should i visit switzerland in december

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25 Places to Visit in Switzerland in December

Last Updated: May 31, 2023

So, you’ve got Switzerland on your wishlist for this year, huh? Well, let me tell you, December is the perfect time to go! Switzerland has some incredible spots that you absolutely have to check out. Get ready to hear about all the winter activities, festivals, and must-visit places that you shouldn’t miss during your trip.

This tiny nation is surrounded by four other countries: Germany, France, Italy, and Austria. As of 2020, it had a population of 8.67 million. Here’s a fun fact for you: Switzerland has four official languages, namely German, French, Italian, and Rhaeto-Romansh. Now, speaking as an immigrant myself (technically), I can honestly say that Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries you’ll ever lay your eyes on. And here’s a little bonus for you: if you’re into winter sports, this place is an absolute paradise!

Table of Contents

How To Get Around Switzerland in December or Winter Months

Switzerland boasts one of the best transport systems in Europe, no doubt about it. Now, renting a car might seem like the easiest option, but let’s face it, driving in the snow can be quite a challenge. So, why not opt for public transport instead? Trust me, it’s super convenient. And if you do decide to go that route, I’ve got a great suggestion for you: the Swiss Travel Pass. Sure, it might be a bit pricey, but trust me when I say it’s worth every penny.

With the Swiss Travel Pass, you get unlimited access to buses, trains, boats, and even those fancy panorama trains. It’s like having a golden ticket to explore the whole country hassle-free. What’s even better is that Switzerland’s transport system can take you anywhere you want to go. So, even if you’re planning a trip up to the mountains, don’t worry, there’s most likely a bus that can take you right to your destination. Oh, and here’s a pro tip: make sure to download the SBB app. It’ll make checking timetables and finding connections a breeze. Now, let’s dive into this guide and discover all the amazing things Switzerland has in store for us!

In this guide:

• Places to See If You’re Looking to Relax

Places to Visit If You’re Looking for a Cultural Experience

Places to go if you love the mountains, places to go if you love cities, places to see if you’re looking to relax:, 1. switzerland in december must: christmas markets.

You absolutely can’t miss out on visiting a Christmas market (or Weihnachtsmarkt) when you’re in Switzerland. I mean, seriously, almost every town and city in Switzerland during December has its own Christmas market. And if you’re up for exploring some of the famous ones, I’ve got a few recommendations for you:

Zürich: This place hosts one of the largest indoor Christmas markets in all of Europe. With a whopping 140 stalls, you’ll find everything from delicious food and drinks to trendy clothes and even toys. But here’s the real showstopper: the magnificent 50-foot-tall Swarovski tree adorned with around 7,000 dazzling Swarovski crystals.

Mt. Pilatus: Prepare to have your mind blown at this one. It’s the highest Christmas market in Switzerland, situated at a staggering altitude of about 2,000 meters above sea level. Not only do you get to soak up the enchanting Christmas market atmosphere, but you also get treated to a jaw-dropping panoramic view that will leave you breathless.

Montreux: If you’re looking for one of Switzerland’s biggest Christmas markets, Montreux is the place to be. With approximately 160 stalls lining the quays of Lake Geneva, this market offers a blend of Swiss-French charm. While it leans more towards the Swiss-French style, you’ll still catch glimpses of the traditional German Christmas market vibes.

Basel: Brace yourself for a grand spectacle at the Christmas market in Basel. Considered one of the largest and most stunning markets in all of Europe, Basel boasts not one, but three Christmas markets. The most prominent one can be found in Barfüsserplatz, nestled in the charming old town.

Now, if you want the most authentic experience at a Christmas market, here are a few things you absolutely shouldn’t miss out on:

• Glühwein (mulled wine)
• Heisse marroni (roasted chestnuts)
• Magenbrot (a small, sweet glazed biscuit similar to gingerbread cookies)
• Raclette (melted Swiss cheese often paired with baby potatoes, pickles, and vegetables)
• Öpfelchüechli (apple fritters)

2. Bernina Express

If you’re all about kicking back, relaxing, and immersing yourself in stunning views, then you’ve got to check out the Bernina Express. This incredible train journey spans around four hours and takes you through a mesmerizing route of 55 tunnels, 196 bridges, and some seriously steep inclines of up to 70 miles. Talk about an adventure!

