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The 14 Most Magical Places to Visit in Switzerland This Winter

By Caitlin Morton

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.

Jessica Puckett

Olivia Morelli

Rachel Chang

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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Home » Winter

Ultimate Winter Guide to Switzerland (with Interactive Map!)

• Last Updated: 30 Nov 2023

If you want an easier way to find winter activities in Switzerland, you might like my “Ultimate Winter Guide to Switzerland!”

It has  150+ winter activities with an interactive map and suggested itineraries. You can filter the map for ski resorts, sledding, winter hikes, snowshoe, fondue chalets, thermal baths, Christmas markets, mountain viewpoints and more.

You can purchase individual itineraries or unlimited access to the whole map, including any updates I add in the future.

It’s a one-time purchase, which gives you lifetime access to the map and any updates I add in the future. Most of my content is free, so this is great way to support me and get a more premium experience.

If you buy before the end of the year, you can use our Early Bird code to get a 20% discount:  SFFWINTER20E

>  Get the Ultimate Winter Guide to Switzerland

Fall Guide to Switzerland

If you are planning to travel here next October, check out my Ultimate Fall Guide to Switzerland . 

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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If you need a customized itinerary or help planning your trip to Switzerland, you can book a video call with me. Learn more .

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15 Top Things to Do in Winter in Switzerland

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Nov 26, 2021

Winter is one of the best times to visit Switzerland. While summer offers beautiful flowering valleys and great hiking trails , winter brings on the magic of snow-covered peaks, charming Christmas markets, and the best skiing you'll find in Europe.

There are plenty of things to do in Switzerland for non-skiers, too. The snow fun continues off the pistes, with trails for snowshoeing, ice-skating on frozen lakes, and great dining and shopping when you're ready for a break from the cold weather. Plus, unless you're staying at a ski resort, winter means smaller crowds at the most popular attractions and much better prices for flights and accommodations – a big plus in one of Europe's most expensive countries.

Need some inspiration? Plan your trip with our list of the top things to do in winter in Switzerland.

1. Discover World-Class Skiing

2. ride the bernina express, 3. shop at christmas markets, 4. ice-skate on natural rinks, 5. explore alpine fairy-tale towns, 6. relax in a thermal bath, 7. go dogsledding, 8. spend the night in an igloo, 9. have a chocolate experience, 10. enjoy the views from up top, 11. try other snow sports, 12. get your heart pumping at the titlis cliff walk, 13. take a winter walk with st. bernards in champex-lac, 14. go glacier climbing at interlaken, 15. paraglide over grindelwald, map of things to do in winter in switzerland.

There's perhaps no better reason to visit Switzerland than the amazing skiing – no matter if you're a snow expert or just a beginner.

St. Moritz , home to 87 pistes and host to two Winter Olympic Games, is the place to visit for both skiing and snowboarding, while Zermatt offers 360 kilometers of runs at the highest ski area in Switzerland.

There's also Davos , one of Europe's largest winter sports areas, where multiple ski resorts interconnect to offer groomed runs, beginner slopes, and off-piste terrain for the advanced skiers.

If you're after a more relaxed vibe or gentler runs, Switzerland has plenty of smaller resorts that will satisfy you. Saas-Fee in the Valais region offers 37 kilometers of beginner trails plus areas for kids and learners, while the less-known Arosa Lenzerheide resort area offers lots of winter sunshine and plenty of groomed runs for intermediate skiers.

Even better, skiing in Switzerland is a social adventure, not just a sport. At the end of a day-long skiing session, head to a mountaintop restaurant for a cup of hot chocolate or a hot meal by a crackling fireplace.

No other winter train ride in the world can beat the Glacier Express route between Zermatt and St. Moritz . The eight-hour-long ride takes you through the snow-covered Alps and over 291 bridges, as well as glacier lakes, and narrow valleys that seem to go on forever. It's one of the most stunning ways to enjoy the winter scenery while sipping a cup of hot chocolate.

Because this is Switzerland, your choice of stunning train rides doesn't end there. The Bernina Express between Chur and Tirano is another incredible route that goes through snow-covered fir trees and rolling mountainsides covered in clouds.

This particular Bernina Express even offers a full moon excursion on the line between St. Moritz and Alp Grüm, with classical music playing and lights out to enjoy the beauty of the sky in all its splendor.

One of the highlights of visiting Switzerland in winter is shopping at some of Europe's best Christmas markets .

Zurich is home to many holiday markets, including Christkindlimarkt, the largest indoor Christmas market in Europe, inside the main train station. In Basel , the main city square becomes home to almost 200 artisans selling their wares from inside tiny wooden chalets, while Bern's Waisenhausplatz Christmas market offers not only Christmas decorations and gifts, but also souvenirs.

Geneva has several Christmas markets known for their old-school carrousels, live caroling, and a focus on artisans' work. And in Montreux , you can visit an authentic-looking medieval market at the Chateau de Chillon Castle.

In addition to great shopping, Swiss Christmas markets are also a feast for your taste buds, offering things like cheese fondue and rösti (potato pancakes).

You'll find plenty of ice-skating rinks in Swiss cities, but the true experience here is to jump on a natural rink. Surrounded by forests, deep inside valleys, and sometimes only accessible via a chairlift ride, natural rinks are everywhere in Switzerland.

Europe's largest natural ice rink is in Switzerland, in the winter resort town of Davos . It covers 18,000 square meters, and it's used by professionals (ice hockey players and speed skater champions), as well as beginners just wanting to have some fun.

In the Jura area of Switzerland , a number of lakes freeze over in winter, transforming into giant ice rinks. Lac (lake) de Joux, sitting at an altitude of 1,004 meters, is a stunning icy display. Lac des Rousses and the Lac des Tailleres in La Brevine area are also popular destinations.

For those keeping their trip urban, Katzensee Lake just outside Zurich also attracts ice-skaters during winter.

Switzerland is beautiful in winter no matter what city you're visiting, but it's the small charming villages and towns that truly pack on the magic when it comes to places to visit.

The ski resort towns of Zermatt and St. Moritz are favorites, but Grindelwald and Gstaad are equally stunning, with smaller crowds. As the highest town in the Alps, Davos attracts plenty of winter sports enthusiasts, but the town is also a good shopping destination and offers great dining in beautiful mountain surroundings.

St. Gallen is a different kind of destination, home to a car-free Old Town Center; the old-world charm of centuries-old houses; and the historical Abbey of St. Gallen, which becomes the background to the Christmas market in December.

Gruyères (world-famous for its namesake cheese) is another stunning medieval town full of cobblestone streets that take on a festive atmosphere during the holidays.

Set against a backdrop of dramatic mountains and sitting right on a lake, Lugano is another great winter destination, with Christmas markets that start in November and last until early January.

Thermal spas have a long history in Switzerland, and for centuries even royals enjoyed the mineral-rich, healing waters from the local springs. Whether at a small, cozy wellness center or an impressive massive health resort, the experience of relaxing in a 40-degree outdoor pool while snowflakes fall on your face is a must-try while in Switzerland.

One of the most famous thermal baths in Switzerland is the Mineralbad & Spa Rigi Kaltbad , which overlooks Lake Lucerne from the top of Mt. Rigi. There are indoor and outdoor pool options here, plus herbal steam baths and an outdoor lounging area.

Another great waterfront location is the Termali Salini & Spa on Lake Locarno, with outdoor saltwater lakes that look right over the lake.

The largest spa resort in the Alps, Leukerbad-Therme uses water from its own private mineral-rich spring to fill 10 thermal baths with temperatures as high as 43 degrees Celsius.

For something different, Switzerland offers lots of husky runs. Many depart from ski resorts as part of their non-skier offerings. But there are also run options at the Jungfraujoch near Interlaken , at the Les Rosées-Dessous (where the polar-like environment is perfect for days out in the snow), and in the Lake Geneva region.

If you want to spend time with dogs without having them do the heavy pulling, try the Barry Foundation in Champex-Lac. The foundation organizes animal-assisted therapy and in winter offers guided walks on the snow in the company of friendly St. Bernards.

For a completely different experience, tuck in for the night in an igloo. A number of Alpine ski resorts build their own igloos to double as ice rooms during winter. Each place offers its own package, but igloo rooms come packed with their own sleeping bags, welcome hot drink, and either lamps or battery-charged lights.

Located in the Engstligenalp plateau in the western Alps, the popular Berghotel Engstligenalp igloos are set 2,000 meters above sea level. Guests receive a hot water bottle to keep warm inside the sleeping bag, access to toilets and showers in the nearby chalet, and a three-course dinner and buffet breakfast as part of their stay. Plus, they get to take home homemade Nidletäfeli (Swissmilk caramel candy) as a farewell gift.

A stay at the also popular Iglu-Dorf in Gstaad in the Bernese Oberland comes with a guided snowshoe trip in the dark, a heated Jacuzzi under the stars, and your own cheese fondue.

You can eat lots of chocolate while in Switzerland, but for a true experience, nothing beats a factory tour, where you can see it being made and get plenty of free samples along the way.

At the Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory in Broc, you can learn about the history of chocolate all the way back to the Aztecs through their interactive museum tour, while the Läderach Chocolate Experience in Bilten allows you to create your very own chocolate while tasting artisan samples along the way.

If you have no time in your schedule for a chocolate tour, you can always find a cozy café and try one of the many chocolate-based delicacies the country has to offer. Order a Coupe Danemark (ice-cream sundae covered in thick melted chocolate) or a Belle Helene (chocolate sundae with pears poached in syrup) along with your coffee. Or just grab a few Swiss chocolate truffles to snack on the go. Aside from the traditional milk chocolate ones, you can try flavors like coffee, hazelnut, and toffee.

Sometimes the best way to enjoy the beauty of Switzerland is from up high. And what better way to do it than from a helicopter. A number of outfitters offer sightseeing flights over the snowcapped Alps, with jaw-dropping rides that last anywhere from 20 minutes to several hours.

From Zermatt, you can catch a helicopter tour all around the world-famous Matterhorn mountain, or head to Lauterbrunnen for a flight over the impressive glaciers of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, where scenes for James Bond movies were filmed.

For something a bit less heart-stopping, you can also take a cable car or funicular ride to the top of Switzerland's most famous mountains. You don't have to be a skier to get the million-dollar view. Just head up to enjoy a hot meal at the resort's restaurant or soak up the views over the Alpine peaks.

The gondola ride up the Grindelwald mountain offers colossal views over the Alps, while the Chaumont Mountain offers a funicular that rides up 1,087 meters to the top of the mountain, where you'll find a great little restaurant to warm up with a cheese fondue.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Jungfrau Region

If sliding down the side of a massive mountain is a bit too exciting for you, don't worry - Switzerland offers plenty of snow fun even if you don't ski. You can always try cross-country skiing, winter walking, or snowshoeing on trails and mountain paths. There are guided winter hikes in almost every town, often with stops at Alpine huts or cozy cafés along the way, so you can warm up and try some local delicacies.

The Grindelwald area is particularly popular for snowshoeing. You can take advantage of a number of trails near towns, or take the lift up the mountain for off-trail snowshoeing through Alpine forests.

While snowmobiles are not usually available for private rental, there are several outfitters that offer guided tours that are both stunning and exhilarating. The snowXpark in Engelberg offers cordoned-off trails you can explore on your own after renting a snowmobile, while visitors to the St. Moritz/Engadine Valley will find plenty of travel outfitters offering organized tours.

Sitting 3,041 meters above sea level and 500 meters above the snow-covered cliffs, the barely one-meter-wide Cliff Walk is a suspension bridge not for the faint of heart. As Europe's highest suspension bridge , though, it does offer some stunning mountain views.

Getting to the bridge itself, which runs along the cliff of Mount Titlis, starts with a Rotair gondola ride up Mount Titlis , which offers rotating, 360-degree panoramas over the stunning glaciers. Once here, you'll have to walk through a glacier cave that reaches to a viewing platform. From here, the 100-meter-long bridge takes you to the Ice Flyer glacier chairlift station on the other side.

Saint Bernards were first bred for rescue work in the 1600s by monks at the Great St. Bernard Hospice on the Switzerland border. Today, the Barry Foundation continues that tradition as the world's oldest breeding kennels for St. Bernards.

In addition to working as a center for animal-assisted therapy and education, the foundation also offers a number of activities, including their very popular winter walks.

The 45-minute walks take place around the Champex-Lac area, surrounded by stunning mountain peaks, throughout the entire winter, and include the companionship of a few St. Bernards –usually one of them pulling a small sled, which children can ride.

Surprisingly, no previous experience is necessary to climb up sheets of ice, abseil into a frozen crevasse, or rappel deep into a glacier. Under the guidance of a certified mountain guide, it's possible to experience the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of climbing on the icy mountains outside Interlaken.

Ice climbing adventures usually combine a glacier hike to reach a crevasse, from where you'll secure yourself to the wall to start your climbing adventure. For more traditional climbing, there are also routes at the foot of the Eiger Mountain's North Face. No ice climbing here, but instead a route of iron ladders, wires, and cables to get you up the rock walls to reach stunning views over the Matterhorn and the town of Grindelwald.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Interlaken

Tandem paragliding is exhilarating in any season, but jumping off the side of a mountain in winter adds an entirely new layer to the experience. Switzerland has perfected the art of winter paragliding, and the best place to try it is over the village of Grindelwald.

Here, you can catch a ride up Grindlewald First in a cable car before you strap on to your instructor and get ready to soar over the snow-covered valley, with gorgeous views of the mighty Eiger mountain all around.

There are also winter flights at Interlaken for a great view over the Lakes of Thun and Brienz, as well as flights over the ski slopes down the cliffs to the mountain village of Stechelberg.

More on Switzerland

Switzerland In Winter: Best Places To Visit & Things To Do [2023/2024]

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 57 mins read
• Post last modified: February 8, 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.

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, travel itinerary planning services, 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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Travel in Switzerland

Swiss Winter: Travel Guide

Switzerland is a dream destination for winter travel, offering a variety of activities and beautiful destinations. From skiing and snowboarding in the Swiss Alps to exploring  Christmas markets  and enjoying the winter wonderland atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to experience in Switzerland during the winter season.

Capture the thrill of skiing and snowboarding on the slopes of the Swiss Alps, with snow-capped mountains and majestic pine trees in the background. Showcase the excitement of ice skating on a frozen lake surrounded by picturesque Swiss chalets. Depict the coziness of a warm cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine enjoyed in a traditional Swiss mountain hut after a day of winter activities.

Key Takeaways:

• Travel Switzerland in winter  to enjoy a winter wonderland experience.
• Experience thrilling winter activities like skiing and snowboarding in the Swiss Alps.
• Explore the charming  Christmas markets in Switzerland .
• Discover picturesque  winter destinations in Switzerland .
• Plan your  Swiss winter holidays  for the best time to visit.

Where to Stay in Switzerland

When exploring the picturesque winter wonderland of Switzerland, finding the perfect place to stay is crucial for a luxurious and memorable experience. Switzerland boasts a plethora of luxury hotels that cater to the discerning traveler, offering impeccable service, stunning views, and top-notch amenities. Whether you prefer the vibrant city atmosphere of  Zurich  or the idyllic mountain settings of Andermatt,  Zermatt , or Gstaad, there is a hotel to suit your every desire.

Here are some of the top  luxury hotels in Switzerland :

• Baur au Lac, Zurich  – Situated by Lake  Zurich , Baur au Lac offers timeless elegance combined with modern comfort. This 5-star hotel is renowned for its impeccable service, exquisite rooms, and stunning views of the lake.
• The Chedi Andermatt, Andermatt  – Nestled in the Swiss Alps, The Chedi Andermatt offers a perfect blend of contemporary design, Swiss authenticity, and natural beauty. Indulge in the hotel’s exceptional spa, world-class dining, and luxurious accommodations.
• CERVO Mountain Resort, Zermatt  – With breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, CERVO Mountain Resort in  Zermatt  provides a cozy and intimate alpine retreat. Enjoy the luxurious chalet-style accommodations, delectable dining options, and easy access to the slopes.
• Schweizerhof, Zurich  – Located in the heart of  Zurich , Schweizerhof combines traditional Swiss charm with modern sophistication. This elegant hotel offers luxurious rooms, exquisite dining options, and a rooftop spa with panoramic views of the city.
• 7132 Hotel, Grisons  – Situated in the picturesque region of Grisons, 7132 Hotel is a true architectural gem. Designed by world-renowned architects, this hotel offers unique and luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining, and a world-class thermal spa experience.

These are just a few examples of the luxury hotels available throughout Switzerland. Each hotel provides a unique and enchanting experience, ensuring your stay is nothing short of extraordinary.

These luxury hotels epitomize the grandeur and elegance that Switzerland is known for. Whether you prefer to be in the heart of a bustling city or surrounded by the majestic Swiss Alps, these accommodations offer a perfect retreat after a day of winter adventures.

“Switzerland is home to an array of luxury hotels that provide an exceptional winter holiday experience. From the iconic Baur au Lac in Zurich to the architectural gem of 7132 Hotel in Grisons, each hotel offers a unique blend of Swiss charm, world-class service, and breathtaking views.”

Things to Do in Switzerland

Switzerland offers a wide array of activities during the winter season. Whether you’re looking for festive experiences, thrilling adventures, or relaxation, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

1. Explore Christmas Markets

Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Switzerland’s  Christmas markets . Visit Zurich, Bern, and Montreux to explore charming stalls filled with unique gifts, festive decorations, and delicious traditional food. Experience the magic of the holiday season as you stroll through the streets adorned with twinkling lights.

2. Hit the Slopes

Switzerland is renowned for its world-class ski stations. Grab your skis or snowboard and head to popular destinations like Zermatt, Andermatt, Jungfrau Ski Region, and Portes du Soleil. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views, perfectly groomed slopes, and thrilling winter sports activities. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, you’ll find slopes suitable for all levels.

3. Relax and Rejuvenate

Indulge in ultimate relaxation at the luxurious  spa and thermal baths  in Switzerland. The Chedi Andermatt and 7132 Thermal Baths are perfect for unwinding and pampering yourself amidst stunning alpine landscapes. Soak in warm mineral-rich waters, enjoy rejuvenating treatments, and soak up the serenity of your surroundings.

4. Experience Cities in Snow

Witness the transformation of Swiss cities into winter wonderlands as they become blanketed in snow. Explore Zurich, Geneva, Basel, and Lucerne as they glisten under a white, powdery layer. Take a stroll through snow-covered streets, admire beautifully decorated buildings, and enjoy the cozy ambiance of cafés and restaurants.

With so many exciting activities to choose from, your winter getaway in Switzerland will be filled with unforgettable moments and picturesque scenery.

Places to Eat & Drink in Switzerland

Switzerland is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a diverse culinary scene that combines local traditions with international flavors. Indulging in  Swiss fondue  is an absolute must-do experience when visiting this picturesque country.

When it comes to dining, Switzerland boasts a range of unique and remarkable establishments that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re in Zurich, Geneva, or Gstaad, you’ll find delightful restaurants that will tantalize your taste buds.

For an unforgettable dining experience in Zurich, hop on the Fondue Tram and savor this iconic Swiss dish while enjoying the city’s charming streetscapes. Another notable option is Frau Gerolds Garten Restaurant, a trendy dining spot that offers a variety of cuisines in a vibrant and eco-friendly setting.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Café du Soleil in Geneva. This historic restaurant has been serving delicious Swiss cuisine since 1700, making it a true gem for food enthusiasts.

