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30 Things to Do in January in Switzerland

• Switzerland

• Last Updated: 28 Dec 2023
• By Tanya, Swiss Family Fun

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If you need help There lots of fun events and activities in January in Switzerland that can help you survive the cold, dark days of winter. I’ve included New Year’s Eve celebrations, light festivals, winter sports events, discount offers, and more. There is plenty to enjoy even if you don’t like winter sports or the cold.

Here is our curated list of what to do in January in Switzerland, including activities for kids and a slight emphasis on Zurich region since we live there.

1. Zürich Fireworks: 31 Dec 2023, midnight

2. lucerne fireworks: 31 dec 2024 – 8:15pm, 3. zürich new year’s eve marathon: 31 dec 2023 – midnight, 4. appenzell silvesterkläuse: 31 dec 2023 & 13 jan 2024, bonus – three kings day: 6 jan 2024, 5. lilu light festival lucerne: 11-21 jan 2024, 6. grindelwald world snow festival: 15-20 jan 2024, 7. murten light festival: 17-28 jan 2024, 8. geneva lux festival: 19 jan – 4 feb 2024, 9. disney’s the lion king: thru 10 march 2024, 10. tonhalle zürich family concert: 14 jan 2024, 11. nutcracker ballet: 20 jan 2024, 12. kimono exhibit at musum rietberg: thru 7 jan 2024, 13. “imagine picasso” immersive exhibition: thru 28 jan 2024, 14. immersive light shows at zürich wollishofen church, 15. night sledding, 16. moonlit snowshoe tour, 17. lantern walks, 18. ice skating in the wild, 19. sauna boat & cold water dip, 20. thermal baths, 21. cold plunge, 22. sbb snow n’rail discounts, 23. migros family ski days & grand prix races, 24. kids ski free at aletsch arena – saturdays in january, 25. free ice skating at zürich dolder: 7 jan 2024, 26. uetliberg winterzauber, 27. frau gerolds winter garten, 28. chateau d’oex balloon festival, 29. snow polo world cup: 26-28 jan 2024, 30. st moritz gourmet food festival: 29 jan to 3 feb 2024, new years celebrations.

Here are a few New Year’s Eve celebrations near Zurich we can recommend. See more New Year’s Eve celebrations in Switzerland .

A few minutes after midnight on New Year’s Eve, you can watch fireworks over Zürich lake. You can enjoy the fireworks for free anywhere along the lake near Zürich city. If you want to enjoy them from a heated party tent, you can get a ticket to the  Magic Lake Zone with food and music before and after the fireworks. More info: www.silvesterzauber.ch . 

On New Year’s Eve, Lucerne city has a fireworks show near the old town. It’s best enjoyed standing on the walkways and bridges along the river. Note that the fireworks start at 8:15, *not* midnight. So this is a good choice if you have small children that can’t stay up late. More info: www.luzern.com

At the stroke of midnight, runners start a nighttime race along the Limmat river north of Zürich. You can choose a variety of distance include marathon, half, or quarter. There is also a short kids run (750m) earlier at 22:00. The course is not lit, so you need to wear a headlamp. My friend did this last year and really enjoyed kicking off the new year in this sporty way.

Online registration closes 27 Dec but you can register in person until an hour before the race. Spots are limited and may sell out. Learn more .

The New Year tradition in the Appenzell region, local dress up in costume with elaborate masks and headdresses. They walk around visiting private homes to wish them a happy new year with song and dance. Celebrations continue into the late evening, with processions in Urnäsch and surrounding villages.

Visitors may observe and take pictures, but are asked keep a polite distance from the performers and private homes, so as not to disturb the locals. This event happens on two separate days, celebrating the new year dates on both the Gregorian and Julian calendars.  Learn more .

It’s not a New Years activity, but the next fun holiday in line. Three Kings Day is January 6, celebrated in much of Switzerland with a special bread sold at most groceries and bakeries.

It has several bread rolls in a circle, one of which contains a tiny figurine of Jesus or a King. The person who finds it is King (or Queen) for the day. The bread comes with a paper crown that the person can wear. You can decide what special treatment the King/Queen gets, often no chores for the day.

Most of the Three Kings Day bread have raisins. But some come with chocolate, which we much prefer. I like the chocolate one from Migros, but Bachmann also has a very nice one.

January Light Festivals

Here are some events and winter festivals happening in January. See more light festivals in Switzerland .

In early January, Lucerne city is filled with about 20 creative light installations built by a variety of artists. It’s free to visit with the lights on at 18:00 every night during the festival. They also have two indoor light and music shows each night, about every 30 mins, tickets required. Learn more .

• When: 11-23 Jan 2024, every evening 18:00 – 22:00
• Where: Lucerne old town and lake promenade
• Cost: free to visit light installations, tickets required for indoor light shows
• More info: www.lichtfestivalluzern.ch

In January, the Grindelwald village hosts a snow festival, where artist teams create sculptures from huge blocks of snow over five days. Visitors can watch teams in action at the Eiger+ plaza in the center of the village. Probably best to visit on the final days so you can see more completed sculptures. Learn more .

In January, the small village of Murten hosts a light festival with 20 light installations around the village. As part of the festival, you can decorate floating lanterns, put a wish inside, then launch them on the lake (CHF 5/lantern). There is also a 20 min light show at the Deutschekirche (aka German church,  see on map ), separate ticket required.

• When: 17-28 Jan 2024, every evening 18:00 – 22:00 
• Where: Murten old town. Parkplatz Pantschau – Ryf 78, 3280 Murten , short walk from Murten old town.
• Cost: CHF 8/adult, children under 16 free but still require a ticket. Limited number of visitors each evening. Light show at the Deutsche Kirche CHF 10/adult, children under 16 free but require a ticket.
• More info: www.murtenlichtfestival.ch

At the end of January, Geneva hosts a festival of lights with 20+ light installations around the city center, particularly along the lakeshore. There are four suggested routes, including shorter family routes and a route to visit just the new installations. It’s free to visit. You can also book 2hr guided tour on Saturdays during the festival for CHF 15.

• When: 19 Jan to 4 Feb 2024, nightly 18:00 to 22:00
• Where: suggested start Geneva Tourist Information Centre, Quai du Mont-Blanc 2
• Cost: free to visit, option guided tour for CHF 15 
• Website: evenements.geneve.ch

Live Performances

This popular Broadway musical has finally made its way to Zurich. This production is performed in English, the original version, by the official Lion King traveling company. This would be a great opportunity to see this show if you aren’t planning to travel to London or New York anytime soon.

Visitor info

• Dates: 1thru 10 March 2024 (not Mondays)
• Cost: tickets starting at CHF 77 (the cheaper ticket has an obstructed view). Book tickets here .
• Website: www.thelionking.ch

How to get there

• Location: Theater 11 – Thurgauerstrasse 7, 8050 Zürich
• Tram stop: short walk from Oerlikon train station
• Parking: directly across from the theater at Dörflistrasse 90, 8050 Zürich

The Zürich orchestra hall hosts concerts for family every month. These concerts take different forms but often include some story telling accompanied by music. Sometimes the orchestra is filled with youth musicians. We’ve been to a few and really enjoyed them. It’s best to get a seat as close to the front to help keep kids engaged.

In January, the concert theme is Cinderella and happens on Sun 14 Jan 2023 at 11:15 and 14:15.  

• Open: Sunday 14 Jan 2024 at 11:15 and 14:15
• Cost: Adult CHF 35, Child to age 12 CHF 10. Book tickets here .
• Website: www.tonhalle-orchester.ch
• Location: Tonhalle Zürich – Claridenstrasse 7, 8002 Zürich
• Tram stop: Bürkliplatz
• Parking: Parkhaus Park Hyatt Zürich – Gotthardstrasse 27, 8002 Zürich

If you need a little more Christmas in your life, the Volkshaus usually hosts a performance of the classic Nutcracker Ballet in January. In 2024, the ballet is performed by the Théâtre Classique company that combines traditional choreography with modern staging. So it may be a little different from your childhood memories.

It’s a small-ish venue, but I’d suggest a balcony seat if possible for the best views.

• Date: Saturday 20 Jan 2024 at 15:00
• Cost: starting at CHF 51.80. Book tickets here .
• Website: www.volkshaus.ch
• Location: Volkshaus Zürich – Stauffacherstrasse 60, 8004 Zürich
• Public transport: Zürich, Helvetiaplatz (Tram 8 / Bus 32)
• Parking: street parking

Temporary Art Exhibitions

Don’t miss this fantastic exhibition with dozens of kimonos, painting and prints from the 18th century to modern times. I visited in early December and it was an absolute highlight of the year. The included audio guide was very helpful in guiding me through the different eras of kimono design, reflecting the society’s cultural and political changes.

I particularly liked the displays showing how kimonos are constructed and fabric dyed and decorated. We also had fun using a digital display to design a kimono then and see the design come to life on screen.

• Dates: thru 7 Jan 2024. Open Tue – Sun 10:00 – 17:00, until 20:00 on Wed.
• Cost: Adult CHF 25, under 16 free
• Website: rietberg.ch
• Location: Halle 550 – Birchstrasse 150, 8050 Zürich
• Transit: short walk from Oerlikon train station  
• Parking: Parkhaus Sihlport – Affolternstrasse 56, 8050 Zürich

On the 50th anniversary of Picasso death, this immersive experience at Lichthalle MAAG Zürich celebrates his art in a unique way. Over 200 of Picasso’s paintings are projected onto walls, the floor and origami elements in this large hall, accompanied by music.

You can book tickets in advance for a specific day and time slot on the hour and half-hour. But you can stay as long as you like. We suggest planning to stay about one hour.

• Dates: 15 Nov 2023 to 28 Jan 2024
• Time: Tu to Sun 10:00 – 18:00 / Fri and Sat open until 20:00
• Cost: Adult CHF 28-31 / Child CHF 16-19. Book tickets here .
• Website: www.imagine-picasso.ch
• Location: Lighthalle MAAG  – Zahnradstrasse 22, 8005 Zürich
• Transit: Zürich Hardbrücke or Escher-Wyss-Platz
• Parking: Parkhaus Pfingstweid – Pfingstweidstrasse 1, 8005 Zürich

In January, Kirche Auf der Egg in Zürich Wollishofen is hosting three light and music shows during January with different themes. In all cases, videos are projected on the chapel walls and ceilings, accompanied with music. You can sit in the church pews or on bean bags on the floor for a more comfortable experience. 

• Location: Kirche Auf der Egg Wollishofen – Auf der Egg 11, 8038 Zürich
• Transit: 5 mins walk from Morgental tram stop (Tram 7)
• Parking: blue zone street parking on Kalchbühlstrasse below the church

Genesis I + II Zürich: thru 7 Jan 2024

We first saw this immersive light and music show at the Luzern Lilu Light Festival a couple years ago. This winter it’s showing at Kirche Auf der Egg in Zürich Wollishofen. The beautiful, mesmerizing, and often bizarre animations are projected on the chapel interior, loosely connected to the Bible stories in Genesis.

You book tickets for a specific day and time slot. You should arrive at least 15 mins before the show so you can be seated before the show begins. The show lasts 40 minutes.

• Dates: 27 Sep 2023 to 7 Jan 2024
• Time: Wed, Fri, Sat 17:45 to 19:30 / Sat 18:15 – 20:00
• Cost: Adult CHF 15 / Youth CHF 9 / Child CHF 6. Book tickets here .
• Website: feverup.com

PixelZoo: thru 3 March 2024

PixelZoo is the “Biggest Aquarium in Europe” with beautiful videos of marine life traveling across the chapel interior. They also have a drawing activity, where your art is then digitized and brought to life.

You book tickets for a specific day and time slot, on the hour and half hour. You can enter any time during your half-hour slot and stay as long as you like. The show lasts 40 minutes, running on a continous loop. Most visitors stay about 60 – 90 mins.

• Time: Wed, Fri, Sat Sun / holidays and weekends 10:00 – 17:00, starting 10 Jan weekdays 12:00 – 18:00 / last entry 1 hour before closing
• Cost: Adult CHF 18 / Youth CHF 14 / Child CHF 12 / Family CHF 13/person. Slightly more on weekends. Book tickets here .
• Website: https://pixelzoo.com/zurich

Hodler & Klee Immersive Light Show: 10 Jan to 3 March 2024

This light show celebrates Swiss painters Paul Klee and Ferdinand Hodler, highlighting their role in shaping the country’s art scene. Their oversized paintings are transformed into a beautiful multimedia display, elegantly dancing across the hall’s walls and floors. The show animates landscapes of mountains, castles, trees, and streams. For those who get bored by traditional museums, this exhibition offers a unique way to enjoy this art.

This light show was presented at the Zürich MAAG Halle in 2019, as shown in the following video. The exhibition in at Kirche Auf der Egg Zurich will appear different as venue size and shape are quite different.

• Dates: 10 Jan to 3 March 2024
• Time: Wed & Fri 10:00 to 13:00 / Sat 17:45 – 19:45 / Sun 17:45 – 18:45 
• Cost: Adult CHF 22 / Youth CHF 16 / Child CHF 12 / Family CHF 13/person. Book tickets here .
• Website: https://feverup.com

Special winter activities for January

Here are some special non-skiing activities to enjoy in January.

Many mountains offer night sledding, usually only on weekends or a couple nights a month. So check the schedules carefully before making plans. Here are a couple we’d suggest for January.

Lenzerheide “Light Ride” – This night sledding is a race between four sledders with lighted gaming elements along the course. You have to buy tickets and reserve sleds ahead of time. It happens every Wednesday and Saturday night from 27 Dec to 16 March 2024. You use the Lenzerheide Rothorn gondola to reach the sledding route ( Voa Principala 80, 7078 Vaz/Obervaz ). Learn more .

Flumserberg Prodalp offers night sledding on Thursdays and Saturdays from 28 Dec 2023 to 2 March 2024 (except 11 & 18 Jan 2023). The sledding route is open from 19:00 to 21:00. It is accessed with a gondola starting at from Tannenheim ( Flumserbergstrasse 155, 8897 Flumserberg Tannenheim ). You can rent sleds on-site, no reservation required. The Prodalp mountain restaurant. Learn more .

See more night sledding in Switzerland in this Famigros article (German only).

If weather and snow conditions are right, you can enjoy a snowshoe tour in the mountain lit only by the moon. You need to book these events well in advance as spots are limited.

I did a full moon snowshoe tour Atzmännig, which was a tough uphill climb (400m), but relatively short. At the top, we had gorgeous views across the Zürich Oberland countryside, with little twinkling lights in each village. We hiked back down, sliding through deep snow at time. Then we warmed up in a cozy chalet with fondue. Definitely a special experience!

This one cost CHF 77 including snowshoe rental, apero drink, and fondue dinner. Their January date is sold out but spots are available for February and March. Book here .

For January, here are a few options that still have spots at the time I’m writing this. Tours may be cancelled due to poor weather and/or snow conditions.

• Illgau – Wed 24 Jan 2024 and Thurs 25 Jan 2024. Learn more .
• Sattel Hochstückli – 13 & 27 January 2024 (assuming enough snow). CHF 59/person which includes gondola ticket and snowshoes. Fondue can be separately reserved at the Mostelberg restaurant. Learn more .
• Brunni Alpthal – possible on weekends, minimum 4 people. CHF 85 for guide, snowshoes, fondue, and sled for the way back. Learn more .
• Maria Rickenbach – Full moon tour on 27 Jan 2024. Learn more and sign up here .

Some communities and mountain areas host evening winter walks that are lit by lanterns and other festive illuminations. Below are a few near Zürich you might try.

Sattel Hochstuckli  – 2 km loop over the suspension bridge. Every Saturday from 2 Dec to 9 March 2024, as well as 27 Dec 2023 and 31 Dec 2023. Cost: CHF 28/person to ride the gondola. We suggest reserving a fondue dinner at Restaurant Mostelberg after the lantern walk. Learn more .

Schwägalp Lanternliweg – 40 mins loop. Free. Open Thurs, Fri and Sat through March 2023 and every day during the Christmas holiday break. Reserve for fondue dinner at Gasthaus Passhöhe or Säntis Hotel. Learn more .

Laternenweg Unteriberg – 1.3 km with 40 candle-lit lanterns. Daily from 17:00 – 22:00 through 6 Jan 2024. Free. Learn more .

Zugerberg Lichterweg – Ride the Zugerberg funicular train to reach this 1.2 km winter path lit with candles and other lights. The path leads to a nativity scene in the forest. Open 6 Dec 2023 to 7 Jan 2024. The lights go on at 16:30. The funicular runs every 15 mins from 17:00 – 21:00. Cost for funicular: CHF 11.50/adult. Discount for children & SBB Half-fare. Free with GA. Learn more .

See more Lantern Paths .

If January is cold, you can ice skate in the wild on a few frozen paths (aka Eisweg) in southwest Switzerland. They use machines to smooth over the path, so it relatively smooth and safe for skating.

Depending on weather conditions, they may not be open all winter season or at all, so check the status carefully. 

As of 28 Dec 2023, the two skating paths in the Engadin region are open:

• Engadin near Scuol – 3 km loop / day pass Adult CHF 12, Child 7, skate rental CHF 5 / map / info
• Madulain near St Moritz – 3 km loop / free, no skate rental / map / info

These ones aren’t open yet:

• Grütsch near Chur – 2.7 km one way / free to use, skate rental CHF 5 / map / info / trail status updates on FB
• Skateline Abula – This is most well known skating path, the one you probably have seen on social media. It’s been closed since Covid times and still closed in 2023/24 due to permits and lack of workers. Check status here .

Bonus: Walk & skate on a frozen lake

January is usually the coldest month, so it’s your best chance to walk or skate on a frozen lake. But with warming global temps, the lakes don’t freeze as often anymore. But if temperatures drop under freezing for a least a week, check the lake status to see what’s open.

Some winters you can walk on the Oeschinensee lake, where they prepare a path on the ice for walkers and sometimes for ice skating. Check their website for details . We’ve also skated on the the Partnunsee near Davos Klosters, but it doesn’t freeze very often. 

Hot & cold swimming

If you haven’t tried cold water swimming yet, combining it with a sauna boat would be a good first experience. In Zürich, you can rent a sauna boat, which you can float out into of the lake. You stoke a real fire to heat the sauna, then jump into the cold lake to cool off (around 3-7 C in January).

I have two groups of friends that have done it and highly recommend it. It costs CHF 450 for 2-6 people. Rent the Zürich sauna boat here . You can also rent a sauna boat in Lucerne .

Switzerland has many thermal baths and indoor swimming with heated pools. If you are looking one near your hotel, just google “Thermalbad” and you are sure to find one nearby. If you are in the Zürich area, here are a few of our favorites near the city.

Hürlimann Bad & Spa Zurich is right in the city, with a fantastic heated pool on the rooftop with a view over the city. We like their Roman-Irish spa ritual, in which you visit a series of rooms including steam rooms, pools with massage jets, quiet lounge rooms, and more. Great for adults that want to relax, not the best option with kids.

• Website:  www.aqua-spa-resorts.ch
• Location:  in Zürich center –  Brandschenkestrasse 150, 8002 Zürich
• Open:  daily 9:00 – 22:00

For families, we like Therme Zurzach which has four large indoor/outdoor heated pools, most with massage jets, bubbles, and waterfalls. We like the hot & cold pools and “dead sea” pool with high salt content so you float effortlessly.

Kids will love the powerful river pool, which is best enjoyed with a flotation device if they aren’t strong swimmers or are not tall enough. For younger children, there is an indoor kiddie pool with sprays and a little slide. The sauna rooms and some pools are adults only; so check the signs before using each feature. There is a small café inside the facilities.

• Website:  www.thermezurzach.ch
• Location:  Dr. Martin Erb-Strasse 11 Bad Zurzach
• Open:  daily 8:00 – 22:00

See more thermal baths we like near Zurich

This chilly trend has become quite popular in the Zurich area in recent years. I tried it for the first time in Nov 2023 with friends and found it very exhilarating! If you are new to the cold plunge, best to familiarize yourself with some cold swimming safety tips first.