The journey begins in the city of Chur and takes you all the way to Tirano, a charming Italian town nestled near the Swiss-Italian border. Now, let me tell you, the scenery is already breathtaking during the summer, but when you witness the snow-covered landscapes sparkling under the sun, it takes things to a whole new level of awe-inspiring beauty. Trust me, it’s a sight you won’t want to miss. So, grab a seat, relax, and get ready to be captivated by the incredible wonders that unfold before your eyes.

3. FortySeven Wellness Thermal Bath

If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland during December or the winter months, be prepared for some colder temperatures compared to what you’re used to back home. But hey, if you’re looking to escape the freezing chill, I’ve got just the thing for you: thermal baths. Take a break from the cold and treat yourself to some rejuvenating warmth.

Just a quick train ride away from Zürich main station, you’ll stumble upon the FortySeven Wellness Thermal Bath in the charming city of Baden. It’s the ultimate spot to slow down, unwind, and catch your breath. What makes it even more enticing is that Baden’s thermal springs boast the highest concentration of minerals in all of Switzerland. Trust me, it’s worth every moment.

The thermal waters in Baden gush up from twelve springs that lie about 2,000 meters deep beneath the earth’s surface. So you can imagine the pure bliss and relaxation that awaits you. And here’s a little tip: I highly recommend indulging in this activity after a long day spent in the mountains. It’s the perfect way to reward yourself and soothe those tired muscles. So, why not treat yourself to a little slice of thermal bath heaven during your Swiss adventure? You deserve it!

4. Lausanne Lights Festival

Alright, folks, here’s another absolute must-see if you’re in Switzerland during December: the Lausanne Lights Festival. From November 24 to December 24, 2021, Lausanne will transform into a mesmerizing spectacle of lights. Picture this: starting from 6:30 pm until midnight, eight magnificent buildings will be adorned with breathtaking XXL light displays. It’s like stepping into a fairytale!

After a full day of exploring the charming Swiss-French city of Lausanne, this festival is the perfect way to cap off your evening. The illuminated buildings create a magical ambiance that will leave you in awe. So, make sure to mark your calendars and don’t miss out on this incredible light extravaganza. It’s an experience you won’t want to forget!

5. Berghotel Engstligenalp Igloos

In Switzerland, there’s an extraordinary experience you absolutely can’t miss: spending a night in an Igloo! Yep, you heard that right. It’s all about stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new. And where better to do it than at Engstligenalp, a stunning location situated 2,000 meters above sea level?

The Igloo hotel at Engstligenalp is a dream come true for both solo adventurers and couples seeking a unique winter getaway. Imagine snuggling up under a cozy layer of snow for the night. But that’s not all! Guests also get to indulge in a delectable three-course dinner and wake up to a scrumptious breakfast buffet at the Berghotel Engstligenalp. It’s the perfect combination of adventure and culinary delights.

I gotta say, spending a night in an Igloo is an experience that will make your winter truly unforgettable. So, why not embrace the magic, bundle up, and create memories that will last a lifetime? Trust me, it’s the perfect winter escapade.

6. Lake Geneva

Hey, did you know that Lake Geneva is not only the largest lake in Switzerland but also one of the largest freshwater lakes in all of Europe? It’s a pretty big deal! And here’s a fun fact: it also boasts one of the mildest climates around. Pretty cool, right?

Now, since Switzerland is quite far from any ocean or sea, Swiss folks have a special affection for our lakes. So, don’t be surprised if you spot loads of people hanging out by the lake, enjoying a refreshing beer, even during the winter months. It’s a popular pastime around here.

So, if you’re up for some leisurely relaxation, why not join the locals and soak up the serene beauty of Lake Geneva? Whether it’s a sunny summer day or a chilly winter afternoon, you’ll find people gathering by the lake, enjoying the peaceful vibes and savoring a cold one. It’s the perfect way to unwind and embrace the Swiss lake culture.

7. Glacier Cave, Mount Titlis

You know what’s an absolute must-do in Switzerland during December? Paying a visit to a magnificent glacier cave! Head on up to the top of Mt. Titlis and prepare to be amazed. Inside the glacier cave, you’ll encounter ice that’s been around for a mind-boggling 5,000 years. Talk about stepping into a frozen wonderland!

And hey, while you’re on your way to the glacier cave, why not make a pit stop at Europe’s highest suspension bridge? It’s an exhilarating experience you won’t want to miss. Oh, and don’t forget to check out the igloo village on your way back down. It’s an enchanting sight to behold.