If you find yourself in the mountains, elevate your dining experience at the Drehrestaurant Allalin, the highest revolving restaurant in the world, located in the enchanting alpine village of Saas-Fee. Stunning views, delectable dishes, and a rotating panorama make for an extraordinary gastronomic adventure.

For those exploring Zermatt, a visit to Chez Vrony is a must. This charming mountain restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, accompanied by traditional Swiss specialties made with regional and organic ingredients.

When it comes to drinks, Switzerland has much to offer. Get into the holiday spirit at Rudolph’s, a Christmas-themed bar where you can indulge in festive cocktails and seasonal delights.

Alternatively, wine lovers can explore the scenic region of Lavaux, known for its picturesque vineyards along Lake Geneva. Take a leisurely stroll through the terraced vineyards and visit local wineries to enjoy exquisite Swiss wines amidst stunning natural beauty.

Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience, a cozy mountain refuge, or a vibrant bar, Switzerland offers a wide range of options to satisfy your culinary cravings. Embrace the delectable flavors and immerse yourself in the gastronomic delights that this enchanting country has to offer.

Weather and Climate in Switzerland

When planning your winter getaway to Switzerland, it’s important to be prepared for the weather conditions you’ll encounter during your trip. Switzerland experiences cool temperatures during the winter months, creating the perfect setting for picturesque winter landscapes and exciting outdoor activities.

In cities like Zurich and Basel, you can expect overnight temperatures to average around zero degrees Celsius. However, it’s worth noting that temperatures in the mountains can drop significantly lower, reaching as low as minus 15 degrees Celsius overnight. These colder temperatures add to the charm of the Swiss Alps, making them a haven for winter sports enthusiasts.

Weather conditions in the cities and lowlands often include fog and rain, which give a cozy ambiance to the urban areas. In contrast, the Alps tend to have more sunshine and clearer days, providing stunning views of the snow-covered peaks.

Whether you’re planning to hit the slopes, explore the charming Swiss towns, or immerse yourself in the winter wonderland atmosphere, it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecasts before you embark on your daily adventures. MeteoSwiss, the official meteorological service of Switzerland, provides accurate and up-to-date weather information through their app and website.

Stay informed about  weather conditions in Switzerland  to make the most of your winter vacation. With proper planning and preparation, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the beauty and excitement that the Swiss winter has to offer.

Daylight Hours in Switzerland

During the winter months, Switzerland experiences shorter daylight hours compared to the summer. It’s important to be aware of the sunrise and sunset times to plan your activities accordingly.

In December, cities like Bern have around 8.5 hours of daylight, which increases to 10.5 hours in January and almost 12 hours in February.

Here is a comparison of the average  sunrise and sunset times in Switzerland  during the winter months:

These times vary depending on the specific location in Switzerland, so it’s recommended to check the local sunrise and sunset times for your travel destination.

Getting Around Switzerland in Winter

Traveling around Switzerland in winter is a breeze thanks to the country’s well-developed public transportation system. Whether you prefer trains, buses, boats, or trams, you can rely on regular and reliable services that extend throughout the country. Even in winter, disruptions due to weather conditions are minimal, ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience.

Trains:  Switzerland’s train network is renowned for its punctuality and extensive coverage, making it an excellent mode of transportation for winter travel. Sit back and relax as you enjoy breathtaking scenic views on your journey to various destinations across the country. Train travel also allows you to avoid the hassle of icy and snowy roads while providing easy access to popular winter sports resorts.

Buses:  Buses in Switzerland run on well-maintained routes and connect even the most remote areas. They are particularly convenient for reaching smaller towns and villages, as well as mountain regions where train services may be limited. Traveling by bus in winter allows you to explore the picturesque landscapes at your own pace and enjoy a comfortable ride.

Boats:  Switzerland’s lakes offer a unique transportation option during winter. Hop aboard a scenic boat ride and cruise across the glistening waters while admiring snow-covered mountains and charming lakeside towns. Boat services are available on major lakes such as Lake Geneva, Lake Lucerne, and Lake Zurich, providing an alternative way to explore the country’s stunning winter scenery.

Trams:  If you’re staying in one of Switzerland’s vibrant cities, trams are a convenient way to navigate the urban landscape. Cities like Zurich, Basel, and Geneva have well-connected tram networks that allow you to easily access top attractions, shopping districts, and dining areas. Trams are an efficient and eco-friendly mode of transport, making them an excellent choice for exploring cityscapes in winter.

To enhance your travel experience and save money, consider the  Swiss Travel Pass  or the  Swiss Half Fare Card . The  Swiss Travel Pass  offers unlimited travel on trains, buses, boats, and trams within the country, making it ideal for those planning to explore multiple destinations. The  Swiss Half Fare Card provides a 50% discount on public transportation tickets, making it a cost-effective option for travelers seeking flexibility and convenience.

Driving in Switzerland during winter can be challenging due to the icy and snowy conditions. It is recommended to use public transportation instead, where road maintenance and snow clearance are efficiently managed. By opting for public transportation, you can relax and enjoy the scenic beauty without the worry of navigating hazardous roads.

Explore Switzerland in winter with ease and convenience, thanks to its excellent public transportation system. Whether you’re traveling by train, bus, boat, or tram, you’ll have no trouble reaching your desired destinations and enjoying the winter wonderland that Switzerland has to offer.

A train moving through snow-covered mountains in Switzerland, with a cozy interior visible through the windows.

Recommended Switzerland Itinerary: Zermatt, Interlaken, Grindelwald, Zurich

Explore the best of Switzerland with a 7-day itinerary that takes you to Zermatt,  Interlaken ,  Grindelwald , and Zurich. This carefully curated itinerary offers a perfect combination of picturesque landscapes, thrilling winter activities, and cultural experiences.

Zermatt: Winter Wonderland and the Iconic Matterhorn

Start your journey in Zermatt, a charming alpine village nestled in the Swiss Alps. Known for its picturesque views and world-class ski resorts, Zermatt offers a wide range of winter activities to satisfy every adventurer. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, the slopes of Zermatt will provide an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the majesty of the iconic Matterhorn, one of the most famous mountains in the world. Take a cable car ride to reach the summit and marvel at the panoramic views.

Interlaken: Outdoor Adventures in the Jungfrau Region

From Zermatt, travel to  Interlaken , the gateway to the  Jungfrau region . Surrounded by pristine lakes and majestic mountains,  Interlaken  offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Explore the snowy landscapes by embarking on a thrilling hiking expedition or try your hand at paragliding for an adrenaline rush. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Jungfraujoch, also known as the Top of Europe, where you can experience breathtaking views from the highest railway station in Europe.

Grindelwald: Sledding and Breathtaking Mountain Views

Take a day trip from Interlaken to the charming village of  Grindelwald . Known for its postcard-perfect scenery,  Grindelwald  is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Grab a sled and glide down the snowy slopes for an exhilarating experience. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau mountains as you explore the village. Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of this alpine gem.

Zurich: City Exploration and Festive Christmas Markets

End your trip in Zurich, Switzerland’s cultural and financial hub. Explore the city’s historic landmarks, such as the Old Town and Grossmünster, or indulge in some retail therapy along Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere by visiting Zurich’s enchanting  Christmas markets . Stroll through the stalls, savoring delicious Swiss treats and shopping for unique souvenirs.

With this comprehensive itinerary, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the best of Switzerland’s winter wonderland. From thrilling  winter activities in Zermatt  to breathtaking mountain views in Grindelwald and the festive charm of Zurich, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

How to Get to Switzerland

Switzerland can be easily reached by flying into major airports like Geneva and Zurich. Both airports offer convenient access to various cities and destinations within Switzerland.

The train ride from Geneva to Zermatt takes approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes, while the train ride from Zurich to Interlaken takes around 2 hours. Consider the best airport to fly into based on your itinerary and preferences.

Plan your travel to Switzerland and explore the Swiss winter wonderland!

Language and Communication in Switzerland

Switzerland is known for its diverse culture and languages. It is a multilingual country with four official languages, namely  Swiss-German ,  French ,  Italian , and  Romansh . Each region has its own dominant language, contributing to the linguistic richness of the country.

English is widely spoken and understood throughout Switzerland, making it easy for visitors to communicate. Whether you’re asking for directions, ordering food, or seeking assistance, you’ll find that most locals are fluent in English.

Here’s a breakdown of the main languages spoken in different regions of Switzerland:

While the official languages are dominant in their respective regions, you can find linguistic diversity throughout Switzerland. The country’s commitment to multilingualism ensures that language barriers are minimal, enhancing the overall travel experience for visitors.

Create an image that showcases the diversity of languages in Switzerland, with different languages represented through various visual elements, such as flags, speech bubbles, and writing systems. Incorporate scenic elements of Switzerland’s winter landscape to visually tie in the theme of Swiss winter travel.

Whether you’re exploring the vibrant cities, relaxing in the mountainous regions, or immersing yourself in the cultural heritage, Switzerland welcomes you with its linguistic diversity.

Winter Closures and Seasonal Considerations

When planning a trip to Switzerland during the winter season, it’s important to be aware of the winter closures and seasonal considerations. Some cable cars, mountain resorts, and attractions may have limited operations or be closed due to weather conditions. To avoid disappointment, it’s recommended to check the opening dates and hours in advance.

November is a transitional month where some services and attractions may still be closed as the country prepares for the winter season. However, by December, most activities and attractions are available, allowing visitors to fully enjoy their winter getaway in Switzerland.

In order to have the most up-to-date information about winter closures and operating hours, it’s advisable to visit the official websites of the specific attractions or resorts you plan to visit. This will ensure you have accurate and reliable information before making your travel plans.

Switzerland’s mountain resorts are particularly susceptible to seasonal closures during the winter months. As the snowfall and weather conditions can be unpredictable, some resorts may close temporarily or limit their operations to ensure the safety of visitors.

However, it’s worth noting that even during periods of closure, these resorts often continue to work behind the scenes, preparing the slopes and facilities for when they can reopen. This ongoing maintenance ensures that once the conditions improve, visitors can experience the best that these resorts have to offer.

By staying informed and planning ahead, you can make the most of your winter trip to Switzerland, avoiding any unexpected closures and enjoying the winter wonderland that this beautiful country offers.

Switzerland is truly a winter wonderland that offers something for every traveler seeking a magical winter experience. From the stunning landscapes of the Swiss Alps to the charming cities with their snow-covered streets, Switzerland captivates visitors with its breathtaking beauty. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast looking to hit the slopes, a relaxation seeker yearning for soothing thermal baths, or a lover of festive traditions craving the immersive atmosphere of Christmas markets, Switzerland has it all.

During the Swiss winter season, Switzerland comes alive with a unique ambiance that is undeniably captivating. The combination of snowy mountains, cozy chalets, and the enchanting sound of jingle bells creates an atmosphere that is simply magical.  Winter activities in Switzerland , such as skiing and snowboarding, provide thrilling adventures for those seeking action, while the Christmas markets offer an array of festive delights, including traditional food, crafts, and lively entertainment.

As you plan your visit to Switzerland in winter, be sure to explore the charming cities, such as Zurich and Geneva, which transform into winter wonderlands. Indulge in delicious Swiss cuisine, including the famous  Swiss fondue , at the country’s top restaurants. And don’t forget to take advantage of the well-developed public transportation system, which allows easy access to various destinations across the country.

So, whether you’re a winter sports enthusiast, a lover of cozy winter getaways, or simply someone who wants to immerse themselves in the enchanting atmosphere of a Swiss winter wonderland, Switzerland is the perfect destination. With its stunning landscapes, charming cities, and abundant winter activities, Switzerland promises a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you with cherished memories. Wrap up warm, embrace the magic, and embark on an incredible winter journey through the Swiss Alps.

What are some popular winter activities in Switzerland?

Popular  winter activities in Switzerland  include skiing, snowboarding, visiting Christmas markets, exploring the winter wonderland scenery, and indulging in  Swiss fondue .

When is the best time to visit Switzerland in winter?

The  best time to visit Switzerland in winter  is from December to February, when you can experience the snowy landscapes, Christmas markets, and winter sports activities.

What are some recommended winter destinations in Switzerland?

Some recommended  winter destinations in Switzerland  include Zermatt, Interlaken, Grindelwald, and Zurich. These destinations offer a combination of winter activities, picturesque scenery, and cultural experiences.

What are the top luxury hotels in Switzerland for winter travelers?

Some top  luxury hotels in Switzerland  for winter travelers include Baur au Lac in Zurich, The Chedi Andermatt in Andermatt, CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt, Schweizerhof in Zurich, and 7132 Hotel in the Grisons.

What are some must-visit Christmas markets in Switzerland?

Some must-visit  Christmas markets in Switzerland  are located in Zurich, Bern, and Montreux. These markets offer unique gifts, traditional food, and a festive atmosphere.

Which ski stations are popular in Switzerland?

Some popular  ski stations in Switzerland  include Zermatt, Andermatt, Jungfrau Ski Region, and Portes du Soleil. These ski stations offer a variety of slopes for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.

Are there any spa and thermal baths to relax in Switzerland during winter?

Yes, Switzerland offers some  spa and thermal baths  to relax during the winter season. The Chedi Andermatt and 7132 Thermal Baths are popular options for rejuvenation.

Where can I try Swiss fondue in Switzerland?

You can try Swiss fondue at places like the Fondue Tram in Zurich, Frau Gerolds Garten Restaurant, and Café du Soleil in Geneva. In the mountains, Drehrestaurant Allalin in Zermatt and Chez Vrony are recommended for fondue dining.

What is the weather like in Switzerland during winter?

Switzerland experiences cool temperatures in winter, with cities like Zurich and Basel averaging around zero degrees Celsius overnight. In the mountains, temperatures can drop as low as minus 15 degrees Celsius overnight. Weather conditions vary, with fog and rain in cities and lowlands, and more sunshine and clearer days in the Alps.

What are the daylight hours like in Switzerland during winter?

In December, cities like Bern have around 8.5 hours of daylight, increasing to 10.5 hours in January and almost 12 hours in February. Sunrise and sunset times vary throughout the winter season, so it’s important to plan your activities accordingly.

What is the best way to get around Switzerland in winter?

Getting around Switzerland in winter is convenient and easy with a well-developed public transportation system. Trains, buses, boats, and trams offer regular services with minimal disruptions due to weather conditions. The  Swiss Travel Pass  and  Swiss Half Fare Card  are cost-effective options for unlimited travel within the country. It’s recommended to use public transportation instead of driving due to challenging winter road conditions.

What is a recommended 7-day itinerary for Switzerland in winter?

A recommended 7-day itinerary for Switzerland in winter includes visiting Zermatt for winter sports and the iconic Matterhorn, exploring the  Jungfrau region  and Interlaken for outdoor adventures, taking a day trip to Grindelwald for sledding and mountain views, and ending the trip in Zurich to explore the city and visit Christmas markets.

How can I get to Switzerland in winter?

Switzerland can be easily reached by flying into major airports like Geneva and Zurich. Both airports offer convenient access to various cities and destinations within Switzerland. Train rides from Geneva to Zermatt take around 2 hours and 55 minutes, while train rides from Zurich to Interlaken take around 2 hours.

What languages are spoken in Switzerland?

Switzerland is a multilingual country with four official languages:  Swiss-German ,  French ,  Italian , and  Romansh . English is widely spoken throughout the country, making it easy for visitors to communicate.

Are there any winter closures or seasonal considerations in Switzerland?

Yes, some cable cars, mountain resorts, and attractions may have limited operations or be closed during the winter months in Switzerland. It’s recommended to check the opening dates and hours in advance to avoid disappointment.

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10 Exciting Things to Do in Switzerland in Winter

Switzerland in the winter is a magical place! From festive Christmas markets to world-class ski resorts and other exciting snow sports, we’ll cover the 10 best things to do in Switzerland in winter.

Whether you are visiting Switzerland in December and would like to find out about Christmas events, or want to know about the best places to visit in Switzerland in winter for sports other than skiing, this guide will help you plan for winter in Switzerland.

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

What's in this Article

Winter Weather in Switzerland

Let’s begin by taking a look at the weather in Switzerland during winter. 

Does it snow in Switzerland in December? It certainly can be snowy in December, but the peak season for snow is between January and early March. This is why people from all over Europe often flock to Switzerland after Christmas rather than before.

In mountainous regions, snow can be expected at any time between October and April. You can, of course, expect snow at the ski resorts during winter, as it’s the very reason they exist!

Places with a high altitude will be more snowy than lower-lying areas. The towns and cities of Lucerne, Geneva, Zurich, Basel or Locarno, for example, may not be snow-clad in winter, while some of the loftiest mountain peaks may be snow-capped all year round.

If you’re wondering about visiting Switzerland in November, you should be aware that this is autumn rather than winter, so it may not yet be snowing. By the end of the month, though, you could start to see snow. 

If you’d like to see snow, but feel that it isn’t essential, then late November and early March can be good times to visit as it’s quieter. Do keep in mind, though, that during these months some cable cars and mountain railways may be closed for maintenance.

For more-or-less guaranteed snow, stick to January and February. December, meanwhile, is the best time to visit for all things festive.

Planning a trip to Switzerland? At Holidays to Switzerland we are passionate about sharing our love of Switzerland and helping you to plan the perfect trip. Read our guide to planning a trip to Switzerland to kick start your travel plans and join our free Switzerland Travel Planning group on Facebook to chat with other past and future travellers. Want monthly news and podcast updates, helpful travel tips and special deals sent straight to your inbox? Subscribe to Holidays to Switzerland and we’ll send you a bonus copy of our 10 Useful Things to Know Before You Visit Switzerland guide. 🇨🇭 Check out our exclusive discount offers and save on your Swiss vacation. 🇨🇭

Depending on exactly when and where you visit during your Switzerland winter vacation, temperatures may dip as low as -15℃ (around 5℉). Highs may reach around 6℃ (about 43℉).

You can expect chilly weather in winter, even if it’s not quite cold enough for snow. In general overnight temperatures might be well into the minuses (in celsius) and daytime highs may be in the low pluses only.

Now let’s move onto the topic of how this weather affects the best things to do in Switzerland in winter.

10 of the Best Switzerland Winter Activities

Winter in Switzerland offers the opportunity to ski world-class resorts, go snowshoeing, or try something more adventurous such as sledging, snowkiting or speedriding.

There are also plenty of winter activities in Switzerland for non-skiers, or sporty types who are seeking a change from the slopes. These include kayaking on a Swiss lake or taking in the scenery from a train or mountaintop.

Other Switzerland winter activities include fondue tasting and of course those fabulous, festive Christmas markets!

For many people, the best places to be in Switzerland during winter are the ski slopes. 

Switzerland is one of the planet’s top skiing destinations and many Swiss resorts are world famous for their white, powdery snow, smooth slopes and range of beginners’ to advanced skiers’ pistes.

The evening apres-ski scene also attracts people to some areas.

A Ski World Cup event is held during mid-January every year, firmly placing Switzerland on the global skiing map. The Internationale Lauberhornrennen Wengen isn’t the only reason the country is famous, though.

The resort areas of the Bernese Oberland and the Jungfrau Region offer lots of variety for all levels of skier, making them popular ski destinations for family trips.

The outdoor BodmiARENA in Grindelwald is in fact the biggest beginners’ ski area in the Jungfrau region, and offers plenty of snow-based family fun.

Here are some of the best ski experiences in Switzerland in winter. 