Zürich city offers winter swimming at Bad Utoquai on weekends , from 4 Nov 2023 to 31 March 2024. It costs CHF 150 for the season, which includes membership of the Swiss Cold Training Association , entrance to the Bad Utoquai swimming area (but no showers or toilets) and supervision by lifeguards.

• Dates: 4 Nov 2023 to 31 March 2024 / Sat and Sun 11:00 to 14:00
• Location: Bad Utoquai – 8 min walk from Zürich Bellevue or Zürich Stadelhofen
• Website: www.swisscoldtraining.ch

Discounted winter sports

Usually January is the coldest month in Switzerland, with good snow conditions at most ski resorts. See all our winter sport posts . 

However, Switzerland sometimes has a warm spell in late December or early January. In this case, the slopes at lower elevations may not be fully covered with snow and/or conditions may be muddy and wet. So check conditions carefully before choosing a ski destination.

If you travel by train to go skiing, you get a discount on your train travel, ski pass and ski rental by booking through the Snow n’Rail offer.

Below are participating ski resorts for 2023/24 that are within a day trip of Zürich or Lucerne. The offer conditions vary between ski resorts, so check the details.

Lake Lucerne region

• Engelberg Titlis – Dynamic pricing. Up to 30% off ski pass and train journey. see our Engelberg review
• Stoos – 10% off ski pass, 30% off train journey in January (20% off after that). see our Stoos review
• Klewenalp-Stockhütte – 20% off ski pass, 20% off train journey. See Klewenalp snowshoe trail
• Meiringen-Hasliberg – 20% off ski pass, 20% off train journey. See our Hasliberg review

South of Zurich:

• Pizol – 10% off ski pass, 20% off train journey. See our Pizol review
• Flumserberg – 10% off ski pass, 20% off train journey. See our Flumserberg review
• Braunwald – 10% off ski pass, 20% off train journey. See our Braunwald review
• Flims Laax Falera – 10% off ski pass, 20% off train journey, 15% off on ski rentals
• Arosa Lenzerheide – 20% off train journey, 15% off on ski rentals
• Davos Klosters – 10% off ski pass, 20% off train journey

See all Snow n’Rail offers .

Most weekends during ski season, Migros hosts Family Ski Days at different ski resorts around Switzerland. For about CHF 95-110 per family, everyone gets a ski pass and lunch and the kids can participate in a ski race. In 2023/24 season, you also get 50% off your train journey to the ski resort.

These sell out quickly so check the availability and sign up now on Migros Family Ski Day page .

On weekends from January to March, Migros also hosts “ Grand Prix Migros .” This is the biggest ski race for kids in Switzerland, held at various ski resorts around the country. Any child aged 8 to 16 may participate, not just ski clubs. They also offer a Mini Race for children under 8.

You must register two weeks before the event. The Grand Prix race costs CHF 25, the mini race CHF 15.

In January, here are the dates:

• 7 Jan 2024 – Saas Fee
• 14 Jan 2024 – Arosa Lenzerheide
• 21 Jan 2024 – Gstaad Schönried
• 27 Jan 2025 – Nendaz

Register and learn more about Grand Prix Migros

At the Aletsch Arena ski resort, kids and youth up to 19 years old ski free on every Saturday of the ski season. If you are traveling by train, you can also get a redirection on your train ticket as part of the  SBB Snow n’Rail offer .

They also offer free ski lessons for beginners on three dates, including 13 Jan 2024 at Riederalp and 20 Jan 2024 at Fiescheralp. You need to pre-register directly with the ski school. On the days of the ski lessons, children and youth can rent equipment for free at participating sports stores.

Read our review  –  Book your tickets

The Dolder ice rink offers a few free skating days through winter season. In January, you can skate for free on Sunday 7 Jan 2024, including free skate rental. These days are usually quite crowded, so best to arrive early.

 They also host “ice discos” with music and lights about once a month, including 30 Dec 2022 and 21 Jan 2023. Learn more .

Fun places to eat in January

Although the Christmas markets close before Christmas, you can still get that Christmas market vibe at these festive venues. See also our suggestions for Special Places for Cheese Fondue in Zürich .

All winter long, you can enjoy visit the “winter magic” festival on Uetliberg, the small mountain overlooking Zürich. To reach the top, it’s a short train ride from the Zürich main station. The event includes festive lights, market stalls, food booths, mulled wine and activities like candle dipping and curling.

The popup fondue chalet is open through end of January, reservations recommended. More info: utokulm.ch

At this festive winter garden in Zürich city, you can enjoy fondue or raclette under fairy lights with fires and blankets to help keep you warm.

The food is self-serve, ordered at the counter (no reservation required). On some nights, there are other food and drink stalls open around the garden. If you need to stay warm, you can reserve a table in their indoor “Winterstübli.” More info: www.fraugerold.ch

Cultural Events

Here are a few popular events that happen in January. 

Every January, this small village in the mountains west of Montreux hosts a magical hot air balloon festival.

Your festival ticket allows you to wander through the balloon launch area, getting quite close to the action. The main event is watching the balloons launch and fill the sky with beautiful colors throughout the day. For a special experience, you can event book a ride in a balloon or a helicopter, so you can see the event from the air.

There are other amusements including food and drink stands, a treasure hunt and face paining for children, exhibition on the history of balloon flight with a 4D simulator, and virtual reality tour of local cheese production.

You may want to coordinate your visit with one of the events, like the air shows, night time illuminations or musical performances. See the daily program for details . 

• When: 20-28 Jan 2024
• Where: Chateau d’Oex / Limited parking at Coop ( Rte de la Gare 4, 1660 Château-d’Œx )
• Cost: Festival ticket CHF 10/adult
• More info: www.festivaldeballons.ch

If you can’t make it to Chateux d’Oex, Sattel Hochstuckli hosts a smaller balloon event on 7 Jan 2023. Learn more .

This prestigious polo tournament is played on the frozen lake adjacent to the St Moritz village. The tournament is typically held over the last weekend in January,  this year on 27-29 Jan 2023. Games are held during the day, from around 11:00 to 16:00. Check the exact program on their website .

A ticket to sit in the stands costs CHF 110/per day, which includes a blanket, canapes and a glass of champagne. But you can also watch for free just standing around the edges of the snowy polo field. Book tickets to Snow Polo World Cup .

• Where: directly across from St Moritz train station
• Cost: CHF 110/adult
• More info: www.snowpolo-stmoritz.com

This renowned culinary festival brings together acclaimed chefs from around the globe to showcase their skills. At this event, you can book spots for individual events like gourmet dinners prepared by the guest chefs and wine tastings led by expert sommeliers.

Prices are high (most dinners start around CHF 270/person) and spots book out far in advance. But if you love fancy food, this is an amazing opportunity to experience some of the best the gastronomy world has to offer without traveling the world. It’s also a great excuse to take the beautiful train route between Chur and Samedan that crosses the famous Landwasser Viadukt.

• When: 29 Jan to 3 Feb 2024, dinners most evenings at 19:00
• Where: various hotels in St Moritz and neighboring villages
• Cost: starting around CHF 270/person for gourmet dinners
• More info: www.stmoritz-gourmetfestival.ch

What do you like to do in January?

• TAGS: January , Winter , Zurich winter

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Hi! I’m Tanya and our family has been living & hiking in Switzerland since 2005, collecting dozens of fun hikes and activities for all ages and abilities. More about us…

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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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Need more help planning your Swiss vacation?

The Ultimate Swiss Rail Pass Guide

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The 14 Most Magical Places to Visit in Switzerland This Winter

With an enticing combination of cities, charming villages, and stunning natural landscapes (hello, Alps), Switzerland is easily one of the most beautiful countries in the world. But come wintertime, those aforementioned sights become downright magical: Think city squares dusted with snow, and mountainsides transformed into the best ski slopes on the planet.

Whether you want to cozy up in a luxurious hotel or spend your entire trip in the great outdoors, there are plenty of travel-worthy reasons to plan a Switzerland winter vacation. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best seasonal activities across the country, all guaranteed to make any traveler suddenly embrace the coldest season.

This article has been updated since its original publish date.

Most European countries are known for their  Christmas markets , and Switzerland is no exception. You can find seasonal cheer in nearly every city and town, though Basel earns a few extra points for having  two markets: one in Barfüsserplatz, and one in Münsterplatz. Here you can find hundreds of vendors selling handmade goods and treats from their stands, as well as plenty of twinkling lights and decorations to really get you in the proper spirit.

The Glacier Express

If you really want to maximize the magic of your wintry vacation, consider booking a train ride to get from town to town. There are several cross-country options available, but we’re big fans of the  Glacier Express this time of year. Not only does the train connect two of Switzerland’s biggest mountain resorts (Zermatt and St. Moritz), but it traverses some of the most beautiful sites in the central Swiss Alps and offers onboard perks like panoramic viewing windows and three-course meals.

Visiting  Switzerland during ski season is hardly a question, but most snow bunnies won’t venture outside their respective resort towns. This year, make your Swiss vacation more interesting and book a trip to  Lucerne . The gorgeous city features activities you won’t find on the slopes—like museum tours and ferry rides on Lake Lucerne—while still offering easy access (via train and bus) to dozens of  winter sport resorts .

Of course, if you  do want a purely on-piste Switzerland winter vacation, the village of Zermatt will mark all the boxes. Fresh powder? Check. Heli-skiing? Check. Great après-ski venues? Double check. It even boasts a few added bonuses, like a city-wide ban on cars (i.e. the freshest air imaginable) and views of the Matterhorn.

Interlaken is the unofficial adventure capital of Switzerland, and its  winter activities are much more varied and unique than in other major cities. Sure, you can go skiing and snowshoeing here. But you can also go paragliding (or skydiving) down snowy mountains, book an hour at a curling rink, or take a winter kayaking tour on Lake Brienz.

Jura Vaudois Nature Park

Just a few miles north of Lake Geneva’s coastline, Jura Vaudois Nature Park occupies roughly 131,213 acres of prime Swiss real estate. Here you can find dense spruce forests and native wildlife, as well as a few hotels, restaurants, and cheesemongers set up in traditional mountain huts. The park becomes even more peaceful during the winter months, though you can still enjoy some cross-country skiing and snowshoeing if you simply must stay busy.

St. Moritz is typically associated with glitz and glam, and for good reason. The sky-high resort features some of the best slopes and accommodations in the country—just check out  Badrutt’s Palace , a Readers’ Choice Award winner for six years running. With luxurious guestrooms and Michelin-starred dining venues (not to mention the most glorious indoor pool imaginable), the resort encompasses the extravagance that makes St. Moritz pop off the map.

Glacier 3000

Glacier 3000 is a sports complex located high in the Swiss Alps, easy to reach via bus or cable car from Gstaad. The resort offers every winter sport imaginable, including skiing, dog sledding, mountain climbing, and glacier hikes. Brave travelers are also welcome to walk across the Peak Walk by Tissot, a gravity-defying suspension bridge that connects two mountain peaks.

Château-d’Oex

It’s a scientific fact that places get infinitely more magical when viewed from a hot air balloon. So you can imagine the proverbial sparks that fly during the  Festival International de Ballons , an annual event held in the tiny town of Château-d’Oex. During the nine-day festival (the next one takes place from January 19-29), visitors can watch the horizon fill up with some 60 colorful balloons, take rides in the balloons, enjoy live music and airplane shows, and participate in plenty of other kid-friendly activities.

Though there are plenty of reasons to visit the upscale resort town of Gstaad during the winter, we’re here for one primary reason:  Gstaad Palace . This award-winning hotel looks like a fairytale castle in the mountains (complete with towers and turrets), and it encourages guests to cozy up with spa treatments, truffle fondue, and pasta cooking classes. If you do decide to venture out, ski slopes and toboggan runs are just outside the door.

Lake Oeschinen

Lake Oeschinen (or Oeschinensee) is a dazzling body of water tucked away in the Bernese Alps. The lake is a popular winter destination thanks to a wealth of outdoor activities like ice fishing, tobogganing, skiing, and snowboarding—all enjoyed while surrounded by snow-capped mountains and evergreen trees. There are even some cafes scattered around the area so you can enjoy a nice mug of hot chocolate between excursions.

For an action-packed winter vacation without the blinding glamour of the major ski resorts, consider a trip to Arosa. The picturesque mountain village offers access to some 140 miles of slopes, as well as the well-respected Arosa Ski School. It’s also home to the Tschuggen Grand Hotel , a five-star property famous for its sprawling spa with metal-and-glass skylights jutting out of the mountainside.

The Stoosbahn

In late 2017, Switzerland made headlines for opening the  world’s steepest funicular in the alpine resort of Stoos. The so-called Stoosbahn, or Schwyz-Stoos funicular, remains impressive to this day, for both its superlative maximum gradient (110 percent, no big deal) and abundance of fun winter activities. Once you get to the top of Stoos, you can enjoy an abundance of pristine ski slopes, toboggan runs, cross-country trails, and more.

Looking to go off-grid? You can’t do much better than the highest official town in Europe, sitting at an altitude of more than 5,000 feet. Davos is a relatively popular ski destination but has far fewer crowds than other towns, so you can take advantage of those slopes without bumping into the “see and be seen” crowd along the way. 

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Switzerland in January: Everything You Need to Know

Planning a trip to Switzerland in January and need tips for weather, skiing, prices, places to visit, and things to do? We’ve got you covered!

January in Switzerland is winter and usually the coldest month of the year, but that makes it perfect for snow and winter sports. From skiing and snowboarding to ice skating and snowshoeing, January has fantastic snow conditions and quality. Mountain towns will be bustling and big cities will also have plenty going on.

Whether you’re spending your time on a mountain or a charming Swiss town, this detailed guide covers everything you need to know to have the best vacation specifically during the month of January.

Switzerland Weather in January

In January, Switzerland’s lower altitude cities like Zurich will experience average temperatures lows and highs of 28˚F to 40˚F (-2˚C to -4˚C), while higher altitude places like Zermatt will see averages of 18˚F to 32˚F (-8˚C to -0˚C). It’s very important to consider the altitude of the cities you’re visiting in Switzerland, as it will always have a significant effect on the weather.

January is the official start of the winter season in Switzerland, with endless amounts of snow covering nearly all of country. Bigger cities and streets won’t have quite as much snow as the high altitude resorts and glaciers (like Zermatt) will, but the cold temperatures have set no matter the location.

On average, you can expect January to be cold and snowy with occasional icy winds in most places. The ski resorts and mountains will definitely see the coldest temperatures, while lower regions of the country will have milder temperatures. No matter what city or mode of transportation you use, plan to bring some good walking boots for the snow and a winter coat for the cold.

Average January Temperature in Switzerland (By City)

Switzerland snow & skiing in january.

Ski resorts are the luckiest when it comes to snow in January as it will be steadily flurrying down the high altitude portions of Switzerland throughout the month. The snow quality is excellent, creating fluffy drifts and well-packed pistes on the slopes. The snowfall will increase slowly over the course of January, with the best snows yet to come in February.

Farther South and in the lowland areas, snow won’t be quite as prevalent. Flurries will come and go, but the amount will not be quite as heavy as what you’ll find in the Northern areas of Switzerland.

If skiing is a major factor in your Swiss vacation, January will not disappoint. You’ll have no problem skiing the majority of runs at all major mountains, especially from the middle of the month onward.

Average January Snowfall in Switzerland (By Ski Resort)

*Exact snowfall totals on-mountain versus in-town can be hard to track and differ from source to source. We have done our best to achieve accurate averages, but discrepancies can happen.

January Affordability & Crowds in Switzerland

Crowd levels begin to ramp up in Switzerland this month, as January features arguably the best skiing of the year. Throughout the month, you’ll notice more and more people are flooding the country in order to catch some of the best snow conditions. While snow sports are the top attraction in January, people will also take this time to visit major cities at the front and back ends of their ski vacations.

January rates and affordability tend to be on the higher side, as hotels and transport prepare for an influx of visitors this month. Lift passes and experiences will also have a higher cost due to demand; peak ski season will affect a lot of rates around Switzerland.

Despite the increase in price for a vacation in Switzerland, it’s good to know that all hotels and restaurants will be back open and running to accommodate all the tourists coming in this season. Planning ahead and pre-booking experiences will help you to have a much more enjoyable time on vacation – don’t leave anything up to chance!

Best Switzerland Ski Resorts in January

All the Swiss ski resorts and public ski areas are open in the month of January, allowing visitors to revel in the perfect conditions all month long. No matter where you choose to go, snow quality should be decent this time of year, but crowds will vary based on the popularity and accessibility of the resort you choose.

Zermatt is what most travelers picture when they think of Switzerland – a snowy alpine village sitting at the base of the iconic Matterhorn. With the highest altitude in the country, 200 miles of groomers and access to Cervinia, Italy, Zermatt-Matterhorn is hard to beat when it comes to planning the perfect ski vacation in Switzerland.

The slopes at Zermatt are suitable for all level of skiers, with winding freeride trails that seem to go on for miles – and they do! Zermatt has some of the longest runs from top to bottom, including connecting pathways at Breuil-Cervinia, Italy. You can access this connection point by taking the extensive gondola system all the way to the top of the Klein Matterhorn .

Some of the lifts and runs will lead skiers to one of the dozen great restaurants on the mountain that offer ski-in/ski-out access. Zermatt village also has great hospitality for a ski trip, embodying the old world feeling of Swiss tradition and culture.

Verbier has some of the most intense terrain in Switzerland, drawing thousands of expert skiers to its slopes. The resort is massive, claiming over 240 miles of pistes on it’s sweeping slopes. The sheer number of runs available means that you won’t get bored on a weeklong ski vacation here.

Verbier is equipped with tons of freeriding terrain that offer a bit of a challenge. Plus, the Tortin – Europe’s steepest descent – is the thrill-seeker’s dream. In addition to the advanced terrain, Verbier is also part of the Four Valleys ski area , which means you can ski Thyon, Nendaz and Veysonnaz with the same lift pass.

The village has world class accommodations with stunning views of Mont Blanc and a wealth of shops and restaurants to complete your vacation. Verbier also happens to be a hotspot for apres ski and nightlife, which skiers should definitely consider and take part in when choosing this resort.

St. Moritz may be the ritziest resort for a ski vacation, but the intermediate terrain found here is second to none. The accommodations are stellar, the food is excellent and the atmosphere of luxury European flair is perfect for the skier who wants to see and be seen. Known as a two-time host of the winter Olympics, St. Moritz is the perfect January destination for ice skating, sledding, Nordic skiing and even Snow Polo (more on that below).

World Cup quality courses line the impeccable slopes at St. Moritz, allowing more adventurous skiers to try their hand at runs built for the pros. You can also head to Corviglia Snow Park for 30 different obstacles that will keep you busy all day long. However, any level of skier can find the right trails for them in Corvatsch and nearby Diavolezza.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a quaint and beautiful small town that sits at the base of the towering Eiger mountain. Despite its size, Grindelwald has some of the most thrilling experiences in Switzerland, both winter and Summer. During January, skiing is the chief activity and there are multiple areas to do it. The Bodmi Arena offers great beginner slopes and ski lessons for children to gain confidence before joining their parents on the blues at Grindelwald ski resort. Night skiing is even available on select nights when the weather permits.

This regions is known for its reliable snow and lengthy runs from the top, giving skiers plenty of time on the snow instead of the lift. A great benefit of choosing Grindelwald as your base is the fact that your lift pass includes the connecting Wengen resort , plus you can see the Eiger glacier from the village or travel via cable car to see it up close. From Grindelwald, you also gain access to the Jungfrau region and Lauterbrunnen via train.

Engelberg is close to Lucerne and Zurich, making it an ideal choice for those who want to get one or two days of skiing into their Swiss tour. In the Summer, this area is popular for hiking and sightseeing, but it’s transformed into a winter playground during the ski season. There are a variety of pistes that accommodate beginners to experts, but advanced skiers will prefer the freeriding terrain off-piste. Powderhounds will also love the snowpack here.

The small town of Engelberg is situated at the base of Mount Titlis and hosts thousands of guests this time of year. Titlis is the main ski area and is most suitable for less experienced skiers in the beginner or intermediate category. There are nearly 50 miles of runs that fit this level, with a few expert runs dabbled in. Though skiing is the main attraction in January, there are also plenty of winter guests who make the trek up to Mount Titlis for the views.