Now, here’s a little heads up: if you’re planning to explore the glacier cave, make sure you bundle up and prepare for the cold. The temperature inside the cave remains a steady 29°F (-2°C), so it can be quite chilly. But trust me, the awe-inspiring beauty and the unique experience of stepping into the ancient ice make it all worth it. So, embrace the adventure and get ready for an unforgettable encounter with nature’s icy marvels!

8. Kunsthaus Zürich

Oh, let me tell you about one of our absolute favorite places in Switzerland. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a peaceful afternoon. Drum roll, please… It’s the Landesmuseum! This place is all about Swiss history and it’s simply fascinating. But wait, there’s more! Just a stone’s throw away is the Kunsthaus Zürich, which offers an incredible variety of international artworks. It’s a real treat for art enthusiasts.

At the Kunsthaus Zürich, you’ll have the chance to admire masterpieces by renowned artists like Monet, Van Gogh, Warhol, and many more. Trust me, it’s a feast for the eyes. Now, the entry fee is 23 CHF ($25), but here’s a tip: if you visit on a Wednesday, you might just luck out and get in for free! How awesome is that?

Located near the heart of Zürich, the Kunsthaus is easily accessible by tram, so getting there is a breeze. Trust me, it’s a perfect combination of culture, beauty, and convenience. So, make sure to add this gem to your itinerary and immerse yourself in the world of art and Swiss history. You won’t be disappointed!

9. Landesmuseum

Let’s switch gears for a moment and talk about something indoor and peaceful, shall we? If you’re in search of a tranquil activity near the city, I’ve got just the thing for you: the Landesmuseum, also known as the Swiss National Museum. Situated right next to Zürich main station, it couldn’t be more convenient!

Step inside and get ready to embark on a journey through Swiss history. The museum is home to a wealth of knowledge and showcases fascinating artifacts dating all the way back to the fourth century B.C. It’s like taking a captivating trip back in time.

Here’s the best part: the entry fee for adults is around 10 CHF (approximately $10.90). So, for a reasonable price, you can immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Swiss history and culture. It’s an experience that’s both educational and enjoyable.

So, if you’re up for a dose of history and want to explore the roots of Switzerland, make sure to pay a visit to the Landesmuseum. It’s the perfect way to spend a peaceful day indoors while discovering the fascinating stories of the past. Enjoy!

10. Abbey of St. Gall

You absolutely cannot miss a visit to the Abbey of St. Gall, my friend! It’s a true historical gem that has stood the test of time for around 1,400 years. And here’s something impressive: it’s one of Switzerland’s earliest cultural heritage sites to be recognized and included on the prestigious UNESCO list. Talk about a piece of living history!

Now, let’s talk about the Abbey Library of St. Gall. It’s a true treasure trove and happens to be the oldest library in Switzerland. Imagine being surrounded by approximately 170,000 books! It’s a bookworm’s paradise.

But wait, there’s more to explore! For a mere price of around $19.50 (CHF 18), you gain access to the entire Abbey. That includes not only the breathtaking Abbey Library but also the Vaulter Cellar and Exhibition Space. It’s a comprehensive experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this remarkable place.

So, mark your calendars and make sure to include a visit to the Abbey of St. Gall in your itinerary. It’s an opportunity to witness the legacy of centuries and to be captivated by the ancient beauty that surrounds you. Trust me, it’s worth every penny.

11. Château de Chillon

I’ve got an absolute treat for you! Get ready to be transported back in time at the magnificent Chillon Castle (or Château de Chillon, as the French say). It’s nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, just south of Veytaux, and let me tell you, it’s a sight to behold.

Here’s a fun fact: Chillon Castle holds the prestigious title of being the most visited medieval building in all of Switzerland. And it’s no wonder why! The castle boasts a rich history and an awe-inspiring architectural beauty that will leave you mesmerized.

Now, here’s an extra perk: when you need a break from exploring, head over to the castle’s charming little café. Picture this: large windows offering breathtaking views of the castle as you sip on a delightful beverage or indulge in some culinary delights. It’s the perfect spot to relax and recharge while taking in the majestic surroundings.

So, if you’re eager to immerse yourself in history and experience the magic of Chillon Castle, don’t miss out on this gem. It’s a journey into the past that will leave you with lasting memories. Get ready to be captivated by the stories of old and the picturesque beauty of Lake Geneva.

12. Rhine Falls

Prepare to feel the raw power and energy coursing through your veins as you witness the mighty Rhine Falls, Europe’s most powerful waterfall! This natural wonder is an absolute spectacle that will leave you in awe.