Grindelwald BodmiARENA

If you want a piece of the snowy action, visitors of all ages can ride on the child-friendly slopes at Grindelwald’s BodmiARENA. Inclusive tickets cover use of regular and balancer sleds and snow tubes as well as access to the magic carpet.

> Book your BodmiARENA family tickets

Jungfrau region ski experience

You can take this full-day trip to the slopes of the Jungfrau region from Zurich or Lucerne. This means you don’t have to stay at a ski resort to join in the fun, and it’s a trip designed specially for first-timers. All transport, equipment and tuition is supplied.

> Book your Jungfrai ski experience

Zermatt full day ski instruction

While Zermatt has year round skiing, the most powdery pistes are experienced during the winter. A full day’s tuition should get you started off properly, so you might just be zooming down those slopes in no time.

> Book your Zermatt ski instruction

Davos Ski and Fly

This unique experience takes place at the top of Jakobshorn mountain and combines both skiing and paragliding. As you’re attached to an experienced professional throughout, this ski and fly activity is thrilling yet very safe.

> Book your Davos Fly and Ski ride

Gstaad ski school

Take part in ski school in Gstaad and you’ll be assigned an instructor to match your level of experience. You’ll have around 5 hours of instruction, so you can polish your skills to perfection, all under the trained eye of a professional.

> Book Gstaad ski instruction

3 Chamonix ski resorts

This trip to Chamonix includes transport, clothing, equipment and a ski pass that gives you access to a trio of Chamonix resorts. Departing from Geneva, you’ll cross the border into France for one incredibly memorable day – with views of Mont Blanc throughout.

> Book this full day Chamonix trip

2. Speed riding

If you’re an adrenaline junkie who’s always wanted to fly, this tandem speed riding experience in Lauterbrunnen is one of the most thrilling things to do in Switzerland in winter for non-skiers. You can pick between speed riding and speed flying in tandem.

> Book speed flying or speed riding

3. Snowshoeing

For those seeking things to do in Lucerne Switzerland in winter, snowshoeing makes an exciting day trip. You can book this activity which includes snowshoes and transport, and takes place in the midst of the scenic Swiss Alps.

> Book snowshoeing in Lucerne

4. Sledging (Sledding)

Among the many exciting things to do during winter in Switzerland is this sledging experience in Lausanne. After taking the Diablerets Express ski lift, you’ll go sledging on Switzerland’s longest luge track, which is around 4.5 miles long.

5. Snowkiting

How does snowkiting on the Simplon Pass sound? This is a snow school with a difference: you’ll wear skis or a snowboard, but be pulled along by a kite as you skim over the surface of the slope. Equipment and tuition is provided.

> Book Snowkiting school

6. Scenic Swiss Views

Head to a mountain peak for stunning views of the snowy landscape. Many mountains are accessible during winter for sightseeing including Schilthorn, Jungfraujoch, Titlis, Glacier 3000, Gornergrat and more.

Mount Titlis day trip

This day trip from Zurich to Mount Titlis is the easy way to see the slopes of the mountain in addition to trying out snow tubing and skiing. Departing from Zurich, it includes a tour of Lucerne, cable car tickets and basic ski equipment.

> Book a Mount Titlis trip

Jungfraujoch day trip

Join a fully-guided tour from Zurich, Lucerne or Interlaken for an excursion to one of Switzerland’s most popular attractions, Jungfraujoch Top of Europe.

You’ll see the beauty of the Swiss alps from aboard the Eiger Express cable car and the famous Jungfrau cogwheel train with ample time to enjoy the activities and breathtaking scenery at the Top of Europe.

> Book a Jungfraujoch day trip

7. Winter Kayaking on Lake Brienz

Take part in a winter kayaking tour on the serene waters of Lake Brienz to see another natural geographical feature Switzerland is famous for – its lakes.

This is one of the top things to do in Switzerland in January for those who want to see another side of the country.

> Book a winter kayak on Lake Brienz

8. Scenic Train Ride

Take a trip on the Bernina Express or Glacier Express to experience one or both of Switzerland’s most scenic train routes.

The former connects Switzerland with Italy, while the latter passes through the Swiss Alps between St Moritz and Zermatt, and is widely known as the slowest express train in the world.

9. Sample Swiss Fondue or Raclette

Fondue tuk tuk.

Although it may be eaten all year round, fondue is traditionally a winter dish so there’s no better time to enjoy it than during a winter visit to Switzerland.

This 90-minute tuk tuk tour of Zurich is highly recommended, and includes a fondue tasting accompanied by Swiss wine. Yum!

> Book the Tuk Tuk fondue and wine tour

Raclette Rafting

Enjoy a floating feast of cheese on a Raclette rafting tour in Interlaken! Hop aboard your raft as the sun sinks below the horizon for an experience you’ll never forget.

On this 90-minute trip, you can sit back and enjoy a delicious Raclette feast whilst your professional guide paddles you along the shoreline of the Aare Canal from Bönigen to Interlaken.

The raft is fitted out with warm blankets and comfortable seats so you’ll stay warm despite being outdoors.

The Raclette Rafting experience is available from mid-September to 30 April, depending on weather conditions and water levels.

> Book the Raclette Rafting experience

10. Christmas Activities

One of the top things to do in Switzerland in December is to experience the magic of Christmas – Swiss style. 

December in Switzerland offers festive markets held in many towns and fairy lights illuminating the night skies. Options include shopping at a Christmas market , joining a guided walking tour or even taking the little ones to see Santa’s grotto.

Santa’s Grotto, near Montreux

The house of Father Christmas can be found in Rochers-de-Naye , a lofty point reached via a one-hour cogwheel train ride from Montreux. At over 2,000 metres above sea level, the grotto is full of wonder for younger visitors.

> Book your ticket to Rochers-de-Naye

Basel or Vevey Christmas Magic walking tour

See the city of Basel or the town of Vevey sparkle when you book one of these guided walking tours. You’ll be shown all the best streets and spots for seeing the Christmas lights and decorations. A trip to the Christmas market is also included.

During the tour, your guide will also tell you all about how Christmas is celebrated in the local area.

> Book the Christmas walking tour of Basel

> Book the Christmas Magic tour of Vevey

Lucerne Christmas Edition walking tour

This walking tour of Lucerne takes you to see all the city’s key sights illuminated at night by magical Christmas lights. A delicious hot drink is included to help keep you warm, alongside a gingerbread snack.

During the evening you’ll explore the Old Town, see Chapel Bridge and the River Reuss, and pay a visit to a Swiss Christmas market.

> Book the Christmas tour of Lucerne

Zermatt Christmas walking tour

If you’re seeking things to do in Zermatt in winter, then this two hour walking tour will let you into the city’s festive secrets. These include local seasonal legends and a visit to the Christmas tree of Zermatt.

> Book the Christmas tour of Zermatt

Final Thoughts on Switzerland Winter Activities

Winter is the ideal time to visit Switzerland if you’re into snow sports. It’s fantastic for skiing and the ideal place to try out a new sport such as snowshoeing, snowkiting, sledging, snow tubing or speed riding. 

There are also plenty of things to do in Switzerland in winter besides skiing. Other winter activities include taking Christmas tours, sampling traditional cheese fondue, enjoying a scenic train ride, kayaking on Lake Brienz, or venturing up to a mountain summit to soak up the stunning scenery. Don’t forget that many of the usual historic and cultural attractions are open to visitors then, too.

Unfortunately, sometimes the weather just isn’t suitable for being outside. If you happen to be in the Jungfrau Region and encounter rainy or snowy weather, there are still plenty of rainy day activities in Interlaken to keep you amused.

Switzerland Travel Essentials

Swiss Travel Pass

Private Transfers

Rail Packages

Self-Drive Packages

Accommodation

Sightseeing.

Jungfrau Travel Pass

Berner Oberland Pass

Group Tours

Private Tours

Carolyn Schönafinger

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

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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 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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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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Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in Winter

Spending winter in Switzerland is a dream for many people globally. The country is home to various superb winter destinations, including Davos, St Moritz, and Zurich. Switzerland has Europe’s highest mountains, and winters are fantastic for skiing, snowboarding, and snow sports.

Switzerland also has delicious chocolate, majestic hiking destinations, and stunning scenery. Plus, Switzerland offers some of Europe’s most enticing cuisine, such as Fondue, Raclette, and Swiss tarts and cheeses. If you’re looking to visit Europe during the winter – you will struggle to find a better spot than Switzerland. Rent a car and plan your Switzerland road trip adding the below destinations to your itinerary.

Table of Contents

Switzerland in Winter Complete Guide

Weather in switzerland in winter.

Switzerland is cold during the winter, and it often snows. The average lows during the Swiss winter are between 6 Fahrenheit and 30 Fahrenheit, while the average highs are between 16 Fahrenheit and 42 Fahrenheit. Sunlight is weak during the winter months and may only last for two to four hours in certain places.

December is Switzerland’s snowiest month, with temperatures plummeting way past freezing in both December and January.

What to pack for Switzerland winter weather?

If you’re visiting Switzerland during its bitterly cold winters, you should pack plenty of layers. Make sure you bring a warm jacket, maybe two jackets for an extra layer. Also, be sure to bring gloves, hats, and scarves with you.

You should bring waterproof boots because the snow is deep, and water will get into your socks if they aren’t waterproof. Bring your ski shirt if you want to go skiing but most importantly, make sure everything is waterproof.

8 Beautiful Places to Visit in Switzerland in Winter

Zermatt is a superb destination if you are visiting Switzerland in winter. The town is in the Swiss Alps and is home to shops, bars, hotels, and restaurants. Visitors love the excellent views of surrounding nature and there are incredible views since the town is from 5,200 feet above sea level. Popular attractions include ice skating rinks and curling opportunities.

You will find The Matterhorn in Zermatt, one of Switzerland’s most iconic mountains and one of the world’s most photographed places. If you’d like to see glaciers, check out the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise via the Matterhorn cable car. This is Europe’s highest cableway, at an incredible 12,740 feet. Once you’ve arrived, you will find cinemas, shops, and bars.

St Moritz is in the heart of the alps and offers some of Europe’s greatest skiing and winter views. The town is 5,905 feet above sea level, and it overlooks the entire valley. The town hosted the Winter Olympics in 1928 and has been a vibrant winter sports town ever since. St Moritz also has a long history, spanning back to the 11th century when the Celts discovered the town.

Popular attractions include Diavolezza, one of Switzerland’s most beautiful peaks and a fantastic photo opportunity. Visitors also love Lake St Moritz, offering spectacular photo opportunities, churches, and places to sit. Also, you should visit the Lake of Staz, a stunning crystalline lake offering mountain views in the background.

Lucerne is in the center of Switzerland and the German-speaking part of the country. It is the most populated town in Switzerland with 82,000 residents. The most popular Lucerne attraction is Lake Lucerne because of the breathtaking crystal clear waters. Plus, there are stunning surrounding mountain views. Switzerland offers a vast history, and it is hard to find richer Swiss heritage than Old Town Lucerne.

Popular old town attractions include Weinmarkt and the Old Town Hall, which offer a deeper insight into its history. If you love aviation, you should visit the Swiss Museum of Transport and view its vast collection of aeroplanes. It is Switzerland’s most visited museum, and also has trains, classic cars, and Switzerland’s first IMAX cinema.

Glacier Express

Glacier Express is one of Europe’s – and the world’s – most popular train journeys. The views from the train are utterly spellbinding. You’ll love the 180-mile journey taking you from Zermatt to St Moritz on the world’s slowest express train. You’ll enjoy the seven and a half-hour ride while sitting in the train’s comfortable interior.

Two private Swiss railways run the journey: Rhätische Bahn and Gotthard Bahn, and they complete the trip daily. Guests can enjoy crisp Swiss white wine and a delightful lunch of your choice as you witness one of the world’s most spectacular train views. It is a must-do if you’re in Switzerland in winter.

Zurich is Switzerland’s biggest city with a population of over 415,000. It is famous for being one of the world’s wealthiest cities with great shops, restaurants, and stunning mountains. Did you know the official Zurich language is German? However, locals speak various global languages in this cosmopolitan city that attracts millions of visitors yearly.

Zurich is home to one of Europe’s best old towns. You will see a plethora of historic buildings and the area is pedestrianized so there are no cars allowed. Lake Zurich is also one of Europe’s most famous lakes, with fantastic city views and surrounding structures. If you have the chance, visit Uetliberg Mountain because it offers the most splendid city views of Zurich at 2,847 feet above sea level. Plus, if you want beautiful winter views, this is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in the winter.

You might also want to check out: How to spend 2 days in Zurich in winter.

Davos is famous for its world-class skiing resorts and being home to the World Economic Forum. You will find Davos in the heart of the Swiss Alps, and during the winter, the mountains are capped with stunning snow. Davos is nearly 5,000 feet above sea level, so it does freeze during the deep winter months. If you’re visiting Davos, there’s a good chance you are a skiing fanatic or you want to learn how to ski.

If so, you’re in the best place because Davos is home to over 125 miles of slopes and terrain. There are various nearby ski resorts, attracting luxury clientele, including the Klosters ski resort. Davos is also home to Switzerland’s best nightlife and tourists can enjoy multiple clubs, such as Ex-Bar, Pöstli Club, and Jatzhütte.

Jungfrau is one of Switzerland’s main ski resorts. At a staggering 13,641 feet above sea level, the views and the ski slopes are outstanding. Many locals and visitors consider the mountain Europe’s most iconic peak. The Grindelwald-First is a very popular ski-resort, offering some of Europe’s best skiing opportunities and beautiful crystalline lakes.

Trummelbach Falls is also a top-rated destination. During the winter, these waterfalls might be challenging to access. However, these are the world’s only glacial waterfalls and a must-see if you’re visiting the region, regardless of the season. The falls carry up to 20,000 liters of water per second. Visiting the Jungfrau region is a must-do if you are spending winter in Switzerland.

Gruyeres is a medieval Swiss town and a must-visit if you’re looking for places to visit in Switzerland in winter. The primary Gruyeres attraction is the castle, dating back to 1270, and it is a Swiss heritage site of national significance. Today, it is also a museum with some incredible exhibits on Swiss history.

The HR Giger Museum is also popular with visitors. The museum began in 1998 and exhibits the 400-year history of Gruyeres. If you check out the top floor, you’ll find a permanent display of Giger’s private art collection. Plus, you should check out the HR Giger bar because it is an impressive work of art. The museum has remodeled the bar so the ceilings, walls, and floors match the artist’s acclaimed biomechanical designs. If you want to experience some of the country’s most delicate artwork, a visit here is a must!

You might also like: One day in Geneva An Italy and Switzerland Itinerary

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Switzerland in Winter: The Best Things to See and Do

So you’ve set your eyes on Switzerland for a winter getaway, but aren’t quite sure where to go? If you’re still not convinced, here are 10 reasons why you should be visiting during winter. To really seal the deal, we’ve laid out the best things to see and do across the country at wintertime.

Top of most Switzerland winter wish lists is a trip to the slopes. Choosing Switzerland as your destination of choice is wise as it’s home to some of the world’s finest resorts like Zermatt and St. Moritz, which combine great skiing with a relaxed vibe. There are also low-cost resorts spread across the country and others that are particular family-friendly . You really are spoiled for choice when it comes to skiing in Switzerland. Take a look at our guide to the most spectacular options to be inspired.

A world of snow and ice

There’s a lot more to Switzerland than just skiing. Taking in some clear mountain air on a snow-shoe trek, admiring the mass of a glacier or simply going for a winter walk are just a few of the great things on offer. Wherever you go, and whatever you do, take care to remember and be a respectful visitor .

The Matterhorn and beyond

Catching a glimpse of the Matterhorn, Switzerland’s iconic tooth-shaped mountain, from Zermatt is awe-inspiring at any time of the year, but in winter it’s a little more special. A crisp coating of snow makes the mountain majestic and you’ll find yourself admiring it for hours. However, if you’re looking to explore further than Zermatt, have no fear because Switzerland is packed with mountainous peaks that look great in winter. Have a look at our guide to the most breathtaking mountain views in Switzerland and judge for yourself.

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Winter markets

Across Switzerland, hundreds of winter markets open up, vendors sell hand-crafted gifts and delicious snacks that you can gulp down with delicious mulled wine. Take a look at the most magical Christmas markets that take place every winter in Switzerland.

Eat, drink and be merry

Needing to knock off that winter chill and defrost your toes after a day on the slopes? Nothing does it like a pot of molten cheese, that’s for sure. Swiss food is notoriously hearty, and made precisely for the winter time when the last thing you want to do is go outside and brave the snow. Whether it’s cheese fondue or raclette, smooth chocolate or a fine wine that you fancy, Switzerland’s winter culinary options won’t disappoint.

Witches, Santa Claus and Balloons – a taste of what’s on show

Winters in Switzerland are an occasion to enjoy the festivities, whether that’s at Christmas markets or at some of the fascinatingly bizarre festivals that take place. Whether you want to watch the Witches Downhill race in Belalp or admire the many different shapes and sizes that Santa Claus can take at the World Championship of Santa Clauses, there are plenty of options. There are also calmer events, like the International Balloon Festival , that is held in Château-d’Oex near Lake Geneva, at the beginning of every year. Check out all the winter events in Switzerland here .

Chateau Chillon and a fairytale experience

It’s not surprising that many of Switzerland’s myths and fairytales have their origins in winter, and at Chateau Chillon, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into your very own wonderland. Sitting on its rocky perch on Lake Geneva, this age-old castle has a commanding view of Switzerland’s largest watery expanse and in winter it is transformed for Montreux Noel , into a truly magical experience. Discover Chillon’s fascinating history (it passed time as a fortress, holiday home and a prison) at what is one of Switzerland’s winter highlights.

Visit Swiss towns

During winter in Switzerland the best place to be is outside of the bigger cities. Sure, they have the winter markets and giant ice rinks, but to truly experience Switzerland you need to explore the smaller towns. Places like Grindelwald, Zermatt, Engelberg and Andermatt are all great winter destinations that’ll allow you to be closer to nature. Take a look at our guides to the best towns in Switzerland and the Alps for more inspiration.

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See & Do

Music and movies in the mountains of klosters.

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Places to Stay

The best hotels to book in switzerland.

Caprices Festival: Bringing the Party Back to the Swiss Alps

How to Spend 5 Wonderful Days Exploring Geneva

The Best Hotels in Wengen, Switzerland

The Best Hotels in Gstaad, Switzerland

The Best Hotels to Book in Andermatt for Every Traveller

The Best Hotels in Grindelwald, Switzerland, for Every Traveller

Guides & Tips

Experience the ultimate date night with a romantic floating picnic.

How to Cross Switzerland's Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge

Food & Drink

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The Black Traveler's Guide To Switzerland In The Winter

What comes to mind when people think of Switzerland is cold weather , and it’s a popular country for a winter getaway. But do you have to be interested in skiing, sledding and ice skating to enjoy it? Not at all. Switzerland offers so much more. First, we’ve got to comment on the scenery. It’s so spectacular that it doesn’t seem of this world, and everywhere you look it’s like a postcard. More than half of the country is dominated by the Alps and the Jura Mountains; majestic no matter what season you’re visiting. There are also numerous water features, including 1,500 lakes, and there are four major rivers: Rhine, Inn, Ticino and Rhône. Some of these cut through France, Italy and Austria. The most well-known lake in Switzerland is Lake Geneva, the largest in the country, and among the largest in Western Europe. According to The Crazy Tourist, “it sits at an elevation of 312 meters, and is completely surrounded by mountain peaks, including Mont Blanc and Grand Combin.” Lake Lucerne...

