spring and fall are too cold for lake swimming and too warm for snowfall and skiing.

Switzerland is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world, meaning that its ski slopes, hiking trails, and city centers can get pretty crowded in the peak summer months (June to August). Summer tends to bring in plenty of hikers, bikers, and tourists who want to explore the lakes and walking trails of the country. It helps to make reservations well in advance, especially for popular attractions like the scenic Jungfrau Railway .

In the winter, especially around the Christmas holidays, Alpine towns and resorts fill up with skiers and those who just want to enjoy the snowy landscapes. If you want a winter visit to a popular ski village like Verbier, Zermatt, St. Moritz , or Davos, book your stay way in advance.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds, the shoulder seasons of spring and fall are your best bet, as you’ll enjoy mild weather, cheaper flights, and greater accommodation availability. Just keep in mind that some hotels and restaurants, particularly family-owned ones, may shut down for a few weeks twice a year. They’ll take some time to switch gears from summer to winter (or vice-versa) and frequently close their doors for a much-needed break in November and April or May. 

Most visitors to Switzerland plan their vacation dates around the activities they want to enjoy. In the warmer months (May to September), Switzerland’s sunshine and mild climate are ideal for al-fresco dining, boating on Lake Geneva or Lake Constance, and outdoor sports. Of course, the big draw of the summertime is hiking through Switzerland ’s incredible Alpine regions, such as the Bernese Oberland, Appenzell, and Engadine. 

In the winter, many of these same areas become winter wonderlands, attracting not only skiers, snowboarders, ice climbers, and families who want to play in the snow.

Weather is the biggest determining factor for some activities and attractions. Outdoor dining and pop-up bars appear in the summer months but are rarer when it's cold outside. Tour boats on Swiss lakes still run in the winter, but far less frequently.

There are lots of great events in Switzerland that occur throughout the year, so you might want to time your visit to coincide with one or more of them:

• Art Basel : One of the world’s most prestigious international art fairs, a visit to Art Basel is an incredible way to see art, new and old, and to rub shoulders with famous artists and celebrities. 
• Christmas Markets : From November through December, many Swiss towns and cities host outdoor Christmas markets with plenty of merriment, food, and entertainment. Sample Swiss delicacies, enjoy the twinkle of the holiday lights, ice skate, visit Samichlaus (or Saint-Nicolas in French-speaking Switzerland), and shop for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. 
• Ski World Cup Wengen : Winter sports fans shouldn’t miss the international Lauberhorn ski races, held in mid-January. The courses are some of the toughest slaloms in the world and are a delight for spectators. 
• Lucerne Festival : Held on the shores of Lake Lucerne, the Lucerne Festival is a delight for classical music fans, attracting some of the most talented classical musicians from around the world. 

After the Christmas and New Year’s rush thins out, usually by Jan. 6, this can be a slightly quieter month in Switzerland, especially away from the ski resorts. You'll still find plenty of fun on the slopes or you can spend some time ice skating. If you’re feeling the chill, pop into one of the country’s cozy fondue chalets to sample one of the world’s best winter comfort foods—fresh bread dipped in melted cheese. 

Temperatures in January are reliably cold, averaging between 25 and 37 degrees F (-4 and 3 degrees C)— and dropping the higher into the mountains you climb. Lower elevations may see more rain than snow, depending on annual weather patterns. Cold temperatures translate to great indoor events, including an annual roster of engaging art museum exhibits around the country.

February temperatures are about the same, or often colder, as in January. This is also the driest month of the year, making it a great period for skiing and winter sports. Be sure to reserve early for a hotel room in the ski areas, and expect a long line for the cable cars up to the pistes.

For other indoor activities, you might want to visit some of the country’s amazing museums, like the Swiss National Museum in Zurich or The Olympic Museum in Lausanne.

March might be the start of spring, but the weather can still be unpredictable. It’s not uncommon to get warm, sunny days, followed by snow. Most ski resorts will still be fully operational in March. Cities may have a bit of gray pall over them, it is typically overcast in much of the country during this month, with temperatures hovering between about 36 and 50 degrees F (2 and 10 degrees C).

If you’re lucky enough to catch a warm spring day, do as the Swiss do and get out and enjoy it — maybe by way of a lakeside walk. 

As the country glides into spring, the beautiful wildflowers and blooms brighten up the country after a long winter. April in Switzerland is a glorious time for getting outside and enjoying lake tours, outdoor dining, and mountain hikes. But it's not time to pack your summer wardrobe just yet, as temperatures rarely creep above 55 degrees F (13 degrees C) in most of the country this month.

With the weather getting warmer and the snow melted away, May is the traditional start of the summer tourism season. It can be a beautiful time to visit and enjoy the outdoors before peak season gets underway. Keep in mind that though temperatures can reach into the 70s F, weather is still unpredictable. Pack layers, and don't expect to do any lake swimming—unless you're in the mood for a very chilly dip. While May tends to be rainy, you’re still likely to get plenty of sunshine. 

June brings temperatures well into the 70s F, making for a wonderfully pleasant time outside. Plenty of people have the same idea, but thanks to Switzerland's abundance of wide-open spaces, it's possible to have plenty of room to yourself, especially if an Alpine hike is calling your name. Lakes start to warm up ever so slightly and are inviting for a bracing swim, kayaking, or a lake tour aboard a tourist boat. If you'd prefer to stay on land, there are also options for a lakeside bike ride or walk.

June is the rainiest month in Switzerland, but there are still plenty to hours of sunshine, especially in the southern Ticino canton . Just be sure to pack an umbrella and expect a daily thunderstorm.

July is the start of the high season, as summer vacations bring plenty of people to the country. Temperatures can get into the 80s F, so July is great for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Many lakes offer outdoor pools, with public facilities for swimming and changing. You'll find a wide range of temperatures between day and night, as daytime temps can top 80 degrees F and evening temps can dip below 50 degrees F (10 degrees C), especially at higher elevations.

To avoid missing out, book your accommodation and excursions well in advance. 

August weather is fairly similar to that of July, as are the crowds. There’s always a chance of a summer thunderstorm, but you’ll still have plenty of hot and sunny days to enjoy. This is peak time for hiking and lake activities—be sure not to leave the country without hitting a trail or taking a dip in one of Switzerland's pristine lakes.

Swiss National Day is held on Aug. 1 each year in celebration of the founding of the Swiss Confederation. Throughout the country, expect fireworks and festivities similar to the 4th of July in the U.S.

Moving into September, temperatures start to drop a little, especially in the evenings. Temperatures top out in the 70s F and can drop to the 50s F at night. There are still plenty of warm days for outdoor activities and fewer crowds, which is why we consider September a top month for a visit to Switzerland.

If you're in a rural area, especially the villages of the Appenzell canton, you may catch a delightful tradition. During the "Alpine descent," cattle farmers bring their herds down from their summer grazing grounds. The cows are decorated with flower garlands and bells, and the noisy, colorful procession is a celebrated sight as it passes through town. This is also a good time to look for wine festivals, especially in the Vaud region around Lake Geneva.

Although the weather becomes noticeably cooler in October, it’s also one of the driest months of the year, so Swiss residents and visitors take advantage and do some autumn hiking before the snowfall arrives. The clear days can be ideal for taking the gondola up to see the Matterhorn, Switzerland's most famous peak. Daytime highs may reach into the 60s F, with nighttime temperatures dipping into the 40s F. 

Look for gastronomic festivals this month; there are events celebrating truffles, chestnuts, cheese, and other delicacies.

November definitely feels like winter, with cold temperatures and a high possibility of snowfall. Temperatures seldom top 50 degrees F (10 degrees C) and may dip below freezing, especially at night. Snow conditions permitting, some ski resorts will open towards the end of the month. In cities, cold temperatures mean you might want to plan plenty of indoor activities, like visiting art galleries, shopping, or attending a show—the Zurich Opera season is in full swing. Christmas markets open up toward the end of the month as the festive period kicks in.

December in Switzerland is cold with snow or rain coming, depending on the temperature which can be single-digit freezing or stretch into the low 40s F. Despite the cold and often grey conditions, December is one of the most festive months of the year. Cities and towns are decorated with Christmas trees and twinkling lights, and traditional Christmas markets pop up throughout the country. The dreamy, snow-covered chalets are also popular for Swiss and international families who want to celebrate a white Christmas, so book your accommodations months in advance. As elsewhere, New Year's Eve is a big celebration here.

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Best Time To Visit Switzerland (Weather & Seasons)

Figuring out the best time to visit Switzerland depends on what you want to see and do while you are here.

Switzerland experiences a huge range of weather during the different seasons of the year, ranging from scorching hot in the height of summer to freezing cold in winter. I have experienced it all during my 20+ years of living here.

So, the weather will undoubtedly make a massive difference to your stay and the things you can do while you’re there. Hiking and mountain excursions are great from May to October but impossible in winter. Skiing is awesome in January, but the weather is in the cities does not allow for el fresco dining!

Join me as I run through everything you need to know to decide when the best time to visit Switzerland is for you.

Table of Contents

Spring (April to June) – Shoulder Season

Spring is a delightful time to visit Switzerland as the temperatures are moderate and the flowers are in bloom.

Known as shoulder season, this is also when Switzerland is not yet overrun with tourists and popular places are a little more peaceful.

Between April and June, the countryside is lush, snow on the peaks, and you will see all the wildflowers in bloom. I love heading to places like Maderanertal, where the variety of Alpine flowers is mind-blowing, as is the road to get there.

During spring, hiking trails at lower elevations might be open, the mountains will be free of skiers, and hotels and flights are more affordable too.

If you are brave, it might just be warm enough to swim in some lakes and enjoy watersports. I don’t do it personally, but some of my friends swim for nine months of the year. So anything is possible!

Temperature

Temperatures range on average from 59°F in April to 68°F in May and up to 70°F in June. It is not cold by any means, but if you prefer warmer weather, June will be your favorite month to visit Switzerland in spring.

April and May can be a bit wet in my experience. Although global warming changes all the seasons, so, this is not something I can 100% predict anymore.

June will have sunny skies and less rainfall, making it the best month to visit before summer starts

Reasons to Visit

• More affordable flights and accommodation
• Fewer tourists around
• Wildflowers in bloom
• Hiking trails open up
• Ideal weather
• Snow-capped peaks
• Lush countryside
• Ideal for a countryside train experience

Travel Tips

• Pack warm and cold clothes
• Pack so you can stay dry if needed
• Always have sunscreen and a hat with you
• Go to the mountains as it is the most affordable time
• It is the perfect time for scenic train rides

Summer (July to August) – High Season

Summer in Switzerland is the busiest time of year to travel.

This time of the year coincides with the school holidays in July and August, making it a popular time to visit. Popular tourist destinations are crawling with people, and you will also experience the warmest and sunniest weather.

Of course, having sun every day is not guaranteed in an Alpine country like Switzerland. However, it is sunnier fare more often than not. The lakes warm up for swimming and watersports, making high-altitude hiking trails accessible.

Most of the fun music festivals take place in summer, too. Famous ones like the Montreux Jazz Festival, the Zurich Street Parade and Swiss National Day do too.

It is a fun time to be in Switzerland as everywhere is alive. Particularly this year, I found the cities and towns in Switzerland to be thriving. Every restaurant and terrace was full of sun lovers having lunch or a coffee.

So, it is a lot busier, and prices can be as high as 50% more for flights and accommodation.

Mountain resorts also become particularly busy during this time—especially places like Interlaken, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, and Zermatt.

Average temperatures range from 75 °F in July to 73 °F in August, the weather does just stay consistently hot over the high season months of July and August.

You will generally be blessed with sunny days and blue skies through July and August in the lower altitude areas of Switzerland, such as around Lake Geneva. Higher altitudes may experience more cloud cover and the odd rain shower.

• Guaranteed warm weather
• Access to high-altitude hiking trails
• Ideal for water sports and mountain sports
• Switzerland is alive with people
• A lot of fun festivals to go to
• Great for lakeside chilling
• Book flights & accommodation well in advance as they are very busy during this time of year
• Pack for hot weather plus a few items for warmth and to keep you dry
• Do not forget swimwear, sunscreen, hats, or sunglasses

Autumn (September to October) – Shoulder Season

Fall is a magical time of year to visit Switzerland. And it is another shoulder season, meaning prices are cheaper too.