To get the best views, check out the viewing platforms on both sides of the waterfall. They offer a close-up experience that will truly immerse you in the falls’ grandeur. But here’s a little heads-up: be prepared for some refreshing splashes from the cascading waters. It’s all part of the experience! Dress in appropriate attire and consider wearing something waterproof to stay comfortable.

So, get ready to have your senses awakened and be mesmerized by the sheer force and beauty of the Rhine Falls. It’s a moment of connection with nature’s power that you won’t want to miss. Brace yourself for an unforgettable adventure and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime!

13. Schilthorn, Pilz Gloria

Calling all James Bond enthusiasts! Listen up, because I’ve got some thrilling news for you. If you’re a die-hard fan of the iconic spy, you’ll be delighted to know that the perfect Bond experience awaits you at Schilthorn!

Picture this: in the 1969 Bond film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service,” there’s a scene featuring a revolving restaurant. Guess where that scene was shot? Right here at Schilthorn! It’s a piece of cinematic history that you can relive and immerse yourself in. Imagine dining in the very same restaurant, surrounded by breathtaking panoramic views.

But that’s not all Schilthorn has to offer. Brace yourself for an exhilarating adventure on the Thrill Walk, a 200-meter-long rocky path that clings closely to the mountainside. It’s an adrenaline-pumping experience that will get your heart racing while providing stunning vistas at every turn.

So, whether you’re a Bond fanatic or simply seeking an unforgettable mountain adventure, Schilthorn has it all. From the iconic revolving restaurant to the thrilling Thrill Walk, you’re in for an extraordinary time. Get ready to create memories that will make you feel like the star of your very own Bond movie.

Arosa isn’t just any ordinary village—it’s a bustling winter sports center that offers a plethora of activities to keep you entertained throughout your stay. From skiing down the slopes to sledding through the snowy wonderland, there’s no shortage of fun to be had.

But here’s the exciting part: Arosa is known for its vibrant events that add an extra dose of excitement to your trip. Imagine being there from December 13 to 15, catching all the action of the thrilling Audi FIS Ski Cross World Cup Arosa. It’s a high-octane event that showcases the world’s best skiers competing for glory.

And that’s not all! From December 9 to 19, Arosa comes alive with laughter during the Arosa Humor Festival. Get ready for a side-splitting experience as talented comedians tickle your funny bone and fill the air with joy and laughter.

15. Interlaken (Switzerland in December Favorite)

Adventurers, this is your paradise! Interlaken offers a smorgasbord of thrilling activities that will get your heart racing. If you’re a fan of winter sports, hit the nearby mountains for an exhilarating skiing experience. Feel the rush as you carve through the powdery slopes, surrounded by stunning alpine vistas.

But wait, there’s more! If you’re craving an adventure that’s a little more off the beaten path, why not try paragliding or helicopter diving? Imagine soaring through the skies, taking in bird’s-eye views of the magnificent landscape below. It’s an adrenaline-fueled experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Of course, not every moment has to be filled with heart-pounding action. Interlaken knows how to cater to your chill-out needs as well. Take a leisurely stroll through town and discover an array of cozy restaurants and inviting bars. Treat yourself to delicious Swiss cuisine or unwind with a drink as you soak in the serene atmosphere.

16. St. Moritz

When it comes to luxurious ski towns, St. Moritz takes the crown! Renowned for its prestigious status and having hosted the Winter Olympics not once, but twice, this alpine gem is the epitome of opulence. It’s no wonder that the rich and famous flock to St. Moritz seeking the ultimate winter getaway.

But here’s the exciting part: You don’t have to be a celebrity to experience the magic of St. Moritz. You can walk in the footsteps of legendary athletes and feel the thrill they once felt. After all, St. Moritz is the birthplace of winter sports! So, whether you’re hitting the slopes or exploring the town, you’re in for an authentic and exhilarating adventure.

Despite its luxurious reputation, St. Moritz manages to maintain its traditional Swiss charm. The Swiss people’s conservative nature ensures that the town retains its Swiss identity, providing a unique blend of elegance and authenticity. So, while you indulge in the lavishness, you’ll still get a taste of the rich Swiss heritage that defines this enchanting destination.

17. Jungfraujoch

Nicknamed the “Top of Europe,” Jungfraujoch boasts the highest train station in Europe, giving you unparalleled access to the majestic Swiss Alps. As you ascend, marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and pristine valleys, immersing yourself in a world of natural beauty.