Spencer Jones • Nov 10, 2021

What comes to mind when people think of Switzerland is cold weather , and it’s a popular country for a winter getaway. But do you have to be interested in skiing, sledding and ice skating to enjoy it? Not at all. Switzerland offers so much more.

First, we’ve got to comment on the scenery. It’s so spectacular that it doesn’t seem of this world, and everywhere you look it’s like a postcard. More than half of the country is dominated by the Alps and the Jura Mountains; majestic no matter what season you’re visiting. There are also numerous water features, including 1,500 lakes, and there are four major rivers: Rhine, Inn, Ticino and Rhône. Some of these cut through France, Italy and Austria.

The most well-known lake in Switzerland is Lake Geneva, the largest in the country, and among the largest in Western Europe.

According to The Crazy Tourist, “it sits at an elevation of 312 meters, and is completely surrounded by mountain peaks, including Mont Blanc and Grand Combin.”

Lake Lucerne is another awe-inspiring lake, offering mountain views and a mild climate.

Are there specific areas of Switzerland that should be on your itinerary? Yes. Zermatt towards the south is a popular mountain resort in the shadow of the Matterhorn Peak. The adventure seekers in your group are sure to find their stride, with plenty of spaces for skiing, ice climbing, hiking and more.

If you’re looking for high- end shopping, go to Bahnhofstrasse, the Swiss answer to New York’s Fifth Avenue or London’s Bond Street.

For accommodations, you can check out AirBnB , offering rooms, apartments, and entire chalets.

St. Moritz has attracted the ski-loving elite since the 1960s, and even before that. According to The New York Times , time stands still here, with resorts and hotels furnished with “classic, heavy Alpine furniture and crystal chandeliers.”

If you want the experience of staying in one of these historic hotels, check out the Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, with 156 suites, restaurants, bars and an on-site spa. There’s also Suvretta House , an “exclusive ski-in, ski out hotel” offering a 5-star experience, with a price tag to match. You can take the Glacier Express to get from St. Moritz to Zermatt and vise versa. If time permits, Lucerne, Interlaken, and Davos are also beautiful.

Aside from the train, what are some other ways you can experience the natural wonders of Switzerland? Depending on where you’re staying and the weather, you can hike, take a cable car or drive.

If you’re traveling with kids, they might be interested in learning how to ski. But if not, there’s ice skating, winter walks and sledding. For inclement weather, there are indoor swimming pools, museums and plenty of places for family dining. Be warned, though, you’ll need to set aside quite a bit of money to eat. According to Swiss Info , “Switzerland has the most expensive food and drinks in Europe.”

To further liven up your social media, there’s a rich variety of architecture including elegant castles, chalets and alpine houses. Tarasp Castle has a medieval touch, as does Chillon Castle, with the Alps behind it. The churches are striking, including Lausanne Cathedral, St. Pierre Cathedral in Geneva and Grossmünster, a Romanesque church in Zürich.

Black travelers have shared their experiences in Switzerland, including Haley Coller (@hcoller), who did an interview with Travel Noire on her solo adventure. While she didn’t really connect with Switzerland from a cultural or heritage perspective, she absolutely did as an adventurer. She said that since the country is homogenized, she stood out as a Black woman, but she had her own way of dealing with awkward encounters.

“I overcame challenges much like I have in The United States: with a smile and class,” she said. “When I noticed I was getting an interesting look, or was asked a question that no one else was being asked, I smiled, answered politely and kept it moving. I believe all situations can cause challenges, but it’s how you respond to them that counts.”

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8 Day Switzerland Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide (2024)

Looking for the best Switzerland itinerary for your upcoming trip? You’re in the right place!

Switzerland is hands-down one of the most beautiful and picturesque countries that you could ever dream of exploring!

This 8 Day Switzerland itinerary includes a complete route guide and everything you need to know before you go, how to get around, the best places to visit, where to stay, and much more!

I’ve visited Switzerland on several occasions, so I think it’s safe to say that this is the only Switzerland travel guide you’ll need.

Table of Contents

OVERVIEW – BEST SWITZERLAND ITINERARY

Here is a quick overview of an ideal Switzerland 8 day itinerary that starts in Zurich and also finishes in Zurich.

• Day 1: Zurich
• Day 2: Luzern
• Day 3: Interlaken & Lauterbrunnen
• Day 4: Montreux
• Day 5: Zermatt
• Day 6: Glacier Express
• Day 7: St. Moritz
• Day 8: Zurich

This is the exact Switzerland by train route that I took, and although it was fast-paced, I found it to be a sufficient amount of time in each location to see the highlights.

If you have more time up your sleeve, feel free to add an extra day in each location, or venture to some other destinations not mentioned in this guide such as Bern and Geneva.

HOW TO BEGIN YOUR SWITZERLAND 8 DAYS ITINERARY

Arriving in Switzerland by plane is the easiest and most convenient way to begin your adventures in this picturesque country.

If you plan on following this exact itinerary, then your best bet is to fly into Zurich International Airport (ZRH) and begin your trip around Switzerland from here.

HOW TO GET AROUND SWITZERLAND?

I have put together this 8 Day Switzerland itinerary based on my trip around the country by train using the all-in-one Swiss Travel Pass .

Get the all-in-one Swiss Travel Pass!

Get unlimited rides on trains, buses, and boats throughout Switzerland with an all-in-one Swiss Travel Pass!

Simply show your Swiss Travel Pass e-ticket on your smartphone to instantly start your rail adventure.

Once you have purchased the Swiss Rail Pass to travel Switzerland, you’ll receive an email with your ticket and further instructions for activating your pass and reserving seats on trains.

I also recommend downloading the SBB Mobile App on your smartphone from the App Store. You can use this app to check all train, bus, and boat timetables in Switzerland when you’re on the move.

HOW LONG TO STAY IN SWITZERLAND?

I recommend spending at least one week in Switzerland and, if possible, following this Switzerland travel blog 8-day itinerary.

While it’s not enough to explore each corner of the country, you can definitely fit all the most beautiful places, including Zurich, Zermatt, Lauterbrunnen, Lucerne, and St. Moritz.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SWITZERLAND?

The best time to travel Switzerland depends on what you plan to do.

I personally prefer the spring and summer months in Switzerland (April – September) when temperatures are warm and the landscapes are vividly green.

Note that when planning a Switzerland in June itinerary, accommodation prices will be higher since it’s the peak season.

My personal recommendation will therefore be to plan a Switzerland in September itinerary.

Alternatively, when planning a Switzerland October itinerary, you’ll get better prices for flights and accommodation, which is a good option.

However, visiting Switzerland in winter (December – March) is absolutely magical because the landscapes are completely covered in glistening white snow.

Visiting Switzerland in winter means you have to opportunity to go skiing in the Swiss Alps.

All in all, it’s a year-round destination suitable for all types of travelers in every season making it easy to plan your Swiss trip itinerary.

WHAT IS SWITZERLAND FAMOUS FOR?

Switzerland is a globally renowned country, well-known for its magnificent mountainous terrain and breathtaking alpine views.

It has also established itself as an industrial and financial powerhouse in Europe.

As a member of the United Nations, Switzerland is considered to be one of the most prosperous and stable countries in the world – with its citizens enjoying higher GDP per capita than many other nations.

On top of that, it’s known for its neutrality policy, which kept the country out of war since 1505.

Lastly, of course, Switzerland’s national dishes, such as fondue and raclette, only add a delicious layer to the trip!

SWITZERLAND ITINERARY – THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

The currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Francs (CHF) and the exchange rate is approximately $1 USD = $1 CHF.

All businesses accept debit and credit cards, and there are plenty of ATM machines around the country should you wish to withdraw any cash.

MOBILE DATA:

When you arrive in Switzerland, you’re going to want to get online, and purchasing a sim card is very simple. You can do this at the airport on arrival at one of the retail stores.

Alternatively, I recommend purchasing an eSIM in advance with pre-loaded mobile data so you can get online as soon as you land and stay connected on your Switzerland trip.

The weather in Switzerland can be very sporadic so be sure to pack suitable clothes for all seasons and be prepared for unexpected changes during your ultimate Switzerland itinerary 8 days.

Pssst! Check out this AWESOME travel bag!

The Nomatic 40L is the best travel bag on the market, perfect for weekend trips or month-long adventures!

Featuring multiple compartments for clothes, shoes, laptop, water bottle, RFID-protected pocket, and more.

It’s designed to fit the maximum size allowed for carry-on luggage so you’ll never have to spend money on check-in baggage again!

DAY 1: ZURICH TO LUCERNE

The first leg of this 8 days Switzerland itinerary begins in Zurich, where I recommend boarding a train at Zurich International Airport or Zurich Hauptbahnhof Train Station bound for Lucerne , which is a short one-hour journey.

There is no validation required for your Swiss Travel Pass , simply jump on board the train.

When onboard, a ticket inspector will ask to see your Swiss Travel Pass or fare card as well as your passport or ID card, so make sure to have these documents handy on the train.

THINGS TO DO IN LUCERNE

Considered one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland, Lucerne is a must-see on any Swiss itinerary!

I have put together a separate guide on the best things to do in Lucerne which I highly recommend checking out.

Read It Here: 15 BEST Things To Do In Lucerne

I don’t want to crowd this blog post with every attraction in Lucerne, so below you will find a taste of the top 3 things to do in Lucerne.

#1 CHAPEL BRIDGE

When you arrive in Lucerne on day 1 of your Switzerland itinerary, I recommend checking out Chapel Bridge.

It’s the most iconic attraction in Lucerne and the oldest wooden bridge in Switzerland, dating back to the 14th century.

Chapel Bridge Lucerne stretches 200 meters across the Reuss River and attached to the bridge is an old water tower that served as a dungeon, an archive, and a treasury vault in medieval times.

It’s free to walk over Chapel Bridge and remember to look up to discover the colorful old paintings on the underside of the roof.

#2 BOAT TRIP ON LAKE LUCERNE

A boat trip on Lake Lucerne is a must on your 8 days in Switzerland itinerary.

With the Swiss Travel Pass, you can take a round-trip boat ride on Lake Lucerne which is the best way to see the region at a slow pace.

There are daily departures on Lake Lucerne, usually every hour during the day. Just head down to the ferry terminal located across the road from the Lucerne Main Train Station and jump on board when a boat arrives.

Before boarding, you’ll be asked to show your Swiss Travel Pass and possibly your passport or ID card as well, so make sure to have these documents handy.

BEST LUCERNE TOURS

Enhance your experience in Lucerne by embarking on one of these 3 top-rated tours, ensuring you make the most of your visit.

• Top-Pick: Lucerne Walking and Boat Tour
• Best-rated: Mount Pilatus Summit From Lucerne With Lake Cruise
• Must-Do: Mount Rigi, Lake Lucerne Cruise, Mineralbath Spa From Lucerne

#3 MOUNT RIGI

Mt Rigi, also known as the queen of the mountains, is a large mountain range in the Lucerne region and a must-see during your visit.

The best way to get to Mt Rigi, using the Swiss Travel Pass, is to take the one-hour boat ride from the Lucerne Ferry Terminal and get off at Vitznau.

From here, there is a special cog-wheel train that will take you up to the summit of Mount Rigi. This was my favorite part of the adventure as I was able to hang outside the windows of the cog-wheel train to take photos!

Panoramic views await at the summit of Mt Rigi, overlooking three lakes and phenomenal alpine peaks in the distance.

If you want to grab lunch or a beer you can simply pop into one of the hotel restaurants on the mountain and most have outdoor terraces with stunning views.

MUST READ: 21 BEST TRAVEL ACCESSORIES FOR ANY TRIP

WHERE TO STAY IN LUCERNE

There are hundreds of accommodations in Lucerne , so I’ve handpicked some of the best in town that you’ll find here below for the perfect 8 day itinerary Switzerland.

Luxury: Lucerne Lake View Apartments

Offering stunning lake views, free wifi, and just walking distance to the center of the city, this 5-star accommodation is hard to beat!

Each apartment is fitted with a balcony, fully-equipped kitchen, dishwasher, sofa, TV, dining room, washing machine, private bathroom with a bath, fridge and freezer, microwave, and coffee machine.

Mid-Range: Hotel De La Paix

This 3-star hotel is located right in the heart of town, just a 200m walk to the old quarter in Lucerne, and close to various restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops.

There are single, double, and triple rooms available and breakfast is included for all guests.

Budget: Barabas Hostel

I personally stayed at Barabas Hostel, located just ten minutes walk from Lucerne Train Station.

Barabas Hostel is one of the coolest and most unique hostels in Luzern, the reason being that it was once an old prison.

The dorms and private rooms are the same rooms where prison inmates used to sleep back in the day (much cleaner and refurbished of course).

A buffet breakfast is also included with the room and the staff are overly helpful with their knowledge of the best things to do in Luzern and that’s definitely a great base for your Switzerland tour itinerary.

For All Other Places To Stay In Luzern, Search On Booking.com

DAY 2: LUCERNE TO INTERLAKEN

Continue your 8 day Switzerland itinerary from Lucerne to Interlaken using the Swiss Travel Pass .

Interlaken is the gateway to the Jungfrau Region and Bernese Oberland and a good location to base yourself when visiting Lauterbrunnen Valley , which is also referred to as The Valley of 72 Waterfalls.

Also, it’s worth noting that the Swiss Alps in the Jungfrau-Aletsch is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and you’ll easily understand why when visiting.

HOW TO GET TO LAUTERBRUNNEN

From Interlaken East Train Station, using the Swiss Travel Pass , you can take a train to Lauterbrunnen Station.

The train takes only twenty minutes and you can disembark right in the center of Lauterbrunnen village.

9 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN LAUTERBRUNNEN

#1 visit staubbach falls.

Take a morning train on day 2 of your Swiss itinerary from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen and from the station, it’s an easy walk through the village to a number of different scenic viewpoints of Staubbach Falls and upper Lauterbrunnen Valley.

Staubbach Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls I have ever seen! These glacial falls gush down from the 300m high peaks and emerge into the river that cuts through the village of Lauterbrunnen.

After taking some photos of the falls from Lauterbrunnen village, follow the road down till you reach the base of Staubbach Falls.

RELATED GUIDE: Things To Do In Lauterbrunnen

You can walk up the stairs and into a man-made grotto that leads behind Staubbach Falls.

From inside the grotto, peering out looks like a scene out of Jurassic Park, without the dinosaurs, unfortunately!

The view of the distant glacier-filled valley is mesmerizing and so insanely beautiful that you’ll feel like you are standing in a real-life postcard .

On a clear day, you can spot paragliders and base jumpers soaring around in the skies above and countless waterfalls flowing heavily over the edge of the towering cliffs into Lauterbrunnen Valley.

There is also an easy walking trail to the next village that will take you past several more Lauterbrunnen waterfalls and vast meadows.

#2 TRÜMMELBACH FALLS

Trümmelbach Falls can be found in the heart of Lauterbrunnen. They are the world’s only glacier waterfalls that are accessible underground by lifts, tunnels, paths, and platforms.

There is an easy walking trail from Lauterbrunnen Village that will take you through vast meadows in the direction of Trümmelbach Falls.

Trümmelbach Falls  carries the water from the glaciers of Jungfrau down to Lauterbrunnen Valley.

Up to 20,000 liters of water travel through the falls per second, they are a sight and a sound to behold.

This is one of the top things to see in Lauterbrunnen during your visit!

BEST LAUTERBRUNNEN TOURS

While I encourage you to do a Switzerland DIY itinerary, I recommend taking your experience in Lauterbrunnen further with these 3 top-rated tours to make the most of your visit:

• Best-Rated: Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe Day Trip From Zurich
• Top-Pick: Schilthorn Piz Gloria Small Group Tour
• Must-Do: Day Tour to Wengen From Lauterbrunnen

#3 MÜRREN VILLAGE

This delightful village of Mürren lies at the very end of Lauterbrunnen Valley, filled with traditional chalets and idyllic village life.

And for the ultimate free and easy Switzerland activity, wandering around Mürren is a great idea!

You can jump on the public bus No. 141 which runs from Lauterbrunnen to Mürren every thirty minutes.

The bus departs from outside Lauterbrunnen Railway Station or you can hail it down on the main road near Trümmelbach Falls.

The bus journey time is around twenty minutes. Click Here to see Lauterbrunnen Bus No. 141 timetables.

Mürren offers a peaceful atmosphere with beautiful restaurants and cafes offering traditional Swiss dining and is also a great starting point for hiking, cycling, or skiing trails.

#4 MOUNT SCHILTHORN

Once you have visited Mürren, next on the list of places to see in Lauterbrunnen is Mount Schilthorn , a must-see location on your one-week Switzerland itinerary or even longer.

Head to Stechelberg Gondola Station which is located in Mürren at the base of Mount Schilthorn and using the Swiss Travel Pass, you can ride the gondola all the way up to the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant.

Note: Without the Swiss Travel Pass, a return trip on the gondola from Stechelberg to Mount Schilthorn will set you back 105 CHF ($105 USD).

Mount Schilthorn is a popular ski field in Lauterbrunnen if you wish to spend a day skiing in Lauterbrunnen.

Though if skiing is not your jam, you can still head up to the famous Piz Gloria viewpoint regardless to enjoy the view.

If you are a fan of James Bond 007, Piz Gloria located on the top of Mount Schilthorn is where one of the original 007 movies was filmed back in 1969. Expect to see James Bond memorabilia galore at Piz Gloria.

Aside from this, there is a 360-degree viewpoint at the summit of Mt Schilthorn, and the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant features floor-to-ceiling glass windows offering extensive views of the Swiss Alps in the Jungfrau Region.

Also, if you are not afraid of heights, I dare you to take the knee-jittering thrill walk around the front face of Mount Schilthorn.

#5 WENGEN VILLAGE

Before the day is out, ride the gondola back down to the Stechelberg Gondola Station and jump on the public bus No. 141 to return to Lauterbrunnen Station.

Disembark from the bus and walk down into Lauterbrunnen Railway Station. Ask one of the staff members at the station which platform you need to wait on to take the train to Wengen Village and they will point you in the right direction.

The iconic yellow train will take you up and over the mountainside to Wengen Village which is located in the opposite valley and it’s one of the best places to see in Lauterbrunnen!

There is another ski field at Wengen Village if you visit Lauterbrunnen in winter and from the town, you can enjoy another perspective of the Swiss Alps in the Jungfrau Region.

There is an old church in Wengen Village which is a great vantage point to get some photos of the village and surrounding mountains.

I recommend spending an hour or so wandering around Wengen Village and seeing how the locals live their lives up here on the mountainside.

#6 PARAGLIDING IN LAUTERBRUNNEN

If you are a thrill-seeker looking for the ultimate experience and the best views of the valley then this activity is one of the best things to do in Switzerland.

Flying over the Lauterbrunnen U-Valley, you can book an all-inclusive tandem paragliding experience.

Flying tandem with an instructor allows you to focus purely on the flight. Full safety equipment and an experienced pilot are part of this must-do activity.

The tour takes care of all other logistics offering pick-up from your Lauterbrunnen hotel to the launch site and even a post-flight drink included.

The experience will cost you around $225 and can be booked online in advance .

It lasts for around 1 hour and 30 minutes and you can expect to take in all of the aerial views of breathtaking Lauterbrunnen.