During September, the weather is still warm , there are fewer crowds , the prices of flights and accommodation are lower , and it is much more peaceful.

It is still warm enough to swim in the lakes and access high mountain trails, and you also get to see the beautiful autumn colors coming out around the mountains. The alpine scenery is at its best and it is a lovely time to go on an alpine train ride like the Glacier Express.

October is an extraordinary time of year in the South as the Larch trees turn yellow, making for unique scenery and stunning photos. I was in Zermatt during this period last year and it was jaw-droppingly beautiful.

This is also the time of year when the grapes are being harvested and you can experience Switzerland’s many wine festivals

Average temperatures are about 68 °F in September and drop dramatically to 57 °F in October. This makes September a better time to visit for warmer activities, but it is in October that you see the autumn colors come to life.

Generally, the weather in high and lower altitudes is warm and dry during September, but it is starting to turn a bit colder at higher altitudes by the end of the month.

October in low altitudes is lovely, but high altitudes will start to get snow, passes and trails may be blocked, and cable cars will close for maintenance for a few weeks

• Good weather
• Autumn colors
• Spaces on experiences like the Glacier Express
• Great hiking access
• It is still warm for water sports & adventure sports
• Pack for warm/cold/wet/dry weather
• Get up into the mountains to see the Autumn colors
• Book last minute and you might get a deal

Winter (November to March) – High & Low Season

Winter season is high-season in Switzerland for the ski resorts and low-season for the rest of Switzerland.

The snowfall begins at higher altitude resorts in November and hits all resorts by about mid-December and runs through to late March. Christmas is the busiest time for winter sports enthusiasts, as people come to ski and have a white Christmas and see the Christmas markets.

February is also known as “Sport holiday” to the locals, as all the school children have a week or two off. As such, prices are also higher in the mountains during most of February.

Prices in Winter in the ski areas skyrocket, while in lower altitudes, you will find low season rates. It is a great time to experience Switzerland for a bargain as you can visit cities like Geneva and Zurich, pop into Christmas markets for some festive cheer, and hop up into the mountains for a hike in the snow.

If you want to go skiing, I recommend either January or March because by then there is enough snow, but you skip the two busiest months of the winter.

The average temperature during this time in Switzerland varies from 36 °F to 45 °F, close to freezing. It is, of course, a lot colder at higher altitudes.

Snow, rain, wind, sunshine, and cold are everything you might experience in winter.

• Awesome for winter sports
• The snow-covered Alps are stunning.
• Christmas markets
• More affordable flights & accommodation (not in ski areas)
• Winter hikes are beautiful
• Waterproof boots are a must
• Warmth is all about layering
• Sunscreen and sunglasses are a must
• Christmas markets are worth a visit
• Zermatt and the Valais region are stunning

Best Month to Visit Switzerland

The best month to visit Switzerland, in my personal opinion, is in September. It is quieter and more affordable, the weather is excellent, and all the high-altitude hiking trails are still open. It is also warm enough to enjoy all the water sports around the lower-altitude lakes.

June also offers the same benefits as September, but you might get to see some autumn colors in September, which is why September is best in my eyes.

On top of that, in June, not all of the hikes are open yet, as it takes some months for all the snow to melt!

Cheapest Month to Visit Switzerland

There is not one single cheapest month for visiting Switzerland, there are 3. November, March, and April are the most affordable times to visit Switzerland.

This is when the weather isn’t so great at high or low altitudes, making the demand low and the prices too.

Best Time to Visit the Alps

If you are looking to do snow sports, then you have to go during the ski season. The best snow is usually between December and the end of March, but if you want quiet slopes, choose the second week of March or the first 2 weeks of January.

If you want to hike around the Alps in June and September, either side of the peak season is your best bet. You will miss the summer crowds but still have good weather and access to high-altitude trails.

Best Time to Visit for Honeymoon

The best time to visit for a honeymoon depends entirely on what you would like to do on your honeymoon, there are many reasons to visit Switzerland after all.

If you want snow and skiing, the first week of March is your best bet. For fabulous weather and outdoor activities, May, June, and September are great, plus the romantic Autumn colors of October are also lovely.

Best Time to Visit for Hiking

May and June, as well as September and early October, are the best times to be visiting Switzerland for hiking. The higher altitude trails will begin to open. May & June has beautiful wildflowers, while September & October has stunning autumn colors and more higher trails are open.

If you want to do high-altitude hiking outside the high season, late June and early September will give you the best access.

How Many Days in Switzerland Is Enough?

How many days is enough to spend in Switzerland? The answer to this comes down to what you would like to do again. For a dash of city life and some mountains, 5 days is ideal – 2 in the cities and 3 in the mountains.

So, When Is the Best Time to Visit Switzerland?

The best time to visit Switzerland is a very personal choice as it depends on what you would like to experience.

The best time to ski is the first week of March in my eyes, as the snow is still good and the slopes are quieter.

For a warmer experience with outdoor activities, June and September are hard to beat. The weather is excellent, prices are lower, there are fewer crowds, and the countryside is still looking stunning.

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Switzerland In Autumn: All You Need To Know

Traveling to Switzerland in the autumn? Then you’re certainly in the right place because this guide has all the information you need!

Autumn in Switzerland is absolutely beautiful, and we’ll tell you everything you need to know to prepare for the trip. What’s the weather like, what you should pack, and which sights you shouldn’t miss are all covered in this detailed guide, so keep reading to get all the info you need to prepare for your trip to Switzerland!

Weather/Climate

Weather in Switzerland is unpredictable year-round, especially in autumn. September is the warmest Autumn month, with the average highs in the 20s (Celsius) and lows in the 10s in most places throughout the country.

October is much colder though, with average highs in the 10s and lows in single digits. In high-altitude villages like St. Moritz, you can expect the temperature to drop below zero in the evenings even in October.

Another thing to note is that there’s a 23% chance of rain every single day in Switzerland in autumn. It can be anything from a light drizzle that you barely even feel, to a heavy downpour that will soak you if you don’t have an umbrella.

Also, there’s a chance of wet snow in the mountains even in September and October, so you will need some sturdy boots if you plan on doing any mountain hikes while you are in Switzerland.

It’s important to mention that the weather can vary drastically from one region to another. The mountainous regions tend to be colder, with the lakeside towns usually featuring a milder and warmer climate.

If you’re hoping for warm weather, the best time to visit is late September to mid-October, when average temperatures during the day are in the low to mid-20s (Celsius).

What to Wear

Layer up! The weather in Switzerland is unpredictable, so dressing in layers is the smartest thing to do in the autumn season. Put on a t-shirt, then a lightweight sweater or a fleece hoodie, and top it off with a waterproof and windproof jacket.

For bottoms, pack plenty of jeans, pants, and joggers. It’s not a bad idea to also pack some shorts or Bermuda shorts, especially if you’re going to be in Switzerland in September. However, keep in mind that October and November are pretty cold throughout the country, so it’s unlikely you’ll be able to wear the shorts if you’re traveling through the country during those months.

Another smart thing to pack in your suitcase is a warm, insulated jacket, especially if you’re going to be exploring the places high up in the mountains. It’s not uncommon for there to be snow on mountain tops in autumn, and temperatures can drop below zero in October in high-altitude towns and villages.

As for shoes, comfortable sneakers are the best option for long walks in the cities, but you’ll want a sturdy pair of boots if you plan on hiking through the country. If you are going to be exploring mountains and high-altitude villages, waterproof, non-slip boots are the way to go, considering that you could encounter some snow even in October.

Best Things to Do & See

You know what the weather’s going to be like, what to wear, and now it’s time to go over the top things to do in Switzerland in the autumn season!

Food & Wine

Among the many things that Switzerland is known for around the world, food and wine are at the top of the list. Swiss chocolates and cheeses are some of the best in the world, and trying them while you’re in the country is a must.

If you’re staying in one of the bigger cities, you can book all sorts of food tours that will allow you to taste the best Switzerland has to offer. Zurich in particular has a lot of these, with chocolate tours of the city, as well as fondue cruises that let you sample some of the country’s best cheeses along with a glass of the best Swiss wine.

Tour the most famous Swiss vineyards to get a sense of where the delicious wines come from, and if you’re really into cheese, plan a trip to the medieval town of Gruyeres . The famous Gruyeres cheese originates from that tiny town, and it’s the best place in the country to indulge in copious amounts of Alpine cheese.

Go on a Hike

Autumn in Switzerland can be extraordinarily beautiful, and going on a hike to admire some beautiful fall foliage is one of the best ways to spend your time in this beautiful country.

Switzerland is pretty much heaven on Earth for avid hikes, with more than 9,500 hiking trails throughout the country. It doesn’t matter if you’re staying near Lake Geneva or in a village in the Swiss Alps – there’s always going to be at least a dozen hiking trails to explore nearby.

Climb the mountains, walk across Alpine pastures, go for a swim in an Alpine lake if you dare, or climb to a hill to admire a panoramic scenic vista – hiking in Switzerland is a rite of passage and the perfect thing to do when you’re spending autumn in Switzerland.

It’s worth noting that mid-October is the ideal time for most hikes in Switzerland . The weather is usually warm enough that you can hike comfortably for hours, trail conditions are still pretty good, and there are not a lot of other hikers on the trail.

Take a Train Ride

One of the best things to do in Switzerland any time of the year is to go on a train ride. Train travel is the fastest and most convenient way of traveling between the major Swiss cities, but there are also some incredibly scenic train routes that you can take just for the fun of it.

The Bernina Express is one of the best train routes in Switzerland , offering mesmerizing views of lakes, mountains, and glaciers. Another popular train route is Eigergletscher – Jungfraujoch, which takes you to the Top of Europe on the highest railway station on the continent!

There are countless other train rides that offer breathtaking panoramic views, and if you get the Swiss Rail Pass , you’ll be able to explore as many as you want! Look into the travel pass if you plan on traveling in Switzerland for a while. It includes free train travel, public transport in cities, and museum tickets, so it’s excellent value for money.

Admire the Views

Autumn is one of the prettiest seasons in Switzerland, mostly because of the beautiful fall foliage that makes everything orange and red. Whether you’re running around Zurich or attempting to climb Matterhorn, just remember to stop for a moment or two and take in the beautiful views.

If you’re a sucker for a pretty view, then you’ll love your time in Switzerland. You can have dinner at the tallest buildings in Zurich, stand on the banks of Lake Geneva, or just ride the mountain cable cars to experience some of the best views Switzerland has to offer.

Indulge in a Relaxing Thermal Spa

Switzerland might not be world-famous for its renowned thermal spas, but it does have quite a few of them throughout the country. One of the best things to do during the colder autumn months is to just relax in a warm thermal spa, especially if you’ve spent the day walking around in chilly weather.

Just like Germany, Switzerland has its own Baden which happens to be one of the top spa resort towns in the country. It’s the country’s oldest destination with thermal baths, as well as one of the oldest places of this kind in entire Europe. The entire town is a spa and wellness center, so it’s a great place if you want your travels through Switzerland to be a bit more hedonistic.

Thermal spas are also common in most of the bigger cities in Switzerland, namely Zurich, Bern, and Luzern. Rigi is another popular town for wellness and spa, and there’s plenty of them in the luxury resort town of St. Moritz as well.

Get on a Boat

You can go on sightseeing tours, romantic dinner cruises, and even travel from one town to another by boat. Also, it’s possible to just rent kayaks and ride around on your own, which might just be the best thing to do for adventurers and thrill-seekers.

Another thing worth noting is that the bigger lakes in Switzerland will also offer all sorts of water sports. This is usually more popular during the summer holidays, but some places that are in the warmer areas stay open in the off-season.

This includes stuff like stand-up paddling , water skiing, windsurfing, tandem rafting, and pretty much any other fun water sport you can think of.

Have Some Fun at Oktoberfest

October is an exciting month for beer drinkers in most bigger European cities. Although the traditional Oktoberfest is held in Munich, Germany, there’s a version of Oktoberfest in most bigger cities in Europe.

The Swiss Oktoberfest is traditionally held in Zurich, on an artificial island in Limmat River. It lasts for about a month, from early October until early November, and it’s a great festival for anyone who enjoys drinking beer.