Once you arrive, prepare to be enchanted by the wonders that await you. Step into the mesmerizing Ice Palace, where talented artists transform the glacier into a captivating gallery of ice sculptures. Each icy masterpiece tells a unique story, transporting you to a realm of frozen artistry.

But the adventure doesn’t stop there. Discover the extraordinary Sphinx Observatory, an astronomical marvel and international research station. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of stargazing, where the vastness of the cosmos unfolds before your eyes.

With so much to explore and experience, be sure to set aside a full day to truly appreciate the wonders of Jungfraujoch. Lose yourself in the majesty of the Swiss Alps, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and let the magic of this remarkable destination envelop you.

18. Zermatt

One of the first things you’ll notice is the striking resemblance of the Matterhorn to the famous mountain printed on Toblerone chocolate boxes. Its majestic pyramid-like shape adds to the allure of this legendary peak, creating a sense of familiarity and wonder.

But Zermatt offers more than just breathtaking scenery. It’s a haven of tranquility and liveliness combined, making it the perfect destination for a relaxed weekend getaway. Take leisurely strolls through the charming streets, lined with traditional Swiss chalets, cozy cafes, and inviting boutiques. Immerse yourself in the warm and welcoming atmosphere that permeates the town, as friendly locals go about their day.

With its car-free policy, Zermatt provides a peaceful sanctuary where you can fully immerse yourself in the serenity of the mountains. Take advantage of the numerous outdoor activities available, from skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and ice climbing. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a leisurely explorer, Zermatt has something for everyone.

And let’s not forget the delectable culinary experiences that await you. Indulge in traditional Swiss cuisine or savor international delicacies at the town’s cozy restaurants and vibrant bars. After a day of exploration, unwind and treat yourself to a delicious meal, accompanied by a glass of fine Swiss wine.

19. Laternliweg Schwägalp

From November 19 to March 19, this picturesque trail offers a peaceful and romantic walk through a snow-covered forest.

As the sun sets and darkness descends, the trail comes alive with the warm glow of kerosene lamps. On Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, the enchanting atmosphere is further enhanced as these charming lanterns light up the path, creating a truly mesmerizing ambiance.

Stroll hand in hand with your loved one or find solace in the tranquility of the snow-laden forest. The soft crunch of snow beneath your feet and the gentle flickering of the lanterns will guide your way as you immerse yourself in this captivating experience.

After your walk, warm yourself up with a cup of glühwein, a traditional spiced mulled wine that is sure to chase away the winter chill. Sip on this aromatic and comforting beverage, savoring the flavors as they mingle with the crisp winter air.

It’s important to note that while the Laternliweg offers a charming escape, some of the smaller shops along the way may not accept card payments. To ensure you can fully enjoy the experience, it’s advisable to bring some cash with you.

20. Uetliberg

This stunning vantage point offers a breathtaking perspective of the city and its picturesque surroundings.

Getting to Uetliberg is a breeze. Simply hop on a train from Zürich main station, and it will take you directly to Uetliberg station. From there, it’s just a short and scenic 10-minute hike to reach the summit. Lace up your hiking boots, embrace the fresh mountain air, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you.

As you ascend, the anticipation builds, and when you finally reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with an awe-inspiring view that stretches as far as the eye can see. The sprawling cityscape of Zürich, coupled with the serene expanse of Zürich Lake, creates a truly unforgettable sight.

If you find yourself in need of a rest after a day of hiking and taking in the breathtaking vistas, fear not. At the summit of Uetliberg, you’ll find a cozy restaurant where you can replenish your energy and indulge in delicious food and drinks. Treat yourself to a well-deserved break, savoring the flavors while marveling at the stunning views that surround you.

Zürich, the vibrant and cosmopolitan city, indeed offers a wealth of experiences that make for a memorable visit in December. Let’s explore some of the highlights you mentioned:

Zürich’s Bahnhofstrasse is renowned for its luxurious shopping experience, lined with upscale boutiques, designer stores, and prestigious brands. It’s a shopper’s paradise, and even if you’re not planning to splurge, strolling along this iconic street and admiring its elegance is an experience in itself.

Exploring the historic old town is a must-do in Zürich. The Grossmünster church, with its twin towers, stands as a prominent landmark and offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and architecture. Wander through the narrow streets, marvel at the well-preserved medieval buildings, and soak in the charming atmosphere of this captivating area.

If you’re seeking tranquility, a visit to Lindenhofplatz is highly recommended. This picturesque square, located on Lindenhof Hill, provides panoramic views of the city and the Limmat River. Surrounded by lush trees and benches, it’s the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a quiet afternoon, and admire the beauty of Zürich.