#7 HIKING IN LAUTERBRUNNEN

There are many designated hiking trails in Lauterbrunnen Switzerland catering to every ability!

Some of the best trails to take when hiking in Lauterbrunnen are:

• Path to Murren through Blumenthal takes you through the Flower Valley.
• The iconic Eiger trail, a high route brings you right in front of the famous Eiger Nordwand.
• The trail to Wengen ascends most of the way but gives you glimpses of the Breithorn and Staubbach Falls cascading into Lauterbrunnen Valley.

Related Article: Must-Do Hikes In Lauterbrunnen

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#8 CYCLING IN LAUTERBRUNNEN

There are nearly 60 cycle routes dotted around Lauterbrunnen with something for every ability, ranging from the peaceful and relaxing to the hair-raising and thrill-seeking kind. 

There are trails allowing you to cycle to most of the surrounding villages including Grindelwald, Wengen, and Gimmelwald as well as routes to take in all of the iconic mountains surrounding the valley including Jungfrau, Eiger, and Breithorn.

Lauterbrunnen Valley is a must for any cycling enthusiast, and enjoying the trails on your Switzerland summer itinerary is an excellent option.

#9 SKYDIVING IN INTERLAKEN

Skydiving in Interlaken is one of the best experiences you can have during your visit to Switzerland and I guarantee you will remember it for a lifetime!

What better way to finish off your adventures than tandem jumping out of a helicopter from 15,000 feet, freefalling over the magnificent mountains in the Jungfrau Region?!

The Swiss skydive masters make sure your safety is their number 1 priority. All tandem instructors are trained, licensed, and experienced to ensure you have the most incredible experience knowing that you are completely safe at the same time.

One of the best parts about skydiving here during your Swiss Alps itinerary is the phenomenal view from 15,000 feet in the air!

But don’t get too comfortable, because your instructor will shortly be opening the doors of the helicopter to take the leap.

Can you think of a more exciting activity to take in Switzerland in 8 days? I certainly can’t!

WHERE TO STAY IN INTERLAKEN

Luxury: victoria jungfrau grand hotel.

This 5-star hotel is centrally located between two beautiful lakes in the picturesque town of Interlaken.

Victoria Jungfrau Hotel features a spa, swimming pool, sauna, and steam room. WiFi is free and breakfast is included for all guests.

The spacious rooms have elegant interiors and marble bathrooms, boasting views of the snowcapped mountains in the Jungfrau region.

Mid-Range: Hotel Interlaken

Hotel Interlaken is where I based myself for one night because it’s conveniently located just five minutes walk from Interlaken East Train Station and a twenty-minute train ride to Lauterbrunnen Valley.

Hotel Interlaken is the perfect accommodation for couples, families, solo travelers, or friends, featuring large rooms, mountain views, and a delicious buffet breakfast.

Budget: Valley Hostel

If you would prefer to stay in Lauterbrunnen as opposed to Interlaken, Valley Hostel is your best option for cheap accommodation.

Located in the heart of Lauterbrunnen Valley, this hostel is within walking distance of nearby waterfalls, retail shops, restaurants, and the main train station.

Valley Hostel offers dorms and private rooms to suit every traveler’s needs.

For All Other Places To Stay In Interlaken, Search On Booking.com

DAY 3: INTERLAKEN TO MONTREUX

On day three of your itinerary, check out of your hotel in the morning and find your way to Interlaken East Station to take the train bound for Montreux.

I highly recommend taking the Belle Epoque train on the Golden Line for an unforgettable experience on your Swiss itinerary for 8 days.

Also, make sure to book your Golden Line pass beforehand, especially during the peak season.

The Belle Epoque is an absolute charm that will take you on a timeless journey between Zweisimenn and Montreux.

THINGS TO DO IN MONTREUX

Montreux is a beautiful little town located at the eastern end of Lake Geneva.

There is a strong French influence in Montreux, from the architecture to the people and a pleasant vibe fills the air.

One of the most relaxing things to do in Montreux is to take a stroll along the promenade that lines the water’s edge of Lake Geneva and enjoy the calmness of the lake and the impressive mountainous hills that surround it.

Dozens of bars and restaurants are dotted along the promenade, perfect for lunch or dinner with a view.

If you are up for a small adventure, take the local bus south to Chateau De Chillon , just fifteen minutes ride from Montreux.

Chateau De Chillon is an island castle located on the waters of Lake Geneva, an old medieval fortress that is now a museum.

The Swiss Travel Pass also gives you access to 500 museums in Switzerland and Chateau De Chillon is one of them.

There is the option of an audio headset tour when you visit Chillon Castle or you can just simply explore inside the walls at your own pace.

When planning a Switzerland in October itinerary, I also recommend saving one hour for the Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory , where you can taste all the best treats in the country!

WHERE TO STAY IN MONTREUX

Luxury: montreux apartment on the lake.

These 5-star apartments are equipped with two bedrooms, flat-screen TVs, and fully equipped kitchens with a dishwasher, fridge, and microwave.

If you want to splurge a little in Montreux and make the most of your 8 days itinerary in Switzerland, this is the perfect accommodation for you!

Mid-Range: La Rouvenaz Hotel

If you are looking for mid-range accommodation I highly recommend staying at La Rouvenaz Hotel during your visit to Montreux.

It boasts incredible lakeside views, a central location, a reputable restaurant, and comfortable rooms.

Budget: Montreux Youth Hostel

Montreux Youth Hostel is the best bang for the buck, located just a few steps away from the lakeside promenade and a few hundred meters from the train station.

There are dorms, private double rooms, and family-sized rooms available with free WiFi and breakfast included.

For All Other Places To Stay In Montreux, Search On Booking.com

DAY 4 & 5: MONTREUX TO ZERMATT

Continuing on to days 4 and 5, enjoy a slow morning in Montreux before taking the train to Zermatt train station around lunchtime.

This train journey takes approximately two hours and thirty minutes, passing by beautiful farmlands, vast mountains, and deep valleys.

THINGS TO DO IN ZERMATT

Zermatt is home to the iconic Matterhorn mountain which stands at a dominating 4,478 meters at its highest peak!

This one-of-a-kind destination is NOT to be skipped on any Swiss itinerary.

The Matterhorn is known all around the world for its unique pyramid shape and the famous Toblerone chocolate takes inspiration from the Matterhorn mountain.

To get atop the mountain, you’ll have to take the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car – the views on the way are incredible!

Apart from the incredible Matterhorn, Zermatt is renowned for skiing, climbing, and hiking all year round and the Walker’s Haute Route is definitely a site to behold.

If you love skiing or snowboarding, Zermatt is definitely the place to do it!

If you’re not a skier, it’s still possible to ride the world’s highest gondola to the Glacier Paradise Station at the top of the mountain regardless.

On a clear day, the panoramic views of Zermatt and the surrounding mountains are absolutely insane!

Note: The Swiss Travel Pass does not cover this gondola ride so you’ll have to purchase a ticket at the gondola lift station upon arrival or book online in advance here below.

If you didn’t have time for it in Lauterbrunnen, I highly recommend going paragliding in Zermatt , which is an activity you’ll never forget!

I recommend spending one day on the mountain and the second day exploring Zermatt’s main street, Bahnhofstrasse, which is filled with retail shops, cafes, bars, restaurants, and an awesome apres-ski scene!

WHERE TO STAY IN ZERMATT

As Zermatt is one of the most popular destinations in Switzerland there are hundreds of hotels, resorts, chalets, and lodges to choose from.

However, I have narrowed it down to a few of my recommended places to stay in Zermatt.

Luxury: Grand Hotel Zermatterhof

Absolute luxury can be found at the Grand Hotel, boasting three restaurants, a spa, a swimming pool, and a sauna – the perfect way to warm up after a day on the slopes.

The rooms and suites are beautifully furnished and most have a phenomenal view of the Matterhorn. The best part is the free wine and fruits upon arrival!

Mid-Range: Schlosshotel Life & Style Zermatt

One accommodation I can highly recommend in Zermatt is the Schlosshotel, a short two-minute walk from Zermatt Train Station.

I personally spent two nights here at the Schlosshotel and I can’t recommend it enough!

The staff members were super lovely, the room was very cozy, and it had an incredible view of the Matterhorn.

The hotel also features a sauna, spa, and an indoor heated swimming pool, and the buffet breakfast is to die for!

Budget: The Matterhorn Hostel Zermatt

Enjoy easy access to the ski slopes and hiking when you stay at The Matterhorn Hostel.

A fun and friendly hostel with clean, comfortable rooms and a bar and restaurant to enjoy a nice meal and something to drink.

This is by far one of the best hostels in Zermatt.

For All Other Places To Stay In Zermatt, Search On Booking.com

DAY 6: ZERMATT TO ST. MORITZ

This leg of the Switzerland travel itinerary is an experience you will never forget.

The Glacier Express is an unforgettable eight-hour journey through the Swiss Alps, connecting Zermatt to St. Moritz and it is by far one of the most scenic train rides in the world.

Top-to-bottom glass windows offer panoramic views, lunch is served to you in your seat and there is also a bar for refreshments on board the Glacier Express.

Note: The Glacier Express is included in the Swiss Travel Pass though you must make a seat reservation at an additional cost which you’ll have to book online in advance.

When purchasing the pass, choose your desired day of travel, make seat reservations, and get a discount using the Swiss Travel Pass.

You’ll most likely arrive late into St. Moritz and there won’t be much daylight left to explore so my recommendation is to head straight to a hotel and rest up and feel fresh for the following day.

OPTIONAL DETOUR TO LANDWASSER VIADUCT

If you’re up for an adventurous on your Switzerland trip itinerary, disembark the Glacier Express at Filisur Station, which is a few stations before St. Moritz, and head over to the famous limestone bridge known as the Landwasser Viaduct .

This impressive 6-arch curved bridge boasts 65-meter tall pillars and a freshwater stream runs right beneath it.

From Filisur station, it’s approximately a forty-minute walk to get to the Landwasser Viaduct and there are a few good viewpoints to take photos.

One is down by the freshwater stream directly beneath the bridge and the other can be found up a dirt trail to the very top of the mountain to get a birds-eye view of the bridge.

The top viewpoint is by far the best spot to take photos of the train as it passes over the Landwasser Viaduct.

Click here or on the map below for the exact directions from Filisur Station to the Landwasser Viaduct.

WHERE TO STAY IN ST. MORITZ

Luxury: badrutt’s palace hotel.

A luxurious 5-star resort located in the center of St. Moritz, featuring six restaurants, an indoor pool, and free shuttle services.

Elegant rooms overlook the surrounding mountains, each with its own flat-screen TV, private bathroom, comfortable beds, and even a butler upon request!

In summer there is a tennis court for guests to enjoy that, funnily enough, turns into an ice skating rink in the winter. How freaking cool is that?!

Mid-Range: Hotel Piz St. Moritz

Both stylish and elegant, Hotel Piz is a 3-star hotel located close to the city center that features a pizzeria, free wifi, a sauna, and a steam room.

The rooms are spacious, each with its own TV, lock safe, and private bathroom.

Guests staying longer than two nights at Hotel Piz in summer will receive free tickets for the cable car, cog railway, and funicular.

Budget: St. Moritz Youth Hostel

Offering panoramic views of St. Moritz, the best feature of this hostel is the games room offering billiards and table tennis.

There are dorm rooms and private double rooms available that are bright and modernly furnished. This is the best place to stay in St. Moritz on a budget!

For All Other Places To Stay In St. Moritz, Search On Booking.com

DAY 7:  ST. MORITZ

This Swiss travel blog wouldn’t be complete without St. Moritz – a dreamy city located on the far eastern end of Switzerland.

It is here where the notion of winter holidays was born and its stunning imagery is jaw-dropping.

This place is as good as it gets and one of my favorite places I visited on this Switzerland itinerary.

I am impressed by how active all the locals are here – mountain bike riding, hang gliding, skiing, snowboarding, kite surfing, and sailing on the lake.

One of the best things to do in St. Moritz is to ride the famous Bernina Express train through the snowy mountains to a place called Alp Grum.

The journey takes approximately one hour until it reaches the top of the Bernina Pass at Alp Grum.

Note: The Bernina Express is included in the Swiss Travel Pass though you must make a seat reservation at an additional cost which you’ll have to book online in advance.

Visit the Bernina Express website to choose your desired day of travel, make seat reservations, and get a discount using the Swiss Travel Pass.

There is not much more than a restaurant and bar up here at Alp Grum, but the views of nearby glaciers in the mountains are stunning!

Take the Bernina Express back down to St. Moritz to spend the second last day of your travel itinerary for Switzerland exploring this beautiful lakeside town.

DAY 8: ST. MORITZ TO ZURICH

The last leg of the journey is taking the train from St. Moritz to Zurich which takes approximately three to four hours depending on which connection you take.

Zurich offers a great street scene in the old town with dozens of shops, cafes, and small cobblestone laneways and there are also a number of historical sites to visit if you have the time on the last day of your 8 day Switzerland itinerary.

If you are interested in seeing all the sites in one day, see below for the best Zurich City Tours.

WHERE TO STAY IN ZURICH

To end this Switzerland trip blog, let’s go through the best accommodations in Zurich to consider for your stay.

Luxury: Park Hyatt Zurich

A contemporary 5-star hotel located in the heart of Zurich’s commercial district and within walking distance of the Bahnhofstrasse shopping street.

The rooms are very spacious with high-speed WiFi and there are restaurants, bars, and lounges inside the Park Hyatt.

Perfect for couples wanting a luxurious and unforgettable experience in Zurich.

Mid-Range: Motel One Zurich

An excellent 3-star hotel located in one of the best areas of the city.

There is free WiFi, private rooms with bathroom ensuites, and flat-screen TVs, and all of this is just within walking distance of Zurich’s main attractions, which is great for your itinerary for Switzerland.

Budget: Zurich Youth Hostel

One of the best hostels in Zurich with a modern design, various cuisines, and a cozy bar.

Its great location is just a stone’s throw from the lake’s shore and walking distance to train stations. Other features include a sunny courtyard and bright brooms.

With dorms and private rooms available, it’s the perfect place to stay in Zurich for travelers on a budget and to end this 8 nights Switzerland itinerary.

For More Options, See My Complete Guide On Where To Stay In Zurich

MAP OF SWITZERLAND

Click here or on the image below for an interactive map of the country and plan the best itinerary for Switzerland.

WHAT TO PACK FOR SWITZERLAND

When visiting Switzerland, here is a list of items I highly recommend adding to your travel packing list.

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!

Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

More Switzerland Travel Guides

Click the button below to view all articles related to Switzerland!

FINAL THOUGHTS – SWISS ITINERARY

I hope you enjoyed reading this Switzerland blog post and if you have any questions at all about this Switzerland itinerary , please leave me a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions about this Switzerland travel blog to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

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129 thoughts on “8 Day Switzerland Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide (2024)”

Dear Jonny, your itinerary and comments are awesome, it has helped me a lot to design a 5-6 days trip to Switzerland between 20-25 Feb 2024 for my family of 6 people. My initial plan was: – Day 0: Our family visits friends and travelling from Vietnam to the UK, ends up in Edinburgh. – Day 1 (sleep at Interlaken): Flying from Edinburgh to Geneve airport before noon (Zurich already sold out), take a train to Interlaken. Going to visit Crash Landing On You filming site and around the town. – Day 2 (sleep at Zermatt): Take a train to visit Lauterbrunnen in the morning. Take a train to Zermatt trying to arrive before sunset (so can see the Matterhorn from the hotel) * If day 1 was not too tired, can try to do Lauterbrunnen so day 2 can leave early in the morning for Zermatt. – Day 3 (sleep at St Moritz): Take the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St Moritz. – Day 4: I want to take the Bernina Express to Alp Grum and back to St Moritz in the afternoon so we can take a train to Zurich to have a full day 5 in Zurich. However, it looks like Bernina Express only ride at late afternoon. Day 5: Zurich Day 6: Zurich – Paris Day 7: Paris Day 8: Leaving Paris back to Vietnam Can you please advise: 1. Should I skip Zurich for one more day in either Interlaken, Zermatt or St Moritz? 2. Can I take other train than Bernina Express to Alp Grum because I don’t want to see the stunning view in the dark. Many thanks

Hi, thanks for reading and glad this itinerary of switzerland has helped with your trip! This itinerary looks great. I personally would skip the city (Zurich) for an extra day in Interlaken, I would suggest checking out Grindelwald a nearby valley. And yes there are other regional trains that you can take to Alp Grum. Hope this helps and enjoy!

Hi Jonny, excellent writeup! Thanks for framing it well and convincing us to go Switzerland, it worked! Can you advise if this itinerary works for Pre Xmas to early Jan period ie 24 Dec to 2 Jan? Will it be busy at those locations or packed on the train and I reckoned most of the place should be open? If we want to ski for a day or 2, are these 2 places recommended? We are thinking of something like below:

* Day 1: Zurich – Luzern (stay Luzern) * Day 2: Interlaken & Lauterbrunnen (stay Interlaken) * Day 3: Skiing in Lauterbrunnen (stay Interlaken) * Day 4: Zermatt (stay Zermatt) * Day 5: Skiing in Zermatt (stay Zermatt) * Day 6: Glacier Express (stay St Moritz) * Day 7: St. Moritz (stay St Moritz) * Day 8: Zurich(stay Zurich)

Hi Derick, you’re going to love Switzerland, glad you found this guide useful! That itinerary looks perfect and yes you can go skiing in Lauterbrunnen (ski slopes in Lauterbrunnen itself include Murren and Wengen, and then you have Grindelwald which is a nearby valley from Interlaken) and of course Zermatt has plenty of ski slopes. Xmas and NY is one of the busiest times so I recommend booking all accommodation in advance, you can refer to my guide on places to stay, and also get the Swiss Travel Pass as mentioned in this guide, and you’ll want to pre-book the Glacier Expresse in advance too. Hope this helps and enjoy 🙂

Thanks for the great advice!. As we have difficulty trying to secure hotels in Zematt and St Mortiz in Dec because we are a large group of 5, will it make a difference if we do a clockwise route starting Zematt first (3 nights), then Morteux (1 night) , then Interlaken (3 nights), ending with Lucerne last(2 nights) ? We arrive into Zurich Early morning and depart Depart Zurich 10.35am.

Hi Jonny Thanks for sharing your travel guide! I’m travelling in early June and have some similar itinerary as yours. If I were to take the glacier express from Zermatt, how best can I get to Zurich on the same day (evening) if I do not stay in Chur or St Moritz? As I was hoping not to miss landwasser viaduct while on the glacier express, the travelling route gets a little complicated . Would appreciate your kind advice . Thank you.

Hi Choo, thanks for reading, i hope it has helped plan your trip. Upon reaching Chur or St Moritz, you can catch a direct train to Zurich. Check the train schedules in advance on the SBB website to ensure there is a suitable connection for your evening arrival in Zurich.

Thank you so much for your helpful info about Switzerland. If we want to spend about 8 days in Switzerland but we don’t want to spend every night in a different hotel, which location would you suggest to use as a base? We’d prefer just 1-2 hotels. Would that be possible to see some part of Switzerland just out of 1-2 locations?

Hi Marina, in your case I would suggest staying in three different locations, firstly in Interlaken, then moving onto Zermatt, and finally St. Moritz and after that end your trip in Zurich.