There’s live music, Bavarian food, copious amounts of beer, and the traditional beer festival atmosphere that Oktoberfests throughout Europe are known for.

Visit a City

You’ve decided to visit Switzerland, but have you made up your mind which Swiss cities you’re going to see? It’s hard to choose since all of them are beautiful, and each offers something unique to its visitors.

Bern is the capital city, Zurich is the place that everyone assumes is the capital, Geneva is the it-location for luxury travel and rich people, and Luzern has that old-world charm with its medieval architecture.

The good news is that traveling between the Swiss cities is super easy, so you can visit them all if you have the time and resources. The bad news is that it’s very expensive and you will need a big budget for train tickets and accommodation.

One thing to note is that there’s no need to create a rigid travel itinerary for Switzerland . There aren’t that many tourists during the fall season, so even if you don’t buy tickets in advance and book rooms, you shouldn’t have any issue finding a place to stay.

Relax by a Lake

There are around 1,500 lakes in Switzerland , and it would be a shame not to see at least one of them. If you’re visiting any major cities in the country, then you’re already getting a glimpse at some of the best and largest lakes the country is known for.

But even the smaller lakes are spectacular, and there’s something really special about those Alpine lakes that are surrounded by gorgeous alpine meadows. If you’re visiting Switzerland in late September or early October, it might still be possible to swim in the lake.

Jumping in an Alpine lake is not the best idea since there’s pretty cold even during the summer holidays, but Murtensee and Lake Lauerz tend to stay warm enough for a refreshing swim throughout September and October.

Witness a Cow Parade

How many people do you know who can say that they’ve seen and participated in a cow parade? The beginning of autumn in Switzerland is marked by a cow parade, and it’s the perfect event to experience while you’re traveling through the country.

This is an age-old tradition in Switzerland, and it takes place in many Alpine regions throughout the country. There’s a cow parade somewhere pretty much every day of early October, so if you’re staying in the country then, just check where’s the nearest cow parade to you.

It’s worth noting that this event is also known as the alpine descent, and it’s not strictly limited to cows. Farmers will showcase various cattle during this event, so you might also see goats and sheep. Also, it’s not just about the animals – there’s a lot of yodeling, traditional music, and cheese tastings during these events!

About the Author Anna Timbrook

Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.

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• Switzerland Weather in September 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers

The beginning of September in Switzerland is warm like summer, and the end is mild like fall. The highest ski resorts get more snow. The weather is good for comfortable tours and hikes.

Read on for our weather information and travel advice including average temperatures and rainfall, places to go, and travel tips…

Content Preview

• 1. Weather Overview
• 2. Best Places to Visit
• 3. Crowds and Costs
• 4. What to Wear

Switzerland Weather in September: Overview

• Temperature range: 11–20°C (51–68°F)
• Total rain/snow: 10 cm (4 inches)
• Days with rain/snow: 10
• Humidity: 76%
• Sunshine hours/day: 5 hours

September Climate Comparison (Averages) for Switzerland's Top Tourism Areas

Swiss weather is usually warm during the day at the low elevations where the biggest cities are at the beginning of September, then the weather turns mild. There are approximately 5 hours of sunshine and 12½ hours of daylight for enjoying outdoor activities and touring.

Lower altitude: The big cities such as Geneva, Lausanne, and Zürich are below about 500 meters (1,600 feet), and in them you can expect daily highs averaging 20°C (68°F), and you will feel warm when the sun shines. The average nightly lows are approximately 11°C (52°F).

Higher altitude: Above 1,600 meters (5,200 feet) where the ski resort towns and villages such as Zermatt are, the average daily highs are 15°C (60°F), and the lows are 5°C (41°F). Temperatures decrease the higher the elevation. There are occasional thunderstorms and moderate rainfall.

The Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in September

September in Switzerland has the benefits of moderate tourism plus warm weather, especially at the beginning of the month. There is great natural beauty in warm or hot weather for outdoor activities. You could enjoy the urban areas, and some travelers might venture to the ski resorts.

If you are thinking of touring Switzerland and other places in Europe, or even if you want to have a world tour, consider Global Highlights. Our customized trips are highly-rated on Trust Pilot . Let us know your touring goals, and we'll make the best of the local weather and tourism resources. Contact us to begin a tour inquiry .

1. Zürich — See the Historical Sites at the Beginning of Fall

Zürich is Switzerland's largest city and main travel hub with the main international airport and train hub, and it is famed for cultural attractions and natural scenery such as Lake Zürich. September has moderate tourism and a combination of often warm weather and low prices and crowds.

High school summer holidays end at the start of September in Europe, and students return to school. So, you could enjoy activities with less crowding, such as swimming in Lake Zürich where the water temperature often reaches 20°C (68°F) and is suitable for swimming with a wet suit.

There are an average of about 5 hours of sunshine and an average of 10 days of moderate rain. When it rains, shopping, touring the Old City, and seeing the Swiss National Museum are options. When the weather is good, you could walk up the closest mountain, Uetliberg, with fewer other hikers in September.

For more things to do, see visiting Switzerland in March .

2. Basel — Relax and Enjoy a Low Key, Historic, Less Touristy City

If you want to get away from tourist crowds and into warmer weather in a Swiss city, then Basel is an option about an hour northwest of Zürich by train and car. It is out of the way since it is in northwestern Switzerland at the junction of France, Germany, and Switzerland.

Basel is a low-altitude city at the elevation of 256 meters (840 feet), and this makes the temperature warmer and nicer with average daily highs of 21°C (69°F). The humidity is 77%. There is an average of 5½ hours of sunshine and low rainfall.

Basel has a scenic Rhine River setting, and you could walk along it and walk to museums such as Switzerland's largest art museum called Kunstmuseum Basel. There are several other notable art museums. It is known as the Swiss cultural capital.

3. Zermatt — Hike in Spectacular Fall Scenery and Enjoy Mild Weather

Zermatt is a ski resort and tourist town at the base of the Matterhorn, and in September along with mild weather, there is a display of fall foliage on the mountains. Zermatt is at an elevation of 1,600 meters (5,200 feet), and the average daily highs are 15°C (60°F).

It can get cold at night since the average lows are 5°C (41°F). There is low rainfall in September and occasional thunderstorms and about 5 hours of sunshine. The best time to see fall colors is from mid-September to mid-October when the landscape is even more stunning with reddish and golden hues.

The quickest way to get a panoramic view of the autumn scenery is ride the cable car to the highest station in Europe on the Matterhorn at 3,883 meters (12,740). You could also hike the hut-to-hut hiking trails such as the Haute Route. The huts provide shelter.

4. First — Enjoy Fall Scenery from a Summit Area above Interlaken

A valley above Interlaken, Lütschental Valley, is famed for its autumn colors, and it's an excellent place for some higher-altitude hiking. Since the public transportation in the two valleys above Interlaken is excellent, the whole area could also be great for your family tour.

The best time to see fall foliage is from mid-September to mid-October. The beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow create a stunning landscape that is perfect for hiking and photography. By early September, the crowds have thinned out, and the weather is still mild enough to enjoy outdoor activities.

First has an elevation of 2,168 meters (7,113 feet). There is a cable car station there for convenient scenic sightseeing, and you could hike or bike there too. Grindelwald could be your base for excursions in the area, and its average daily highs in September are 13°C (55°F).

• For information about Grindelwald, see visiting Switzerland in July .
• For information about Interlaken and travel there, see visiting Switzerland in March .
• For information about the adjacent Lauterbrunnen Valley, see visiting Switzerland in June .

Crowds and Costs for Traveling in September

Switzerland is a beautiful country to visit in autumn. The changing colors of the leaves create stunning landscapes that you won't want to miss. There are smaller crowds and moderate prices during moderate tourism season. Warm or mild weather, breathtaking scenery, and unique cultural activities make Switzerland worthy of your itinerary.

In the low elevations, the weather is pleasant and good for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, or sightseeing. The stunning foliage highlights Switzerland's incredible natural beauty with vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow and it creates breathtaking landscapes.

The harvest season begins as well. You might enjoy tasting the fresh grape produce and other crops and watching the herds coming down from high pastures. Some high-altitude mountain huts and facilities may close for the season as early as mid-September.

There are no public holidays providing a day off of work in most of Switzerland's cantons in September. Each canton has its own holidays and observances.

National observance in September:

Federal Fast Day  is an annual observance on the third Sunday of September in all the cantons except Geneva, but it is not a public holiday generally. Most businesses close however. It is a day of fasting and prayer for Switzerland that began in 1831. Some cantons have an additional fast day on Monday giving some people a 3-day holiday.

What to Wear in September

There is a big difference of daytime and nighttime temperatures, and the weather is unpredictable. You can be prepared for every circumstance by taking a coat, summer clothes, and rain gear. Dress in layers for comfort.

Take a coat for going to the high elevation areas such as Zermatt and Grindelwald, and bring swim wear for swimming, hot springs, and spas. You will need rain gear and waterproof backpacks in the high elevations.

Here is a packing list for a few essentials in Switzerland:

• Comfortable shoes with good traction
• Warm waterproof boots with good traction. You might wear them in-flight to travel lightly.
• Winter coat
• Summer clothes
• Cardigans or thermals
• Polarized glasses to reduce the glare
• Universal adapter

Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Switzerland

Previous month:  Switzerland in August

Next month:  Switzerland in October

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Best Time to Visit Switzerland Season by Season

Are you ready to plan your holiday but are wondering when is the best time to visit Switzerland?  We think any time is a good time to visit Switzerland, but this guide will dive deep into the factors to consider so you can choose the month that is best for you! 

Read on for the pros and cons to visiting Switzerland in the different seasons. We’ll tell you what you can – and can’t – experience during those months, so you can make an informed decision on the best time to travel to Switzerland – for you. 

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What's in this Article

How to Determine the Best Time of Year to Visit Switzerland

Of course there is no actual “best time” to go to Switzerland – what’s best for one person may not work for the another. Here are some questions to ask yourself when planning your Switzerland vacation:

• Do you need the cheapest flights?
• When can you get time off work?
• Is there a particular event you want to participate in?
• Do you want to hike? Ski? 
• Are certain attractions important to you that may be closed?

A couple of the Swiss panoramic trains (Glacier Express and Gotthard Panorama Express, for example) and some of the mountain cableways and funiculars cease running for certain periods so if you’re desperate to enjoy one of these rides, this should be a consideration.

Check Switzerland’s cable car and funicular closure dates for the upcoming winter . You can check the operating dates of the panoramic trains we mentioned in our guide to the Glacier Express and our article about the Gotthard Panorama Express .

Before we dive in and discuss the different times of year to visit Switzerland, let me clarify that the seasons in Switzerland – as in the rest of Europe – are determined by the Summer and Winter Solstices. 

Therefore, Summer starts on 21 June, the Summer Solstice – or longest day of the year – and finishes on 20 September.

For the purposes of this guide, I’ve used full months to discuss the pros and cons of visiting in each season, rather than the specific dates of each season. 

Spring in Switzerland

Official dates: 21 March to 20 June Months: March, April, May

Spring is an exciting time to visit Switzerland.

Because it’s the country’s true off-season, you can likely score good deals on flights and accommodation (which, considering the price of everything in Switzerland, could make or break your trip).

You also won’t end up fighting the crowds, which introverts might find particularly refreshing. 

That said, Switzerland weather in March can still feel quite wintery, with highs around 6 degrees Celsius and lots of rainfall. It could easily dip into freezing territory at night. 

Because of the cooler temperatures, but longer daylight hours (daylight savings starts on the last Sunday in March), this is actually a great month to get your skiing in.

The Alps are still snow-covered but there are fewer tourists. 

Still, if you visit right after Easter (which can fall at the end of March some years), you’ll find many cable cars are shut down until hiking season begins at the end of May.

So if you have your heart set on the trails or scenic mountain top views, keep that in mind. 

Switzerland in April, on the other hand, starts to warm up. It’s too warm to ski in most of the country, but like I mentioned above, some of the summer tourist attractions and hiking trails will be closed for another month. 

Flower lovers are in for a real treat in April as the Morges Tulip Festival takes place on Lake Geneva throughout the month.