At Andermatt , old meets new with new renovations and luxury accommodations built right alongside traditional Swiss chocolate box houses, small shops and local restaurants. The village is unique in that Andermatt maintains historic buildings and original woodwork all while keeping up to date with state-of-the-art renovations and facilities.

The resort has undergone quite extensive renovations in the last few years, helping it to skyrocket in popularity. One of the biggest highlights of the renovation is the train that runs between Andermatt and Disentis for apres ski parties .

Andermatt is a highly active mountain that appeals to advanced and expert skiers who love the steep slopes and off-piste powder. Though it’s best for highly skilled skiers, there are still plenty of families and intermediate skiers that flock to Andermatt for the season, primarily due to the great snow conditions. However, the winter storms can shut down the mountain throughout the month, so the resort isn’t as reliable as others on this list.

Gstaad-Saanen

Gstaad-Saanen is an area that includes several villages in one, sharing a resort that is geared mostly towards beginners and cross country skiers. The resort is easily accessible by one of the many mountain railways that run through Bernese Oberland, giving visitors a magical experience. Gstaad is also home to one of the most modern gondolas, which was designed by Porsche to lift 10 passengers up Mount Eggli in record time.

Families will love this destination, since the resort is built with wide, sweeping blue runs, ski elevators and multiple learning facilities for beginners and young children. Overall, the experience at Gstaad will be more laid back, but also more luxurious than others on this list. If you want a relaxing ski trip for your family, plus excellent lodging and dining options, Gstaad-Saanen is a great choice.

Saas-Fee is also features some of the longest runs in Switzerland and boasts incredible views and snow quality thanks to the resort’s multiple glaciers nested in the mountains. Saas Fee tends to be a little less crowded than Zermatt, but it’s got a lot to offer skiers. The resort is great for learners and has a whole separate ski area where beginners can comfortably sort out their skills.

In addition to the abundance of beginner slopes, there are another 26 trails set for intermediate skiers, which makes Saas-Fee most ideal for families with a range of skills. Despite this, freestyle skiers are among Saas-Fee faithfuls, getting their thrills on the Morenia snow park moguls and obstacles. Saas-Fee also has an entire mountain for snowboarders to shred.

Crans-Montana

Crans-Montana is close to Geneva and Lausanne, so it’s all but guaranteed to have a fair amount of traffic, especially on the weekends. This resort is focused on good family fun with loads of activities for children, like Snow Island snow tubing park and the Chalet Alabama indoor action sports center. Despite the accommodations for little ones, Crans-Montana terrain is actually better suited for intermediate and advanced skiers.

The 86 miles of terrain may not have the reliable snow quality as others on this list, but Crans-Montana places a high priority on snow making capabilities and covers nearly a third of their runs with snow machines. The resort is also great for apres ski and nightlife, which is always an important part of your ski vacation.

Best Things to Do in Switzerland in January

January in Switzerland has no shortage of great activities and places to go. We’ll put together a list of some of the best things you should consider on your January trip to Switzerland, including the best cities to explore and attractions to see.

Explore Bern

Switzerland’s capital might be busier than usual this time of year, but it’s all the more exciting seeing the bustling streets and snowcapped historic buildings. A walk along the Aare River after touring the Old Town is particularly whimsical in January, especially if you’re blessed with flurries for the occasion. One thing you won’t want to miss on an Alstadt tour through Bern is the Minster Terrace, where adult and kid-friendly games and activities meet old world charm and decor.

Bern’s cultural landscape includes lots of history, science and art museums. The Einstein Museum is great place to spend your time, and a tour through the Clock Tower or the “Zytglogge” is highly recommended.

Along with the Medieval architecture and historic areas, we recommend strapping on a pair of skates and heading to Pirouettte, the city’s public ice skating rink. The Gurten mountain is also available for tobogganing in January , making Bern a family friendly haven. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, you can sign up for cross-country skiing at Nature Park Gantrisch .

Visit Geneva

January is considered one of the best months to visit Geneva for the splendor of winter. Geneva is the home of Europe’s United Nations and is very influenced by the French. Activities you won’t want to miss while in Geneva include boat cruises, museums tours, chocolate tasting and walking tours. And no trip is complete to Geneva without witnessing the grand Jet d’Eau on the shores of Lake Geneva.

Top of your list should be a walking tour through the Old Town to discover historic attractions like St. Peter’s Cathedral . After a day of walking though, you’ll want to schedule a relaxation break at one of Geneva’s many luxury spas or bathhouses. Shopping the after-Christmas sales at luxury brand stores are a favorite pastime for the locals, and we’d suggest scheduling a chocolate or fondue tasting adventure in between experiences.

If you’re spending a full week here, you’ll also want to explore the many museums on site, like the Patek Philipe Museum or walk through an art district like Quartier de Bains. Geneva is also known for a blend of cuisines and great nightlife for those who don’t shy away from experiencing the city after dark.

Walk through Lucerne

The “City of Lights” is a beautiful sight to behold especially in the winter. While the Christmas festivities may be over, that doesn’t stop Lucerne from shining brightly all winter long. In January, the Old Town’s intricately painted architecture, the Medieval Chapel Bridge, and walks along the nine towers at Musegg Wall are transformed into fairytale settings dusted with snow. Though it may be chilly, we highly suggest taking a stroll through the Glacier Garden which houses artifacts from the Little Ice Age .

Walking tours of Lucerne are a must in January, making for great photos and offering delightful souvenirs for your trip. In addition to the many things you can do in the cold, sometimes staying in your hotel is a great option. Beautiful luxury hotels in the middle of the city have warm, spacious hot tubs and gourmet chocolate and Swiss fondue on their menus. There’s nothing more romantic than a cozy evening in Lucerne.

Tour the Jungfrau Region

The Jungfrau Region of Switzerland is a small part of the greater Bernese Oberland and home to such popular destinations as Jungfraujoch (The Top of Europe) , Schilthorn, Grindelwald and Interlaken. Nestled between the Bernese Alps, these attractions are even more spectacular in winter and make a great list of places to go in a weeklong vacation to Switzerland.

Jungfraujoch has the highest railway station in the continent and one of the tallest peaks in the world. It will be chilly in January but no less spectacular. On the train up the mountain, you’ll get impeccable panoramic views of the mountain tops and be treated to a delicious meal on your journey. 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.

Other great mountain scaling attractions like Schilthorn, a cable car ride to the James Bond exhibit , have mountain peak restaurants that overlook the Swiss Alps in all their wintery glory. Funiculars in the regions like Harder Kulm and Allmendhubel give you a bird’s eye view of the deepest valleys in Switzerland. While hiking this area is not permitted in the winter, visitors can still get a full range of panoramic mountain views from the mountain railways like Kleine Scheidegg which travels between Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen.

Take the Glacier Express

Speaking of mountain railways, perhaps the most famous of all is The Glacier Express . This spectacular train ride gives passengers gorgeous winter views of the snow covered mountains and scenic alpine villages. Food and beverages are served along the way to make your experience even more comfortable and relaxing.

The Glacier Express travels from St. Moritz to Zermatt, making it an excellent choice of travel if you plan to ski or visit either of these incredible towns. Along the journey you’ll have clear views of several historic castles, you’ll pass through 91 tunnels and cross 291 mountain bridges. Most passengers highly recommend the slow 8-hour journey as it’s one of the most scenic escapes in Switzerland.

Visit Zurich

Zurich is a fascinating place to be in January, with crisp winter air and occasional snow flurries. While it’s not the capital city, Zurich comes pretty close to Bern with the amount of historic districts, cultural experiences and foot traffic it has. While here, you’ll want to choose from a huge list of options and determine which is most important to you in a day or week spent in Zurich.

For example, you could opt to spend time browsing the many different museums and art galleries like the National Museum or Zoological Museum . If you follow the cultural route, book a walking tour of the Old Town where you can view Zurich’s collection of well-preserved Medieval structures dating back to the 1400s. If winter sports are more your speed, Zurich also has a public ice rink and winter hikes up Uetliberg Mountain.

No matter what you put on your list of must-do’s, we suggest making sure delicious food is in your itinerary. Cheese fondue is a staple in winter, and lots of restaurants in Zurich will be serving up this Swiss specialty. Be sure to check out the Lindt Home of Chocolate where you can experience the nine foot chocolate fountain.

January Events in Switzerland

In addition to the events and celebrations listed below, it’s important to note that most or many businesses in Switzerland will be closed on New Year’s Day (January 1) and Epiphany (January 6), so plan accordingly!

Harder-Potschete Parade

Just after New Year’s Day, Interlaken becomes a haunted village, crawling with mystery creatures called the Potschen who work for the Hardermann. This eerie tradition has been celebrated for decades with a procession of the Hardermann, his wife and his followers (all wearing elaborate masks), accompanied by live traditional music. Afterwards, the crowds gather in the local pubs for more music and drinks.

Snow Polo World Cup

Snow Polo is a unique event held in St. Moritz every January, where participants and spectators travel from all over the world. Polo has a rich history, but Snow Polo is a relatively new twist on the traditional sport. Teams gather to play on a hard snowpack that sits atop a lake of ice in the ritzy ski resort of St. Moritz, while onlookers dine on gourmet food and sip delicious local wine.

Silvesterchlausen

This ancient tradition is known as the “official” start of the New Year in Switzerland , taking place on January 13 instead of January 1. In Appenzell, particularly, the day is celebrated with a hive of “mummers” brilliantly dressed to represent different aspects of Swiss life, who knock on each door to sing or yodel a merry tune for the New Year.

World Snow Festival

Grindelwald is host to this artistic event, where sculptors come from far and wide to display their talents. Festival goers will have the privilege of watching each snow sculpting team construct their masterpiece over a five day period. At the end of the event, each snow sculpture is illuminated with colorful lights . Sculptures of all sorts remain on display for as long as they can last.

International Balloon Festival

This beautiful spectacle lasts for over a week, hosted by the self-proclaimed capital of hot air ballooning: Chateau d’Oex. This fun family event showcases all forms of air transportation over the course of 9 days, including airplanes, paragliders, hang gliders and more. At night, the sky is filled with colorful balloons , along with fireworks and light projections.

As you can see, Switzerland is a true winter wonderland in the month of January. Snow sports are the favorite pastime of both resident and visitor this month, but outside of skiing these gorgeous and historic European towns have much more to offer.

Walking through the Old Towns of the glittering cities of Bern, Geneva and Lucerne are a romantic and educational way to take in the beauty of Switzerland, while noshing on cheese and chocolate fondue is just good for the soul. If you add in exploring all that the Jungfrau region has to offer along with a ride on the Glacier Express, you’ve created a very full Swiss vacation in the month of January.

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 July: Everything You Need to Know

Switzerland in June: Everything You Need to Know

© 2024 by Roundtript

Switzerland In Winter: Best Places To Visit & Things To Do [2024/2025]

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 60 mins read
• Post last modified: August 17, 2024
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Switzerland is a magical place all year round. Each month brings unique opportunities, stunning landscape colors, and exciting things to do. But how is it really in winter? I can tell you that it’s worth traveling to Switzerland even in winter for everyone, skiers and also nonskiers .

I lived in Switzerland for 3 years , each year in a different place. Besides, I’ve been traveling a lot through the countries. Spending 3 winter seasons in Switzerland gave me a great understanding of how the country is in winter.

So, in this article, I’ll share all my insights , tips , the best places to visit, and things to do. Let’s get into 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 In The Winter

The best time to visit Switzerland during the wintertime is December and January .

December is the beginning of the season, and fresh snow is almost guaranteed. It’s also a magical time to visit Switzerland, thanks to the Christmas markets in the cities and the unique atmosphere.

The beginning of December is also less crowded , especially on the skiing slopes than the rest of the season.

January is great, mainly thanks to fewer crowds and lower prices . Even though prices don’t drop significantly, it’s one of the months when Switzerland is slightly cheaper.

There are also fewer crowds so that you can explore the beauty fully.

My Offers For Your Swiss Trip In The Winter

I know how difficult it can get when you plan a trip to Switzerland , especially in the winter, as some facilities might be closed and you’re not sure where to start planning and what’s possible.

Let me help you with it!

I offer 2 services for your trip to Switzerland:

✅ Guiding ✅ Travel Itinerary Planning

✅ Hire Me As Your Guide

I can take you on a trip through Switzerland and show you the highlights . Whether you’re a family, or a small group of people, I’ll create an itinerary based on your interests and will also guide you through the places.

If you’re interested in hiring me as your guide, contact me at: [email protected]

👉 Read about my guiding experience here .

✅ Request A Travel Itinerary

If you like to explore Switzerland on your own , but don’t know where to start planning, you can also request a customized travel itinerary from me.

I’ll create one based on your interests, so you can skip the planning process, pack, and set off.

If you’re interested in getting a customized travel itinerary, fill out the form below (scroll down).

👉 Learn more about my travel itinerary planning services here.

Travel Itinerary Planning Services

Switzerland in winter: weather month-by-month.

The weather in winter in Switzerland is usually cold and snowy . However, it varies from the region. Without mountains, the northern part of Switzerland is warmer and gets less snow .

The central and southern part of Switzerland gets a lot of snow , and it’s cold .

Here is a breakdown of the weather in the country each winter month:

Switzerland In December

December in Switzerland can be both rainy and snowy . Temperatures range around 4°C/39°F .

The northern part of Switzerland is slightly warmer, with temperatures around 7°C . It snows only a few inches, and the snow often changes into rain.

The central and southern parts of Switzerland , with the Alps , get a lot of fresh snow in December, which is perfect for all skiers. I was always super excited to see fresh snow when the ski lifts opened at the beginning of the month, and I went straight to the mountains.

Temperatures in the Swiss Alps in winter range around -2°C/28 °F (in the mountain towns like Grindelwald, Zermatt, Davos, and Laax) up to -12°C/10°F (in the mountain peaks like Gornergrat near Zermatt, Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn, Mt. Titlis).

Switzerland in December is less crowded in the first 2 weeks , and prices are lower , especially at the beginning of the month, including hotels and ski tickets.

SWITZERLAND IN DECEMBER OVERVIEW:

Switzerland in january.

January in Switzerland is slightly colder than December. Temperatures range around 0°C/32°F in the entire country.

Northern Switzerland usually gets more snow in January than in December, with temperatures around 0°C/32°F . It’s quite chilly, so bring many layers.

Central and Southern part of Switzerland with the Alps is cold with a lot of snow . January is guaranteed to have snow, and the conditions for winter sports lovers are perfect .

Temperatures in the Swiss Alps are around -4°C/25°F.

Switzerland in January is less crowded after the holiday season, and you can enjoy lower prices .

SWITZERLAND IN JANUARY OVERVIEW:

Switzerland in february.

February is the coldest month in Switzerland. There is a lot of snow, which mostly stays on the slopes and on the roads.

The average temperature in February in Switzerland is about -2°C/28°F , which differs depending on the place.

The northern Switzerland usually has snow in February. In February, most cities like Geneva, Zurich, Bern, Lucerne, and St. Gallen are covered in snow. Temperatures range between 0°C/32°F and -3°C/26°F .

The Swiss Alps (central and southern Switzerland) are the coldest in February . It snows a lot , and the conditions for skiing and snowboarding are the best. Temperatures range around -5°C/23°F . And in the mountain peaks, it can get to -15°C/5°F up to -20°C/-4°F .

Switzerland in February is the most crowded in the winter due to the ski holiday season that many countries have. Many people come for ski holidays, and prices skyrocket again .

SWITZERLAND IN FEBRUARY OVERVIEW:

Switzerland in march.

March in Switzerland is calmer again. Snow starts to melt towards the end of the month, and everything gets cheaper . Temperatures in March in Switzerland range around 1 °C/34°F .

Northern Switzerland , with cities like Zurich and St. Gallen, has less snow, and temperatures are between 2 °C /35°F and 4 °C /39°F .

The Swiss Alps in March are still covered by snow , and you can enjoy ski season but for less. It gets significantly warmer in March, and snow melts towards the end of the month. You can easily ski in a light jacket or with no extra layers.

Temperatures in the Swiss Alps range around 0°C/32°F in March.

SWITZERLAND IN MARCH OVERVIEW:

👉 READ ALSO: Switzerland In November: Best Places To Visit & Things To Do

Best Places To Visit In The Wintertime In Switzerland

Switzerland is a beautiful winter wonderland , but choosing the right destination matters if you want to experience it.

My tip for you is to skip Zurich in winter . It’s cold, but there is no guarantee it’ll have snow. It also doesn’t offer as many activities as other places and the overall atmosphere is not so nice.

If you want to visit a Swiss city in winter, visit Lucerne instead . It’s magical, has snow, and you can do many things around.

With that said, here is a list of the best places to visit during winter in Switzerland :

📍 LUCERNE 📍 BERN 📍 GRINDELWALD 📍 ZERMATT 📍 DAVOS 📍 ANDERMATT 📍 AROSA 📍 ST. MORITZ 📍 GRUYERES 📍 JUNGFRAUJOCH 📍 MT. TITLIS 📍 GSTAAD

13 Best Things To Do In Winter In Switzerland

If you’re visiting Switzerland in the winter season, I’ve got tips for how to spend your time best .

Whether you’re excited about the ski slopes and some of the best ski resorts in the world, or you’re a nonskier and want to enjoy the Swiss winter wonderland , I’ve got you covered.

Below, I’m giving everyone the best things to do in winter in Switzerland : skiers, snowboarders, and even nonskiers.

Here is a list of the 13 best things to do in winter in Switzerland for skiers and nonskiers:

• Enjoy Zermatt & Skiing
• Visit Schilthorn
• Go Free Ride Skiing In Laax
• Enjoy Winter Wonderland In Andermatt
• Enjoy Winter Hikes In The Jungfrau Region
• Visit St. Moritz & Go Skiing
• Explore Jungfraujoch
• Ride Glacier Express – Swiss Panoramic Train
• Enjoy Lucerne
• Make A Day Trip To Mt. Titlis
• Visit Gruyeres
• Ride Cable Cars
• Enjoy Winter Spa

1. Enjoy Zermatt & Skiing

Zermatt is one of the best destinations for skiers in the world. It offers hundreds of skiing slopes, stunning views of the Matterhorn mountain, and great activities.

It’s a perfect place to be for everyone, skiers and nonskiers, too.

If you don’t like skiing , you’ll enjoy riding cable cars , visiting the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise , exploring the town, or warming up in a spa with stunning views.

Don’t forget to enjoy Fondue in a Swiss chalet .

2. Visit Schilthorn

Schilthorn is another great mountain you can visit in winter. While it doesn’t offer as much as Jungfraujoch does, it has some of the most breathtaking views in the entire country.

Stop in Birg (middle station) for the Thrill Walk . Then continue up to Schilthorn for even better views. Eat lunch in the 360° revolving restaurant and visit the James Bond Exhibition .

It’s also a great place for skiers as it has one of the steepest slopes in the world. It scared the h* out of me when I saw it, but it was manageable, and I loved skiing there.

3. Go Free Ride Skiing In Laax

If you love free rides , you don’t have to plan anymore. The ski resort Laax/Flims offers some of the best freeride skiing and snowboarding . The vast mountains often have a lot of fresh snow , perfect to slide down.

Laax has a great young vibe . There are many snowboarding competitions and a ramp, and you’ll love the winter paradise it offers.

4. Enjoy Winter Wonderland In Andermatt

Andermatt is truly one of the most beautiful Swiss towns in winter . It offers great skiing slopes, has some of the best luxury hotels with great spas , and a charming atmosphere.

Andermatt is great for relaxing and disconnecting , especially if you don’t like skiing.

Besides, the Glacier Express stops here, so you can ride it, stay overnight in Andermatt, and continue riding the Glacier Express to St. Moritz or Zermatt the next day.

I highly recommend booking one of the luxury hotels – The Chedi Andermatt . They have a fantastic spa, excellent service, and atmosphere.