To end your day on a delightful note, the Fondue Tram is an experience that combines Swiss cuisine and a unique setting. Hop on board a vintage tram that traverses the city’s streets while indulging in a delicious cheese fondue. It’s a delightful way to immerse yourself in the Swiss culinary tradition and enjoy the ambiance of Zürich at night.

Beyond these experiences, Zürich offers a wide range of cultural attractions, museums, art galleries, and scenic spots. Don’t miss the Kunsthaus Zürich, a renowned art museum with an impressive collection of international artworks, or the Zurich Opera House, known for its world-class performances.

Additionally, taking a boat ride on Lake Zürich, exploring the trendy neighborhoods of Zürich West, or visiting the vibrant Christmas markets in December are also highly recommended activities.

22. Lucerne/Luzern

Lucerne, even in the winter, offers a delightful array of activities and attractions that cater to various interests. If you’re a fan of winter sports, you’re in luck as the area boasts several ski resorts. Hit the slopes and enjoy the thrill of skiing or sledding amidst the stunning mountain scenery surrounding Lucerne.

For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, exploring the town itself can be a captivating experience. One of Lucerne’s most iconic landmarks is the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke). As you stroll across this historic covered bridge, take a moment to admire the captivating paintings that adorn its interior. These paintings, dating back to the 17th century, provide a visual narrative of Lucerne’s rich history.

After immersing yourself in Lucerne’s history, it’s time to indulge your taste buds. Head over to Max Chocolatier, a renowned chocolate shop, and treat yourself to a delectable assortment of unique chocolate flavors. From classic favorites to innovative creations, Max Chocolatier is sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings.

In addition to these activities, Lucerne offers a charming ambiance with its picturesque streets, quaint shops, and inviting cafés. Take a leisurely stroll along the shores of Lake Lucerne, soaking in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape.

As you explore the town, keep an eye out for other historical sites such as the Lion Monument (Löwendenkmal) and the Musegg Wall. These attractions provide further insights into Lucerne’s heritage and offer captivating experiences.

With fewer tourists, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a more tranquil and relaxed atmosphere. You can leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the Centro Storico, the historic center of Lugano, without the bustling crowds. Explore the narrow alleys, admire the beautiful architecture, and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Shopping in Lugano’s Centro Storico is a treat for food lovers. You can indulge in the region’s culinary delights, including delicious Swiss cheese and mouthwatering cured meats. Take your time to browse the specialty shops, local markets, and delicatessens, where you can find an array of gourmet products to satisfy your taste buds.

Winter in Lugano also offers opportunities for outdoor activities. Take a walk along the picturesque Lake Lugano promenade and enjoy the serene views of the lake surrounded by snow-covered mountains. You can also explore the nearby hiking trails or even try your hand at winter sports such as skiing or snowshoeing in the surrounding mountains.

Additionally, Lugano boasts a vibrant cultural scene. Visit the city’s museums and art galleries, such as the Museo d’Arte della Svizzera Italiana or the Hermann Hesse Museum, and immerse yourself in the local art and history.

Even in the winter, Lugano has a mild climate compared to other parts of Switzerland, thanks to its southern location. This makes it a pleasant destination to explore, with comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities and leisurely walks.

While Zürich is often mistaken as the capital of Switzerland, the actual capital city is Bern. It is a charming city with a rich history and many attractions to explore.

One of the notable places to visit in Bern is the Einsteinhaus, where Albert Einstein lived when he developed his theory of relativity. Although the Einsteinhaus is closed from December 19 until mid-March, it is definitely worth a visit if you are in Bern earlier. You can learn about Einstein’s life and work and get a glimpse into the environment that inspired his groundbreaking ideas.

Another iconic landmark in Bern is the Zytglogge, the 800-year-old clock tower. This medieval clock tower is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a symbol of the city. You can observe the intricate clock mechanism and even witness the hourly performance when the clock comes to life with its moving figurines.

If you’re a food enthusiast, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in Bernese cuisine at the Kornhauskeller. Berner Platte, a traditional Bernese specialty, is a hearty dish consisting of various meats, sausages, and accompaniments. The Kornhauskeller offers a fine dining experience in a historic setting, allowing you to savor the flavors of Bernese gastronomy.

Aside from these specific attractions, wandering through the charming streets of Bern’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an experience in itself. Admire the well-preserved medieval architecture, explore the arcades (known as “Lauben”), and take in the atmosphere of this beautiful Swiss capital.