What is the cheapest month to visit Switzerland? If you’re travelling on a budget you will find the best deals during April.

Just be sure to check attraction websites carefully and see what’s open when you’ll be there. And dress in layers! 

For slightly warmer and more predictable weather, the average Switzerland temperature in May hovers between 15 and 19 degrees Celsius.

The temperature is warm enough to melt the snow and for you to get a glimpse of the under-appreciated narcissus blooms. 

And if you love cheese as much as I do, you can visit Gruyeres on the first Sunday of May for their annual Cheese Festival. 

Summer in Switzerland

Official dates: 21 June to 20 September Months: June, July, August

The months of June through August are one of the two peak seasons in Switzerland. The weather is balmy, the hiking trails are open, and the lakes are ready for boaters and swimmers. 

As such, the prices for accommodation are high and all the popular locations will be packed with fellow tourists. 

Summer is high season for coach tours as well as independent travelers, so attractions like Jungfraujoch and Mt. Titlis will be heaving with visitors.

If you’d like to travel during the Swiss summer but would prefer to avoid huge crowds at the major sites, you’d be wise to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

Another option is to choose sites and attractions that are a bit more under the radar – think Mt. Niesen or Mt. Stockhorn, for example.

Weekends also tend to be particularly busy during summer as the Swiss head to the mountains to go hiking. June is when the peak hiking season begins, and all those cable cars that shut down after Easter are re-opened.

The trails shouldn’t be too muddy, and since the Switzerland temperature in June is generally warm, it should be a pleasant time to get views of the valleys. 

One of the major events that takes place in Switzerland during summer is the Montreux Jazz Festival which runs from late June to mid-July.

Switzerland weather in July on average gets up to 24 or 25 degrees during the daytime, making it perfect for swimming.

There are plenty of places to take a dip, but try Lake Sils or the Aare River if you need a recommendation. 

What is the warmest month in Switzerland? July and August will have the warmest weather. It’s not uncommon for temperatures in the lower lying areas to reach 30 degrees or more.  

It’s definitely worth booking a hotel or apartment with air-conditioning if you are visiting Switzerland in summer.  Even a day or two with temperatures above 30 degrees can make things very uncomfortable.

You can still enjoy a dip in Lake Lucerne, but one of the best reasons to visit Switzerland in August is Swiss National Day on 1 August, where you’ll find festivities all over the country complete with bonfires and fireworks. 

Other fun summer activities include biking around Lake Lucerne or going down the snow-less bobsled near Basel called SolarBob. 

Whichever way you look at it, you can’t go wrong visiting Switzerland in the summer, although you should be prepared to share your journey with thousands of other eager tourists.

Autumn / Fall in Switzerland

Official dates: 21 September to 20 December Months: September, October, November

Another excellent month to visit Switzerland to get the best deals, fewer fellow tourists, and most comfortable weather is September.

It’s the start of the shoulder season meaning prices get more reasonable and you won’t have to share attractions with as many people.

The weather is still reasonably warm, so you can still enjoy most summer activities (except swimming, perhaps). 

And while the days are getting shorter, they’re still long enough to feel like you can make the most of the precious time you get to spend in Switzerland! 

During September, the Alpine villages across Switzerland welcome the cows home as they descend from the mountains back to the valleys in what is known as Almabfahrt or Almabtrieb.

Villagers celebrate as the cows, wearing flower crowns, are welcomed home with fanfare and yodelling. This is one festival everyone should experience once in their lifetime.

In October you’ll get the benefit of seeing the leaves begin to change. While higher trails may get snow-covered (and you get fewer daylight hours), you’ll enjoy colourful fall foliage views which are hard to beat. 

Just keep in mind that cable cars and funiculars may begin to shut down in the later part of the month due to snow or for their annual maintenance ( check closure dates here ).

Weather in Switzerland in October becomes chilly, but not overly wet. You’ll need a jacket and won’t want to take a swim, but it’s not time to pull out the waterproof gear just yet. 

For those who enjoy wine, October is the best time of year to go to Switzerland. The Basel Wine Fair falls at the end of the month each year, but the whole month is grape-harvesting season. 

Daylight saving in Switzerland ends on the last Sunday in October.

Switzerland in November should probably be your last choice. Unfortunately, this is not a great month in Switzerland weather- and activity-wise.

The weather in Switzerland in November gets chilly and wet. This makes the summer activities unpleasant, but there’s not much skiing to do yet and it doesn’t quite feel like winter.

That said, if you’re someone who travels for museums or other indoor historical sites, November might be the cheapest time to fly to Switzerland, and you will get great deals on accommodation. 

And with entry to more than 500 museums included in the Swiss Travel Pass , you will definitely get great value if you’re using the pass to travel around.

🇨🇭 Read: Essential Information for Planning Your Trip to Switzerland in the Fall

Winter in Switzerland

Official dates: 21 December to 20 March Months: December, January, February

December through February are the official winter months in Switzerland when the snow starts falling and it’s prime time for skiing.

Prices in the mountains begin to skyrocket, and the lodges fill up fast, but if you want to visit Switzerland for winter sports, there’s no other time to go.

Personally, I think the best place to spend a winter holiday in Switzerland is the Jungfrau Region . 

Switzerland weather in December is officially cold, cloudy and wet, so plan to spend your time either on the slopes or indoors by a fire enjoying hearty food and warm drinks. 

Believe it or not, you can’t expect a white Christmas all over Switzerland. If you really want snow, make sure you’re high up in the Alps when booking your accommodation – and book well ahead .

The best time to visit Switzerland for snow is January or February.

That said, the Christmas markets in Switzerland are amazing and well worth a December visit, snow or not. 

See this year’s Switzerland Christmas market dates !

Why not ring in the New Year in Switzerland? Like anywhere, there are loads of celebrations to enjoy with the added benefit of going skiing.

But the cool thing about Switzerland is they don’t just celebrate the new year once – on 13 January the Swiss bring out the party once again and celebrate the beginning of the year according to the Gregorian calendar. 

Christmas markets aren’t the only events taking place in Switzerland during the winter months.

There are numerous major events held around the country including the Snow Polo World Cup at St. Moritz , the Lauberhorn Ski World Cup in Wengen and the International Hot Air Balloon Festival in Château-d’Oex.

Does it snow in Switzerland? Yes! The Switzerland snow season formally begins in January, where the weather hovers around 0 all month, rarely getting above 2 degrees.

That lasts through February, where it may get up to 2 degrees during the day, and you’ll get a little more sunshine, but still reliable skiing weather. 

If you’re not fussed about skiing and would like to enjoy warmer temperatures consider visiting the canton of Ticino or the Swiss Riviera (alongside Lake Geneva) as both enjoy milder climates than other parts of the country during winter.

Another thing to consider before you decide to travel to Switzerland in winter is how you will get around. 

If you are planning on joining an organised coach tour, there are less itineraries and departure dates to choose from during the winter months.

Rail services continue to operate as normal, though, and for those who prefer to drive, roads are regularly cleared of snow.

Visiting during Switzerland’s winter months also means less daylight hours to see the sights as well as the necessity of bringing sufficient warm and waterproof clothing which can be bulky, so keep these things in mind, too.

🇨🇭 Read more: Essential Information for Visiting Switzerland in Winter

Average Temperatures in Switzerland

Final Thoughts about the Best Time to Visit Switzerland

Regardless of the season you plan to visit Switzerland, you will find plenty of things to see and do.

For longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures, summer is a great time to visit. Just be aware that you won’t be alone – this is the busiest tourist season in Switzerland.

If you’d like to enjoy harvest and Alpine festivals and more moderate weather, it’s best to visit Switzerland in autumn, but for snow enthusiasts and those who’d like to experience a Swiss Christmas market, winter is the perfect time for your Swiss vacation.

Travelling in spring (particularly late spring) sees temperatures rising again and flowers blooming as the snow melts. This is a good time to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds but do keep in mind that some mountain railways may not open until mid to late May.

Armed with all this information, I hope you’ve determined the best time to visit Switzerland for you.

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Carolyn Schönafinger

Carolyn Schönafinger is a frequent visitor to Switzerland, the country she fell in love with more than 30 years ago. She now visits Switzerland every year in her quest to explore every inch of the country. Carolyn is a certified Switzerland Travel Expert and she has achieved the Swiss Travel System Travel Expert diploma. She loves sharing her Switzerland travel expertise and helping others to plan their dream Swiss vacation on this website and the Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast. Read more

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The 11 most incredible places to visit in Switzerland: be inspired

Nov 24, 2023 • 8 min read

Switzerland, it really is this stunningly beautiful © scaliger / Getty Images

Nowhere is perfect, but let’s face it,  Switzerland gets pretty darned close. 

The Alps ripple across 60% of the country, and the landscapes and towns look like they have been dreamed up by a particularly imaginative child. We’re talking glacier-capped peaks, crash-bang waterfalls, turreted castles of the fairy-tale kind and lakes in the most surreal shade of turquoise blue. Red trains curl up mountains to improbable heights and clanging cowbells ring out across hilly meadows that you can skip down with Heidi-like glee.

Even the culture-filled cities have magnificent backdrops of vineyards, lakes or rivers, and the mountains are never more than a whisper away. As natural beauty goes, Switzerland is off the charts. That makes it a joy to travel around , whether by train, bus or car. Here are the 11 best places to visit in Switzerland.

1. Jungfrau

Best for outdoor activities

The idyllic Jungfrau region is the icing on the Alpine cake of Switzerland’s  Bernese Oberland . Sky-high peaks, glaciers and thundering falls elicit gasps of wonder wherever you go. Grazing the 4,000m (13,123ft) mark are Switzerland’s "big three:" Eiger (Ogre), Mönch (Monk) and Jungfrau (Virgin), enshrined in mountaineering legend.

Take a once-in-a-lifetime ride up to the everlasting snow at Europe’s highest train station, 3,454m (11,332ft)  Jungfraujoch . Hike, ski, sled and zip-line among mountains of myth in  Grindelwald , enjoy waterfalls galore in  Lauterbrunnen  and tackle every kind of extreme sport imaginable in  Interlaken (skydiving, ice climbing, glacial bungee jumping – you name it). The Jungfrau region is the great outdoors on a blockbuster scale.

Planning tip:  Rush this region and you’ll regret it. Allow a week or more to dive in deep if you have the time. It's worth it. 

Best for stepping back in time

Bern often pops up in those I-can’t-believe-it’s-the-capital trivia questions, but frankly, Switzerland’s first city deserves more love. The cobbled, flag-bedecked medieval  Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage treat, with 6km (3.7 miles) of covered arcades, cellar shops and bars, fantastical folk figures topping 16th-century fountains and the eye-grabbing  Zytglogge . Framed by wooded hills and split in two by the turquoise Aare River, this red-roofed city looks good from pretty much every angle. It’s pure storybook stuff for kids, too, with its giant who snacks on children (the  Kindlifresserbrunnen ) and  resident bears .

Sights-wise, you’ll be drawn to big-hitters like the  Einstein-Haus  (where the genius and Nobel laureate developed his theory of relativity), the  Kunsthaus  (with its outstanding fine arts collection) and Renzo Piano’s wavy Zentrum Paul Klee (Bern’s answer to the Guggenheim).

In summer, the action’s on the water with swimming, tubing, rafting and paddleboarding along the Aare River.

3. Geneva and Lake Geneva

Best for a cosmopolitan city experience

In Switzerland’s western crook, crescent-shaped Lake Geneva  (Lac Léman to Francophones) is a joy to behold with its mountain backdrop, spirit-lifting views, vineyards and shoreline necklaced with handsome cities and castle-crowned towns.

Marked by its rainbow-kissed  Jet d’Eau fountain and Mont Blanc peeping up on the horizon, Geneva wraps around the lake’s southern shore. The worldly city makes an excellent launchpad for exploring with big-hitting museums and galleries to absorb, botanical gardens to stroll, lidos to swim at, Old Town cafes to hang out in and bright-yellow mouettes  ferrying locals across the water – surely one of the world’s most scenic commutes.