5. Enjoy Winter Hikes In The Jungfrau Region

If you have someone who loves skiing but you’re not a big fan, visit the Jungfrau region . It has great skiing resorts but also some of the best winter hikes.

So let the others ski while you enjoy the stunning winter landscape and the sun hiking around .

You can ride a train from Lauterbrunnen to Kleine Scheidegg and walk around. Have lunch, enjoy the views, and then hike back to Lauterbrunnen .

Or hike around Grindelwald First to the Bachalp Lake . There are many winter hikes , and the Jungfrau region is the perfect place to enjoy them.

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

6. Visit St. Moritz & Go Skiing

St. Moritz is a great destination for those who want to go skiing and enjoy relaxation and luxury . It’s a luxury Swiss town in the Grisons region and offers some of the best skiing slopes.

Besides, it’s one of the best towns to go shopping. You’ll get everything if you want to shop for clothes, jewelry, or souvenirs.

It has some of the best luxury hotels , including Grand Hotel Des Bains Kempinski and Badrutt’s Palace Hotel . So you can relax , go to a spa , and then walk around the stunning Lake St. Moritz .

Winter In Switzerland For Non Skiers: Best Things To Do

Switzerland attracts all kinds of visitors , and winter is not an exception. Even if you’re not a skier or a snowboarder, you’ll still love wintertime in Switzerland.

With that said, Switzerland offers many things to do for nonskiers in winter . So here is a list of the best things you can do if skiing/snowboarding is not your thing:

7. Explore Jungfraujoch

Jungfraujoch is a perfect destination all year round. And it’s the best place to visit for non-skiers in winter. You’ll visit the highest train station in Europe , walk through, and learn about the history of this place.

Besides, you’ll see the largest glacier in the Swiss Alps and enjoy the snow. The entire journey is an experience, and it’s picturesque. I’m sure you’ll love it.

8. Ride Glacier Express – Swiss Panoramic Train

Riding a panoramic train in Switzerland is one of the best experiences , and winter is no exception.

Just imagine sitting on a luxury train with comfortable seats and a commentary about the surroundings while sipping hot chocolate , coffee, or champagne and staring at the beautiful winter wonderland .

Glacier Express offers some of the best experiences. It’s an 8-hour ride between Zermatt and St. Moritz and passes through some of the most beautiful places in Switzerland.

Bernina Express is another great scenic train you can ride if you want your journey to be shorter but equally enjoyable.

9. Enjoy Lucerne

Lucerne is a true winter wonderland . If you are a city lover, I recommend visiting Lucerne rather than other cities like Zurich, Basel, and Geneva. Lucerne is by far the most beautiful in winter.

You can enjoy all the activities , and there is usually snow. Besides, it offers many attractions and mountain excursions such as Mt. Pilatus or Mt. Titlis or riding a boat on Lake Vierstatter .

10. Make A Day Trip To Mt. Titlis

Mt. Titllis is another great mountain to visit in winter if you’re a nonskier. You can play with the snow, go for a winter hike, or slide. Walk through the ice cave or the highest suspension bridge in Europe . It’s a lot of fun.

11. Visit Gruyeres

Gruyere is a charming medieval town close to Bern, the Swiss capital. So whether you’re visiting Bern and want to make some day trips or visit some beautiful town in the winter, Gruyere is great.

It’s not too cold , yet it’s covered in snow. You can visit the La Maison du Gruyere s cheese factory and learn about the cheese production.

Besides, the town has many cute houses and restaurants where you can try Fondue , a traditional Swiss dish.

12. Ride Cable Cars

In case you’re visiting Switzerland with those eager skiers, heads up. You can still enjoy the ski resort even if you don’t like skiing. Hop on the cable cars and ski lifts and enjoy the winter landscape from above.

You can take a cable car, ride up, walk around, and then enjoy a warm lunch or a cup of hot chocolate in the mountains or sunbathe on the terrace of the mountain huts . It’s a lot of fun, I promise.

13. Enjoy Winter Spa

Imagine sitting in a whirlpool while breathing the fresh mountain air , watching the stars, and having the snowflakes flying around . This is how a spa in winter in Switzerland feels like. It’s truly one of my favorite things to do.

Another great thing is to go to a sauna , warm up, and then jump into the snow . Many spas have a door through which you can go outside and jump right in. Try it; it’s fun and also healthy.

I recommend these spa hotels in Switzerland for your winter visit – think outdoor pools with stunning mountain views, spa, and sauna world:

✨ The Chedi Andermatt ✨ Park Hotel Vitznau ✨ Six Senses Crans-Montana ✨ Le Grand Bellevue ✨ The Alpina Gstaad ✨ Burgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa

Switzerland Winter Itinerary

You know how much I love creating travel itineraries for you guys. And so this article is not an exception. I’ve got the perfect winter wonderland itinerary for you to take this season and explore Switzerland.

It’s put together places to enjoy skiing and winter activities, even if you’re not a skier .

So here is my 10-day Switzerland winter itinerary by train :

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

3 Days In Switzerland In Winter

If you only have 3 days in Switzerland, I’ve got a few itineraries for you, too. So here are our top 3 itineraries for a 3-day Switzerland winter trip :

3-Day Swiss Winter Itinerary For City Lovers & Mountain Excursions

3-day swiss winter itinerary for skiers, winter lovers & relax, 3-day swiss winter itinerary for skiers, luxury & winter lovers, practical tips for visiting switzerland.

I’ve got some more tips for you to help you plan your visit to Switzerland in the wintertime. It’ll help you get your itinerary together even faster.

Where To Stay In The Wintertime In Switzerland

If you want to visit the best places and do any of the activities I suggest above, these are the places I recommend you to stay in winter in Switzerland:

If you want to visit a charming Swiss city, enjoy boat trips, and explore nearby mountains such as Mt. Titlis and Mt. Pilatus, stay in Lucerne.

Here are my top hotel recommendations for Lucerne in winter:

➡ Backpackers Luzern – budget-friendly – book here ➡ Hotel Des Alpes – mid-range hotel – book here ➡ Mandarin Oriental Palace Luzern – luxury hotel – book here

GRINDELWALD

If you want to go skiing, enjoy some winter hikes, or mountain excursions such as Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn, stay in the beautiful mountain town, Grindelwald .

I recommend the following hotels in Grindelwald for your stay:

➡ Eiger Lodge Chic – budget-friendly – book here ➡ Belvedere Swiss Quality Hotel – mid-range hotel – book here ➡ Boutique Hotel Glacier – luxury hotel – book here

Zermatt is great for a winter wonderland, skiing, snowboarding, enjoying the snow, and luxury spa and hotels.

Here are the hotels I recommend for your stay in Zermatt:

➡ Matterhorn Inn – budget-friendly – book here ➡ Swiss Alpine Hotel Allalin – mid-range hotel – book here ➡ Matthiol Boutique Hotel – luxury hotel – book here

Andermatt is another winter fairy tale in Switzerland that I suggest visiting. It offers skiing slopes, luxury spa resorts, and a cute mountain village. It’s also a stop for the Glacier Express panoramic train.

I recommend these hotels in Andermatt:

➡ Basecamp Andermatt – budget-friendly – book here ➡ Radisson Blue Hotel Reussen – mid-range – book here ➡ The Chedi Andermatt – luxury hotel – book here

If you want to enjoy a bit more luxury regarding services, hotels, and shopping, visit St. Moritz. From skiing to the perfect relaxation or winter walks around the lake, St. Moritz will make your stay super cozy.

Below are the best hotels in St. Moritz I recommend for your stay:

➡ St. Moritz Youth Hostel – budget-friendly hostel – book here ➡ Hotel Waldhaus Am See – mid-range hotel – book here ➡ Badrutt’s Palace Hotel St. Moritz – luxury hotel – book here

What To Pack For A Winter Trip To Switzerland

Switzerland is cold in the wintertime, and so winter clothes are necessary . If you go skiing, pack smart , not much. The same applies to nonskiers.

So here is a quick list of the things I recommend you pack for your winter holiday in Switzerland:

• Winter jacket
• Winter pants
• Warm winter shoes
• Sunglasses – the reflection of the sun in the snow hurts your eyes a lot, so make sure to bring them
• Thermo clothes
• Thick socks
• Skiing boots, ski set, ski pools, helmet for skiing

How Much Should You Budget For A Winter Trip In Switzerland

Switzerland is equally expensive in the wintertime as in the summertime. The same applies in the winter; getting some kind of travel pass is best if you want to enjoy Switzerland for less. A ski pass or a winter hiking pass does its magic in the winter.

If you want to travel to Switzerland in the winter and visit many places, get the Swiss Travel Pass or a Half-Fare Card . They’ll save you a lot.

If you want to visit one region in Switzerland, such as Zermatt, Jungfrau region, Davos, or Arosa, get a local winter pass .

Generally speaking, these are the expenses you can expect in winter in Switzerland:

🔅 As a budget traveler or a backpacker, plan to spend around $80 per day . 🔅 Mid-range travelers can expect to spend approx. $240 daily . 🔅 As a luxury traveler , you can spend around $500 per day in Switzerland.

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

Is Switzerland Safe In Winter?

Yes , Switzerland is safe in winter. In terms of dangers such as scams, pickpockets, or thefts, there is no need to be afraid as nothing like this happens in Switzerland or rarely.

Regarding safety , consider a few things when visiting Switzerland in the winter. Avalanches and snowstorms are dangerous, especially in mountain areas and around skiing slopes.

Avalanche Risk

Local authorities handle it very well and tell you whether there is a high risk of avalanche or not. For each day, there is a risk level for avalanches on the ski slopes, so if the risks are too high, they tell you not to go skiing/snowboarding.

The same applies to snowstorms. When there is a snowstorm, the cable cars, lifts, and even the roads high up in the mountain towns shut down . So they take care of your safety, and you’d have to stay at your hotel that day.

It only happened to us when we were in Arosa , and we couldn’t get down to the valley because they closed the road due to a snowstorm and a high snow level.

Snowchains are necessary if you drive a car in the wintertime in Switzerland. You have to have them on snowy roads leading to the mountain towns.

Mountain Passes In Winter

Also, most mountain passes are closed in the wintertime in Switzerland. So plan your trip accordingly. You can check the live road status here .

I’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions about winter in Switzerland. Check my answers below.

Is It Worth Visiting Switzerland In The Wintertime?

Yes , Switzerland is 100% worth visiting in winter for everyone, skiers and nonskiers .

Switzerland has some of the best skiing resorts in the world so that you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding. Besides, you can go for winter hikes , enjoy a spa , ride on a panoramic train , and admire the stunning winter wonderland .

When Is Winter In Switzerland?

Winter in Switzerland is during December, January, February, and March . It snows in most places, and the temperatures range around -2°C/28°F .

The coldest and most wintery month in Switzerland is February .

Which Month Will It Snow In Switzerland?

It snows mainly in January and February in Switzerland. While most mountain towns already get snow at the end of November, most Swiss cities get snow in January or at the end of December.

Is December A Good Month To Visit Switzerland?

Yes , December is a great month to visit Switzerland. Prices are lower than in the peak season (February), and it already snows in most places.

Besides, you can enjoy the magical atmosphere of the Swiss cities and Christmas markets in December.

How Many Days In Switzerland Is Enough?

15 days in Switzerland are enough. 10 days is a good amount of days to enjoy all the highlights of Switzerland.

And the minimum number of days you must spend in the country is at least 5 . This way, you’ll get to do and see the best things Switzerland offers.

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

WRAP-UP: Switzerland In Winter

This is what winter looks like in Switzerland. All in all, it’s one of my favorite countries in the world to visit, and each season offers something unique. Whether you’re a skier or don’t like skiing, you’ll love Switzerland in the wintertime . So, see some of the best places to visit and things to do, make your itinerary, and set off for a winter adventure.

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

Happy Travels!

More Tips For Switzerland Travel

Looking to visit more places in Switzerland? Check out my related articles:

Best Of Switzerland Itinerary: 8 Days By Train

Honeymoon In Switzerland: How To Plan Your Romantic Gateway

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

Grindelwald In Winter: Complete Guide For Your Visit

5 Best Panoramic Trains In Switzerland

11 Cheapest Ways To Travel In Switzerland

Swiss Travel Pass: Unlimited Travel In Switzerland

Jungfrau Travel Pass vs. Swiss Travel Pass

8 Best Mountains In Switzerland To Visit

22 Amazing Day Trips From Interlaken

23 Incredible Things To Do In Jungfrau Region

Brienz Switzerland: Best Things To Do & Places To Visit

Where To Stay In Grindelwald: 9 Best Hotels

Is Switzerland Expensive? All You Need To Know

Does Switzerland Use The Euro? All You Need To Know

How Swiss Cheese Is Made: 6 Simple Steps

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 Winter: Best Things To Do & Places To Go By A Local [2024]

By Gemma Tedaldi | Published: 16th February 2024 | Updated: 16th February 2024

Switzerland in winter is a country full of breathtaking landscapes, often covered with a layer of thick snow, perfect for those wanting to experience the Alps in all their wintery glory or city hop around the country eating perfect fondue and drinking incredible hot chocolate as you go.

Winter in Switzerland isn’t just for those wanting to ski either, (we’ve lived here a little while now and still haven’t learnt to ski or snowboard!), with winter festivals and other snow-related activities that you can take part in too, (tobogganing is particularly good fun!), all in all making Switzerland a stunning destination to visit in the winter. So, are you looking to find out more about this winter wonderland destination? Here is our guide to Switzerland in winter.

Table of Contents

Is it worth visiting Switzerland in winter?

Holidays and festivals in switzerland in winter.

• Hikes to do in Switzerland in Winter

Activities to do in Switzerland in Winter

Best places to visit in switzerland in winter.

• Where should I stay in Switzerland in Winter
• Switzerland in Winter FAQs

Planning Your Trip? Use our favourite travel resources below:

Accommodation: We recommend Booking.com

Rental Car: We recommend Rentalcars.com

Flights: We recommend Kiwi.com

Tours: We recommend Get Your Guide

100% yes, it is worth visiting Switzerland in winter, even if you aren’t visiting for any snow sports. With numerous festivals being held throughout the season and the opportunity to take part in tobogganing or snowshoeing if you do fancy some fun in the snow.

This season is a great one to see the country at lower prices too if you are around the lakeside towns and cities rather than in the ski resorts. There is also a high chance of a dusting of snow in the lower elevations and in the main cities as well.

Average temperatures across Switzerland in winter:

📍 5 – 10° C / 41 – 50° F in Zurich

📍 0 – 12° C / 32 – 53° F in Basel (it did hit -12° C / 10° F for us in Basel for multiple days in December in this last year though!)

📍 -1 – 11° C / 30 – 52° F in Geneva

Average rainfall across Switzerland in winter: 25 – 196mm rainfall

Is this peak season or low season?

After the Christmas and New Year rush this time of year is technically a low season for Switzerland with fewer tourists visiting the main cities and opting for skiing or snowboarding resorts in the Alps instead. However, if you are looking to visit for snow sports then it can be very busy and pricey still.

If you’re thinking about visiting Switzerland but at a different time of year, check out our other posts for Switzerland in spring , summer and autumn .

Officially in Switzerland, winter falls from the 22nd of December through to the 20 th of March and during this time there are numerous festivals and holidays, with Christmas Day, St Stephen’s Day and New Year’s Day as the main holidays across the country. Alongside the holidays there are some great and unique festivals as well; here are the top 6 festivals in Switzerland in winter that you should try and visit:

Switzerland in December

📍 Christmas Markets

There are multiple Christmas markets across the country from the end of November through to the end of December, all with their own flair and unique delicacies. Basel Weihnachtsmarkt is often voted as the best Christmas market in Europe, (we may be biased but we tend to agree!), and with the whole city set up to celebrate it is the perfect place to visit in the run-up to Christmas.

Switzerland in January

📍 World Snow Festival, Grindelwald

In the third week of January, the World Snow Festival comes to Grindelwald, with international artists showcasing their ice sculpting skills with three-metre-tall blocks of snow throughout the village. Started in 1983, the festival happens annually based upon a new theme, (unless there is little to no snow, which meant the 2023 festival was cancelled!).

📍 International Hot Air Balloon Festival, Château-d’Oex

The last two weeks of January are the perfect time for 9 days of hot air ballooning in the snow-covered alps . This alpine festival that is over 40 years old is one of the most popular events in Switzerland in winter, and one of the most unique in Switzerland. Be sure to book accommodation and balloon flights in advance for this festival.

Switzerland in February

📍 White Turf, St Moritz

February is home to the White Turf Festival in St Moritz, a horse racing event that takes place on the frozen lake St. Moritzersee. Jockeys from all over the world have been thrilling the crowds since 1907 at this unique event, where else can you watch horse racing on a frozen lake?

📍 Basel Fasnacht

There are multiple ‘Fasnacht’ that happen in the larger towns and cities across Switzerland, (Lucerne, Zurich and Bern have quite large events), but by far the most well-known is Basel Fasnacht. Held in late February or into early March depending on when Easter falls in the year, Basel Fasnacht is a UNESCO World Heritage festival that really has to be seen to be believed.

Switzerland in March

📍 Engadin Skimarathon

Since 1969 the largest cross-country event in Switzerland with quite literally thousands of participants takes place. The second Sunday in March sees the Engadin Skimarathon, a 42km long route starting in Maloja and ending in S-chanf start, with a half marathon, women’s only race and night race as well.

Best Things To Do In Switzerland In Winter

Switzerland is a wonder to explore any time of year, and the winter is no exception. With numerous events happening across the country as well as fantastic things to experience. So here are our favourite and top things to do in Switzerland in winter;

  Hikes to do in Switzerland in Winter

📍 Rehberger-Weg, Basel

Connecting Switzerland with Germany via two art galleries and a host of outdoor art works, this five kilometre long trail is an easy hike to do. It takes roughly 2 hours to walk end to end, but you will want to stop and take in the views back to Basel through the vineyards. We’ve walked this wonderful route a few times over the years, and it is especially beautiful when covered in snow in the winter.

You can start at either end, but we would recommend starting at Fondation Beyeler in Riehen on the outskirts of Basel, (easy to get to via the number 6 tram from Basel city centre) and walking to the Vitra Campus in Weil am Rhein in Germany. From here you can then take the number 8 tram back to the centre of Basel.

📍 Grindelwald First to Bachalpsee, Grindelwald

The hike from Grindelwald First out to Bachalpsee is one that is relatively easy, (there are a couple of steeper sections near the beginning, and it is all gravel track so not the best for pushchairs), and the perfect one to embrace hiking in winter, with snow past your heads in places and the most incredible views over the surrounding mountains.

It takes roughly an hour to complete the 3km route one way out to the lake, (assuming you don’t stop to take in the scenery and look out for marmots) but be aware this can take much longer if the ground is covered in snow and ice.

Be sure to check if this hike is open before you set off up the cable cars to Grindelwald First, as if there has been a particularly heavy snowfall, or there is a risk of avalanches then the trail will be closed.

If you can you should also do this hike in both the winter and the summer to get a taste of the difference in the seasons, we’ve visited during both and boy are they polar opposites!

📍 Brunni, Engelberg

Engelberg may be more well known for its good ski routes but there are also numerous winter hiking trails and snowshoe trails in the surrounding mountains as well, including at Brunni. The less busy side of the valley than that at Titlis , Brunni is great for hiking as there are numerous trail options of varying length and difficulty you can pick from starting from an easy 45-minute round route at the Schneetandliweg to a 7-hour-long full-day hike from Ristis to Engleberg.

Here there are also two toboggan runs you can try, which are great fun if not a little scary with the speed in places, (we did not stop smiling and laughing the entire way down the route we chose!).

📍 Visit the Swiss Christmas markets

Switzerland is one of the top European countries to visit if you want to visit some of the best Christmas Markets there are. With quaint elaborately decorated stalls selling handmade crafts, traditional local delicacies and a mug of warming glühwein or two, even if it is cold and snowing, (which it often is in Switzerland in winter!), visiting the Christmas Markets is a must.

Some of the biggest and best, (although this often means the busiest), markets are found in Basel, Bern, Zurich, Lucerne and Montreux. Montreux’s Christmas Market is particularly famous in Switzerland as Santa Claus and his sleigh fly over the crowds and the lakeside!