Hello Jonny, Planning on doing your trip next June 23 with the 15 Swiss rail pass. As we are coming from Australia and will be away for 6 weeks our cases will be large and as we are 65 we don’t want to drag our cases from train station to motels. Do the motels do pick ups?

Hi Catherine, yes not a problem at all with the large cases. You can either contact your hotel directly before you arrive and request a pick up or from the train stations you’ll find taxi’s to take you to your hotel. Have a great trip!

Love this itinerary! I hope we have 8 days to spend in Switzerland but we only have 6 days. We’d love to hear your suggestion on how we can shorten your 8-day itinerary and still be able to see Matterhorn, scenic falls, paraglide ( 🙂 ) and ride the trains (such as Glacier Express and similar)?

Thank you so much and hope to hear from you!

Hi Lani, I’m glad to hear that you love the itinerary for Switzerland! Here’s a suggested plan for your 6-day visit:

Day 1: Arrival in Zurich and explore the city and its highlights… Day 2: Travel to Lucerne and spend the day exploring… Day 3: Interlaken and Paragliding – take an early train to Interlaken for paragliding in the morning and then explore Jungfraujoch and Grindelwald… Day 4: Lauterbrunnen Valley… Day 5: Zermatt and Matterhorn… Day 6: Glacier Express from Zermatt to St. Moritz.

I hope this helps and enjoy 🙂

Is ski / snowboarding possible in early August anywhere in Switzerland? Also, do you recommend not going to Geneva?

Hello Munira, unfortunately it’s not possible to ski in August anywhere in Switzerland as this time of year is still very much summer. I do recommend Geneva if time allows, it’s a very charming city with lots to enjoy, and the lake Geneva is right there of course. Enjoy your trip!

Absolutely love your itinerary. I found it very informative and I have planned our family trip around it. My husband and I are traveling with our 7 and 9 year old girls and are planning on making Lucerne home base. We are driving from Paris to Switzerland and then head to South of France hence found it easier to rent a car. Reading your response to your comments, it appeared you have also done a road trip previously. Any adjustments to your itinerary you will recommend knowing we will have access to a car? Is it still worthwhile to get a swiss pass also? Thank you

hi Kenny, thanks for the feedback, super happy to hear you found this Swiss itinerary useful. I responded to you in a seperate email, but yes, you can follow this same itinerary by car and you may also like to check out some other places like Grindelwald (near Lauterbrunnen), Bern, Davos, and on your way down to France definitely check out Valle Verzasca near lake Locarno on the Italian border.

For your case, the Swiss Half Fare Card would be the better option. Here is a blog post with more details about the swiss travel pass and other alternatives: https://www.jonnymelon.com/swiss-travel-pass/

I hope this helps and enjoy!

Thank you for replying to my recent message. I am using your itinerary and it has been working quite well. Decided to go with a 4-day Swiss pass rather than half fare Swiss pass since plan on just using the train (parking car in the hotel) a lot in those 4 days and honestly love the convenience of not buying a ticket.

Thanks for sharing this wonderful experience. Love it! With your post, i really safe a lot of time planning my trip to Switzerland at the end of July. As i am going in summer time, which places should i skip as i might not see the nice scenery cover by snow? Alp Grum? And which places i must go in summer time.

Appreciate your advice. Thank you!

Hi Elaine, I’m glad to hear that my Switzerland itinerary has been helpful for you in planning your trip to Switzerland. Alp Grum is a beautiful destination to visit during winter when it is covered in snow, but during summer, it’s equally picturesque with lush greenery and stunning views of the Bernina Range. There are several other places you can visit in Switzerland during summer that offer breathtaking views and experiences. Some must-visit places include Grindelwald, Interlaken, Lucerne, Rhine Falls, Geneva, and Zermatt. I hope this helps and enjoy!

Hi Jonny, This is such a detailed and easy to read itinerary, thank you. We are considering this trip for Early July.

I’m having trouble finding out whether the GoldenPass Belle Epoque trip from Interlakken to Montreux is included with the Swiss Travel Pass- Can you confirm? If it;s not included do you know how much it costs pp?

Also, what are the main differences between 1st and 2nd Class travel within the Swiss Travel Pass scheme? It would be an additional £500 to travel 1st class so is it good value in your opinion?

Hi Fran, regarding the Golden Pass Belle Epoque trip from Interlaken to Montreux, it is not included in the Swiss Travel Pass. However, you can still receive a discount on the ticket with the Swiss Travel Pass. The cost of the ticket varies depending on the time of year and the class of travel. It’s best to check the current prices and availability with the railway company.

As for the differences between first and second-class travel within the Swiss Travel Pass scheme, first-class generally offers more spacious seats, more legroom, and larger luggage space. Some trains also offer amenities such as complimentary drinks and snacks. It’s worth upgrading if you value the extra space and amenities!

Hi Jonny, thank you so much for your perfect 8 days itinerary. I has been reading several itineraries so far you are the best! Btw, just curious is all boat, ferry and train operate during winter? As I plan to visit Switzerland in Dec. Looking forward to your favourite response.

Hey Jimmy, thanks for your positive feedback and I am super happy to hear you found my swiss itinerary to be the best. From what I know, yes, boats, ferries, and trains operate year-round in all seasons. There may however be reduced services during weekdays and some transport options may not operate in bad weather conditions. I hope this helps and enjoy your trip 🙂

Thank you so much for this DETAILED itinerary. This is super helpful. My son and I are planning a seven night trip in May. We have a night in Zurich, then a night in Lucerne, and three nights in Lauterbrunnen. Where would you recommend we go for our final two nights from there? We do not have a vehicle and fly out of Zurich on day 8.

Hi Kristen, sounds like a great plan! I suggest checking out Bern after Lauterbrunnen, it’s relatively close, and Bern back to Zurich is an easy route! Hope this helps and have a great trip!

Thank you for your sharing. Lov it!

With swiss pass, possible a day tour ftom zurich to reinfall to stein am rain to konstanz? Appreciate your advise.

I will be staying in Soloturn. Can you suggest any day tour to nearby city aside Lucerne? Appreciate your advise.

Many thanks !

Hello, thanks for your positive feedback, glad you love this Switzerland itinerary by train. Yes you can use the swiss pass for that route. And I can suggest visiting Bern from Solothurn as an alternative to Lucerne. Hope this helps and have a great trip!

Since we are moving hotel from one city to another city almost daily, which would you advise changing hotel at the eve in new city or check out from hotel early morning before embarking to new city? Read that most activities or adventure should start early morning?

Appreciate your advise. Many thanks.

Hello, I suggest checking out of the hotel in the morning after breakfast. If your activity starts early, you can leave your luggage with the hotel reception, and pick it up before you depart onward to the next city. Hope this helps 🙂

Thanks so much JonnyMelon for this wonderful article!! I’m going to use this as a framework for upcoming travel to Switzerland!!

Hi Karen, you are most welcome, have a great trip!!

Hi Jonny – My husband daughter (adult) and myself are planning to the exact itinerary you did – Thank you for sharing

We would like to only move to 3 hotels – we are ok doing a bit more train travel

What are the 3 places we should stay ?

Your help is much appreciated Thank you once again

You’re most welcome, thanks for reading and enjoying this guide to Switzerland. I would say Interlaken, Zermatt, and Lucurne would be the 3 main places. Have a great trip 🙂

If you travel by rail what do you do with your luggage during the day. Do u check into hotel once u arrive then do the touring

Hi Lynn, yes exactly. Hotels will let you store your luggage if you arrive too early to check in and you can go explore for the day. Alternatively, you can find large and small storage lockers and most stations.

Hi Jonny, we are planing a trip this Feb around 10th for 10 days – will follow your suggested iterinary, wanted to know how much travel time is required between each day. And do we move or need a hotel to be booked at each place or can we stay in one place and take trains around?

Hi Neil, the distance between each location is around 2 hours give or take, some less. I would suggest making a hotel reservation in each place as you don’t want to be backtracking to one hotel. Hope this helps and enjoy you’re Swiss itinerary!

Hi Jonny I plan to travel in April where can I board the Glacier Express train from Zermatt

Hi Pauline, it departs from the main train station in Zermatt. Have a great trip to Switzerland!

Hello Jonny. I am planning a trip to switzerland in early july- 2 adults and a 12 year old. We will be there for 9 nights. Our general plan is to use public transport: zurich to luzern,luzern to wengen(in this area for 4 nights), wengen to zermatt, zermatt to montreux, and then montreux to zurich. Is the swiss rail pass worth it? I guess it comes out to $845 USD for the three of us. Its hard to tally the individual train prices as its too far ahead. I would love your input! Thanks!

Hey Claudette, that sounds like an awesome trip! The Swiss Travel Pass is absolutely worth it for the number of trains you’ll be taking on your route and it also gives you access to museums and other perks. Individual tickets will add up to more than the Swiss Travel Pass. Hope this helps and have a great trip!

Hi, I would love to know how do you get to Interlaken from Luzern? And from which station? Do we have to make a seat reservation like glacier express or should we just hop on to the Golden pass line and just sit wherever we want? Thank you, hope to hear from you soon.

Hello, I would recommend taking the Luzern–Interlaken Express from Luzern station to Interlaken Ost station. No seat reservation is required and you can use the swiss travel pass. Hope this helps and enjoy traveling in Switzerland!

We’re following this itinerary for our 8 day trip- in November ! thank you. however, we just realised the Glacier Express isn’t working until Dec 10.

Awesome, you’re going to have the best time following this Switzerland itinerary. Oh is that right, I was unaware of this, however, I believe there are other trains that you can travel on. Visit the SBB website to check available routes and timetables.

This is probably the best itinerary for the Swiss which I have come across.

We are a couple planning for a 8N/9D day trip in the 3rd week of Sept, we are going with the swiss travel pass for 8 days. Can you pls suggest 3/4 places to stay, asumming 2-3 nights per places which will be ideal to stay and travel acorss pls.

Warm Regards, Manish

Hey Manish, you are welcome!! Did you see the recommended hotels above which I have listed in the article, these are the places I recommend to stay on this Swiss itinerary! Enjoy 🙂

Hi Jonny, I just came back from Zurich yesterday and it was only a 3 days trip. I am planning to go back next year to explore all the remaining items that you have got on your guide. 🙂 May I check which month did you go as there are snow and sun and everything inbetween, not sure if I have to pack winter wear as well, however I live in Dublin so its always raining here and i always have a jacket on.

Hi Kala, sounds awesome!! I’ve been to Switzerland in all seasons and I always have some clothing to be prepared for the unexpected cold, rain, and snow. Hope this helps and enjoy your trip to Switzerland.

Thank you for this detailed itinerary. Just perfect for a 1st visit . Just wanted an indication of how much is the additional cost to reserve a seat on the 2 train rides ie Glacier and Bernina express . Thank you

Hello, you’re very welcome. For the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express, you can find prices and timetables on their respective websites. Enjoy!

Jonny, my wife and I will be visiting CH on a break-trip from India to the US. We will have 4 large and 2 small suitcases though! How do we manage with that? Any idea??

Hey Jay, there should be luggage storage facilities at the airport and even at some train stations. Enjoy 🙂

Did you ever try going from Zermatt to St Mortiz using the normal train? Since I already have the Swiss Travel Pass, do not want to spend money on The Glacier Express. Also, for all normal trains, do I need to reserve seats, or I can sit any empty seats? Any experience a train is full and there is no seats? Standing allowed?

Hi Christopher, Yes there are normal trains available. You can search for all the info and timetables on the SBB website. Have a great trip!

On day 2 what time would leave Lucerne? Did you take you luggage around Lauterbrunnen?

Hello, I left around 9-10 am. Yes, I took one suitcase and one backpack around with me. Hope this helps and enjoy 🙂

Hello! I’m planning a solo trip in September 2022 for my 60th birthday (husband and son might catch up with me later). As I read this itinerary, I’m not sure if you should stay in a different city each day, or there is a city where you base off the trips for several days. Can you elaborate on that? Ideally, I’d like to move twice, perhaps three times during the 8 days for maximum enjoyment. Thank you for the wonderful itinerary. Oh, also, are the youth Hostel’s only recommended for youngsters?

Hey there! This is quite a fast-paced itinerary for those that have a time constraint of around one week. I haven’t done any other route other than this one that I have written about so I can’t personally elaborate, unfortunately. Youth hostels in Switzerland are great for all ages. Have a nice trip to Switzerland 🙂

Hi Jonny, Really loved your itinerary. Should I follow this since I would be visiting in month of July? Is it worth visiting Zermatt ?

Thanks in advance

Hi Neeti, glad you enjoyed this itinerary, you’re going to love Switzerland! Yes, this would be a great itinerary in July, and 100% worth visiting Zermatt, the Matterhorn is so iconic and there are some half-day and full-day hikes you can do in the summer. Enjoy!

What do you recommend for luggage? Since this a daily move from city to city, will you advise a backpack rather than a normal carry-on luggage. Me and my wife, both in early 50’s , plan to follow your itinerary. We plan to be mobile but unsure if backpacks will work for us.

Hi Gerry, I had one backpack and one suitcase and managed with this. A backpack would make it easier, but you shouldn’t have any issues with roller luggage. Enjoy 🙂

Hi Jonny! For Day 2, is it possible to cover #1 to #5 all in a day? We are family with elderly, ok with short and easy walk. Thank you!

Hello, yes indeed, you could cover spots 1 to 5 easily in one day. You can drive through the valley if you have a car and each of these locations is very easy to reach with minimal walking. Enjoy 🙂

Hai Jonny, Your itinerary help a lot… I just want to know the train belle epoque so I can took the train from Zermatt to Montreux? How to buy the ticket for belle epoque? I see in the website only destination info but we can’t choose the train

Hi Rina, for memory, you can ride the belle epoque on a standard train ticket. Search on the SBB website for the journey you wish to take and it will show you the name of the train and this is where you should be able to see belle epoque. I hope this helps and enjoy the ride 🙂

Hi JONNYMELON.this is indeed an excellent blog regarding 8 days swiss travel itinerary.very compact,lucid ,filled with almost all the important informations which everyone ask from the google.am really excited.planning to visit next august last week,2020.

Hello, that’s great to hear you enjoyed this article. Enjoy Switzerland!

I am assuming you did the 1st class travel passes?

Hello, Yes I was traveling 1st Class.

Love your blog. am looking at staying in Switzerland for 4 days . Stay at Interlaken and travel to Lauterbreunen and jungfraugh and Thun . then to zurich and do a 1 day tour in zurich. should i still get the 8 day pass? what are other alternatives? Are individual train ride tickets a better option?

Hey, sounds like a great trip! Yes I would recommend the 8 day pass because it still works out cheaper than individual rides. Enjoy!

hello. this is a very good itinerary and posting. i’m wondering if you could offer some advice. could this itinerary be applied in January or beginning of February trip? I’m not a winter sports fan but would love to hike if possible and go up to the alps.

thanks in advance!!

Hmm I am not sure if you would be able to go hiking in the middle of winter, best to go around March – April when the snow has melted some.

Hi Jonny! I am grateful for the itinerary as it helped a lot with my planning. Do you think Bern would be worth visiting too and any idea on the weather there in late April? Once again, Great help and may you have a blessed year!!

You are welcome! Yes Bern would be great, I didn’t make it there unfortunately but will have to go back and do it next time! End of April weather would be perfect!

Hi Johny, We are planning to travel next year April. If we follow your itinerary, do you advise buying a half fare pass instead?

I read some other blogger recommended half fare pass

Hi Syleen, there are pros and cons to each but I found the Swiss Travel Pass to be the perfect one to get for this exact itinerary. If you’d like more detailed info I recommend a quick google search on half fare card vs swiss travel pass and hopefully this will help you make a decision! Have a great time on your Swiss itinerary 🙂

Hi Jonny!! Thanks for the help on the Itinerary!! this is a huge help for me but I was wondering if Bern is worth the visit?? I am currently planning 9 days for Switzerland in April. TOP NOTCH itinerary!! God Bless!

Yes if you have extra days I would definitely include Bern on this itinerary. I haven’t been myself but it looks amazing! Enjoy!

Hi! Enjoying reading your blog on Switzerland. I am going next month with a group of friends to celebrate my 40th. We are going to Montreux, Zermatt, Launterbrunnen, Lucern, and Zurich. I can’t wait. Two questions if you have time. 1. Where was the picture “The beautiful town of Zermatt – Switzerland Itinerary” in the Zermatt section taken of the village. I would like to see the rooftops like that!

2. Did you do any sledding/Tobogganing during your trip in the winter? If so, any recs? We aren’t big into skiing but love the outdoors!

Hi Jamie, thanks for reading and glad you found the guide useful! Ahh I really can’t remember the exact location of this photo but if you search Zermatt Matterhorn Viewpoint on Google Maps, that’s another popular spot to take photos. I didn’t do any tobogganing in Zermatt but I did see some others doing it so it is possible! Hope this helps and enjoy!

Hello, Great article! Do you recommend a travel agent that would put this trip together, exactly how you described, for a small group? Thank you!

Hi Richard, glad you loved this article. I don’t know any travel agents in Switzerland I am afraid. This trip I went on was all DIY so this guide is based around that. I hope this guide is enough for you to make it work 🙂

I want to do Gelmerbahn Funicular, where is the closest place to insert it from this itinerary?

Perhaps between Lucerne and Interlaken you could squeeze it in. 🙂

This was super amazing guide I have ever read on the internet. I am planning to go Switzerland between 27 Feb to 2 March 2020. The trip will like 2 days in Zurich and 2 days in Lauterbrunnen. I was planning to rent a car but it would be better to have Swiss pass for all train and other activities right?

One question in my mind is; how much cold the weather at the end of Feb? Do you think we might able to explore places in that time.

It would be great if you can share your comments.

Keep up with good working!

Regards, Mesut from Turkey 🙂

Hi Mesut, I sent you a private email on this with more information 🙂

i was planning for a family trip there, and luckily found this amazing informational guide… thanks a lot as this guide will help me for my family travel trip… briefly explained travel guide…!!

Glad you found this guide useful and enjoy Switzerland!

Hi, I loved ur article, I’m staying in Lucerne on 26/27/28 December, but not yet decided where stay on 24/25 December with family . Kindly suggest best city at my train reaches at 3pm on 24th to BASEL from Paris.

Hi, if your train arrives in Basel I would stay there and check out the city. It’s also a very nice place! Enjoy 🙂

I am planning a trip in late October (28th) till 4 Nov. This was really helpful! Just wondering if you actually changed accommodation everyday. Or did you have a base city? I tried to follow your itinerary but found it really mind boggling to plan for daily check-in and check-out, though it may save some travelling time.

Glad you loved this article! I changed accommodations every day. You can definitely extend your stay in some of the places if you wish. Hope this helps and enjoy 🙂

Thank you for wonderful post. This is really helpful to give us an idea when we planned for our trip few months ago. We decided to stay a couple days more and now we’re at the end of our trip. Our plan worked out really well cause of your posting. Thanks!!

That’s awesome! I am glad this article helped you on your trip!

Excellent blog!! I’m here for work but I am planning to use the weekends to know CH! This was very helpful! Tomorrow I first expedition is to Luzern. From Wettingan to Luzern. I will do the three suggested things to do! I will let you know 🙂

Thanks for reading and glad you have found it useful! I hope you enjoy Luzern as much as I did!

Thanks for the wonderful post. Silly question though, would you recommend driving or getting around by train?

And also, would you recommend to pick a base area to visit and travel the Jungfrau region. For example. If i were to stay in Interlaken, could i make daily trips to Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald etc and back to Interlaken back at night? Or should i pick my stay at the specific places i wanna go.