Planning tip: It’s a quick boat or train hop to  Lausanne , which can culturally give Geneva a run for its money, especially with its  Plateforme 10 arts district , the lovely terraced vineyards of the  Lavaux  wine region (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and flower-draped  Montreux , host to one of the world’s most famous jazz festivals, with the picture-perfect  Château de Chillon right on its doorstep.

Best for hiking, skiing and rock-climbing

No peak has more pulling power than the 4,478m (14,692ft) Matterhorn, a terrific, gnarled fang of rock that flings up above the seductive, timber chalet-filled Alpine resort of Zermatt . It's Switzerland’s mountain icon, so beloved by the nation that it inspired the pyramid shape of Toblerone chocolate.

Zermatt is more than a one-mountain wonder. Climbers have been rocking up here since the mid-19th-century, and it’s still a magnet for challenging summit ascents today. Otherwise, come to hike, ski and gaze over a sea of glaciers and 4,000m (13,123ft) peaks at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise . 

5. Swiss National Park 

Best for wildlife (and wildflowers) spotting

Switzerland has just one national park? Yes, we know it’s a shock, but trust us it’s a good one. Snuggled away in a remote corner of the country’s southeast on the border with Italy, the 172-sq-km (66-sq-mile)  Swiss National Park is the Alps in overdrive: a nature-gone-wild spectacle of high moors, forests, wildflower-freckled pastures, waterfalls, jewel-colored lakes and mountains as high as the sky, where ibex, chamois, marmots, deer and golden eagles roam and fly free.

Planning tip: Start off on the right foot with the inside scoop on walking trails and ranger-led guided hikes at the visitor center in Zernez.

6. Bellinzona

Best for piazza dining

With medieval castles rising high and the Alps rearing beyond, good-looking Bellinzona in Ticino is a taste of the best of Italy's best food and culture in Switzerland. You’ll find a generous splash of Italian flair in its historic center, woven with flower-draped alleys, Renaissance churches and cafe-rimmed piazzas that brim with life, laughter, clinking glasses and the out-of-tune toll of countless campaniles. 

Planning tip:  Top of any wish list is seeing the castles, among them hilltop Castelgrande , which can be drawn out into a full day’s activity (bring water and comfortable shoes). 

7. Jura Mountains and Lac de Neuchâtel 

Best for road tripping

In the dark forested hills along the French-Swiss border, the Jura Mountains are a natural wonder. This peaceful region has a beauty all its own: meadows of green, ancient forests, rocky outcrops overlooking a trio of lakes against an Alpine backdrop and slow-paced villages and valleys little changed in centuries. 

Begin with a road trip . Kick off at the Jura Vaudois Nature Park for hikes with dress-circle views of Lake Geneva and Gruyère cheese tastings at rustic Alpine huts. Swing north to Lac de Joux, the watchmaking village of Le Sentier, and Vallorbe, honeycombed with Switzerland’s biggest (and most impressive) limestone caves.

Tag on a trip to Lac de Neuchâtel and you can bathe in the thermal waters of Yverdon-les-Bains, tiptoe off the map in the lushly rolling Val-de-Travers (birthplace of absinthe) and the crescent-moon canyon of Creux du Van . Cultured Neuchâtel is a fitting climax with its fantasy of a lavishly turreted château.

8. Lake Lucerne

Best for sunset promenades

Reclining on the shores of its glittering namesake  lake ,  Lucerne  is a walkable, medieval dream of a city that has a magic you can’t quite put your finger on. It will grab you when you are strolling along the promenade as the sun sets in a blaze of gold and pinks or as you cruise across its waters to mountains of myth: 2,132m (6,995ft) Mt Pilatus, where Wagner raved about the Alpine panorama and Queen Victoria trotted on horseback, and 1,797m (5,896ft) Rigi, with a light so sublime Turner painted it in three different moods.

The little city punches far above its weight culturally with its iconic medieval Kapellbrücke  bridge leaping across the Reuss River and the Jean Nouvel–designed  KKL arts center and  Sammlung Rosengart  harboring a prized private collection of Picassos. Ambling past the belle époque hotels lining its shores, the same views that captivated Goethe, Queen Victoria and Wagner in the 19th century will hold you in their thrall.

Planning tip: With more time on your hands, you can really get out on the lake. Cruise across fjord-like, mountain-rimmed Lake Uri for a taste of Switzerland’s geographical and spiritual heartland. Boats ply the glassy turquoise waters to  Rütli , birthplace of the Swiss nation.

9. Appenzell and northeastern Switzerland

Best for a bucolic Swiss experience

Northeastern Switzerland might not have the in-your-face drama of higher realms of the Alps, but it nevertheless delights in its own serene, deeply rural way with dairy country unraveling to meet the mountains and half-timbered, gaily muralled towns all fit for a postcard. This pocket-sized region is perfect for a family vacation with a hit of culture and gentle adventure.

Begin in St Gallen, with a spin round its World Heritage  Stiftsbibliothek (Abbey Library), a literary marvel and a feast of rococo art and architecture. Move on to folksy, ridiculously pretty Appenzell, popping into the  Schaukäserei to sample regional cheeses.

Muscling further south into the Alps, head on up to Säntis at 2,501m (8,205ft) for views embracing six countries and then go to  Werdenberg , a tiny speck of a medieval hamlet home to Switzerland’s oldest timber chalets.

Planning Tip: Close by is  Vaduz ,  Liechtenstein ’s princely, castle-topped capital on the banks of the Rhine.

Best under-the-radar city experience

Popularity-wise, poor old  Basel barely gets a look. But that’s a mistake. Straddling the Rhine, this city has everything going for it: world-class art in some of the country’s best galleries, a hot food scene, avant-garde buildings bearing the hallmark of Pritzker Prize–winning architects and an upbeat cafe culture.

Allow several days for a satisfying romp of the center, where must-sees include the  Kunstmuseum and its fine arts collection, the Renzo Piano-designed  Fondation Beyeler and the Frank Gehry-designed  Vitra Design Museum .

Planning tip: Basel endears itself most to those who look beyond the trophy sights, with sundown drinks by the river or a wild swim in the Rhine. Rent a Wickelfisch (a fish-shaped waterproof bag) at the tourist office, strip to your swimming suit and go with the flow, floating downstream past the city’s landmarks.

Best place to live

Regularly landing at the top in quality-of-living surveys, urban dynamo Zürich never seems to miss a beat: from cool waterside bars on the banks of the Limmat River to its alley-woven Old Town, where the twin-spired Romanesque Grossmünster shines with Augusto Giacometti’s rainbow of stained glass. Le Corbusier’s boldly colored architectural creations and the edgily post-industrial Züri-West neighborhood notch Zürich's culture cred up even further.

Planning tip: In mid-August, Zürich throws one of Switzerland’s wildest parties: the techno-pumping Street Parade. 

This article was first published Sep 20, 2021 and updated Nov 24, 2023.

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Simple Luxe Living

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Switzerland In September 2023: Things To Do, Weather & Temperature

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure this fall?

If so, then we suggest you visit Switzerland, the land of chocolate, watches, and cheeses.

This country has so much to offer in September.

Switzerland is full of beauty, so be sure to visit the lakes, mountains, and cities that are divine in this period.

Unspoiled nature is at every turn, be sure that it will inspire you wherever you go.

Whether you want to enjoy the diverse architecture, or you want to hike long peaceful trails, this destination is the right choice for you.

Although there are only a few months left until autumn, start slowly to prepare in advance for your trip to Switzerland.

Book your tickets and find accommodation in time, and we will do our best to show you all the important things to see this fall in one of the most beautiful countries in Europe.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Traveling to Switzerland in September

The long warm summer has gone into oblivion, and autumn has begun and put on its most beautiful colors, from gold to copper, everything looks magical in Switzerland.

Vivid landscapes and amazing sights are everywhere, you just have to come and experience them.

The first signs of autumn bring a new climate, so in September the weather is pleasant, use it wisely when you come here.

Temperatures vary with altitude, so lower cities will experience mild to warm weather this month.

In this period, the average temperature in Bern, Geneva, and Zurich is around 19 °C, which is slightly lower than in July and August.

The Alps are around 7°C, which is not much different from the early summer average.

Visit Switzerland in September, because it is the beginning of the low season, there will be fewer other tourists, the hiking trails are uncrowded, and the accommodation will be affordable.

Think about this!

Besides, numerous manifestations are held in this period when it is the time of harvest for vineyards and fruit trees.

Celebrations can be seen everywhere, both in cities and in villages, so there is a lot of joy and merriment.

Switzerland in September offers something for everyone, and it’s up to you what you do first when you come to this beautiful country.

This is a great time to visit this country because you have the opportunity to enjoy many things, starting from cheeses and wines, through music and to the culture and traditions of this place.

A common fall ritual in Switzerland is cheese sharing, in which the cheese is handed to farmers and is manufactured in the mountains in the summer from cow’s milk.

This is held every year in various cities across the country.

Fine cheese complements good wine, so if you pass through Vale, this country’s wine area, you may take a walk through the vines or savor superb wine, both of which are highly recommended.

Autumn in Switzerland provides tourists with a wealth of choices.

For those who are looking for adventure, there are quiet winding paths, climbing them you have the opportunity to enjoy the wonderful view of the surroundings.

The mesmerizing Alpine beauty becomes even more captivating in September as the leaves change colors.

You will have a unique experience if you take the train from Zermatt to Saint Moritz.

One of Switzerland’s more famous cities, Zurich is great for exploring at this time of year.

Here you can see museums, galleries, and various cathedrals.

Geneva is also a great option for visiting the lake which is beautiful in September, but also other cultural attractions and facilities.

In addition to these destinations, don’t miss Switzerland’s capital, Bern, which is home to the famous Zytglogge clock tower.

Beautiful cities with medieval ambiance are worth every attention.

Also visit one of the natural wonders, the glaciers in the Alps, which are unique and especially attract climbers and mountaineers to see them.

Swiss lakes adorn this country not only with their appearance but also with their function.

Many come here to take a break from everyday life and enjoy the beautiful scenery and nature.

Put it on your priority list of must-sees.

We recommend you visit lake Lucerne, Thun, and Lugano.

Here you can walk along beautiful paths or take a boat ride on the lake.

Someone will like fantastic castles, and someone will like beautiful nature, whatever you choose, you will have a great time this fall, be sure of that.

Visit Geneva in September because Jeune Genevois and Thanksgiving day

The national holiday called June Genevois, which means the Geneva fast, is held in the canton of Geneva.

During this fast, it is customary for the local population to eat prune cake.

Fasting was practiced in Swiss cantons as early as the 15th century.

Sabor, a cantonal parliament that functioned until 1848, established days of penance and gratitude.

Each canton had to decide how these positions would be organized.

The first fast began in Geneva in October 1567 after the repression of the Protestants from Lyon.

Fasting has been considered a moral and religious act since 1640 and became an annual ritual at the initiative of the reformed cantons.

It was seen as humility and solidarity with the lowest members of society.

Once upon a time, this cake was the only meal of the day, and today it is served as a delicacy.

Well, here’s your chance to try a specialty that the people of Geneva make in September.

Another holiday is held here, a federal day of thanksgiving, repentance, and prayer.

This is an interfaith festival and begins on the third Sunday of September.

Expect to find most stores closed and streets deserted over the holidays, but everything will reopen after the holidays.

Take advantage of this and visit the nearby restaurants and bars, there are plenty of them for everyone’s taste and pocket.

If you want to go shopping, we highly recommend it because there are so many places where you can shop well.

The real symbol of this city standing on Lake Geneva is the Jet d’Eai fountain. Do not miss this experience.

Take the opportunity to go to the Cathedral of St. Pierre, which dates back to the 12th century.

The archaeological tour of the cathedral offers visitors interesting facts not only about the origins of the cathedral but also about Geneva’s pre-Roman location.

From here there is an incredible view of this beautiful city and its lake.

The Palace of the United Nations, the former seat of the League of Nations, is a must-see, it is one of the main attractions here.

This is worth seeing precisely because of the chairman’s hall, the library, the paintings, and the landscaped garden.

The old town deserves all the attention, visit the townhouse with cannons in the small square, Rousseau’s birthplace, and numerous antique shops.

Do not bypass the headquarters of the United Nations.

Here you can see and find out how it works and according to which system.

Whether you visit Zeneva individually or with a guide, it will undoubtedly leave a great impression on you.