📍 Eat Fondue

If you are visiting Switzerland in winter, you can’t come and not eat at least one fondue. With different varieties, (different cheese mixes or spices that are added to the mix – we can vouch for ginger and chilli being quite good), depending on the location, fondue is basically a ritual for the Swiss, (and tourists), to partake in once the temperature drops outside and the warming gooey cheese once again becomes a staple winter comfort food.

📍 Ride The Glacier Express Or The Bernina Express

Passing over snow covered landscapes, past quaint Swiss towns and villages and through incredible mountain passes, these panoramic trains are one of the best things to do in Switzerland in the winter if you want to experience both breath-taking views and the cosy comfort on board a train. They can be a little pricey, but the experience is worth it.

📍 Go Winter Hiking or Snowshoeing

Winter in Switzerland isn’t all about hitting the slopes, especially if you can’t ski or snowboard, so instead why not go winter hiking or snowshoeing? Winter hiking involves just you and some good hiking gear and shoes taking to ‘maintained pathways’ that are basically the summer hiking paths, whilst snowshoeing means hiring snowshoes and taking to the deeper snow pathways that are set out only during the winter. Both are great fun and great ways to experience winter in Switzerland without having to ski.

  Top Tip:

Be sure to bring sunscreen with you if you plan on being in the mountains in the snow, as even though it may seem counter-intuitive the sun reflects off the snow which can cause sunburn, (we found that out the hard way whilst hiking in Grindelwald, so you don’t have too!).

📍 Go Tobogganing

If you are after a bit of winter adventure with a thrill, but skiing isn’t your thing, then try tobogganing. They aren’t the easiest to control, (I seem to have the knack whilst Matt on the other hand does not!), but they are incredibly fun and a great way to experience the snow and the Swiss mountains in winter. Most ski destinations also have tobogganing on offer, just be sure to check the difficulty of a route as some can be great for beginners but others are very steep and very fast.

📍 Hit The Slopes Skiing Or Snowboarding

If skiing or snowboarding is your thing, then you should of course head to some of Switzerlands world class ski resorts and hit the slopes. Particularly popular destinations include Zermatt, Gstaad, Engelberg and of course, the famous St Moritz, which are known for their Apres Ski vibe with stunning views just as much as for their ski runs.

📍 Hop On Board A River Cruise Or Lake Cruise

During the winter in Switzerland, you can very easily hop on board a city river cruise or lake cruise to not only take in the sights, but enjoy the cosy setting and more often than not enjoy some delicious food. Be it a cheese fondue cruise, fondue chinoise or simply a winter cruise with glühwein, this is another one of the best things to do in Switzerland in winter.

📍 Basel in winter

Visiting Switzerland in winter isn’t just about experiencing the mountains. The cities and towns in the low-lying regions of the country are also wonderful to visit, with Basel being one of the best. Basel in winter is not only home to beautiful Christmas Markets but also the world-renowned Fasnacht , which simply has to be witnessed to be believed.

📍 Gstaad in winter

Picturesque hiking, perfect skiing conditions and giant fondue pots you can sit in and soak in the views of the Bernese Oberland , (yes you read that right), Gstaad is a great place to visit during the winter in Switzerland. If hitting the slopes isn’t quite your thing, (there are hundreds of kilometres of varying levels pistes and trails), then the après-ski scene here will definitely keep you entertained, alongside the boutiques and restaurants throughout the town.

📍 Château-d’Oex in winter

The mountain village of Château-d’Oex is particularly beautiful during the winter months. Known for its hot air balloon festival , held every January, (yes Switzerland has an incredible winter hot air balloon festival!), you can see the snow-covered Alps from a completely different perspective. Château-d’Oex is also a great place for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter.

📍 St Moritz in winter

Home to the rich and famous, world-famous White Turf Festival and even a leaning tower, (although it doesn’t quite rival the one in Pisa), St Moritz is known for its glamour. With high-end shopping and fine dining for those who want it, as well as plenty of options for those looking for less luxury, ( Le Lapin Bleu is a particularly great restaurant). The lake at St Moritz also freezes over each year, making it the perfect place for activities like ice skating and polo.

📍 Engelberg in winter

Engelberg and the surrounding area are a haven for people wanting to experience the Swiss Alps in peak winter. Great for getting out into the mountains for snow sports, including skiing, snowboarding and some rather fun tobogganing, Engelberg is easy to get to and the village itself is full of cosy cafes and chalets brimming with warming food – perfect after a day on the slopes.

Where should I stay in Switzerland in winter

This is slightly dependent on what you want from your trip to Switzerland in winter, but if you want the best of both the city life and incredible day trips to the mountains then we would suggest staying in either Bern or Lucerne . Both are within easy reach of the nearby alpine towns, mountain peaks and quaint countryside villages.

That being said, if you want a taste of real Swiss life and a bit more snow, then we highly recommend staying in Lauterbrunnen !

Planning your own trip to Switzerland? Make sure you check out our Travelling Tedaldi Amazon Store Travel Guides for all your guidebooks and maps. (We’ve done the hard work for you and linked all the things we used to plan our trip!)

Switzerland in Winter FAQ’s

How to get to switzerland.

Switzerland is well connected to the rest of mainland Europe as well as further afield internationally, with three main international airports at Geneva, Zurich, and Basel, as well as smaller airports at Bern, St Gallen and Lugano. Due to Switzerland’s central location in Europe, you can also easily get a train to Switzerland from any of the neighbouring countries of France, Germany, Austria, and Italy.

How to get around Switzerland

By far the best way to get around Switzerland is by public transport. There is a vast network of trains, boats, buses, trams, cable cars and funicular railways across the country that can transport you between the cities and the mountains in a matter of hours.

If you want to really get the most out of your time and budget then be sure to book your transport tickets in advance through the SBB website  or SBB mobile app . Depending on how long you plan to visit Switzerland, you can get a Swiss travel pass or a number of day passes instead, these tickets are great value for money and give you public transport access across the entire length of your ticket i.e. a day pass is 24 hours worth of transport anywhere in the country, (some cable cars / funicular railways aren’t included).

If you would rather make your own way, then you can of course hire a rental car to see the sights at your own pace. We would highly recommend using Rentalcars.com  for this, we’ve used them a number of times throughout Europe and in Switzerland and they always have a great selection of vehicles as well as being budget friendly, (something you will want when visiting Switzerland!).

How many days do I need in Switzerland in winter?

If you want to see Switzerland in winter, then you should try and spend at least a week in the country, any less and you won’t get the chance to experience both the cities and the mountains.

Is Switzerland expensive to visit in winter?

Depending on when you visit, Switzerland can indeed be expensive in winter. If you plan on visiting over Christmas or New Year, then this is one of the most expensive times to visit Switzerland and also one of the peak times of the year for snow sports. If you visit out of the peak season, so in mid to late January or February, then this is one of the cheapest times of year to visit Switzerland in winter.

What is Switzerland like in winter?

Switzerland in winter is wonderful, with cold days filled with snowy skies, twinkling lights filling city squares and cosy cafes and restaurants serving local delicacies. It can however also be very cold and wet, with more rain than snow in some locations. It is one of the peak seasons in Switzerland, only second to summer, so it can get quite busy in more touristy locations, but don’t let that put you off visiting Switzerland in winter.

What is the coldest month in Switzerland? How cold does it get in Switzerland in winter?

The coldest month in Switzerland is January, with averages around 0°C / 32°F. It can of course get much colder, especially in the more mountainous locations as well as in the cities, (it hit -12°C / 10.4°F in Basel last year, but we had -17C / 1.4°F when we visited Mount Rigi one November!).

How cold is Switzerland in December?

December temperatures are similar to that of January, although a little warmer, with the lower elevation cities such as Lugano, Zurich and Basel averaging around 4°C / 39.2°F. The higher into the mountains you adventure will of course be much colder than this.

Where is the warmest place in Switzerland in winter?

The canton of Ticino, and more specifically the towns of Lugano or Locarno, are some of the warmest locations in Switzerland in winter. The weather throughout the canton is always one of the warmest in the country and winter is no exception, with typically mild weather perfect for a walk around Lake Maggiore.

What are the best winter months to visit Switzerland?

There isn’t a bad winter month to visit Switzerland, but some can be busier than others and some much colder than others. December and early January are some of the busiest months, so opt for February or early March instead, there will still be snow around and cheaper accommodation options. There are also some great late winter festivals and events happening so opt for visiting after New Year.

Switzerland in Winter Tours

Tours are some of the best ways to see Switzerland, and we would highly recommend booking one, (or a few!), through Get Your Guide, especially as they have some amazing tour options such as Night Sledding with Fondue in Interlaken, winter kayaking on Lake Brienz and tours up to the incredible Glacier 3000 .

What are you waiting for? Book your Switzerland winter tours here!

Is it advisable to visit Switzerland in December?

Switzerland in December can be a great time of year to visit, with wonderful Christmas Markets in full swing and the possibility of snow making everything a bit more beautiful. It can however also be one of the busiest times of the year, both in the cities and on the slopes, which of course pushes the price of accommodation up. If you really want to visit in December, we would suggest booking as far in advance as you can and maybe steering clear of the week between Christmas and New Year as a lot of things will be shut over the seasonal holidays.

What are the best places to celebrate Christmas in Switzerland?

There is no right or wrong answer here, but anywhere that has a lovely Christmas Market, or a dusting of snow is surely a great place to celebrate Christmas! We would recommend either opting for somewhere like Lucerne or Lauterbrunnen for Christmas, both being close to both some wonderful snowy walks, but one with a modern city vibe and the other with a more traditional quaint Christmas feel.

Where are the best places to celebrate New Year in Switzerland?

If you want to celebrate New Year with a big fireworks display and some good food, then opt for staying in one of the main cities in Switzerland such as Geneva, Lucerne, or Zurich. They often have special boat trips on the neighbouring lakes to see the fireworks from too. If you would rather a quieter night, then any of the mountain towns or villages are a great option, just book in advance to avoid high accommodation costs!

Is Switzerland a good place to visit in January?

Although it is often the coldest month of the year, January is a great time to visit Switzerland as it is often one of the cheapest months to get flights and accommodation. There are also fewer tourists, assuming you visit after New Year, meaning quieter tourist hot spots.

Does Switzerland have snow all year?

Certain locations in the mountains have snow year-round, such as the Eiger, Jungfrau and Mönch, but most of the rest of the country will lose its winter snow during the warmer spring and summer months.

What to do in Switzerland in winter if you don’t ski?

Even if you don’t ski, Switzerland is still a great place to visit in the winter. We live in the country and have still yet to pick up skis or snowboards due to the various other winter activities that you can partake in. The best of these include tobogganing, which is insanely fun, fast and something that you’ll want to do again and again, snowshoeing i.e. hiking designated pathways with a form of crampon attachment on your shoes and of course simple winter hiking on ‘groomed’ trails.

Is it safe to drive in Switzerland in winter? Do Switzerland require winter tires?

It is very safe to drive in Switzerland in winter, assuming you take more care whilst driving if the conditions aren’t the best. Winter in Switzerland often leads to thick fog as well as snowy conditions. If you are planning on driving certain routes such as the mountain passes, be sure to check if they are open before setting off as they are often closed due to snowstorms.

Winter tires and / or snow chains are highly recommended in the winter months, and some roads will require them before allowing you to pass, so ensure you know how to use them, and if hiring a vehicle, that you actually have some with you. Most rental companies will provide this sort of thing if you ask or mention your trip plans.

Conclusion: Switzerland in Winter: Best Things To Do & Places To Go

Switzerland in winter is like no other place in Europe, with its picturesque snowy landscapes, the vast array of outdoor activities to take part in and of course its cosy mountain villages and city cafes brimming with local warming delicacies. Whether you are after a more relaxed time or a more adventure-filled and fuelled trip then, Switzerland in winter is the place for you. We’re dreaming of the fondue, glühwein and snow-covered market rooftops throughout the country already.

Gemma is the owner and author of The Travelling Tedaldi, a travel blog helping travellers to discover the best road trips and travel itineraries throughout the UK and Europe. When she isn’t writing about her favourite travel destinations, she can often be found out exploring local hikes or planning future trips.

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The Best Times to Visit Switzerland, According to Local Experts

When to visit Switzerland for beautiful weather, lower prices, and more.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

• Best Times to Visit Switzerland for Smaller Crowds
• Best Times to Visit Switzerland for Good Weather
• Best Times to Visit Switzerland for Lower Prices

Best Times to Visit Switzerland for Skiing

Worst time to visit switzerland.

Switzerland conjures images of skiers swooshing down the snow-covered peaks of the Alps and warming up with cheese fondue. The European country is also well-known for its many sparkling lakes and incredible hiking terrain that draws heaps of visitors in the warmer months. Zürich and Geneva are hubs of finance. Of course, anyone with a sweet tooth loves Swiss chocolate, and don’t forget about the fairy-tale hotels . 

Given its small size and excellent connectivity via scenic railway, many travelers choose to do a multi-stop trip within Switzerland. But with such diverse destinations — from cosmopolitan cities to winter resorts — it’s important to understand the timing. For example, you won’t find powder during the summer, but the verdant alpine landscape will steal the show.  

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To help decide the best time to visit Switzerland for your particular travel goals, we tapped the concierges at two of the finest hotels in the country. 

• High Season: June to August and December 
• Shoulder Season: April to May and September to October
• Low Season: November and January to March

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Best Times to Visit Switzerland for Smaller Crowds 

“There are really three Switzerlands: the cities, the countryside, and the mountains,” explains Benjamin Richard, a concierge at Beau-Rivage Palace in Lausanne. If you skip peak periods (the heart of summer and winter, respectively), it never feels all that crowded. “I really love the spring and fall shoulder seasons. It’s wonderful with pleasant temperatures and no swarms of tourists,” he adds. One of the many attractions of visiting the French regions of Switzerland in autumn is the wine harvest. 

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Best Times to Visit Switzerland for Good Weather 

The best times to visit Switzerland for good weather are typically during the late spring, summer, and early autumn, according to Giuseppe Tocco, a junior concierge at Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva . “These months see mild temperatures and longer daylight hours, so it’s ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing,” he says. However, if you’re going for the express purpose of skiing, that answer would flip to winter, when the Alps look like a snow globe. 

Best Times to Visit Switzerland for Lower Prices 

Switzerland is an expensive destination. That doesn’t mean a trip is guaranteed to deplete your entire annual travel budget. Keen to save a few bucks? Tocco suggests visiting during off-peak times to help you avoid sky-high rates. You might even get some freebies like complimentary room upgrades if a hotel isn’t at capacity. 

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The conditions between December and February are prime for hitting the slopes at alpine hot spots across Switzerland. Just keep in mind the mountains tend to get crowded at the height of ski season. “Getting on the cable cars on a Christmas morning in Zermatt, St. Moritz, or Gstaad can feel like a crammed subway in London or Paris,” says Richard. Prices also reflect the popularity of this period. One way to mitigate that? Tocco suggests skipping holidays and school breaks and planning midweek visits instead.

Again, there’s no wrong time to visit Switzerland. It really just depends on what you’re looking to do. The low season is an underrated time to explore the cities and countryside, according to Tocco. Conversely, summer in ski areas offers those same off-season benefits. Tocco adds, “However, it’s important to note that certain activities, accommodations, and restaurants may have limited availability or reduced operating hours.”

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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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Switzerland in January: Travel Tips for Festive Time

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Winter in Switzerland is a magical time. It is the peak of the winter season and the country offers some of the best snowboarding and skiing conditions in the world. The mountain resort town of Zermatt is one of the prime locations for snow sports and is home to the iconic Matterhorn peak. Aside from hitting the slopes of the Swiss Alps, there are winter festivals and events to keep everyone entertained. As most visitors head towards the mountains of Switzerland in January, the cities of Zurich and Geneva tend to be less crowded, a perfect condition for sightseeing tours. Read on to find out why you should visit Switzerland at the beginning of the year.

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Switzerland Weather in January

Switzerland’s weather in January is dominated by cold temperatures and snowfall. The country’s average daytime temperature during this time is 2°C and it can drop to -2°C at night. Zurich is slightly warmer, averaging the daytime temperature at 3°C. In the mountain town of Zermatt, the mercury can drop to -13°C. In terms of precipitation, expect around 70mm of rainfall spread across the month of January. But with frigid conditions, a lot of rain turns to snow, which is definitely what we want to see during the winter months in Switzerland.

Not sure when is the best time for you to visit Switzerland ? Check out our handy seasonal guide to help you on your way.

Weather in Switzerland in January - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit switzerland in january.

If you plan to visit Switzerland in January, you will be spoiled for choice. Here are some reasons why you should visit the country in January.

• World Snow Festival: Want to experience some Alpine art during your trip? In mid-January, ice sculpture artists from all around the world descend on Grindelwald in the Jungfrau area of Switzerland to show off their skills.
• International Hot-Air Balloon Festival: If the slopes are not your scene, head off to Château-d'Oex in the Vaud Alps towards the end of January for a nine-day festival that celebrates the wonderful world of hot-air balloons.
• Peak ski season: Switzerland’s snow is on point during January. Mid-winter is one of the best times to enjoy the world-class slopes of the Swiss Alps.
• More options: January being Switzerland’s peak tourist season, you will find that there are more flights to different parts of the country, including Geneva, Bern and Zurich.

Where to go and what to do

If you want to learn a new snowsport or put your skills to the test at some of the world’s best ski resorts, head to the Valais region of Switzerland, home to almost 500 kilometers of slopes. Especially with all the fresh powder in January, it is a snowboarder’s and skier's paradise. If you are just starting out, many ski schools are at your disposal. And if you consider yourself an adept skier, raise your skill to the next level by taking on some challenging and technical alpine routes.

If you prefer something a little bit less active, but still want the dramatic views of the Swiss Alps? January is the ideal time to witness the legendary Matterhorn in all its snowy glory. Winter is not the safest time to be hiking in the mountains, but you can enjoy this marvel of nature from the comfort and safety of either the Gornergrat Railway or the Klein Matterhorn Cable Car. It is definitely one of the best things to do in Switzerland in January.

When you are in Switzerland, make sure that you head to the home of fondue, Gruyere. While molten cheese is good all year round, there is something particularly heart (and body) warming about a post-ski fondue right after Christmas break. There is no better way to warm yourself up after a long day in the mountains than to hit the fondue station. And what better way to do so along with a luxurious warm mug of Swiss hot chocolate. That is January in the Alps done right.

If you are looking for a luxurious journey through Switzerland in January, get tickets aboard the Glacier Express between Zermatt and Saint Moritz to enjoy the breathtaking views, linking the two ski hubs. There is something spectacular about the views during the winter. Here are more train tours in Switzerland .

For those who are fond of snowy weather and snowsports, there is no better time to visit Switzerland than in January. The snowy month truly brings out the beauty of the country. The ski resorts offer exquisite conditions for skiing and snowboarding, while the Swiss countryside and cities assume an almost magical look during this time. The memories of Switzerland are bound to stick with you long after you arrive home.

Reach out to our travel experts to plan a customized trip to Switzerland . Just enter a couple of details, like dates and party size and we will sort the rest.

Check out our tours to Switzerland in January for more ideas.

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Winter In Geneva: A Guide To The Best Things To Do (+ Packing Tips)

Geneva is stunning in Winter, even though it is more popular in summer.

A winter trip to Geneva might be an entirely different experience and offers a very unique experience, especially if there is snow on the ground.

Forget about the beaches and boat rides on Lake Geneva. Consider this instead: Christmas Markets, winter decorations, hot chocolate, mulled wine, cheese fondue, and ice skating.

Those are just some of the top things to do in Geneva in winter. Below, I’ll tell you all the other ways to stay busy in the lakeside city during the year’s colder months.

Table of Contents

Winter Weather in Geneva

Geneva gets cold in the winter but nowhere near as cold as Switzerland’s mountain villages. The climate is much milder, although you can expect lots of snow and temperatures below zero degrees Celsius.