Additionally, Bern offers a range of museums, including the Bern Historical Museum, the Museum of Communication, and the Museum of Fine Arts, where you can delve into art, history, and culture.

One of the notable aspects of Basel is its impressive array of museums. With around 40 museums within the city, Basel has earned its reputation as a cultural hub. The Kunstmuseum Basel, one of the most renowned art museums in the world, houses a vast collection of artworks spanning from the Middle Ages to contemporary art. It is definitely a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

In addition to the Kunstmuseum Basel, other notable museums in the city include the Fondation Beyeler, which showcases modern and contemporary art in a stunning building designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, and the Museum Tinguely, dedicated to the works of the Swiss artist Jean Tinguely. From art and history to natural sciences and architecture, there is a museum to suit every interest in Basel.

When it comes to architecture, Basel indeed holds a special place in Switzerland. The city boasts a diverse range of architectural styles, from medieval structures to modern masterpieces. The old town of Basel, with its narrow streets, charming squares, and well-preserved buildings, showcases the city’s rich history and architectural heritage. Notable landmarks include the Basel Minster, a Gothic-style cathedral with stunning views from its tower, and the beautifully ornate Rathaus, the City Hall.

Basel is also known for its contemporary architecture, with several prominent buildings designed by renowned architects. The Novartis Campus, designed by Frank Gehry, and the Roche Tower, designed by Herzog & de Meuron, are just a couple of examples of the city’s modern architectural gems.

Beyond its museums and architecture, Basel offers a vibrant cultural scene with numerous events, festivals, and theaters throughout the year. The city’s location near the borders of France and Germany also contributes to its multicultural atmosphere and diverse culinary offerings.

Is Switzerland in December safe to visit?

Switzerland is one of the safest countries out there, even for solo travelers . Although is recommended to be cautious wherever you go

How expensive is Switzerland in December?

Switzerland’s prices can be very expensive but if you purchase a Travel Pass and either make your own food or buy fresh ones from the supermarket, you should be able to save.

How cold is Switzerland in December?

If you’re sticking to the city, the average temperature is 38.7°F. However, if you plan to go to the mountains, you may have to dress warmly as it can get to as low as 14° F!

Is there anything I need to enter Switzerland?

Regulations vary from time to time, and Switzerland in December is a tourist season, so we suggest visiting their website days before your flight so you’re informed.

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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.

Kaitlin Menza

Matt Ortile

Kelsey Glennon

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

Jura Vaudois Nature Park

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

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

Glacier 3000

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

Château-d’Oex

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

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

Lake Oeschinen

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

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

The Stoosbahn

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

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

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Switzerland in December: Everything You Need to Know

December is perhaps the most magical time of year for visiting Switzerland. The country seems to be tailor made for the holiday season and is one of the best at putting on a proper celebration.

A vacation to Switzerland in December must always include a visit to the Christmas Markets, whether you go for the big ones in Bern or Zurich or prefer the quaint festivities in Montreaux or St. Gallen. Skiing is also a must in December and the world-class resorts of Zermatt, St. Moritz and more can accommodate all levels.

If you plan to spend your holidays here or even if you’re making a quick getaway before the ski season is in full swing, you’re in for a real treat vacationing in Switzerland during the month of December.

Switzerland Weather  in December

December in Switzerland is a true Winter wonderland. The snows have begun to fall and have covered most of the country by now, though the countryside will always have more on the ground than the city. The cold has really set in across Switzerland this month, so temperatures will be chilly no matter where you go. 

On average, you can expect December to be cold with occasional snowfall in most locations. The ski resorts will see the coldest weather this month, while there may still be a few mild days left in the Southern or low altitude areas of the country. No matter what, plan to bring some good walking boots for the snow.

Before your trip, prepare yourself by looking into the altitude of the cities you’re visiting, since this will often dictate the expected temperature and weather. Low altitude cities like Zurich will see December lows and highs from 30˚F to 40˚F (-2˚C to 5˚C), while high altitude places such as Zermatt, will see temperatures ranging from 20˚F to 33˚F (-6˚C to 1˚C).

Average December Temperature in Switzerland (By City)

Switzerland affordability & crowds in december.

December is one of the months where Switzerland starts to see a new spurt of visitors due to the holiday season. Tourists will come to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s here, with a big uptick happening toward the end of the month. The beginning of the month may still have a slower pace to it though. 