Please ignore the duplicate comment. My sincere apologies!

Glad you love the article! Not a silly Q at all, in fact, I have road-tripped Switzerland and also done it by train, both offering a completely different experience! The train is scenic though limiting to where you can stop, whereas if you have your own car you can stop whenever you see an amazing viewpoint. So I can’t give you a solid answer on that one sorry. Yes, I would base in Interlaken and make the day trips to Lauterbrunnen from there, it’s only 20-minutes by car or train. I hope this helps and enjoy 🙂

JONNY Great Blog. Your Trip covers 80% of places which we finalized before seeing your blog and we are now sure-we made right list. We are going in End october and are sad to learn that Glacier express does not run that time. Will normal trains cover same route or would be better to avoid St. Moritz if none of activities mentioned by you-are planned by us.

That’s great to hear, you’re going to love Switzerland! I am sure there are other normal trains that operate to St. Moritz, best to check on the sbb.ch website to see what’s available. Definitely try to make it to St. Moritz, it’s one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland!

Hi Jonny, nice post you got there. Also planning to visit Switzerland one time. May I know what month you guys went? Seems like the perfect time to go since you get a mix of winter and still get to see some greens. Also, how much did you spend all in all for the trip, minus airfare and the Swiss Pass?

Hi Karen, you’re going to love Switzerland. I was there in March this year and also in July about 2 years ago. If you want to see snow and green on the same trip I recommend going in April/May. Not sure how much I spent, I didn’t keep track of that sorry. Hope this helps and enjoy!

Amazing itinerary and pictures, this really helped me a lot for my next adventure. What camera did you use for this travel? or camera you use for most of your travel?

Hi, thanks for reading and glad you found this itinerary useful. You can see a list of my camera gear on my website: https://www.jonnymelon.com/camera-gear/

Thanks for the post! Your detailed itinerary was very helpful. I’m planning to travel to Switzerland in Sept. I was wondering if you felt rushed traveling from place to place every day. I’m hoping to have time to fit in a couple of 2-3 hr hikes in Interlaken and Zermatt.

It was a little rushed but I wanted to see as much as I possibly could. It was the right amount of time to do the things that I did but if you want to throw in a hike you may need an extra day. Hope this helps and Enjoy! 🙂

Hi Thanks a lot for this detailed blog…it’s really very informative. I am planning to visit switerzerland in September and i am going to follow your itinary….as it looks just how i would like to travel. I have a little question about baggage allowance in trains ..is there any limit for baggage. And also about Bernia Express…is it included in swiss pass

Hello, thanks for reading and glad you enjoyed this article. There is no maximum baggage allowance on all trains so feel free to take as much luggage as you like. And yes, the Swiss Pass includes the Bernina Express! Enjoy 🙂

Hye.. I wanna use 8 days STP like what u did for my trip in September.. But I just wanna ask, how did u use Swiss Travel Pass for domestic trains? Did u just go to the station and showed them the pass or how? For example if I wanna go from Laguno to Grindelwald via train…

Hello, You can use the Swiss Travel Pass on all domestic trains. No reservations needed, just board the train and the ticket inspector will ask to see your ticket on the train. For more information click on the ‘swiss travel pass’ links in this article and visit the website. Hope this helps1 🙂

Hi Jonny Thanx for sharing this wonderful experience. We are planning to go in end of september and have plans to pick up a swiss pass. Can you let me know any journeys that swiss pass wont cover.

Hell, you’re going to love it! I am not 100% sure whats covered and whats not covered outside of the exact itinerary in my article. Best bet is to click on the ‘swiss travel pass’ link in this article and all information can be found on their website. Hope this helps and enjoy Switzerland!

Hi, Thanks for this amazing blog. It was very helpul. I’m planning to visit end of this month.I have the swiss pass, can you tell me please which rides weren’t included in the swiss pass and you need to pay. Like the cog wheel train, gandola to piz gloria. glacier paradise gandola,yellow train, bernina express.Also do you need to book seats in advance or you can get the tickets when you arrive there? Many thanks

Hi Buddy, I have sent you an email with more info 🙂

Hi Jonny, Will you be able to share the same with me please.

Great post! Planing eight day family vacation with 7 year old daughter for August 2019. Do you think your itinerary would be too much for an active 7 year old? If so, what would you take out and where would you spend more “down time”. We enjoy all things outdoors (biking, hiking, etc.) so any opportunities to enjoy those activities would be great. Thanks again for sharing your post!

Hi Mark, glad you like this article and found it useful. This itinerary is perfect for all ages and if you are interested in hiking and some more downtime, Lauterbrunnen is the place to do that. I hope this helps and enjoy your trip! 🙂

This is so awesome. I’m visiting Switzerland in October and it’ll be my first time traveling alone so I was a little confused about how to get around but this really helped. Thank you!

Great! You are most welcome. Enjoy your Switzerland vacation! 🙂

Great review!! but i am a little confused about the start and end point of the trip. I am planning to go in September. Your guide is to start off in Geneva but you mentioned flying into Zurich first. If so when i arrive, i will need to make a trip across the country first? since i would be leaving from Zurich as well.

Hi thanks for reading. I started the train journey in Zurich and ended in Zurich. I never went to Geneva… I hope this helps 🙂

Enjoyed ur 8 days guide in Switzerland. Planning to go for abt 10 days end of Aug 19. This guide will be really helpful. We are coming from Asia/ Singapore. May I check if there are enough space for big luggage in all the trains? We loved the nature and hiking. Which location do you think best for us to stay a day or two longer for that? Zermatt ? Thanks in advance!

Hi and thanks for reading! Yes there is plenty of space on the trains for luggage! And I would recommend spending two days for hiking and exploring in Lauterbrunnen Valley! Enjoy!

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• Jul 9, 2023

Complete Guide to Zermatt, Switzerland: The Ultimate Winter Destination

Updated: Jul 31, 2023

When it came to planning our honeymoon, we Colorado kids knew we wanted to spend time doing our absolute favorite thing: skiing. Well... snowboarding for Hunter...

Skiing in the Alps had been on our collective bucket list for as long as we could remember, and our honeymoon seemed like the perfect time to cross it off the list.

We researched several options in the Swiss, French and Italian Alps, but ultimately went with Zermatt for the best mix of incredible slopes (pistes), atmosphere, food & romance (it was our honeymoon, after all.) We cannot say enough good things about this idyllic town- it was truly magical.

Check out our guide for everything to know before your trip to Zermatt, including our top recommendations!

About Zermatt

Zermatt, Switzerland is a charming Alpine village located in the canton of Valais, nestled beneath the iconic Matterhorn mountain. The stunning scenery, combined with an array of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, make it a popular destination for travelers from all around the world. Whether you're an avid skier looking to hit the slopes like us or simply looking for a cozy winter getaway, Zermatt has something to offer everyone.

In this Zermatt Guide

Getting to zermatt, what to do in zermatt in the winter, skiing and snowboarding in zermatt.

What to Eat in Zermatt

Where to Stay in Zermatt

Where to après in zermatt, how much to budget for a trip to zermatt, overall impressions of zermatt.

Zermatt is a car-free village, so the only way to get there is by train. The journey from Geneva or Zurich to Zermatt takes approximately 3.5 hours and involves a change of trains in Visp. Trains run frequently, and tickets can be purchased online or at the train station.

We took the train from Paris and the entire ride was stunning! It felt like being on the Hogwarts Express in the best, coziest, and most romantic snow-filled way.

Once we arrived at the train station, an electric car from our hotel came to pick us up. Many of the higher-end hotels offer this- which is a great touch! There are also public buses that run throughout the day and night in town.

There is truly something for everyone in this charming town. We, of course, were there to ski- but we made friends with others who came just to take in the beauty of the area without ever strapping into ski boots...

Here are some of the top things to see & do in Zermatt during the winter.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Duh. Zermatt is also a world-renowned ski destination, with 360 kilometers (about 224 miles) of ski runs catering to all levels of ability. The Matterhorn glacier paradise is the highest ski area in Europe, with slopes that are open year-round. We went at the beginning of the season in early December and got EXTREMELY lucky with the perfect combo of sunshine-y bluebird days and sections of fresh powder snow.

Glacier Express

The Glacier Express is a panoramic train journey that takes you through some of the most spectacular scenery in Switzerland. The journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz takes approximately 8 hours and passes through 291 bridges, 91 tunnels and over the Oberalp Pass.

Ice Skating

Zermatt has an outdoor ice rink that's open throughout the winter season. Skate rentals are available at the rink.

Matterhorn Museum

The Matterhorn Museum is a museum that tells the story of the Matterhorn and the history of Zermatt. The museum is located in the center of the village and is open all year round.

Zermatt boasts a range of exquisite spas amidst its breathtaking alpine scenery. Here are a few notable spas in Zermatt that you might consider visiting:

Matterhorn Focus Design Hotel Spa

We loved our stay at the Matterhorn Focus Design Hotel! The spa facilities were phenomenal (especially after a long day on the slopes!) The spa area included an indoor/outdoor pool, steam room, sauna, and sound bath room- all of which were fantastic.

The Omnia Spa

This luxurious spa provides a serene retreat with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It offers a range of treatments and therapies, including massages, facials, and body treatments.

Mont Cervin Palace Spa

Located within the iconic Mont Cervin Palace hotel, this spa offers a tranquil sanctuary with a wide selection of treatments and facilities. Unwind with a massage, relax in the sauna or steam room, and take a dip in the indoor or outdoor pool while admiring the majestic Matterhorn.

Here are some of the best skiing and snowboarding options in Zermatt:

Klein Matterhorn: The Klein Matterhorn is the highest point in the ski area, offering panoramic views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding peaks. The slopes here are ideal for intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders. Lots of straightaway downhill runs!

Gornergrat: The Gornergrat is a popular area for skiers and snowboarders, with slopes that cater to all levels of ability. The Gornergrat ridge also offers panoramic views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding mountains.

Sunnegga: The Sunnegga side of the mountain is aptly named- it was by far the sunniest (and our favorite!) The terrain was perfect for a chill ski day for intermediate to advanced skiiers, and our favorite restaurants were off of runs in this section of the mountain. Bonus points for being the part of the mountain where we got to ride the funicular!

Schwarzsee: The Schwarzsee area is a great option for families and beginners, with gentle slopes and a ski school for children and adults.

Glacier Skiing: With slopes that are open year-round, the Matterhorn glacier paradise is a unique skiing and snowboarding experience. It's also home to the world's highest cable car station, the Matterhorn glacier ride.

Off-Piste Skiing: Zermatt is famous for its off-piste skiing, with endless powder runs and challenging terrain. If you're an experienced skier or snowboarder, consider hiring a guide to explore the backcountry.

What to Eat In Zermatt

Chez Vrony: Chez Vrony is a traditional Swiss restaurant located on the slopes of Sunnegga. The menu features local produce and dishes such as fondue, raclette and rösti. The restaurant also has a large terrace with panoramic views of the Matterhorn. This was one of our favorite meals of all time- we had a bottle (oops ;:) of champagne and the fondue and it was simply *chef's kiss* amazing! Oh, and it's a Michelin Star restaurant- so there's that.

Adler Hitta: This was another fabulous meal that we skied right up to! The vibes were fantastic- tons of outdoor seating, a DJ playing live music, and obviously stunning views of the Matterhorn. We had a picture-perfect charcuterie board (one of our favorite things ever) and some delicious soup.

Zum See: Zum See is a family-owned restaurant that serves traditional Swiss cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and its famous "Zum See" fish soup. We didn't try this restaurant on our trip- but it came highly recommended by others.

Findlerhof: Findlerhof is a charming restaurant located in a 400-year-old chalet. The menu features traditional Swiss dishes and the restaurant has an extensive wine list. The outdoor terrace offers stunning views of the Matterhorn.

Bonus mention: CHOCOLATE! Swiss chocolate lives up to the hype. Be sure to stop in town at chocolate shops to sample Toblerone, Lindt, and hand-crafted chocolate truffles.

Matterhorn Focus Design Hotel: We loved our stay at the Matterhorn Focus Design Hotel. The location was unbeatable- literally 50 ft from the entrance to the main gondola with a full ski locker room on the ground floor. Our room was SO cozy, with its own fireplace and bear claw bathtub. The spa had everything we could have wanted- pool, sauna, and more. The main area of the hotel had a lovely sitting area and fireplace and a bar staffed with friendly bartenders. The hotel is on the smaller side, which contributed to a level of service that was 10/10.The best part was that the outdoor balcony offered a breathtaking view of the Matterhorn!

The Omnia: The Omnia is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Zermatt. The hotel features a spa, a gourmet restaurant and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the Matterhorn. This is another top choice for a romantic winter getaway.

Mont Cervin Palace : Mont Cervin Palace is a historic hotel that has been welcoming guests since 1851. The hotel features a spa, a Michelin-starred restaurant and a terrace with views of the Matterhorn.

Hotel Matthiol : Hotel Matthiol is a boutique hotel located just outside of the village center. The hotel features a spa, a gourmet restaurant and a shuttle service to the ski lifts.

What's a ski day without proper après? From a glass of champagne to a much warmer gluhwein (hot mulled wine) there are plenty of options for an end of the day beverage. We found some adorable spots to grab a post-slope cocktail. Here are a few of our favorites:

The Little Bar: The cutest, smallest little bar we ever did see! It's a few steps down below ground and is a great spot to stop for a chat with the bartender and other visitors. Bring a dollar (Pound, Euro, Peso, et al.) and a pen to leave on the ceiling.

Elsie's Champagne Bar: On our first night, we arrived late-ish and most restaurants were already closed. We walked to Elsie's and it was the most serendipitous experience. We ended up having some drinks & yummy small plates. The inside was quaint and it had the feel of a 'local' hub. Highly recommend stopping in!

Harry's: This was a casual stop with a fun atmosphere of fellow young travelers!

The cost of a trip to Zermatt in the winter can vary greatly depending on your travel preferences, accommodation choices, activities, and personal spending habits.

We went for our honeymoon, so we chose to splurge considerably more than we otherwise would have for a vacation- but to me, this was one of the destinations where spending a bit more does meaningfully impact the trip on the whole (i.e., spending more for a hotel that was steps from the main gondola was SO worth it for us!)

That said, Switzerland is an expensive country no matter how you slice it. There are ways to save here & there and still have an amazing trip, though.

Here's a rough breakdown of expenses to consider when budgeting for your trip:

Accommodation: Zermatt offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, chalets, and budget-friendly guesthouses. The prices can vary significantly depending on the type of accommodation and the time of year you plan to visit. On average, in the winter you can expect to spend around $250 to $600 per night for mid-range accommodation.

Transportation: Zermatt is a car-free village, so you'll need to take a train or a taxi to reach the town. If you're traveling from an international destination, you may need to consider the cost of flights or train tickets to Switzerland as well. Train tickets from major Swiss cities to Zermatt can cost around $100 to $200 roundtrip, depending on the class and the type of ticket.

Activities: The cost of activities such as skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain excursions will depend. We were actually VERY pleasantly surprised by how affordable it was to ski in Zermatt compared to some of the popular resorts we're used to skiing in Colorado. For context, here's what we paid for 3 days of skiing:

Lift Tickets: $40/day

Rentals: $35/day (this was for skis, boots, poles, a helmet & a jacket (I didn't want to pack my bulky ski coat) We rented from Dorsaz Sport which was conveniently located right across from our hotel & steps from the main gondola.

Food: Zermatt has a range of dining options, from high-end restaurants to more low-key eateries. The on-mountain restaurants are a bit more expensive, ranging from $30-$100 for lunch, and the in-town restaurants range about $40-$200 for dinner.

One advantage to staying at a nicer-end hotel is that many of them have a full breakfast buffet included. The breakfast each morning at our hotel was fabulous- and it was convenient to eat there before hitting the slopes.

Considering the above factors, a rough estimate for a 4-day trip to Zermatt could range from $800 to $3500 or more per person, excluding international transportation costs. Keep in mind that these figures are approximate and can vary based on your personal preferences and the time of year you plan to visit. It's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to get a more accurate estimate based on your specific needs.

Zermatt is straight out of a fairytale. Everything about this town is idyllic - from the natural beauty of the mountains and streams to the charming architecture throughout. The fact that it is car-free adds to the old-time feel, and makes the town so quiet you can almost hear the snow falling... We absolutely loved everything about it. It's one of those places that you visit and immediately want to return to. Crossing our fingers that we get the chance to see Zermatt in the summer, as well, to experience a different side of this incredible place.

Maybe we will even move here one day... Swiss Family Robinson style.

Overall, 1 million Toblerone chocolates out of 10 :)

P.S. From Zermatt, we continued out travels to Lucerne, Switzerland and LOVED that too! You can read more about our experience there in this blog post !

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Your Trip to Switzerland: The Complete Guide

If you've ever ogled over photos of Switzerland's Alpine peaks, rolling meadows, and pristine lakes, you'll be happy to know that it's even more beautiful in person. The central European country is small compared to its neighbors, but it packs a lot into its 16,000 square miles, including 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites , more than 1,500 glaciers, and at least that many lakes.

All these geologic wonders add up to some of the more stunning scenery in the world. And that's enough to bring travelers—about 12 million of them per year —to Switzerland. When you factor in the countless opportunities for hiking, skiing, and boating; hearty Swiss food; modern, interesting cities; and what is probably Europe's best public transportation system, you're met with an accessible, exciting, and altogether satisfying vacation destination.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit :  The best time to visit Switzerland depends on what you want to do while you're here. Ski slopes are open November through March (though there is year-round skiing in a few places), while hiking and swimming are glorious in the summer months. But to beat the crowds, consider a visit in spring or fall.
• Language:  Switzerland's cantons, or states, are mostly either French- or German-speaking. In the southern Ticino canton, Italian is the first language and in the Graubünden/Grisons canton, Romansh, a form of ancient Latin, is still spoken by about 60,000 people. The good news for travelers is that English is widely spoken, especially in hotels, restaurants, stores, and tourist attractions.
• Currency:  Despite being in the middle of western Europe, Switzerland is not part of the EU, though it participates in the European Common economic market. The official currency here is the Swiss franc (abbreviated CHF). That said, your euros will probably be accepted at most places, though they'll give you change in francs.
• Getting Around :  The clean, convenient, and comprehensive Swiss Travel System is the pride of Switzerland, and rightly so. The system includes trains, buses, lake and river ferries, funiculars, cogwheel trains, ski lifts, and gondolas that permit access to virtually every corner of the country. Because the system is so complete, we recommend touring Switzerland by public transportation, instead of by rental car. From airports and larger train stations, taxis are always available for those who don't feel like schlepping their bags.
• Travel Tip:  If you plan to do a lot of travel within Switzerland, consider purchasing the Swiss Travel Pass , which grants the holder unlimited first- or second-class travel across the country's network of trains, buses, and boats, and most scenic railways. Plus, you'll get admission to more than 500 museums, as well as discounts on mountain excursions. However, if you just plan to visit a couple of places in the country, you can get by with individual train/transit tickets.

TripSavvy / Michela Sieman

Things to Do

While every traveler has their own reasons for visiting Switzerland, the big draws here can more or less be broken down into three categories: scenery, outdoor activities, and Swiss history and culture. Your trip will likely start or end in one of Switzerland's big cities, where that history and culture are on full display. Be sure to plan at least one (or several) excursions into the Swiss countryside, either on an easy or challenging hike, a boat ride across an iconic lake, or a cable car ride up to some of the highest peaks in Europe.