The temperatures usually stay in the single digits from December to March. There’s an average of 10 days of precipitation during December, January, and February, so you’ll want to bring an umbrella and waterproof clothes. It can also get quite windy in the winter, so you’ll do yourself a favor if you make sure your jacket is windproof.

January is the coldest month in Geneva, so you might want to bring some extra warm clothes if you’re traveling at the beginning of the year.

Best Things to Do in Geneva in Winter

Here’s a quick overview of some of the best things you can do in Geneva during a winter break in the city.

Experience The Geneva Christmas Markets

Mid-November to mid-December is a great time to be in Geneva because you can visit the city’s Christmas Markets. The main event is Noël au Jardin, with a few other Christmas markets scattered around the city.

Jardin Anglais hosts the main Geneva Christmas Market every year. It’s the city’s most popular park, and it’s transformed into a proper winter wonderland come November. Rue du Mont-Blanc, Place de la Fusterie, and Quai Général-Guisan are also worth visiting if you like shopping for souvenirs while sipping mulled wine.

Geneva’s Christmas Markets are known for delicious local treats, trinkets, and Christmas tree shopping. While you might not be able to bring a Christmas tree back home in your carry-on luggage, this is an excellent opportunity to support the local artists and designers in Geneva.

You’ll be able to shop for clothes, souvenirs, jewelry, and much more at the various stalls throughout the town, as well as mulled wine, hot chocolate, and local Christmas treats.

Indulge In A Chocolate Tasting Tour

Any time is a great time to taste chocolate, but the unique ambiance of winter in Geneva makes a chocolate tour even more special. Book the Chocolate Flavors Tour , for a three-hour exploration of all the best chocolate shops in the heart of Geneva. It’s the best way to discover the city and the perfect tour for travelers who don’t have enough time for proper day trips.

On the other hand, if you’re staying in Geneva for a while, consider going on a tour of one of the nearby factories. It’s a fabulous experience that includes a lot of chocolate tasting and learning about the chocolate-making process, and it’s warmer in the factories than outside. The Favarger Chocolate Factory and the Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory are both close enough to Geneva for half-day excursion tours.

Get Lost In Geneva Old Town

Narrow alleys with cobblestone, ancient buildings, and countless landmarks await you in the old town of Geneva. Generally embracing the winter magic (lights, snow) in the old town, it’s absolutely worth it to stay cold for a few hours so you can experience the historic city center of Geneva when it’s decked out with Christmas decorations.

Enter the old town near the University of Geneva, and slowly make your way to the shore of Lake Geneva and Jardin Anglais. Along the way, you’ll see the Reformation Wall, St Pierre Cathedral, Place du Bourg-de-Four, Tavel House, and a couple of quaint parks. Touring the old town of Geneva also offers plenty of shopping opportunities, especially if you’re looking for jewelry, watches, clothes, or chocolates.

Visit Any Of The Museums

Touring museums in a new city is my favorite way of staying warm. On a cold and rainy day, there’s no better way of staying busy while still getting to learn a lot more about Geneva and its traditions. The Patek Philippe Museum is one of the city’s best, outlining the centuries-old history of this iconic luxury watchmaker. The museum boasts three floors of exhibits related to watchmaking, so there’s plenty to do and see.

The International Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent and the Musee Ariana are also two great museums to visit in Geneva. You can tour both in one day because they’re situated in the same complex (Parc de l’Ariana) north of Geneva’s old town. The former boasts an exhibit on the humanitarian work the Red Cross and the Red Crescent are engaged in, while the latter is known for a vast collection of glass and ceramic artifacts.

Devour Some Cheese On A Fondue Tour

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Nothing screams winter in Switzerland more than a melted cheese fondue. A bucket of hot cheese is bound to keep you warm for a while, at the very least around your heart. You have loads of options for a delicious fondue in Geneva, but consider going to Bains des Pâquis for the best atmosphere and view.

The famous public bath turns into an entertainment venue come cold weather, and in the winter they serve fondue every day after 6 PM. Enjoy the Swiss delicacy near Lake Geneva, with Jet d’Eau in the background for a special experience.

I must also point out that you don’t necessarily have to order a cheese fondue. A hot chocolate fondue is also an option if you want to dip pieces of fruit into a pot full of delicious chocolate.

Dance To Live Music

It’s great to be indoors when the weather gets cold and Geneva has a huge range of live music options all winter. It’s no secret that Geneva is an international city, and the same can be said of its nightlife. Your options range from clubs with DJs to dim-lit bars with live jazz, plus there’s a myriad of options in between.

Many locales also offer food in addition to drinks and live music for the absolute best experience. In total, there are more than 80 such establishments in Geneva, with the most options in the heart of the city. Café de la Place, Zoe Bar, and Le Garage are some of the most popular locales for live music.

Warm Up In Thermal Baths

Nothing beats keeping warm in winter than a day in the thermal baths. You get to relax, swim, and reap all sorts of therapeutic benefits, and you don’t even have to go that far from Geneva. The best thermal baths near the city are in Cologny, just a 15-minute bus ride from the center of Geneva.

Bain-Bleu Hammam & Spa boasts indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and massages, so you can spend a day indulging in some much-needed self-care. The sophisticated spa center is situated on the shore of Lake Geneva, so you’ll enjoy some scenic views while you’re there.

Les Bains de Cressy is another wellness center close to the city, approximately a 25-minute bus ride from Geneva. The warm indoor pool is lined with tropical plants so you can feel like you’re swimming around in the jungle. The center also offers a variety of health and beauty services, including massages, facial treatments, water aerobics, and more.

Partake In Traditional Winter Activities

Just because you’re staying in a city doesn’t mean you can’t engage in some relaxed winter sports during your stay in Geneva. Ice skating is the top winter activity for visitors in Geneva who want to have fun but don’t want to leave the city. Multiple indoor and outdoor ice skating rinks in Geneva are open to the public, and the top ones are at Vernets Sports Center and Les Bastions.

If you prefer snow to ice, you can go tobogganing or explore the nearby skiing opportunities. The Tobogganing Park in Leysin is approximately two hours from Geneva and offers some of the best fun on sleds in southern Switzerland. As for piste and cross-country skiing, thousands of kilometers of ski pistes are less than 90 minutes from Geneva. La Cusaz, Flaine, Megeve, Avoriaz, Samoens, Morzine, and Les Gets are some of the most famous ski resorts 60-90 minutes from the heart of Geneva.

Experience Geneva’s Winter Festivals

Visiting Geneva in the winter gives you the opportunity to partake in the city’s winter festivals. If you can’t visit in December during the Christmas Market season, definitely plan a January visit so you can experience the Geneva Lux Festival .

It takes place in late January and early February, and it truly transforms the city. Countless light installations are arranged throughout Geneva’s parks and streets; they’re all wonderful to observe. The open-air festival is accessible by anyone free of charge, and it’s fabulous.

Fête de l’Escalade is another traditional festival that takes place in December in Geneva. It includes chocolates, music, costumes, and running. The festival commemorates the Battle of Escalade’s anniversary, which took place on the night of December 11/12 in 1602. Numerous people walk the streets dressed as soldiers, so don’t be surprised if you see many locals in costumes on the weekend closest to this date.

Then, there’s everything related to Christmas and New Year’s in the town. Geneva hosts all sorts of events on the 31st of December, so if you’re welcoming the New Year in the Swiss city, expect open-air concerts and fireworks shows in the city’s heart.

What to Pack for Geneva in Winter

Geneva in the winter is cold, wet, and windy, so pack clothes that will help you make the most of your day despite such weather conditions. A warm and waterproof jacket is a must; you don’t need anything extremely warm because the temperatures will most likely stay above 0 degrees Celsius. An average winter jacket will suffice as long as it’s waterproof.

Warm and waterproof shoes are also a must, especially if you plan to do a lot of walking around and exploring. Bring comfortable shoes, but also allow you to walk through puddles and snow without getting your feet wet.

Layer up underneath the winter jacket . Long-sleeve tops, T-shirts, hoodies, and thin sweaters should get you through the winter in Geneva.

Additionally, pack some ski gear if you have plans to go skiing while you’re in Geneva. A ski suit should be enough if you’re trying to travel light since you can rent all the other gear in the ski resorts. And yes, there are plenty of excellent ski resorts close to the city, with more than a thousand kilometers of ski pistes of varying difficulties.

Map of Geneva Winter Activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it snow in geneva during the winter months.

Yes, it can snow sometimes in Geneva during the winter. However, unlike in the mountains, the snow only comes occasionally and only stays for a few hours or a few days at most.

Is Geneva cold in winter?

Geneva is quite cold in the winter. It’s not as cold as the cities and towns in northern Switzerland, but the temperatures often drop below zero degrees Celsius. 

Is Geneva good to visit in winter? 

Yes, it’s good to visit Geneva in the winter because you can experience the city completely differently than you would in the summer. 

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14 things to know before going to Switzerland

May 5, 2024 • 7 min read

Use our local tips to ensure your Swiss vacation is unforgettable © emperorcosar / Shutterstock

Little did I know when I moved to Switzerland a decade ago that I’d still be here now. But with its supermodel looks, fine weather, easy-peasy public transport, multilingual mindset and penchant for cheese and wine, this is a country where it’s easy to get comfortable – even if things are a bit on the pricey side.

Get a taste of Swiss life for yourself with these top tips everyone should keep in mind before visiting Switzerland.

1. Prioritise what you want to see

It’s possible to drive the breadth of Switzerland in just a few hours, but this small country packs in a lot, from culture-rich cities and little mountain villages to epic alpine landscapes and vast lakes. Thanks to the smooth transport network, it’s all very accessible, allowing you to explore a city center in the morning, ride across a lake at lunchtime and be up a mountain come the afternoon. So whether you’re coming for a weekend-long city break, or taking your time to explore by train, car or bicycle, Switzerland suits the lot.

2. Pack for all weathers

Generally speaking, Switzerland is seasonally predictable, with hot summers and cold winters, but there are always exceptions to keep you on your toes. Violent storms on summer days can catch you off guard, while temperatures can plunge in the mountains at night even after a very hot day – snow isn’t uncommon at altitude in August. Prepare for all eventualities, and always pack a little more clothing than you think you’ll need if you’re exploring alpine areas. The federal weather service is a go-to for accurate local forecasts.

3. Download the SBB app and look for Supersaver tickets

The easiest way to buy train tickets is on the app provided by SBB/CFF/FFS , Switzerland’s rail service. Input your credit card details the first time you use it and then it’s just a couple of taps to buy any ticket. If you purchase on the day of travel, journeys are the same price throughout the day (i.e. no early bird or off-peak deals), but if you can plan in advance, search for Supersaver tickets that can shave a fair few francs off the price. Multi-day transport passes and day passes can also save you money.

4. Book hotels and mountain cabins well in advance

Switzerland’s a popular place, so accommodation gets booked up in advance. Always plan ahead, especially if you’re on a budget. That doesn’t just apply to cities and famous resort towns – even a dorm bed in a rustic cabin high in the mountains can be highly sought after in peak season. Don’t forget to pack a sheet sleeping bag, which is obligatory in most high-mountain cabins.

5. Be prepared to splash the cash

Everyone knows Switzerland is pricey. There are ways to travel frugally here, but it’s prudent to accept that certain things are unavoidably expensive. Even though it might hurt to shell out for food, accommodation and travel, it'll be worth it when you’re standing on top of a mountain taking photographs so achingly beautiful your friends will later say you’ve photoshopped it – trust me.

6. Don’t assume everyone is multilingual

When it comes to communication, Switzerland isn’t straightforward. Though the country has a distinct national identity, its four official languages – French, Swiss German, Italian and Romansh – divide the country into discrete linguistic areas. Though there’s some crossover in towns such as Biel/Bienne and Fribourg that straddle the language border, in rural areas the so-called röstigraben can be so stark that you might encounter a francophone village on one side of the border and a Swiss-German-speaking one five kilometers down the road. And while many Swiss are multilingual, don’t assume that everyone speaks each other’s language – many people are more likely to speak English than another Swiss national language.

7. Sprechen Sie Deutsch? Swiss German is not the same

German speakers may come to Switzerland thinking they’ll have no problems understanding the Swiss, but that may not be so. German – or Hochdeutsch , high German – is quite different to Swiss German, or Schweizerdeutsch , so even native German speakers might be left scratching their heads at times. Not only that, but Swiss German isn’t a single language – it encompasses various different dialects across the region. However, don’t despair if you greet someone with Grüezi (hello) only to get Grüessech in response – people will appreciate the effort, even if you get it wrong.

8. Remember what country you’re in

When discussing Switzerland’s language regions with a local, never refer to, for example, the "French" area – always say French-speaking or francophone. This is a proudly independent, neutral country and any suggestion that it is part of another nation does not go down well!

9. Call places by their local names

Likewise, you’ll make friends more quickly if you call things by their proper names, not their anglicized ones. Say Lake Geneva to a Lausanne resident and you’ll get a stern look and a pointed reply about Lac Léman. Likewise, Lake Lucerne is actually Vierwaldstättersee, and Lake Constance is Bodensee.

10. Tip if you want to, but it’s not obligatory

There isn’t a big tipping culture in Switzerland. Leaving 10% on top of the meal bill, if you’ve enjoyed a meal, will be very much appreciated but it’s not obligatory – and certainly not if you’ve only had drinks at a bar. Prices are high enough and salaries in the service industry are decent.

11. Drink wine with a fondue

Switzerland’s cheesiest dish comes with numerous etiquette rules – don’t double-dip, don’t drop your bread in the pot, never leave the crusty bit at the bottom ( la religieuese ) uneaten – but the most important rule must be: only drink wine with it (preferably a dry Swiss white like Chasselas, the country’s most widespread homegrown grape). It supposedly helps with digestion (see also: schnapps). Apparently drinking water would cause the cheese to solidify in your stomach. Or perhaps (evidently, if you ask me) it’s simply that the Swiss love drinking wine and use any excuse to do so.

12. Don’t buy bottled water – tap water is just as good

One of the greatest rip-offs in Switzerland must be bottled water. It’s expensive and buying it is wholly unnecessary since the tap water is just as tasty and abundantly available. Carry a reusable bottle and fill up wherever you can – including from the many fountains you’ll see in cities, towns and mountain villages all over the country. Unless otherwise stated, it’s drinkable and delicious. Despite this, don’t be surprised if restaurants grumble when you order tap water – apart from in the canton of Ticino , they aren’t legally obliged to provide it for free and some will either charge you, or refuse to serve it, if you don’t also order another drink.

13. Keep an eye on your bags when traveling from the airport

Switzerland is generally a safe, honest country, but it’s worth keeping an eye on your suitcases when you’re traveling on the train from the airport, as thieves sometimes see newly arrived tourists as prime targets. Sit near the luggage rack or put your bags on the shelf above your head.

14. Stay safe in the mountains – and watch out for cows

Part of the thrill of touring Switzerland is spending time in the mountains, but don’t underestimate the unpredictability of nature. Make sure you’re well equipped with good boots and suitable clothing in case the weather turns. Check the forecast and trail conditions before you set out, and abide by any local rules such as avoiding areas where there might be rockfalls or other hazards.

Ideally, tell someone where you’re going and when you’re likely to be back. Consult trail maps on Wanderland.ch and save 1414 – the emergency number for Rega , Switzerland’s air rescue service – in your phone just in case.

Oh, and if you see cows with calves in the fields, give them a wide berth – though rare, there have been instances of hikers being trampled by irate mother cows.

Here is more expert advice to help you plan your trip to Switzerland:

Save this guide to the best things to do in Switzerland.  Plan a road trip (or seven) with this guide. Check when is the best time to go  depending on your interests and budget. Give your wallet a break with these free things to do in Switzerland . And find out why you should take the train (plus other transport tips ) for Switzerland.

This article was first published Jun 9, 2023 and updated May 5, 2024.

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20 Absolute Best Places to visit in Switzerland in Winter

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What is MOST amazing in this world:  imagine being surrounded by mesmerizing Alps, views of sparkling winter wonderland everywhere you see, with Christmas festive mood and cheer. Well, let’s take you to the best places to visit in Switzerland in winter to experience a fairytale getaway! 

There are so many reasons to visit Switzerland in winter. It is an off-season for cities, yes expect fewer crowds at attractions. Ski resorts are busy, but for good reasons and they have plenty of things to keep skiers and non-skiers happy and delighted! 

Yes, it is a perfect winter getaway for romantic couples, skiers and outdoor lovers, festive cheer, and family adventures. Switzerland gives Canada such a competition, that it’s hard for us to choose which one we love more – winter at home (Banff, Canada) or Switzerland.

20 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in Winter

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Preparing for your trip to Switzerland winter getaways

As a country Switzerland is compact. It is easy to get from an international airport to a ski resort or Alpine town using their train network. You can buy a Swiss Pass to save money on your commute.  

You can explore a city/town and then head to the mountains for a weekend or more – so whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an adrenaline-filled winter sports getaway, Switzerland has you covered. 

What are the Winter Months in Switzerland? 

The winter months in Switzerland are from December to February. Starting from November the weather becomes chilly and crowds are fewer. December pulls crowds to pretty Christmas markets and towns .

January and February are the coldest months in the country, and they are perfect for winter sports and festivals. They are also considered peak seasons for winter activities. 

JANUARY is the cheapest month to fly to Switzerland! And it is also the coldest!

Temperatures:

• Zurich: High: 2 C/35.6 F  Low: 0 C/32 F
• Lucerne : High: 4 C/39.2 F  Low: – 2 C/28.3 F
• St Moritz: High: – 2 C/28.4 F  Low: – 16 C/3.2 F
• Zermatt : High: 2 C/35.6 F  Low: – 7 C/19.4 F

READ : Our post on 7 days in Switzerland Itinerary , combines multiple destinations in one winter trip

Does Switzerland have snow all year?

Switzerland is not covered in snow all year long, and that’s why winter is special if you wish to see snow. Overall it experiences a mild climate. Trust me, their winters are milder than in Canada! 

Mountains or high altitude areas are different, they are mostly covered in snow in winter time. But cities and towns are milder, you will see snow and it will be cold, but not severe cold (temperatures don’t drop below – 15 degrees Celcius for 5 degrees F, for prime destinations).

Read : When is the best time to visit Switzerland?

Switzerland winter packing list

Here is a packing list for Switzerland in winter, you can grab a printable copy here

• Warm Boots – 1 or 2. Wear them in-flight to travel light. Click to buy this warm boot from Sorel
• Sneakers or comfortable shoes – For all the walking and wandering in the old town and transiting through different cities
• Warm socks – Carry a few (depending on your stay) 
• Warm Parka Jacket – Temperatures in the winter in Switzerland are below the freezing point for most places listed in this article. It will be colder and chillier when you go to observation platforms on the mountain top
• Cardigan/thermals – Carry 2 cardigans to wear as a layer inside the jacket. If you are skiing or not used to minus temperatures, then add thermals to the list as well. 
• Tops/thermals –  Long sleeves tops or thermal wear to keep you warm. 
• Pants/Jeans
• Sweater Dress – For Christmas markets. You can pair them with leggings 
• Leggings or long johns
• Warm cap or beanie – Carry 1 or 2. Get something with a pop of color for your photos
• Scarf – Travel scarf for in-flight, and outdoor
• Warm Gloves – My hands get zapped the most in the winter. And Switzerland is no different. Carry gloves to stay warm and toasted. 
• Sleepwear or loungewear
• Undergarments 

20 Best Places to visit in Switzerland in winter

1. zurich: festive cheer in zurich, shop & dine.

How much I LOVE Zurich! Zurich is one of the prettiest cities in Switzerland . The medieval old town or Altstadt is absolutely stunning in the winter. Festive lights are lit up everywhere, from streets, shops, and sightseeing attractions. Read our 2 days in Zurich itinerary

Located in the old town are prime tourist attractions like the Fraumünster, Grossmünster, Lindenhof Hill, and of course Bahnhofstrasse.

One of my favorite things to do in Zurich in winter is to wander the Bahnhofstrasse with hot chocolate in hand, whilst soaking in the festive cheer. There is a small Christmas culinary market set here for the season (Werdmühleplatz), which is a must visit. 