There are many events in Zurich: Check out the pumpkins at Jucker Farm, and the Museum’s Long Night

Zurich is a great place to visit in September!

Various events are held at the beginning of the month.

Jucker Farm is starting its pumpkin display at several of its locations.

If you are coming here with your family in September, don’t miss this.

Every year there is a different theme, the pumpkins are displayed as exhibits and look like real works of art.

Here you can enjoy pumpkin cakes and ice cream, but you also have the opportunity to buy some things.

It is also a perfect opportunity to visit the long night of the museum and get to know the museum scene of Zurich.

This event starts every first Saturday in September.

The limitless variety of Zurich’s museums is especially well explored during the Long Night, when exhibitions, collections, and a varied accompanying program transform night into day.

In addition, the fun music and radio festival Rundfunk is an excellent choice.

This event has become very popular among locals as well as tourists, and it lasts until the beginning of September.

Art lovers will be able to attend the international festival for theaters, culture, and art Zurcher Theater Spektakel is attracting more and more attention and lasts until the beginning of September.

The biggest vegan festival in Switzerland takes place here.

This event is not only to display food but also to indicate the content of the product.

Here, you have the opportunity to try healthy and delicious cuisine from all over the world.

In addition, various art exhibitions, markets, and art exhibitions take place in Zurich, so here’s an opportunity to visit some of the activities here.

Considering that Oktoberfest is being held in Munich and across the country, there may be big crowds, so book your accommodation in time if you are here.

The city boasts an efficient public transport network, so you can experience this too and uniquely experience parts of Geneva.

For those who want an adventure, we suggest visiting the Uetliberg mountain, which is located above Zurich and offers an incredible view of the city, the lake, and the Alps.

From beautiful nature to museums and galleries to rich nightlife, Zurich has so much to offer in September.

Explore every corner of the city and enjoy every moment this autumn.

Visit Bern, enjoy the magical music and the Musikfestival

Musikfestival is one of the largest Swiss festivals Musikfestival of contemporary music takes place in Bern every September.

At this festival, you can hear different styles of music from ancient to contemporary music.

Apart from this, it also includes experimental and electronic music.

Every year this festival tries to introduce innovations in its program, so the concerts and formats where the music is performed are very unusual.

Bernese musicians, but also international performers, perform at this festival.

Visit Bern this September and listen to great music.

The capital of Switzerland, which is built on a sandstone ridge, offers so much, here you can enjoy a beautiful alpine valley as well as numerous cultural attractions.

If you are here in September, you can visit Bear Pits Park and the Bern Cathedral which is the largest church in Switzerland built after the Middle Ages.

Visit it is interior and then climb to the top to enjoy the view of the city and the Alps.

The Einstein Museum and the Bern Historical Museum are both worth a visit.

You will learn something new about Switzerland’s capital while also getting acquainted with Einstein’s work and life.

Namely, a famous scientist lived here at the beginning of the 20th century, which is an interesting fact for all visitors who are interested in his work.

There are a lot of events happening in September in Bern related to music and art, so take the opportunity to see as many things as possible.

This city is worth a visit, so explore it up and down and enjoy every moment of it this autumn.

If you are here in September, walk the streets of the city as much as possible, that way you will get to know Bern the best.

Visit markets, and local shops, and try some specialties and of course chocolate.

Buy some souvenirs to remember, take pictures, record the surroundings and absorb all the atmosphere of the city during this trip.

Visit some of Switzerland’s most beautiful lakes this September

September is perfect for visiting the beautiful lakes in this wonderful country.

If you need an autumn vacation, our recommendation is to come here and enjoy the stunning lakes, of which there are many.

This Alpine country has over 1,500 lakes.

There are small and large lakes, but all are wonderful to visit and relax in nature.

Some of them are located near the borders with neighboring countries, so they are not entirely on the ground of Swiss territory, while others are on the ground of this country and are mostly located near mountains.

Given that there are so many of them, it is not easy to single out the most beautiful ones because each one is beautiful and authentic in its way.

Most of the lakes are easily accessible precisely because of the excellent traffic in this country.

Although there are some lakes tucked away far from the others.

However, they are all unique and beautiful and offer numerous contents.

We will present you with the most famous ones that you can visit in the fall when nature turns into beautiful golden shades.

One of the most famous in Switzerland is Lake Geneva.

Recognizable by its crescent shape, it represents the border between France and Switzerland, so its surface is divided between these two countries.

Take a walk along the shore of this lake, you will see palm trees, small coves, narrow streets, and incredible architecture.

The whole area is a very large open space for you to experience.

You can rent a bike and go for a ride or take a boat and sail on the lake they call the mirror.

This is because not only does it have clear water, but because the water is calm during the day, and everything is reflected in it.

We are sure that the autumn colors will be best reflected in the lake, which is impressive.

Lake Zurich belongs to the group of the most beautiful lakes in this country.

It is located southeast of the city of Zurich, in the canton of Zurich, and most of it belongs to this city, and it extends over three cantons.

There are also many other charming towns and villages to visit, including Rappersville, a medieval town.

The North Shore is known for its luxury homes and villas, as well as its stunning beaches, so if you’re coming here for your autumn holiday, explore this side too.

Caumasse is another lovely lake and is located near Flims, a small town in the canton of Grisons.

It stands out from the rest because it is much smaller.

However, that is why it is special in its way.

If you like to hike, there are plenty of trails nearby that you can explore.

Apart from the trails, there are also plenty of rocks where you can sit, relax and enjoy the warm autumn colors.

The water of the lake is so blue that it looks unreal.

You will want to jump into this water, although in autumn it is cold to swim in the lake, in summer it is pleasant to swim.

There are a lot of pine trees around Caumasee, which makes it a unique lake.

It is worth the attention, so come here and relax.

In addition, visit Lake Thun, which shines brightly in September.

This lake in the canton of Bern offers tourists numerous attractions, starting from enjoying the picturesque landscapes and ending with the castles that are located around it.

You can take a whole day and go to a castle near the lake.

If you want to spend some quiet time, take the opportunity to take a walk along the beautiful paths or take a boat ride on the lake.

On the list of the most visited lakes in Switzerland, among these two can be added the one in Lugano, which has the same name as the city, and is surrounded by mountains and wonderful nature.

One part of the lake is on the territory of Italy, and the other is on the territory of Switzerland.

You can get to this place by railway, but also by two cable cars that lead to the viewpoint from where there is a fantastic view of the lake and the mountains.

It’s always warm and sunny in Lugano, just like in autumn, so make the most of it when you come here.

You can go to the top of one of the mountains near the lake.

The view from Monte San Salvadore is fantastic.

Top tips for traveling to Switzerland in September

To keep you nice and comfortable during your stay here in September, we advise you to bring a layered wardrobe.

Bring a mix of summer and fall clothes in your luggage.

Pack in your luggage hoodies, jeans, a transitional jacket, and a denim jacket that is perfect for this time of year.

It’s pleasant here during the day, so it’s important to bring appropriate clothing that you can mix and match according to the weather.

You will need this kind of wardrobe for this transitional period.

In the evening temperatures are low and it gets chilly, so bring a light sweater, jeans, and trousers which will be ideal for seeing all the main sights.

Casual clothes are the right choice for your holiday in September.

As for footwear, we advise you to pack hiking boots that will serve you well when you hike the wonderful trails, and leather boots are great for walking the winding streets of the beautiful cities of this European country.

You can also add some nice details to complete your autumn outfit.

Add sunglasses and a nice scarf or purse to match your outfit.

When you have made sure that you have brought all your clothing, check that you have also brought your travel documents.

Make sure you pack your passport and travel documents.

It would be best to make a list of things for the trip and be guided by it because that way you won’t forget anything.

Your packing will also depend on what you have planned during your stay here, whether it is an adventure or just a touristic tour.

However, this season, although it is warm, there is also rain in the lowlands and snow in the mountains, so make sure you pack clothes for these two seasons.

For mountainous areas, you will need a warmer wardrobe.

You have to be prepared for snow in September in the Swiss Alps, but also for the sharper wind, especially in the higher areas.

In any case, bring enough clothes, so that nothing will thank you during your stay here.

Be prepared for autumn, but also for winter in the mountains.

Follow these tips and you won’t have to worry about anything.

When you arrive in this beautiful country, be sure to try the chocolate and fondue.

Enjoy the amazing nature and the gorgeous palette of shades this autumn.

Magical landscapes will take your breath away wherever you go.

Enchanting Switzerland is waiting for you, are you ready to explore it this September?

More destinations to discover:

• Switzerland in October
• What To Wear In Switzerland?

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Best places to visit in switzerland.

Switzerland is known around the world for its chocolate, cheese, charming towns and scenic landscapes . Everywhere you turn, you're treated to a little bit of history and a little bit of nature's beauty, as well as plenty of mouthwatering cuisine in between. U.S. News considered factors like sights, culture, accessibility and variety of things to do, plus traveler and expert input, to calculate the best places to visit in Switzerland. Peruse the list below, and vote for your favorite spots.

Appenzell District

Jungfrau region.

Interlaken's unique location between two lakes – Lake Brienz and Lake Thun – makes it a breathtaking spot for a vacation. Here, you can spend hours hiking various trails, taking in the castle-studded shores of Lake Thun on a boat cruise or gazing at the surrounding mountains from the Harder Kulm observation deck (accessible via a funicular). To see more of the region's stunning scenery, go for a ride on the Schynige Platte Railway or sign up for a paragliding or skydiving excursion.

Travelers looking to ski or snowboard in the Swiss Alps should head to Zermatt. This small, car-free town in the middle of the Alps is famous for housing one of the world's most famous attractions — the Matterhorn (a peak so popular that it inspired a Disneyland ride) — and Switzerland's highest ski resort. Novice and expert skiers and snowboarders can spend the bulk of their vacation hitting the slopes, which showcase incredible mountain views. After shredding powder, visitors can ride the Gornergrat train, pick up a slab of homemade chocolate from a local shop or savor cheese fondue at a traditional Swiss restaurant.

Picturesque Lucerne sits on Lake Lucerne in central Switzerland, framed by snowcapped mountains and medieval buildings. This beautiful city's old town is home to historic attractions, lively town squares, boutique shops and old churches. Top attractions include the Musegg Wall and its towers (the preserved fortifications date back to the 13th century) and Europe's oldest wooden covered bridge, the must-see Chapel Bridge, which was originally built in the 1330s. Those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure can also ride a cable car to Mount Pilatus for stunning views of Lake Lucerne and plenty of activities at the top.

This lakefront city on the Swiss-Italian border offers visitors a unique travel experience. Because Lugano shares waters with neighboring Italy, the city features a mix of Swiss and Mediterranean influences in everything from its cuisine to its architecture. Plus, Lugano boasts unforgettable panoramas. Visit Monte San Salvatore and Monte Brè, both of which you can reach by funicular, for bird's-eye views of Lake Lugano and the city. Or, spend a few hours hiking the Olive Grove Trail or strolling the gardens of Ciani Park. If you'd rather lounge on a beach, head to Lido di Lugano.

Zurich is a cosmopolitan financial center, a foodie haven and a romantic European city that appeals to all types of travelers. A vacation here should include spending time admiring Lake Zurich, exploring the trendy bars and Michelin-starred restaurants, meandering through Lindenhof park and exploring the city's distinct neighborhoods. Join well-heeled shoppers (or just admire the window displays) on Bahnhofstrasse, a world-famous exclusive retail boulevard. While here, be sure to sample the famous dark chocolate Champagne truffles from specialty chocolatier Teuscher.

Visit the medieval town of Gruyères if you want to feel as if you've stepped back in time during your next trip. Its good looks (think: car-free cobblestone streets, fountain-filled squares and a 13th-century castle) create an old-world ambiance you're bound to love. Plus, the town is world-renowned for its Gruyère cheese, which you can sample and learn more about at a local cheese dairy or cellar. Sampling chocolate is also a must-do here, so be sure to check out a chocolate factory or attend a chocolate workshop while in town.