Here are some ideas for planning your Swiss itinerary:

• Explore one of the country's culturally rich cities. If you're flying into Switzerland, you'll most likely arrive in Zürich or Geneva. Zürich , Switzerland's largest city, is a delightful place to spend a few days taking in art and history museums, dining in centuries-old restaurants, and strolling down the River Limmat. Geneva , in French-speaking Switzerland, is the diplomatic center of Europe, with plenty of history and classical appeal, and an idyllic setting on the shores of Lake Geneva.
• Hike, bike, swim, or ski. No matter what time of year you visit, you'll find a huge range of outdoor activities in Switzerland—though admittedly, swimming is a bit brisk from October to June! There are biking and hiking routes for every level of fitness, extensive networks of ski "arenas" across the Alps and the Jura mountains, and rivers and lakes waiting for you to jump in for a swim or a paddle.
• Choose a mountain excursion. In Switzerland, it doesn't matter if you're not a skier or hiker. You can answer the call of the mountains just the same, thanks to dozens of scenic mountain excursions that whisk you—by cogwheel rail, cable car, or ski gondola—for close-up looks at the Matterhorn , the Eiger, the Aletsch Glacier, and more. At most places, you can have lunch on the mountaintop while you enjoy the view. Don't leave Switzerland without partaking in at least one of these thrilling rides.

For more trip-planning ideas, check out our full-length articles on the top things to do in Switzerland , Switzerland's most scenic train rides , and Switzerland's top lakes .

What to Eat and Drink

Swiss cuisine is hearty, to say the least. Cheese, chocolate, potatoes, and meat feature heavily on Swiss menus everywhere, and risotto is popular in the cantons bordering Italy. Swiss wine, from vineyards mostly south of the Alps, is so popular among the Swiss that only 2 percent is exported!

Here are some of the foods and beverages you shouldn't miss in Switzerland:

• Fondue. This classic dish of melted cheese, served with bread and vegetables for dipping, is as iconic as the Matterhorn. Fondue originated in French-speaking Switzerland , but it's pretty much ubiquitous across the country.
• Raclette. Sort of a cousin of fondue, raclette is melted cheese served on a plate with bread, potatoes, and gherkins. Its roots are high in the Alps, where farmers would make meals from their abundant cheese reserves.
• Rösti. Pancakes made of grated, fried potatoes, rösti may be served as a side dish or, when paired with eggs, meat, or cheese, as the main course.
• Chocolate. Thanks to milk from grass-fed Alpine cows, plus a few "secret" recipes, Swiss milk chocolate is among the creamiest in the world. Brands to look for include Toberlone, Lindt, Sprüngli, and Läderach.
• Swiss wine. Largely produced in the more temperant cantons south of the Alps, Swiss wine is equally celebrated in its red and white varieties. Chasselas and pinot noir are among the most common grapes, but across the country's wine-growing region, micro-vineyards specialize in small-batch wines. Be sure to sample the wine while you're here— Swiss wine is hard to find outside Switzerland.

Read more in our guides to the top foods to try in Switzerland and where to eat in Zürich .

Where to Stay

Switzerland's accommodation options range from rustic mountain bunkhouses for hikers to luxurious 5-star hotels with spas, Michelin-star dining, and every imaginable amenity. In between those extremes, there are concept hotels, ski-in/ski-out lodges, and a host of B&Bs, small inns, and vacation rentals.

If you're staying in a city, we usually recommend basing yourself in the historic center so that you're within walking distance of popular tourist attractions, restaurants, and bars. But cities like Zürich also have creative, modern districts outside of the center, which make for interesting bases as well. In an Alpine destination such as Zermatt, Saas-Fee, or Gstaad, we like cozy, traditional hotels that really impart a sense of place.

For a taste of what Zürich has to offer, check out our articles on Zürich's top neighborhoods and best hotels.

Getting to Switzerland

International flights to Switzerland, especially those originating outside of Europe, will likely arrive in Zürich or Geneva. Some intra-Europe flights might land at Basel's airport, which is actually located just over the French border.

You can reach Switzerland by train from the neighboring countries of Austria, Germany, France, and Italy. Note that if you're traveling to Switzerland from an adjacent country, your ticket will likely only cover you until your first stop in Switzerland; for example, if you're traveling from Milan, Italy, your ticket will take you as far as Lugano. After that, you'll need a travel pass or ticket from the Swiss Travel System if you want to change trains.

If you're driving to Switzerland, you need to purchase or make sure your car already has a motorway vignette —a sticker that permits access to Swiss highways.

Learn more by checking out our guides to Zürich airport , traveling to Switzerland from Italy , and Zürich's public transportation .

Culture and Customs

While there are no special "rules" for visiting Switzerland, travelers here might find the Swiss somewhat reserved, especially when compared to Mediterranean cultures to the south. Here are a few basic customs and courtesies to keep in mind:

• Be on time. Trains aren't the only thing that runs on time in Switzerland. Plan to arrive on time, or even a few minutes early, for restaurant reservations or other reserved activities.
• Don't be noisy. In restaurants, on public transportation, and especially in the evenings in residential areas, keep your voices at a conversational level.
• Tip in moderation. While tipping waitstaff is appreciated in Switzerland, it's not expected. Tips for your hotel cleaning staff and bellhops are the norm, however.

Money Saving Tips

Here's something you should know about Switzerland before you start planning your trip: it's expensive. Hotels, dining, trains, and attractions are all costly compared to many other European countries, but there are a few ways you can save money:

• Travel in the shoulder seasons. Visit Switzerland in the spring or fall to save money on airfare and hotels.
• Drink tap water. Unless otherwise posted, tap water in Switzerland is clean and safe to drink. Bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up at any tap.
• Pack a picnic. Before you head out for a day of adventures, stop at a grocery store and pick up bread, cheese, cold cuts, or whatever else you want for a picnic. Just don't forget to grab a chocolate bar for the road!

https://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/ch

https://www.worlddata.info/europe/switzerland/tourism.php

Switzerland Tourism. "Language distribution." Retrieved on November 9, 2021.

Switzerland Tourism. "Currency." Retrieved on November 9, 2021.

BBC. "Tracing fondue’s mysterious origins." February 12, 2013.

The Top 20 Things to Do in Switzerland

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One Week in Switzerland: The Ultimate Itinerary

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The 10 Best Restaurants in Switzerland

The 17 Best Countries to Visit in Europe

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Matterhorn: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Zurich: The Complete Guide

The Complete Guide to Switzerland's Nature Parks

How to Use Swiss Trains and the Swiss Travel Pass

The Best Time to Visit Switzerland

Getting Around Switzerland: Guide to Public Transportation

Skiing in Switzerland: The Complete Guide

The Top 15 Things to Do in Zurich

The Ultimate Switzerland Itinerary

From beautiful lakes and epic mountains, to adventurous activities and chic hotels, this Switzerland itinerary takes you on a whistle-stop tour of the country’s highlights.

When it comes to magical European adventures, a trip through Switzerland definitely comes high on the list. It’s a compact enough country to fit a lot into one trip, but diverse enough to see and do a lot.

I love that you can start the day in a cosmopolitan city, by the afternoon you can be cycling past a beautiful lake and by the evening you could be skiing in the mountains! How many destinations offer that much variety?

While there are lots of beautiful spots you could visit, I’m going to guide you through a route that offers a bit of everything, and gives you an overview of the best things to do in Switzerland.

It’s a trip I went on December with Preferred Hotels , the world’s largest independent hotel brand, representing 750 hotels, resorts and residences across 85 countries. However, it’d be equally as beautiful (and a lot less snowy) in summer months. Either way, you’ll pass by Lake Geneva, snap photos of the Matterhorn and enjoy all the chocolate and cheese you could dream of! What more could you want on a Swiss road trip?!

Start by watching the video for a flavour of the trip, then find out more about our awesome Switzerland itinerary…

Best time to visit Switzerland

Switzerland is an all-year destination, but you’ll need to decide what kind of holiday you want to go on before deciding when to visit. These are your two main options….

• A snow-filled, winter wonderland trip, with a stay in the mountains and plenty of icy activities.
• A sunshine-filled spring or summer trip, where you spend every moment outside, hiking, cycling and enjoying lush valleys.

In terms of temperatures, you can expect highs in summer of 26 degrees in the cities and lows in winter of -30 (in the mountains). With altitude to deal with, you can expect quite a contrast in temperatures between cities like Geneva and high-alpine villages like Zermatt.

I should mention Switzerland is notoriously expensive. There are ways to keep prices down, but I think it’s somewhere to save for a special holiday – perhaps a honeymoon, birthday or anniversary. Enjoy the plush hotels, gourmet restaurants and create some special memories.

How to get to Switzerland

There are plenty of flights to Geneva and Zurich each day. From London it’s a quick trip (under an hour and a half) and if you book a window seat, you’ll be rewarded by stunning views of the Swiss Alps on your journey.

My return flights from London were around £150 (including baggage), booking just three weeks before travelling. If you plan further in advance, or are able to take the earliest flights of the day, you can find deals for under £50 return. While I’ve mentioned it’s probably not a country to visit on a budget, the flights are incredibly reasonable.

If you’re already based in mainland Europe, there are plenty of trains connecting all the major towns and cities too, including Zurich, Geneva, Bern and Lausanne.

Once you’ve reached Switzerland I’d recommend hiring a car so you can explore the country on your own time. It’s a beautiful country for a road trip, especially once you get into the alps.

If driving doesn’t fill you with joy, then don’t worry – most destinations are accessibly by public transport. You might find it helpful to pick up Swiss Travel Pass which covers transport in the country by rail, road and waterway, and is available for trips between 3 days and 15 days.

How long to spend in Switzerland?

I’d recommend spending five days in Switzerland to really feel like you’ve had a flavour of the country as a whole. However, if you’re limited to a shorter length of time, you could cram a decent overview of the country into three well-planned days.

A 5-Day Switzerland Itinerary

There are plenty of places you could visit, but I’ve focused on three main areas – Lausanne / Lake Geneva, Saas-Fee in the Swiss Alps, and Zermatt close to the Matterhorn.

To see the exact route, plus lots of recommendations, check out my Switzerland itinerary map here . 

LAUSANNE ITINERARY

Explore the city of lausanne.

Lausanne is a very pretty city, with a stunning Gothic cathedral, historic buildings with colourful facades and a buzzy shopping scene. I’d recommend a wander through the city centre, climbing the Escaliers du Marché (wooden stairs that are over 400 years old) to the cathedral, then climbing to the top of the tower for a great panoramic view of the city.

Afterwards, head down to Les Arches , a unique bar set inside the archways of the Grand Pont bridge. The bar looks out over place de l’Europe, so it’s the perfect people watching spot. Throughout the festive period, you’ll find Christmas markets around this area too.

Enjoy views of Lake Geneva

Regardless of the route you pick for your Switzerland itinerary, it’s likely you’ll pass Lake Geneva, or Lac Lémon as I affectionately heard it referred to in Lausanne. 

We didn’t have the best weather during our time in Lausanne, but on a clear day the views from Ouchy (Lausanne’s port area) are absolutely spectacular. Take a stroll along the edge of Lake Geneva and you’ll see boats coming and going, with beautiful views of the snow-topped Swiss Alps in the background. There are plenty of restaurants in this part of the city, many with beautiful lake views.

I took these photos from Montreux, a short drive from Lausanne. Just look at how clear the water is!

Stay at a luxurious hotel in Lausanne  

We checked into five-star Royal Savoy Hotel and Spa in Lausanne, one of Preferred Hotel’s collection in Switzerland. I’d liken it to staying at The Ritz in London!

It’s historic, grand and you’ll feel like a princess as you wander from marble-clad lobbies to plush lounge areas. There’s a fine-dining brasserie, winter chalet featuring an indulgent cheese-filled menu, a cocktail bar and cigar lounge. 

The brasserie is overseen by Michelin-starred Chef Marc Haeberlin,  and features locally-sourced seasonal ingredients.

One of the highlights for me was the spa. It may have been around zero degrees outside, but the steamy jacuzzi area made me feel toasty! 

Check availability and latest prices at the Royal Savoy Hotel and Spa here

Learn about fragrance in Lausanne

On my first day in Lausanne I visited perfume expert Philippe K ’s fragrance shop for a special Art Of Fragrance experience. The concept is unique; over a few hours I’d have a consultation with Philippe, who would analyse my personality and my connection with fragrances, then match my results with a perfume within the store.

It wasn’t a simple analysis though. I’d liken it to a counselling session with a psychologist, who happened to know about perfume! I learned about myself, relieved myself of some burdens I’d been carrying, and left with a fragrance I’d never have selected alone. It was a revelation!

The fun continued with dinner at the Royal Savoy Lausanne’s Brasserie, where the barman created a cocktail which complemented my chosen fragrance!

SAAS-FEE ITINERARY

Stay at a luxurious mountain hotel in saas-fee.

Saas-Fee is one of the most famous ski resorts in Switzerland, so where better to stay on a special holiday than the most luxurious hotel in the village: The Capra . It’s another in Preferred Hotels collection, and is a boutique hotel, in a wooden-chalet style. With 29 rooms, a personalised style of service and a large, cosy lounge, it’s a real home from home. 

The hotel’s décor oozes warmth, with a large fireplace in the lounge, flickery candles, plush cushions and an old-fashioned drinks trolley. We stayed in one of the penthouse suites, which boasted incredible views over the snowy roofs of the village, straight to the Swiss Alps.

While we weren’t skiing on this trip, the hotel has its own ski-in ski-out cabin right by the pistes, with heated boot racks and equipment lockers, meaning you’ll never need to lug your stuff to the slopes. Talk about five-star service!

My favourite place at The Capra? Peak Health Club – the hotel’s very own spa. I didn’t expect a small hotel to have such a large spa. There’s an indoor swimming pool, outdoor jacuzzi, wellness area with sauna, steam rooms and lounge areas, plus a yoga studio and treatment rooms.

The hotel also has a gourmet restaurant (open to non-guests too), serving up sophisticated and tasty dishes. From nourishing poke bowls at lunchtime, to steak and fish dishes for dinner. There’s even a sommelier who is happy to pair dishes with exciting Swiss wines.

Whether you’re skiing, fancy a relaxing break in the Swiss Alps or want to head off on some day trips, The Capra is the perfect base in Saas-Fee.

Check availability and latest prices at The Capra here

Catch the cable car to the Ice Pavilion and highest revolving restaurant

On our final morning in Saas-Fee, we well and truly got our Swiss Alps fix! We caught two cable cars and a train to reach Mittelallalin – a 3,500 peak just below Allalinhorn. Once there, we’d planned to go inside the Ice Pavilion , but sadly it was closed for safety reasons (apparently there had been some movement within the glacier). Ordinarily though, you can head inside the glacier and see a world of incredible ice sculptures, plus experience an avalanche simulation.

We did however enjoy mesmerising views from the viewing platform, before heading inside to Allalin Restaurant , the world’s highest revolving restaurant. It was a great spot to warm up with a frothy hot chocolate!

If you’re skiing in Saas-Fee you’ll probably be familiar with this area, as lots of people start their day on the pistes outside, but if you’re sightseeing like us, it’s somewhere I’d definitely recommend!

Hike around Saas-Fee

We spent one morning hiking around the local area with expert guide Alex from Ski Zenit. We’d planned to go on a snowshoe hike, but with no fresh snow, we decided to tackle the route in hiking boots.

Even in winter, there are some lovely hiking tracks, taking you around the outside of the village, through pretty alpine forests, around a glacial lake, across the base of the ski slopes and up to Gletschergrotte, a small bar and restaurant by the piste.

It was packed with skiers, stopping for their mid-morning pints, gluhweins and rostis, and a lovely place to appreciate the beautiful snowy mountains in the sunshine.

ZERMATT ITINERARY

Stay in a luxurious hotel with views of the matterhorn.

This was my second trip to Zermatt in winter . I was prepared for the spectacular views of the Matterhorn and the picture postcard town of wooden chalets and fairy lights. However, this time was extra special as we stayed at the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof – one of the most famous hotels in Switzerland, and another in Preferred Hotels’ collection.

Anyone who has been to Zermatt will know this hotel. The magical building sits in a great position in the centre of the town, with a huge outdoor bar area and grand entrance. As Zermatt is car-free, the hotel has a very special mode of transport to collect guests from the train station – an old-fashioned horse and carriage, pulled by two beautiful white horses. Yep, you’re guaranteed to feel like royalty when you arrive at a five-star hotel like this!

The hotel itself is grand and chateau-like, with plush furnishings, glamorous chandeliers and a beautiful spa.

Foodies will adore this hotel, as it’s home to three restaurants – Brasserie Lusi, fondue haven SayCheese! And Michelin starred Prato Borni.

We stayed in a lovely suite on the third floor, with huge windows looking out towards the Matterhorn. It was cosy yet elegant – the perfect base for a few days of adventures in the area.

Check availability and latest prices at the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof here

Train from Zermatt to Gornergrat  

The train from Zermatt to Gornergrat is one of the best things to do in Switzerland, and along with the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St Moritz, this ride is known as one of the most scenic train rides in the world.

The journey from Zermatt takes around thirty minutes, stopping at a few places in the mountains along the way. We timed our trip for first light, and enjoyed some incredible window views of the Matterhorn illuminated by the sun.

The vistas are incredible, and while in the mornings you might be jostling with skiers (who use the train to reach the top pistes), you’re likely to have it almost all to yourself on the descent. For the entire journey up, I was mesmerised by the view of the Matterhorn, barely taking my eyes off it! As you climb up the mountain you have the opportunity to see it from different angles, admiring its impressively sharp angles.

The final stop is Gornergrat train station at a height of 3,100m. There you can take in the panoramic views, visit the hotel, or warm up with a hot chocolate in the café. This is definitely a trip I’d recommend if you’re visiting Zermatt during your trip.

If you’re looking for other things to do, be sure to read my comprehensive guide to visiting Zermatt in winter .

Enjoy a traditional Swiss fondue in Zermatt  

During our trip to Zermatt, the snow same down pretty heavily, so I was happy to not only warm up in the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof’s luxurious spa, but also enjoy dinner at SayCheese! Restaurant. Unsurprisingly, the entire menu revolves around one of my favourite Swiss ingredients – CHEESE!

We were ready for our fondue fix, but for an even more indulgent option, we ordered one with added truffle. It was absolutely heavenly. I loved the cosy atmosphere, friendly service and was 99% cheese by the time I rolled out of the restaurant!

I hope you’ve found this Switzerland itinerary helpful for planning your dream trip. While this route will take you to three of the most beautiful spots in the country, you could extend the trip with additional stops or day trips to Lake Lucerne (with its spectacular Chapel Bridge), Interlaken, the Lauterbrunnen Valley, Grindelwald, Zurich and Geneva.

If you’re looking for more travel tips for your holiday in Switzerland, have a read of these guides before you go:

• 17 Unique Hotels in Switzerland
• Zermatt, Switzerland: Things To Do In Zermatt For Non-Skiers
• Where To Stay In Geneva, Switzerland

A big thanks to Preferred Hotels for hosting me in Switzerland and collaborating with me on this content. As always, all opinions are my own. Preferred Hotels are the world’s largest independent hotel brand representing more than 750 hotels, resorts, and residences across 85 countries. Find out more here .

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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