Read : One day in Zurich itinerary

In the Old Town, visit the Fraumünster. This 11th century church is stunning inside with stained glass windows and outside, as it is wrapped in the festive spirit. 

Christmas Markets in Zurich is one of the finest in Europe. The largest market is located at the main train station, so definitely stop by here before making your way to other places in Switzerland. The crowd puller is the giant Swarovski Christmas tree, adorned with twinkling lights. 

Zurich is an excellent starting point to explore more of Switzerland. Zurich Airport is the largest in the country and the principal hub of Swiss International Air Lines. Read our guide on accommodation in Zurich

2. Bern: UNESCO World Heritage Site for an epic Switzerland winter vacation

Bern, the capital of Switzerland is just as magical in winter, as it is during the other months of the year. Bern Old Town is a UNESCO world heritage site and is filled with beautiful architecture including the iconic Zytglogge Clock Tower.  

During Christmas time, the city’s old town transforms into a festive winter wonderland. Here you will find beautiful decorations adorning every corner and plenty of Christmas markets to explore.

The largest market in Bern takes place at Waisenhausplatz Square. Here you will find a lovely traditional market selling local handicrafts, decorations, and festive treats like mulled wine, sausages, and hot chocolate. Don’t miss the illuminated Christmas tree standing tall in the middle of the square.

Berner Münster Weihnachtsmarkt is a wonderful sight with views of the Bern Cathedral and colorful stalls. 

Bundesplatz or Parliament Square offers ice skating opportunities from December to February. Here you can lace up your skates and take a spin around on the ice rink for an hour or two. Popular with locals as well as tourists, this is a great place to soak in some winter cheer.

To get into the festive spirit further, attend one of the many Christmas concerts in Bern or enjoy a lovely fondue dinner. 

If you are looking to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city, there are tons of ski slopes nearby. 

Read: One day in Bern itinerary

3. Basel: For Christmas Markets in Switzerland and nearby

Basel, located in the northwestern corner of Switzerland, is another city bustling with Christmas cheer. 

In Basel’s medieval Old Town (Altstadt), you will find plenty of activities happening during winter including carol-singing performances around Marktplatz – located in front of Basel’s beautiful Town Hall (Rathaus), old-fashioned Christmas markets with local art and crafts, classic carousel rides, and live music concerts.

Basel’s winter festival and Weihnachtsmarkt takes place around Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz Squares. Here you will find Christmas decorations, fun activities, and a fairground. 

The city’s traditional Christmas Market is also located in these two squares – Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz. There are plenty of stalls selling festive treats like gingerbread cookies, traditional Swiss sweets, and warm drinks to keep you cozy and entertained throughout your stay.

Don’t miss the Christmas Parade where locals gather to enjoy the festivities with live music, dancing, and traditional masks.

When it is warm take a leisurely stroll along the Rhine riverfront and soak in the views of Basel’s Gothic architecture that are truly breathtaking.

If you still have time on your Basel itinerary , take a day trip to Colmar in France and enjoy Christmas markets. Or embark on winter hiking by crossing the border to Germany!

Read: One day in Basel itinerary

4. Engelberg: For cross country skiing in winter

Just an hour away from Zurich by train, Engelberg is the perfect winter escape. The village nestles amongst snow-capped peaks and offers excellent skiing conditions. 

There are a variety of ski areas nearby, catering for all levels – beginners can enjoy gentle slopes at Gerschnialp; more advanced skiers should head to Titlis Glacier Ski Resort (Engelberg-TITLIS ski area). 

You will be spoilt for choice in Engelberg, where there is plenty to do after a day of skiing and snowboarding. 

There are several restaurants and cafes serving warm dishes as well as local specialties like Swiss cheese fondue and rosti (potato pancakes). Spend some time exploring the old village or visit the famous Engelberg Abbey, which is particularly picturesque in winter.

Engelberg will be a memorable experience for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, combined with quaint Swiss mountain charm and plenty of festive cheer!

5. Rapperswil: Visiting Christmas Markets in Switzerland

Located 30 minutes outside of Zurich, and adorned by Lake Zurich is another medieval town of Rapperswil. It is home to one of the most popular Christmas markets in Switzerland.

The entire town is decorated with beautiful lights and the old town area is like a fairytale Christmas village with around 250 market stalls. Shop here for Christmassy decor, gifts, and souvenirs to take back home. 

Read : Most beautiful towns in Switzerland

The market area has fun activities for children, including musical events, choirs, carousel rides, and concerts. 

Other than the Christmas markets, ensure you visit Rapperswil Castle. It is the landmark attraction in the city. During summer the castle has a beautiful rose garden, which is worth visiting. Rightly called, the “City of Roses”, the views of Lake Zurich make it very romantic and serene.  

6. Zermatt: A Fairytale Resort Town

The quaint town of Zermatt looks straight out of a fairytale. With the backdrop of the Matterhorn, the stunning peak in the Alps, and cute lanes and cafes, Zermatt will melt your heart.

You can easily reach Zermatt from Zurich (4 hour train ride, one way), and stay there to enjoy winter sports. That is one of the major reasons why mountaineers love Zermatt so much. It is quick and easy access to the mountains and world-class skiing! 

If you are not into skiing, don’t worry. How about embarking on a cable car ride in the Swiss Alps to soak in the mountain views, up close and personal? Cable cars take you to the surrounding mountains, maybe plan that with your loved one. And enjoy a relaxing romantic winter getaway in the mountain. 

7. Saas – Fee: Winter Sports Adventures

Saas-Fee is a ski village located in the Saastal or the Saas Valley. It falls within the jurisdiction of the canton of Valais in Switzerland. You can reach Saas-Fee from Zermatt. The road distance between the two places is 50.9 km (36.6 miles).

Why you must visit Saas Fee in winter because it is as iconic as a traditional ski resort town gets – pretty accommodations, mountain views, ice rinks, and sports. BUT… it is still a hidden gem, and not super crowded like Zermatt. 

In Saas-Fee, you can enjoy prime winter activities like skiing, cross-country skiing, and tobogganing, and also get into the body of the glacier at the Ice Pavilion. The town has a car-free city centre, and is known for its stunning views of mountains in Europe.  

8. Aarau: Small town, offbeat, and great for a snowy getaway

Aarau is a small city located in northern Switzerland in Aargau, just a stone’s throw away from Zurich. It has become increasingly popular during the winter season due to its picturesque scenery, Jura mountain views, and spectacular Christmas markets. 

Aarau’s old town retains its charm despite modern development. A notable characteristic of Aarau is the abundance of what is known as “Dachhimmel” – the exquisitely painted undersides of the eaves found in the charming old town centre. 

Make sure to take a stroll through Aarau’s cobblestoned streets, explore the old city centre and visit some of its historical attractions such as the Hallwyl Castle, and Art Gallery

The central square of the old town is home to the Weihnachtsmarkt Aarau, where you will find colorful and lively Christmas markets. 

Aarau is also renowned for its stunning natural beauty, so why not go for a winter hike through one of the nearby forests or take advantage of skiing opportunities in the local area? With plenty to do and see, Aarau is a great winter escape.

9. Grindelwald: For a charming snowy getaway

Grindelwald in winter is a fantastic place to visit. Nestled at the foot of the Swiss Alps, Grindelwald is known for its breathtaking mountain scenery and world-class ski resorts. 

Take a cable car up to the stunning First Cliff Walk, where you can take in the magnificent views of the valley and mountains. The view from here is especially beautiful during winter when it’s all covered in snow. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, try skiing at nearby resorts like Grindelwald and Kleine Scheidegg/Männlichen – Grindelwald/Wengen. There are also plenty of opportunities for snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tobogganing here.

Christmas in Grindelwald is truly a magical experience. The town centre is full of festive lights and decorations that turn it into a winter wonderland. There’s also an annual Christmas market in the village square which attracts tourists from all over the world. 

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure in the mountains, Grindelwald in winter is sure to be a memorable experience! 

10. Wengen: Charming mountain town, and winter activities

Wengen is a picturesque village that lies in the Jungfrau region of Switzerland.

From Zurich, it takes 3-4 hours to reach Wengen by train. And your Swiss Travel Pass will include a ride there! 

In winter, the small Swiss town offers a ton of activities such as skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and more. In fact, it is very popular with visitors from December to March when snow accumulates at the slopes making it excellent for skiing.  

The snow-covered landscape of Wengen, above the Lauterbrunnen valley , makes for some of the most beautiful views in Switzerland. From here, you can also head to Kleine Scheidegg and enjoy the fresh powder in the ski resort of Männlichen, one of the largest in the region.  

Not into skiing? No problem. The village of Wengen is the perfect winter destination for those who want a sense of peace and relaxation, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Take a leisurely stroll through its narrow streets, admire the traditional chalets, and enjoy some traditional Swiss cuisine.

If you’re looking for a romantic weekend away, Wengen also offers plenty of cozy accommodation options such as beautiful mountain lodges and boutique hotels. What better way to end an adventurous day in the Alps than curling up in a warm chalet with breathtaking views over the snow-covered valley?

11. Bernina Express: Embark on a scenic train ride in the winter in Switzerland 

Train rides in Switzerland are super scenic. And in the winter it is even more gorgeous. Imagine tucked in a blanket (in a train with huge glass windows) and drooling at the snow-dusted landscape and the light rays of the sun. 

For those seeking a relaxing romantic getaway, this experience is a must. There are many train routes in Switzerland, each connecting different touristy points.

The most popular and favorite is the Bernina Express. This train route connects St. Moritz in Switzerland with the town of Tirano Italy, via the Bernina Pass.

The entire ride is completed in 4-hours, one way. You can make reservations for the Bernina Express trains in winter for CHF10 per seat.

12. Chur in Winter: Oldest city in Switzerland

Chur is the oldest city in Switzerland and one of the country’s most fascinating destinations. Located in the Graubünden region, Chur is an ideal winter getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of a big city.

The old town of Chur is filled with captivating buildings, including Gothic churches, Renaissance-style palaces, and quaint cobbled alleyways.

Chur is also known for its lively nightlife and excellent culinary scene, making it a great destination for foodies. The city’s restaurants offer a variety of local specialties, and you can also join food tours to sample nut tart, dried meat, capuns, and röteli (delicious cherry liqueur). 

No visit to Chur would be complete without trying the local wine.

If you’re looking for some winter fun, Chur also offers plenty of activities for all ages and abilities. You can hit the local mountain slopes or visit the nearby ski resorts of Furggabüel and the Dreibündenstein for skiing and snowboarding.

Chur is an ideal winter destination for those who want to experience the best of Swiss culture and architecture, as well as enjoy some exciting winter sports. Many bucket list panoramic train rides (Glacier Express and Bernina Express) have a stop at the Chur Station making it an amazing Swiss winter hotspot for non skiers as well!

13. Glacier Express: Soak in gorgeous views of the Alps

Glacier Express is another popular scenic train route to enjoy in Switzerland. And this one takes you from Zermatt to St. Moritz. You can enjoy skiing and a romantic getaway and then continue on to St. Moritz for some more outdoorsy fun.

While onboard, the train route welcomes you with gorgeous views of the Alps as they travel bridges, snowy valleys, tunnels, and the iconic Oberalp Pass. The Swiss Pass covers the famous Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and Golden Pass scenic routes (seat reservation is extra). 

Buy : Buy your Swiss Travel Pass here

14. St. Moritz: More Winter Adventures in a picture-perfect Christmas town

St. Moritz is one of the stunning places to visit in winter in Switzerland. The nearest airport to reach St-Moritz is Lugano (LUG) Airport which is 90.4 km away. What makes this town unique is that it hosted the Winter Olympics twice, once in 1928 and 1948. 

During winters, St. Moritz turns into a snowy wonderland, and with added festive illuminations the entire town transforms into a picture perfect Christmas town. It is okay if you don’t ski, there are still amazing things to do in St Moritz.

First off, stay at a (ski) resort surrounded by jaw dropping mountain views. The beautiful alpine landscape with mountain lakes, glaciers, and slowly dusted snow makes it a dream-like winter destination.

Make time to wander the village, and learn about its history and architecture. Looking to shop? St Moritz is home to luxurious brands and pretty stores. While you are wandering, stop by to try delicious cheese fondue! 

Now, for the outdoorsy buddies. St Moritz is a skiers, tobogganers, and snowboarders paradise. From world-class skiing resorts, ice skating rinks, and infrastructure to Nature Almighty the ground is set for winter sports in St Moritz. 

Ski resorts and hotels have everything you need (from ski rentals, and instructors to transportation) to make your dream winter vacation, a reality! 

15. Jungfrau region: Head to the Top of Europe

Jungfrau region is located in the Bernese Oberland region in Switzerland. It is known for one of the most stunning peaks in Europe –  the Jungfraujoch. Even more popular is the highest railway station on the continent, called the ‘Top of Europe’; which pulls crowds to the region.

Being a touristy site, you can expect bustling activities in the winter time too. Primarily visitors flock there for winter sports (skiing, snowboarding) and scenic mountain views.

At 3454 metres high, this is an EPIC spot to take in all of what Switzerland stands for – alps, snow and ice, and jaw-dropping landscape, as far as your eyes can go. 

Other than the views and skiing, you can also embark on winter hikes in and around Jungfrau. 

16. Château-d’Oex: Best Balloon Festival in Switzerland winter bucket list

One of the best balloon festivals worldwide is located in the cute town of Château-d’Oex in Switzerland. And this lovely festival happens every year at the end of January and lasts for nine days. So here’s another great item to check off in Switzerland in winter!

Many countries around the world participate in the festival, and each country shows off its beautiful colorful balloons. The balloons fly around the town, surrounded by tall standing magnificent mountains (I mean it is the Alps!).

There is also a lot of food and drinks, so you can drink while you watch the colorful balloons light up the sky. One of the best things to do at this festival is to ride a balloon. When on top, it is one of the most beautiful views you will ever see!

This festival tradition has been going on since 1979 and is a must add to your Swizterland bucket list . On one Wednesday, there is even a day when the festival is dedicated to the children. It is an especially great time to bring the family on this day. 

Zurich to the town of Château-d’Oex is 3 hours by car or train.

17. Lucerne: Explore the city with a chapel bridge and stunning views

Lucerne is one of the best places to visit Switzerland in winter. For one, the city is not super crowded as it is off-season, and secondly, the hotels and Airbnbs are super affordable around this time.

BONUS? You ask. Lucerne is stunning, and when you look up or wander a bit outside of the city, the mesmerizing snow capped mountains are not far off. 

According to us, Christmas is the BEST time to visit this charming city. So plan your trip for December and January to enjoy festive lights ( and accommodation fares ). The iconic Chapel Bridge is a must visit, and imagine how beautiful it looks with all the twinkling lights under the crisp winter nights.

Just outside of the Lucerne Old Town is the popular Mount Pilatus. If you are staying in Lucerne, use this time to reach the top of the mountain, and enjoy breathtaking views. 

Another option is to head to Mount Rigi from Lucerne by train. The views from Mount Rigi are also beautiful, although it is not as high as Mount Pilatus, it is worth a visit. 

Read: One day in Lucerne itinerary

18. Locarno: For a warmer winter vacation

Locarno, situated on the banks of Lake Maggiore in Switzerland, is known for being the warmest place in the country. Here you’ll find warmer temperatures of around 1 degree to 5 degrees Celcius (33 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit) even in the winter months. 

So if you are ready to leave layers of clothing to soak in the warm winter sun then Locarno is the place to be! You can comfortably walk the town centre, hang out on an outdoor patio and hop through markets.

The cableway located at the centre of Locarno takes you to a snow-covered local mountaintop where you can admire the views over Lake Maggiore and the Ascona-Locarno region (Passerelle observation platform). If you like some winter sports, you can enjoy snowshoeing at the slopes here. 

Back in the town centre, you can relish delicious local specialties, like fruity mulled wine and freshly baked Swiss pastries. 

If you’re lucky enough to be here during the festive season, you can also enjoy Locarno’s annual Christmas market. Stalls are set up in the central square offering traditional crafts, handmade decorations, and gifts. 

The streets of Locarno are adorned with colorful lights and decorations this time of year, making it even more beautiful. 

Read : Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary

19. Piz Gloria: Dine at the world’s highest revolving restaurant

Would you like to celebrate Christmas and New Years at the world’s highest revolving restaurant? Then look no further than the Piz Gloria. It is located at a height of 2,970 metres (9,740 feet) at the summit of the Schilthorn near Mürren.

Murren is in the Bernese Oberland region in Switzerland.

You can reach Schilthorn by cable car from Mürren. Head there for celebrations, while you soak in mountain views. Apart from the restaurant, there is a viewing platform to enjoy the panoramic views. 

The nearest airport to Mürren is located in Berne which is 49.5 km or 30.7 miles away. 

20. Geneva: Winter outdoor and indoor fun

Geneva is a fun city to visit in Switzerland. Geneva in the winter is perfect for those who love to spend time outdoors as well indoors. There are skating rinks, and skiing opportunities in the nearby Jura Mountains, home to three Alpine Ski Areas.

If this is your first time skiing, ensure you opt for a beginner class they are totally worth it.

Geneva’s fountain Jet d’eau is a must visit. Dress warm as it is quite cold and chilly near the waters. 

If the cold is too much for you, head to the museums. First off, the United Nations site at the Palais des Nations building. For those who love History (like me), visit the Musee d’ Art et d’Histoire – learn all about prehistoric cultures here. 

Geneva is also an amazing Swiss destination to explore Christmas markets in the winter. They have not one, but several markets sprinkled all across the city, where you can enjoy mulled wine and other typical Christmas treats.

The most traditional-style Christmas market is on Rue du Mont-Blanc, which is held from late November to early January. Food is an important part of Christmas celebrations. Head to Café du Soleil to try their delicious fondue. 

If you are in Geneva, the Sunday before Christmas ensures you don’t miss the Coupe de Noël, which is Geneva’s annual Christmas swimming race. In this race about 2,000 swimmers dive into the icy waters of Lake Geneva, wearing fancy dresses and wetsuits. 

Is it worth visiting Switzerland in winter?

The winter months are one of the best times to visit Switzerland. Wintertime can be especially magical, with the snow-capped mountains and sparkling lights in the city streets. 

If you enjoy winter activities such as skiing or snowboarding, then Switzerland is definitely a great place to visit during the colder months. There are plenty of things to do in Switzerland for non-skiers too from visiting Christmas markets to soaking in the views of the snowy landscapes! 

Additional Travels Tips for Switzerland Winter Trip

Travel documents and visa

Switzerland is not part of the European Union, but they follow the Schengen agreement for non-visa-exempt countries. Read our detailed guide to applying to the Schengen visa.

When visiting Switzerland with an Indian passport, a Schengen Visa will be required.

Visitors with US and Canadian passports do not require a visa to enter the country and stay for 90 days; however, from 2025, an online authorization – ETIAS – is required prior to travel. 

There are tons of direct flight options available from both the United States and Canada to Zurich, Switzerland.

A week’s itinerary is enough to explore the prime highlights in Switzerland. Start in Zurich or Geneva, and then from there explore Zermatt, Montreux, Jungfraujoch, and many other destinations like Berne, Lucerne, and Lausanne in Switzerland. If short on time, you can read and follow one of our 5 days in Switzerland itinerary

There are lots of things to do in Switzerland for the non skier from taking a scenic train ride, to visiting Christmas & food markets. One can also enjoy the snow without skiing – by staying in a resort, soaking in a hot pool, spa, or shopping!

It is cold in Switzerland during the winter months. At high altitudes, it will be colder, as compared to cities. Snow is definitely common.  In the mountainous areas are coldest temperatures are around -10°C or 14°F. In the central part of the country, expect temperatures to be about 0°C or 32°F. Southern areas are warmer as compared to the rest, averaging around 4°C or 39°F. During January and February, expect only a few hours of sunlight.

Winter, overall is a great time to visit Switzerland. In December the snow starts to fall, making everything pretty at the mountain ski resorts. In various cities and small towns, Switzerland gears up for the festive season, and you will find stunning Christmas markets, and seasonal decorations and fests pop up everywhere in the country!