Like its neighbor Lugano, Locarno is located in the Ticino region near the Italian border. This quiet, small town is surrounded by stunning scenery (it sits on the shores of Lake Maggiore in the foothills of the Alps), and since it's the warmest destination in Switzerland, you'll have plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and explore. Be sure to stroll through the picture-perfect main square, Piazza Grande, where the city hosts several summer festivals, and trek to Madonna del Sasso, considered sacred among Roman Catholics. Then, head to the Verzasca river valley to swim or bungee jump.

Appenzell captures the essence of Switzerland with rolling hills, a car-free village and well-preserved customs. Visitors can take in the scenic landscape of the Appenzell District (located in the northeastern part of the country) by taking a cable car to the oft-photographed Aescher guest house, picturesquely built into the rock face, or hiking the region's "experience trails" like the Gonten Barefoot Trail and Appenzeller Kapellenweg, which weaves past 11 chapels. Meanwhile, the tiny village of Appenzell boasts quaint, frescoed shops and Museum Appenzell, which highlights the region's traditional crafts, folk music and art.

You'd be hard-pressed to find a small town that boasts more charm and incredible scenery than Brienz. Located in the stunning Bernese Oberland region, Brienz sits on the northeastern shore of Lake Brienz, which features gorgeous turquoise water and is flanked by towering evergreen mountains. Some of the best ways to soak up the awe-inspiring setting include strolling picture-perfect Brunngasse (often proclaimed the most beautiful street in Europe), riding the Brienz Rothorn Bahn (which traverses a steam rack railway) and taking a boat tour to lake attractions like Giessbach Falls.

Set along the banks of crystal-clear Lake Geneva in western Switzerland, this city is known for its incredible views and as the headquarters of the Red Cross and the United Nations. Geneva is also home to some iconic sights, including the Jet d'Eau (one of the world's tallest water fountains) and an old town with cobblestone streets and picturesque squares. While exploring the latter, be sure to check out the Saint Pierre Cathedral, which features Roman, Gothic and neoclassical details.

The capital of Switzerland, Bern sometimes gets overlooked for flashier Swiss cities like Zurich and Geneva. But Bern holds many charms, including an old town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) featuring the iconic Zytglogge clock tower, Renaissance-style fountains and a Gothic cathedral with the highest spire in Switzerland. The city also boasts many museums – several dedicated to Albert Einstein, who lived in Bern when developing his theory of relativity. Head to Gurten mountain – which you can reach by funicular, by bike or on foot – for sweeping views of the city below.

As the largest ski area in central Switzerland, Engelberg is a winter playground, with a long, snowy season for downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding and sledding. But don't sleep on a summertime visit here; warmer months allow for a bevy of fun family activities like a toboggan run, 300-plus miles of hiking trails and water activities on Trübsee lake. Regardless of when you visit, you won't want to miss the TITLIS Rotair, a revolving cable car that takes riders up Mount Titlis, and the other cable lifts that stop at a glacier cave, a panoramic restaurant, and the TITLIS Cliff Walk.

Considered "the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism," St. Moritz welcomes travelers with world-class skiing, swanky hotels, renowned après-ski offerings and top-notch restaurants. In addition to offering downhill skiing trails so highly regarded that the town has hosted the Olympics twice, St. Moritz features excellent spots for cross-country skiing, sledding and winter hikes. Come summertime, the area invites outdoor lovers to golf, bike, hike or enjoy water sports and swimming in the surrounding lakes.

The Jungfrau Region is the perfect place for first-timers wanting to experience the otherworldly splendor that is the Swiss Alps. But be forewarned: The destination is sky high. Popular attractions like the Jungfraujoch (which features Europe's highest train station), the Grindelwald-First cable car and the First Cliff Walk Presented by Tissot sit at the top of towering peaks. The innovative Eiger Express gondola offers even faster transport to the top (just 15 minutes from Grindelwald). For those who'd rather stick closer to Earth's surface, prioritize a hike on a lower-level valley path and a visit to the Pfingstegg toboggan.

Tourists may not be as familiar with Montreux as they are with its Lake Geneva neighbors, which makes this Swiss town such an undiscovered gem. Quaint Montreux features a waterfront promenade dotted with flowers and trees, a medieval castle and a charming old town, not to mention a statue commemorating Freddie Mercury (Queen recorded multiple albums here from 1978 to 1995). Montreux is also surrounded by vineyards and hosts a popular open-air jazz festival every summer, while the holiday season brings the festive Montreux Noël market.

Located less than 5 miles from Montreux, Vevey is another Lake Geneva gem. This town's picturesque promenade along the lake is filled with flowers and features a sculpture of Charlie Chaplin, who spent the last 25 years of his life in Vevey. The Alimentarium, a nutrition-focused museum, also adorns the shoreline with its beautiful sandstone building, which once served as the headquarters to Nestlé (the company is still based in Vevey). After admiring the town, visitors can take a cog railway to the scenic Les Pléiades vantage point for its stunning views and the astronomy-centric Astropléiades trail.   

The second-largest city on Lake Geneva, Lausanne is characterized by its renowned Gothic cathedral and surrounding hilly terrain. The stunning lake views and colorful city center don't hurt, either. Travelers can take in Lausanne's lively atmosphere by checking out the city's cafes, admiring the old town's beautiful architecture and perusing the exhibits at the Olympic Museum. No visit would be complete without venturing outside the city to nearby Lavaux, where you can enjoy wine from vineyards that are so scenic and well-preserved (some date back to the 11th century), the area was deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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What Is Autumn Like In Switzerland? Here’s What You Need To Know

• September 1, 2022 September 21, 2023
• General Information

Last Updated on September 21, 2023 by Darla Uhl

Switzerland has four seasons, each with its own unique character – Winter , Spring , Summer , and Fall. As summer turns to fall in Switzerland, you can create some wonderful memories and capture lots of charming photos. Autumn is a great time to visit Switzerland. We’ve got mild weather and pretty fall colors.

In autumn, harvest is in full swing. In fact, the old German word for autumn is herbist , which means harvest. During autumn, the game season is just around the corner.  So, what’s autumn really like in Switzerland? 

Autumn is one of the prettiest seasons to visit Switzerland because of the gorgeous fall foliage. There are also tons of traditional festivals in Switzerland during the autumn season. Walking trails in Switzerland are typically still open during the first half of autumn, so you can enjoy the wonderful rusty colors while exploring the mountains and alpine pastures. If you’re thinking about visiting Switzerland this autumn, here’s what you need to know.

When is Autumn in Switzerland?

Although according to the calendar September 1 is the start of autumn, astronomically it starts later. In Switzerland, the astronomical autumn starts on the second equinox of the year . This coincides with when the sun crosses the celestial equator from north to south.

Astronomical autumn in Switzerland starts either on September 22 or September 23 and lasts for three months until November.

Autumn in Switzerland: Recommended Places

Autumn is a great time to visit Switzerland. It’s a nice day for long tours with moderate temperatures. Check out these places to go in Autumn if you’re looking for some inspiration.

• Engadine – It’s going to be sunny and warm instead of gray and foggy in Switzerland’s high places. Engadine is one of my favorites during Autumn. Valais is also worth a visit besides Engadine.
• Val Bregaglia – Bregaglia Valley, also part of Upper Engadine, is located in Switzerland and Sondrio, Italy. It descends from Maloja Pass and is worth visiting during Autumn for its chestnuts . To mark the start of the harvest season, the Chestnut Festival ( Festival della Castagna ) takes place in October. 
• Wine Villages – Visit the wine villages like Mentrisiotto, Bündner Herrschaft, La Neuveville, Frauenfeld, Vully, Lutry, and Hallau. Most of them have wine festivals during harvest season, too.
• Ticino – You can find warmer weather in Ticino than in the rest of Switzerland if you’re looking for it.

Autumn in Switzerland: Weather

Autumn in Switzerland is generally a three-month period from September to November.

Here are some  average temperatures  in Switzerland from September to November.

As autumn approaches, the sun’s rays become less intense, the temperature drops, and the days become shorter.

Autumn Weather in September

Autumn weather in September is likely to start similar to late August. In most cities and the plains, we’ll have mild weather , but nothing too hot. The weather will still be perfect for hiking, even at higher altitudes, without the crowds. When you go hiking in Switzerland in September, you’ll need some good boots in case there are any wet conditions up there. 

Some of the higher altitude trails (2,500 meters and up) might have snow. Most of the normal hiking and biking trails below 2,500 meters will be open.

Most mountain passes will be open, too. If you plan on driving up higher mountain passes, you might want to change your summer tires to winter tires in case it snows early.

September is when most lidos and pools close . By the end of September, most are closed. 

Autumn starts to sneak up on you truly in late September when leaves start turning colors. Depending on the plant, tree leaves will start turning yellow, orange, or red. Engadine is a great spot for autumn foliage.

Autumn Weather in October

You can still do the lower hikes , but check the conditions and local information first. There will still be plenty to hike regardless. Higher trails may be covered in snow, especially in the late part of October. 

Autumn weather starts getting colder in October. The lowlands get dense fog slowly engulfing the northern side of the alps. These days can be really gloomy, especially if there’s rain.

Usually, locals start checking the upper fog border (called Nebelgrenze in German) to escape the gray skies. You will typically have to go higher up in altitude to accomplish this. To enjoy the sunshine, you might just have to head up to the next higher town or village nearby. It is not uncommon for the fog to clear up at 1,000 to 2,000 meters above sea level. Most mountains have webcams so you can see if it’s above or below the fog.

With the decrease in temperatures, autumn can also be known for wind storms. 

Autumn Weather in November

When the air is colder, it is able to save less humidity. As the excess water condenses, it forms small drops that float to form fog. The cold weather in November makes many parts of the country very foggy. First snow days may also start at higher altitudes.

In most ski resorts, there’s a short break before the ski season starts. It’s normal for higher ski resorts to be open already by late November. 

Most alpine mountain passes close in the first week of November. 

Autumn in Switzerland: Highlights

• Weltklasse Zurich – An international athletics event that takes place in Zurich in early September.
• Knabenschiessen – One of the biggest traditions in Zurich, Knabenschiessen is where young boys and girls have the opportunity to test and prove their shooting skills. This shooting festival runs from Saturday until Monday and offers a wide range of culinary offerings. Although initially limited to boys, girls have been allowed to take part in this competition in 1991.
• Alpine Descent – ( Alpabfahrt in German, Désalpe in French, Scargada in Romansh ) Cattle slowly come down from the alps after spending the summer up there. There are some places where sheep come down. During a procession, farmers and shepherds dress up in traditional costumes and bring down cattle adorned with flowers and cowbells. The whole village gathers and welcomes them. After that, there’s food, music, and drinks for the farmers and spectators.  
• Wine festivals – Various wine regions offer wine festivals or aperitifs, including La Neuveville, Frauenfeld, Vully, Lutry, and Hallau. Through these, you can learn about a variety of regional, fine wines.
• Autumn Markets – Various villages and towns may hold their local autumn market to sell their produce (wood, textiles, ceramics, handmade products, fresh produce, and more). In Lucerne, there’s an autumn market called Lozärner Määs . Another big one called Basler Herbstmesse takes place in Basel.
• Advent Markets – To mark the start of advent, some villages and towns will have an advent market in mid-November. They typically sell gingerbread treats, Glühwein, cakes, and local produce.
• Game season – As animals need to rest during the winter, and spring and summer are reserved for giving birth and raising babies, autumn is the only time for hunting. In terms of food, you’ll see venison on a game menu. You can get regular venison, venison schnitzel, peppered venison, or strips of venison. Typically, the meal is garnished with red cabbage, Brussels sprouts, chestnuts, pears with cranberries, grapes, and homemade spaetzle.

Autumn in Switzerland: What to Wear

In Switzerland, you should dress in layers during autumn because the weather can be unpredictable. It’s fine to wear short- or long-sleeved t-shirts, knitwear, and pants. Bringing a light jacket will come in handy if the mornings or evenings are cooler or the altitude is higher. Going to high altitude requires an extra layer or a thicker down jacket.

When it’s foggy, I recommend wearing lighter clothes over darker ones. You can also add reflective elements to your clothes. It’s to protect you if you’re walking or biking in foggy or low-visibility weather. For rainy days and slick roads, I’d recommend wearing shoes with good soles.