January is the coldest month in Switzerland.

January is the coldest month in Switzerland, making it a good time to visit for those who love to ski and all things related to snow sports. Cities are not really crowded but the ski resorts of Valais and St. Moritz are especially busy around this time!

Located on the southern border of Switzerland is Locarno, which is known to be one of the warmest places in the country. It boasts 2300 hours of sunshine annually.

There is no legal requirement for getting winter tires, but it is recommended when you are driving in the colder months in Switzerland.

When visiting Switzerland in winter, it’s important to dress for the cold temperatures. Layering is key – starting with a base layer of lightweight wool, followed by an insulating mid layer and topped with a wind-resistant outer layer.  A good hat and scarf are essential accessories that will keep you warm while exploring the outdoors. Waterproof boots are essential for keeping your feet dry in the snow. If you need to go skiing, make sure to invest in a good pair of ski pants and jacket.  A winter trip to Switzerland is an amazing experience – with the right clothing, it’s easy to stay warm and enjoy the beauty of this stunning country even during colder months. Here is a list of items to pack for your trip to Switzerland,  – Winter (waterproof) parka or jacket – Sweaters – Thermal tops and bottoms – Snow boots – Warm socks – Warm gloves, scarves, beanie

More Switzerland travel guides:

• Where to stay in Switzerland
• 2 day Switzerland itinerary

Pin: Switzerland in winter for non skiers & skiers

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 40+ countries.

Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world particularly Europe, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. 

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

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Hey Mayuri, thanks for putting this together. Any thoughts on how to travel to all of these places? For instance, we are looking at public transportation but can’t figure out if Swiss pass is the best deal. We will be there for 7 days in December and wondering if we should be looking at more than just Swiss pass or pay per ride for all of these places so we are not in a rush to cover everything. I would love to hear your thoughts on transportation.

The Swiss Travel Pass is definitely the best option out there to save on transportation. It is available and sold for 3,4, 8, or 15 days. To cover 7 days, you will need the 8-day pass.

An alternate option is to buy the 4-day pass, and then use day tours or walking tours on the remainder of the days to explore (keeping one city as a base). On the 4 days when you have the pass, you can check off the museums and special trains from your list.

From a cost perspective, if you are using trains to get to various places in Switzerland, the Swiss Pass will be the way to go!

Hope this helps!

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21 USEFUL THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU VISIT SWITZERLAND - Get your free copy here!

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. 

[ This post may contain compensated links. Please see my  disclosure policy  for more information. ]

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 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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Bolgen Plaza • Davos

• price 2 of 4

Even in a town with plenty of choices, the Bolgen Plaza is a great aprés-ski venue. During the winter there is a daily 'Snow Apéro' DJ party starting at 4pm and hot meals are served from 11am onwards.

Bergrestaurant Bussalp • Grindelwald

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After spending a morning in the snow working up an appetite, there are few better places to end up for lunch than this mountain restaurant. Perched at 1,792m on the south-facing side of the 

Mineralbad & Spa Rigi-Kaltbad • Lucerne

• Health and beauty

Capitalising on the longstanding history of wellness tourists ‘taking the water’ on the Rigi mountain near Lucerne, this spa offers modern-day visitors the chance to luxuriate in the mineral waters of the Kaltbad spring while taking in the superlative view of the mountains from its indoor and outdoor pools. 

Titlis Rotair gondola

This is the world’s first fully rotating gondola, which slowly spins around 360 degrees during its five-minute trip towards the summit of Mount Titlis from the Engelberg resort. As you travel up 3,020 metres above sea level you can enjoy some spectacular views of deep crevasses and snow-covered mountain peaks. 

Grimsel Hospiz

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This unique hotel offers a real urban escape, with winter ski touring, a dip in the hotel’s hot tub and the starry sky of a winter’s night in the middle of nowhere.

Walliser Alpentherme & Spa • Leukerbad

Well known for its thermal waters, the pretty alpine village of Leukerbad has several spas, but this is one of the best. 

The best Swiss ski resorts

The Alps are Switzerland’s outdoor playground and it's no secret that this small country is home to an amazing choice of ski resorts. From big resorts with the best après-ski to small, relatively unknown ski regions that cater particularly well to family ski holidays, this guide to the 10 best ski resorts in Switzerland will help you on your way.

More great things to do in Switzerland

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Take advantage of the crisp weather and incredible views from the sun terraces of these Alpine restaurants and cafes this winter. 

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When is the best time to visit Switzerland?

• The Swiss Alps
• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Switzerland is between April and October, though winter sports enthusiasts may prefer December to March. The country has four distinct seasons, each with its own attractions.

The spring months of March to May bring Alpine blooms, flowering trees and cows heading out to pasture. In the warmest months of June, July and August summery temperatures prevail, though you’ll rarely get any humidity thanks to the high altitude. This is when locals and visitors alike head to the lake shores, meaning thicker crowds.

The wine and fruit harvests dominate the fall months of September to November and from December to February, you’ll find snow, cold and winter sports.

In the lowlands, rain most often falls in November and May. Because it’s between the busy summer and winter seasons, these months are when many attractions have limited hours and residents often take their own trips.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Switzerland

Visiting Switzerland in December - January

December and January are the coldest, but not the wettest, months of the year. There’s frequently snow, which makes the Christmas markets in Switzerland’s main cities even more festive. Temperatures hang around freezing, but it’s still common to enjoy crisp blue skies and bright sun reflecting off the snow.

Events & Festivals

• Christmas markets (mid-November through early January): Cities feature cute wooden chalets, lots of traditional food, handmade crafts and hot spiced wine.

Visiting Switzerland in February - March

Temperatures begin to rise in February and March, but these months tend to see more rain and snow at altitude. Ski resorts are very busy at this time, since many schools take their mid-term breaks.

Visiting Switzerland in April - May

Spring arrives over April and May, and bright flowers come out on the Alpine mountainsides and in the green, low-lying valleys. Meadows return to life, dairy cows are released to graze and Alpine resorts become void of skiers. April can sometimes see a late flurry of winter weather.

Visiting Switzerland in June - July

In the summer months of June and July, the mountain scenery is at its best. The weather is mild and temperatures are pleasant and rarely too hot. Days are generally dry and sunny, offering clear views across the mountain peaks and rolling countryside.

• Montreux Jazz Festival (July): The biggest music festival in Switzerland with artists from around the world performing for two weeks on the shores of Lake Geneva.

Visiting Switzerland in August - September

As fall approaches in August and September, the lakes, mountains and cities all overflow with harvest beauty. Flowers adorn wooden chalets, the forest scenery takes on a cloak of golden brown and more mountaintops take on snowy caps. Farmers are out in force as fruit trees ripen and grapevines bend under their heavy load.

• Swiss National Day (August 1): A lot of towns and cities celebrate with street festivals and parades, many with elaborate fireworks and live music.

Visiting Switzerland in October - November

October and November mark the late fall, when the last of the wine grapes are harvested, the cows are brought down from the hillside and the weather begins to turn cold. In early October you can be blessed with lovely sunny days, but as the days shorten through November many hotels, restaurants and attractions close their doors for respite and refurbishment before the busy winter arrives.

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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 to help us determine next year's ranking.

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 or biking 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.

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 an array of activities at the top.

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.

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. Those with expensive taste can join well-heeled shoppers (or just admire the window displays) on Bahnhofstrasse, a world-famous exclusive retail boulevard. While here, be sure to splurge on the famous dark chocolate Champagne truffles from specialty chocolatier Teuscher.

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.

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.

The capital of Switzerland, Bern sometimes gets overlooked for flashier Swiss cities like Zurich and Geneva. But Bern holds many charms, including an Old City (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) featuring the iconic Zytglogge clock tower, Renaissance-style fountains and the tallest cathedral 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.

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 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.

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. Outdoor enthusiasts will also love hiking the region's "experience trails" like the Gonten Barefoot Trail and the Appenzell Chapel Trail, 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.

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.

Mürren, a small alpine town in the Jungfrau Region, is an ideal getaway for movie buffs and adventure seekers. A little more difficult to reach than other destinations on this list, Mürren's car-free status means travelers must arrive on foot, by bike or via public transportation. Once here, travelers can take a cable car to the summit of Mount Schilthorn, whose iconic revolving 360-degree restaurant was featured in the 1969 James Bond film, "On Her Majesty's Secret Service." In winter, Mürren is a hot spot for cold-weather sports like skiing and snowshoeing, while summer beckons hikers and rock climbers.

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 to lower altitudes, prioritize a hike on a 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.

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.

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 mount Madonna del Sasso, considered sacred among Roman Catholics. Then, head to the Verzasca river valley to swim or bungee jump.

Sitting just south of Lake Constance near the Germany and Austria borders, St. Gallen dazzles travelers with its fairy-tale old town and rich history. The first item on your itinerary will likely be the outstanding Abbey of St. Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the Baroque-style Cathedral of St. Gallen and the Abbey Library. When you're done wandering through one of the world's oldest libraries, check out one of St. Gallen's fascinating museums, which include the Textilmuseum and the Naturmuseum. Just remember to save time for visiting the gorgeous Drei Weieren (Three Ponds), a popular swimming destination.

Head to Switzerland's third-largest city if you appreciate art. The legendary Art Basel event started here and has since migrated to other cities around the world. What's more, Basel's top attraction, Kunstmuseum Basel, houses the country's largest public collection of art, with works from legends like Paul Cézanne and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. You can find additional museums (roughly 40 in total) and galleries throughout the city. When you need a break from admiring art, Basel's picturesque old town is a beautiful place for a leisurely walk, or you can hop on a ferry for a scenic ride on the Rhine.

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17 Things Americans Should Know Before Traveling to Switzerland

Shakes Gilles

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Switzerland is a land of stunning landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, towering alpine peaks, and charming cities. Known for its exceptional quality of life, well-organized public services, and as a global hub of diplomacy and finance, Switzerland offers an unforgettable experience for every type of traveler. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Zurich and Geneva or skiing in the Swiss Alps, there are several things you should know before traveling to Switzerland. Here are 17 key tips for American travelers heading to Switzerland.

1. Switzerland Is Expensive

Switzerland consistently ranks among the most expensive countries in the world for travelers. Accommodation, dining out, and transportation can be significantly more costly than in the U.S. However, the quality of services and products is exceptionally high, whether it’s Swiss trains running on time or the cleanliness of public spaces.

To save money, consider dining at more casual places like supermarkets (many offer fresh, ready-to-eat meals), or take advantage of budget-friendly hostels . Public parks and nature provide free entertainment with some of the most breathtaking views in Europe.

2. The Swiss Franc Is the Official Currency

Despite being in the heart of Europe, Switzerland does not use the euro . Instead, the country uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) . While some tourist-heavy areas may accept euros, change will almost always be given in Swiss Francs, and the exchange rate might not be favorable. Make sure to withdraw Swiss Francs from ATMs or exchange money beforehand.

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash on hand is helpful, particularly in smaller towns or for transportation services.

3. Switzerland Has Four Official Languages

Switzerland has four official languages : German , French , Italian , and Romansh . The language you’ll encounter depends on the region you’re visiting. In Zurich and most of the northern and central parts of Switzerland, Swiss German is spoken. In Geneva and the southwestern part of the country, French is predominant. Italian is spoken in the southern Ticino region, and Romansh is spoken by a small percentage in the southeastern canton of Graubünden .

Most Swiss people speak English , especially in cities, so communication won’t be an issue. However, learning a few key phrases in the local language is always appreciated.

4. Public Transportation Is Efficient and Punctual

Switzerland’s public transportation system is world-class, with an extensive network of trains , buses , trams , and ferries . The trains are particularly noteworthy, known for their punctuality and providing scenic routes through the mountains and countryside. Whether you’re traveling between cities or exploring the smaller towns, public transportation is reliable and easy to use.

For visitors, the Swiss Travel Pass is a great option, offering unlimited access to trains, buses, and boats for a set number of days. It also includes entry to many museums and offers discounts on mountain excursions.

5. Tipping Is Not Mandatory

Tipping in Switzerland is not obligatory because service charges are included in the price of food, drinks, and services. However, if you receive exceptional service, it’s customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip (5-10%). In restaurants, rounding up the total by a few francs is sufficient. For example, if your bill is 47 CHF, rounding it up to 50 CHF would be appreciated.

In taxis or for services like hotel porters, a small tip is also welcome but not expected.

6. Switzerland Is Incredibly Safe

Switzerland is one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates. You can feel comfortable walking around both urban and rural areas at any time of the day or night. While petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist spots, it is much less common than in other European countries. Basic precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings in busy areas, should suffice.

Switzerland’s safety extends to its well-organized infrastructure, including well-marked hiking trails and secure transportation systems, making it a great destination for solo travelers and families alike.

7. Switzerland Is Famous for Its Outdoor Activities

Switzerland’s stunning landscapes make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts . Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or prefer a leisurely hike, the Swiss Alps offer something for everyone. Activities like hiking , skiing , snowboarding , mountain biking , paragliding , and ice climbing are available year-round. In the warmer months, popular hiking destinations include the Bernese Oberland , Zermatt , and Engadin regions.

If you’re visiting in the winter, Switzerland is one of the world’s top destinations for skiing and snowboarding . Resorts like Zermatt , St. Moritz , and Verbier offer world-class facilities and stunning views.

8. Swiss Food Is Hearty and Delicious

Switzerland is famous for its hearty cuisine , particularly dishes involving cheese and chocolate . You can’t leave Switzerland without trying a traditional fondue , where pieces of bread are dipped into a pot of melted cheese, or raclette , which involves scraping melted cheese onto potatoes and vegetables.

Swiss chocolate is world-renowned, and brands like Lindt , Toblerone , and Cailler have made Switzerland synonymous with high-quality chocolate. You’ll also find a variety of artisanal chocolate shops across the country offering unique flavors.

Rösti (a crispy potato dish) and Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (a veal dish served with creamy white wine sauce) are also classic Swiss dishes you’ll encounter. Switzerland’s food scene has both local specialties and international influences, offering something for every palate.

9. You Can Drink Tap Water

Switzerland is home to some of the cleanest and freshest tap water in the world, sourced from natural springs and glaciers. Public fountains, often beautifully designed and located throughout cities, towns, and even mountain paths, provide safe, drinkable water. This makes it easy to stay hydrated on hikes or during your city explorations without having to buy bottled water.

You’ll rarely need to purchase bottled water in Switzerland, as the tap water is not only safe but often better than the bottled alternatives.

10. Sundays Are a Day of Rest

In Switzerland, Sundays are considered a day of rest , and many shops, including supermarkets, are closed. This tradition is taken seriously across the country, and it’s common for families to spend Sundays relaxing, engaging in outdoor activities, or visiting with friends and family. Tourist attractions, restaurants, and cafes typically remain open, but for any shopping, you’ll need to plan ahead and do it on Saturday .

If you happen to need groceries on a Sunday, your best bet is to visit a store located at a major train station or in airports, as these are some of the few places open on Sundays. These stores typically offer a limited selection, but they’ll have the essentials if you find yourself in need of supplies.

For locals, Sundays are often reserved for leisure activities such as hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying time in nature. If you’re in Switzerland on a Sunday, consider taking advantage of the quiet and explore the beautiful outdoors.

11. The Swiss Are Punctual

In Switzerland, punctuality is highly valued, and being late is generally considered disrespectful. Whether you’re meeting someone socially, attending a business appointment, or catching public transportation, being on time is important. Swiss trains are renowned for their punctuality, and schedules are followed closely. Even if a train is just a few minutes late, you’ll often hear an announcement explaining the delay.

If you’re planning to meet someone or attend an event, make sure to arrive on time or even a few minutes early. Punctuality is seen as a sign of respect for others’ time.

12. Switzerland Is Environmentally Conscious

Switzerland is a global leader in environmental sustainability . The country takes recycling, waste management, and eco-friendly practices very seriously. There are strict regulations for separating waste into categories such as paper , glass , metal , organic waste , and plastic . You’ll find clearly marked bins in most public areas, and it’s important to dispose of your trash properly.

The Swiss are also committed to renewable energy , with a significant portion of the country’s electricity generated from hydropower . Public transportation is widely used and highly efficient, and cities encourage cycling and walking. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of their environmental impact and to participate in sustainable practices, including minimizing waste and conserving energy.

13. Healthcare Is Excellent but Expensive

Switzerland has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, but it’s also very expensive . For Americans traveling to Switzerland, it’s essential to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. If you need medical attention, rest assured that the quality of care is top-notch, but the cost can be high, especially if you require hospitalization or specialized treatment.

Most pharmacists in Switzerland are well-trained and can offer advice or over-the-counter medications for minor ailments. For anything more serious, head to a local clinic or hospital, but be sure you’re covered by insurance.

14. Switzerland Is Neutral, but Very International

Switzerland is known for its long-standing policy of neutrality , especially in global conflicts, but it is also a very international country. Geneva, in particular, is home to the United Nations , the World Health Organization , the International Red Cross , and many other international organizations. As a result, you’ll find people from all over the world living and working in Switzerland, especially in Geneva and Zurich.

The country’s neutrality means that Switzerland often plays a diplomatic role in global affairs, and this international presence contributes to its diverse and multicultural atmosphere.

15. Switzerland Has Some Unique Laws

Switzerland has a number of unique laws that visitors should be aware of. For example, it is illegal to wash your car on a Sunday , as Sunday is seen as a day of rest. Similarly, making loud noises, such as vacuuming or mowing the lawn, is discouraged on Sundays.

There are also strict laws regarding littering and recycling. Throwing away recyclable items in the regular trash can result in fines. It’s important to familiarize yourself with local customs and respect the regulations, as the Swiss take these rules seriously to maintain their country’s cleanliness and orderliness.

16. The Swiss Have a Deep Respect for Privacy

The Swiss are known for their reserved and private nature, and this extends to social interactions. While the Swiss are polite and helpful, they tend to keep conversations more formal, especially with strangers. Unlike in some cultures, it’s uncommon to engage in small talk with people you don’t know well, particularly in public spaces like public transportation.

When visiting Switzerland, be mindful of others’ privacy and personal space. If you’re in a café or on a train, avoid speaking loudly, as it can be seen as disruptive. The Swiss tend to keep a quiet, calm demeanor in public, and maintaining a respectful tone in shared spaces is appreciated.

Swiss people are also known for their discretion when it comes to personal matters, so avoid asking overly personal questions in casual conversation. It’s perfectly fine to enjoy a friendly chat, but be mindful not to overstep boundaries when discussing personal or sensitive topics.

17. Switzerland Has a Unique Cultural Diversity

Although Switzerland is a relatively small country, it has a rich cultural diversity due to its four linguistic regions—German, French, Italian, and Romansh. This means that Swiss culture varies depending on which region you’re in, and each region has its own unique traditions, cuisine, and lifestyle.

• In the German-speaking regions (like Zurich, Bern, and Lucerne), you’ll find an affinity for traditional Alpine culture, with hearty meals and folk festivals.
• In the French-speaking regions (like Geneva and Lausanne), there’s a strong connection to French cuisine, culture, and more laid-back social norms.
• In the Italian-speaking regions (like Lugano and Ticino), you’ll feel a Mediterranean influence, with a focus on Italian food, wine, and a slower pace of life.

Embracing these regional differences is one of the most enjoyable parts of traveling in Switzerland. You can experience a variety of cultures and landscapes within just a few hours of travel, making Switzerland feel like several countries in one.

Switzerland is a land of breathtaking landscapes , efficient infrastructure , and a high standard of living, making it an attractive destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re skiing in the Swiss Alps, indulging in rich Swiss chocolate, or exploring the multicultural cities, Switzerland offers something for every type of traveler.

Understanding the country’s unique customs, such as respecting privacy, being mindful of environmental practices, and embracing the local linguistic and cultural diversity, will ensure that your trip is smooth and enjoyable. With its commitment to precision, beauty, and sustainability, Switzerland is truly a one-of-a-kind travel destination.

• Switzerland Travel

Shakes covers stories ranging from science to health, to technology, to astronomy, etc... On a typical weekend, you'll find him enjoying a picnic at a local park or playing soccer with friends.

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