Summary: Autumn in Switzerland

Even with slightly cooler temperatures, Switzerland is an awesome place to visit during the autumn. You’ve got mild weather, especially in September. As the weeks go by, the country gets colder.

With the game season just around the corner and autumn break for a lot of children, autumn is truly a relaxing and beautiful time to be in Switzerland. The advent season starts around the end of autumn.  

Hiking in the mountains is a good treat. When the lowlands stay under fog, the mountains are a great place to visit with the sun on your face. It’s also a good time to go if you’d rather travel during shoulder season instead of peak season. 

In autumn, you’ll get to see beautiful fall foliage in the alpine regions, all the great autumn and wine markets, and the traditional alpine descent that’s celebrated all over the country. Autumn is a great time to visit Switzerland. 

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Darla Uhl is the owner of TouringSwitzerland.com. Her home is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Having lived almost 20 years in Switzerland, she's traveled extensively all over the country.

Darla's favorite regions to visit in Switzerland include Engadin, Lake Geneva, Bernese Oberland, Ticino, and Valais. She loves spending time with her family, hiking, visiting museums, and reading books.

• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ Alpenwildpark Interlaken: A Free and Fun Wildlife Experience
• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ The Historical Town of Werdenberg, Switzerland
• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ Andermatt or Grindelwald: Which is Better?
• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ Cherry Trail in Frick, Switzerland

Places to visit in September 2024

• Sofía Pozuelo
• UPDATED: 09/05/2024

September is one of the best months of the year to pack your bags and embark on an exciting getaway or trip to the other side of the world. With summer coming to an end in the northern hemisphere and spring blooming in the south, this month offers a wide range of fascinating destinations to travel to. In addition, the weather is still very pleasant, and the influx of tourists is lower.

In this post, you'll discover 15 places to visit in September. From places with incredible nature to countries and cities with amazing culture. Get ready to live an unforgettable experience while enjoying pleasant climates and fewer crowds. Let's get started!

Table of contents

Places to visit in september 2024: 15 amazing destinations.

These are some of the best destinations to travel to in September:

1. French Basque Country

The French Basque Country , also known as Iparralde, is a very attractive area located in the southwest of France , specifically in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department. This region offers a unique combination of Basque culture, beautiful landscapes and exquisite gastronomy.

In September, temperatures remain pleasant, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Biarritz , explore the picturesque coastal villages such as Saint-Jean-de-Luz or Hendaye and discover the rich history in Bayonne . Don’t miss the inland villages such as Espelette or Saint-Jean-de-Port.

2. South Africa

A fascinating destination that offers a wide variety of experiences and activities for all tastes is South Africa. In addition, September marks the beginning of spring in this African country, which means that the weather is pleasantly warm and the landscapes are filled with flowers and wildlife. Thanks to its incredible nature and fusion of cultures, South Africa is usually a hit.

A trip to South Africa would not be complete without a safari in Kruger National Park, where you will have the opportunity to spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo) in their natural habitat. In addition, you can explore the vibrant city of Cape Town, enjoy its beaches, visit the famous Table Mountain and tour the Cape Winelands vineyards.

🏥 No matter where you go next September, remember that it is very important to purchase travel insurance to have medical coverage abroad. I always use and recommend Heymondo, where I can offer you your insurance policy 5% cheaper .

3. Tanzania, exotic destination for travel in September

We continue with another of the most fascinating countries of the African continent: Tanzania. This month marks the end of the dry season, which translates into clear skies. One thing you will love about traveling to this country in September will be the chance to witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti. Millions of wildebeest and zebra move north in search of fresh pastures, creating a breathtaking spectacle of wildlife on the move.

In addition, you can combine your Serengeti safari with a visit to the fascinating Ngorongoro Crater, where you can see a unique concentration of animals in a limited geographical space. You can also visit Lake Victoria, Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park and Dar es Salaam. Looking for an unforgettable experience? Go trekking in Kilimanjaro.

4. Budapest, travel on a budget in September

The charming city of Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is an ideal destination to visit in September. With mild temperatures and fewer tourists than in the summer months, traveling to Budapest in this month of the year is a great idea, as you will be able to enjoy much more of all the charms of this city. In case you didn’t know, there are plenty of things to see and do in Budapest.

Explore the majestic Parliament, relax in the famous Széchenyi thermal baths, admire the panoramic views from the Fisherman’s Bastion, and cross the iconic Chain Bridge. Budapest is also known for its lively gastronomic scene, where you can sample traditional Hungarian dishes such as goulash and langos.

5. Balearic Islands, best vacation destinations for September

The Balearic Islands ( Spain ), located in the beautiful Mediterranean sea, are a dream destination to consider for your September vacation. Mallorca, Menorca , Ibiza, and Formentera offer a perfect combination of crystal-clear beaches, beautiful scenery, and lively nightlife.

In September, temperatures are still warm, but the summer crowds begin to thin out, allowing you to enjoy the tranquility of hidden coves and explore quaint villages. Although any of these islands will fascinate you, my recommendation is that if you are not yet familiar with any of these islands, go to Mallorca.

If you finally decide to travel to Mallorca, take a look at my Mallorca travel guide , my post about the best things to do in Mallorca and this guide on where to stay in Mallorca .

6. Sardinia

This beautiful Italian island is a true paradise, located in the Mediterranean. With mild temperatures and fewer tourists than in the summer months, you will have the opportunity to explore its crystal-clear beaches and charming villages without the usual crowds. Be prepared to visit archaeological ruins, enjoy sunsets, and tour the endless coastline.

Whether you head to the famous Costa Smeralda with its white sandy beaches or venture inland to discover the island’s mountainous landscapes and rich history, Sardinia has something for everyone. You can also indulge in delicious Sardinian cuisine, from fresh seafood to local cheese and wine.

🚗 Need a car for your next adventure? To find the best deals, I recommend checking out Discover Cars and Auto Europe , highly-rated car rental search platforms.

Greece is a classic destination that never disappoints, and September is an ideal time to visit. Temperatures are pleasant, and you can avoid the summer crowds. Explore the incredible history of Athens and marvel at the Acropolis and Parthenon.

Then embark on a trip to the stunning Greek islands, such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, where you can enjoy beautiful beaches, picturesque villages, and delicious Mediterranean food. Other lesser-known islands include Ithaca, Milos, Koufonisia, and Naxos.

8. Switzerland, places to visit in September in Europe

I could not fail to include Switzerland in this list of places to go on vacation in September because it is one of my favorite countries and this month is ideal to visit it. This country stands out for its wonderful nature, dotted with majestic mountains, beautiful lakes and charming alpine villages. You will be amazed throughout your trip, I assure you!

Two of my favorite places that I highly recommend you to visit are the Lauterbrunnen Valley and the Grindelwald Valley . You can visit both destinations from Interlaken . If you want to visit cities, I recommend Lucerne and Zurich . If you decide to visit this country, don’t miss all my 7-day Switzerland itinerary .

9. Bali, Asian paradise

If you feel like making a trip to Southeast Asia, Bali is an ideal place to travel in September since this time of the year marks the end of the dry season; therefore, the possibility of good weather will still be high and, nevertheless, there will no longer be so many crowds. In case you do not know much about this destination, Bali is an island in Indonesia with a very attractive culture and nature.

You will be able to visit beautiful temples and witness numerous rituals, while at the same time visiting rice fields, bathing in waterfalls, and enjoying all kinds of beaches. Take a look at these things to do in Bali  to get an idea of the wonders that await you here. My recommendation is that you do not miss places like  Ubud ,  Amed,  or  Nusa Penida .

10. Turkey, one of the best places to visit in September

Turkey is a destination that offers a fascinating mix of cultures, a rich history, and breathtaking scenery. In September, the weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring  Istanbul’s  historical treasures, such as the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, to name a few.

Also, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the  Cappadocia  region, famous for its unique rock formations and sunrise balloon flights. Another must-see in Turkey is the coastal city of Antalya, where you can enjoy beautiful beaches and picturesque villages and explore the ruins of the ancient city of Side.

If you opt for this destination for your September vacation, don’t miss my guide with  tips to plan a trip to Turkey  and this  Turkey 7-day itinerary .

11. The West Coast of the United States

The West Coast of the United States is a destination full of authentic natural wonders and cities that will fascinate you, such as Los Angeles, San Francisco or Las Vegas. The best way to visit this area of the country is by car. Rent one and take a tour to visit these cities and natural parks such as the Grand Canyon or Yosemite. I did a 10-day route along the West Coast and I loved it.

September is a perfect month to do this road trip because the temperatures are very pleasant. This way you will be able to enjoy even more all the beaches of California. In short, this is a dream destination for you if you are a lover of adventure, hiking and driving routes. In addition, it is a trip that mixes cities with a very attractive nature.

12. Iceland, one of the best places to visit in September 2024

The weather in Iceland is unpredictable but in principle September is a very good month to travel to this stunning destination. Apart from having plenty of daylight hours for sightseeing, you will have the chance to see the famous Northern Lights if you are lucky.

Explore the waterfalls, glaciers and geysers in the Golden Circle, relax in the warm hot springs of Blue Lagoon and marvel at the black sand beaches of Vik. September is also a good time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and trekking.

13. Slovenia

If you are looking for a destination to travel to in September 2024 that is close by, not so popular and with lots of nature, I suggest you go to Slovenia. Explore the picturesque capital of Ljubljana, with its baroque charm and romantic bridges. Visit the beautiful Lake Bled, surrounded by mountains and a medieval castle, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and canoeing.

If you have more time, you can visit many other places, such as the Vintgar Gorge, Triglav National Park, Predjama Castle, Postojna Cave and the villages of Ptuj, Skofja Loka or Kranj. As you can see, the country is full of authentic wonders. My recommendation? Rent a car and visit as many as you can.

14. Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve, in Portugal , is an excellent beach destination, and this time of year is ideal to visit. Temperatures are warm but not too hot, and the beaches are less crowded than in the summer months. In the Algarve, you can enjoy beautiful golden sandy beaches, breathtaking clifftop scenery, explore charming fishing villages, and sample the delicious local cuisine.

Some of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve are Praia de Dona Ana, Praia da Marinha, Praia do Camilo, Praia dos Estudantes, Praia da Falesia, Praia dos Três Irmãos, and Praia de Benagil. Many of these beaches are located in Lagos, a very good place to stay in the Algarve. If you are interested in beautiful accommodations, don’t miss my selection of charming hotels in the Algarve.

Japan is probably one of the most incredible destinations on the planet. The mix of its cultural traditions with its technological advancement creates a contrast that captivates anyone. This country is a fascinating destination at any time of the year, but September offers a special experience. This month marks the end of the hot summer and the beginning of autumn, when the trees begin to change color.

Enjoy the beauty of Japanese gardens in Kyoto, visit the historic temples of Nara, explore Tokyo’s diverse neighborhoods, and savor the exquisite Japanese food —you can get your fill of the best sushi and ramen! Other places to see in Japan include Osaka, Takayama, Hiroshima, Koya-San, and Kamikochi—there’s something for everyone!

Map of places to visit in September

In the following map, I have marked the 15 destinations where to go on vacation in September mentioned in this article.

Don’t miss my travel tips and, if you need more ideas, other travel destinations .

I hope this article on where to travel in September 2024 has been very useful for you to choose your next vacation. If you have any questions or destination recommendations, feel free to leave a comment or email me. See you next time!

• PLAN A TRIP STEP BY STEP

↠ Book free tours and guided visits on Civitatis or GetYourGuide . I always use these platforms to check what organized activities there are at my destination.

↠ To pay with card in foreign currency or withdraw money from ATMs, I always use this card (there are free and paid plans). It works the best!

↠ Traveling with travel insurance to a destination where you don’t have healthcare coverage is a must. Get your insurance 5% cheaper with this link .

↠ If you want to have cellphone data at your destination from the moment you land and don’t want to waste time, there is nothing like this eSIM . Use the code “comeamaviaja” for a 5% discount.

↠ Check out Booking’s offers , a platform I always use, as I always find very good options thanks to its search engine with filters.

↠ For destinations where I need to rent a car, I always check Discover Cars and Auto Europe search engines. I recommend them!

↠ If you still need to buy flights for your trip, there is no better search engine than Skyscanner (although I always recommend booking the flight on the company’s website).

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