Switzerland is never going to be a cheap trip when compared to other countries in Europe, but December will allow you to budget a little more easily than you would during peak ski season in January through March. Hotels may be moderate this month, along with lift tickets and touring prices. However, plane tickets, train transport and car rentals may be a bit high especially toward the end of December. 

The very good news is that all accommodations and restaurants have opened back up in time for the holidays and for ski season, so you have plenty of options to choose from for vacation.

Switzerland Snow & Skiing  in December

Snow is pouring down all over Switzerland, with the most falling on the mountain peaks and high altitude ski resorts. The snow quality is also such that skiing in December will be excellent almost anywhere you choose to go. Though December is still not considered peak ski season, all of the resorts should have plenty of open runs this month since snow will have covered a majority of the pistes.

Best Switzerland Ski Resorts in December 

Most all of Switzerland’s ski resorts and public ski areas are open in December. Some may still have a few runs closed or require snow machines to cover the trail, but skiing in December will be a great experience just about anywhere. Here are the best places to choose from for your next Swiss ski trip.

Zermatt is probably the most iconic ski resort in the world, located at the famous Matterhorn mountain. It also happens to claim the highest altitude in the country. The village here is charming, embodying the old world hospitality and feeling of Swiss tradition and culture. Not only does the town itself make a vacation here worth the effort, the skiing is some of the best in the country. 

The slopes at Zermatt are great for all level of skiers, with special accommodations for expert skiers. There are over 200 miles of pistes at Zermatt, including the connecting pathways at Breuil-Cervinia, Italy. You can access this connection point by taking the extensive gondola system all the way to the top of the Klein Matterhorn .

This is perhaps one of the most interesting portions of the resort, since guests can ski into Italy for lunch, then take miles of winding runs back to the base village. There are also at least a dozen great restaurants on the mountain that offer ski-in/ski-out access, including Chez Vrony, which has delicious Swiss comfort food and the most picturesque view of the Matterhorn. 

St. Moritz 

St. Moritz is decidedly one of the ritziest places for a ski vacation, but perfect for those who need a little upscale class for their Winter getaway. The Swiss really do it well in St. Moritz with tons of shopping, dining and relaxation opportunities throughout this luxury alpine town. Apres ski is taken to a whole different level here, so non-skiers will even have a blast.

Known as a two-time host of the Winter Olympics, St. Moritz seems to be tailor made for Winter sports like ice skating, sledding, Nordic skiing and even kite skiing. Any skier can find a sweet spot on St. Mortiz’s slopes since the varied terrain is landscaped with beginners and experts in mind. Aside from the regular pistes at Corvatsch and nearby Diavolezza, you can head to Corviglia Snow Park’s 30 different obstacles for a proper challenge.

Verbier 

Verbier is massive, accommodating multiple levels of skiers with over 240 miles of pistes on it’s sweeping slopes. The sheer number of runs available means that you won’t get bored on a weeklong ski vacation here. The village may be small and quaint, but the very traditional Swiss style of lodging and dining really add the perfect dose of charm to a December ski trip.

Verbier is equipped with loads of off-piste runs that are perfect for tree skiing and experts who are looking for a challenge. Plus, the Tortin – Europe’s steepest descent – is the thrill-seeker’s dream. In addition to the challenging terrain, Verbier is also part of the Four Valleys ski area , which means you can also ski Thyon, Nendaz and Veysonnaz with the same lift pass.

Saas-Fee 

Saas-Fee is a beginner’s haven, featuring a whole separate ski area where newbies are made to feel safe and comfortable without more advanced skiers whizzing by. If you are looking to take ski lessons on your Swiss ski trip, consider Saas-Fee for its world-class ski school and expert care for beginners.

The proximity to glaciers Dom and Allalinhorn guarantee that Saas-Fee will maintain that cold Winter snowpack, no matter the conditions at other ski resorts in the country. In addition to the abundance of beginner slopes, there are another 26 trails set for intermediate skiers, which makes Saas-Fee ideal for families in December. And if you’re looking for the dining adventure of a lifetime, trek up to the world’s highest revolving restaurant Drehrestaurant Allalin on the glacier.

Engelberg 

Engelberg is the perfect option for skiing if you choose to visit Lucerne or Zurich. It’s the closest resort to these popular destinations, so it tends to be quite busy during peak ski season. In the Summer, this area is popular for hiking and sightseeing, but it’s transformed into a Winter playground come December. 

The small town of Engelberg hosts thousands of guests this time of year, seated at the base of Mount Titlis . Titlis is the main ski area and is most suitable for less experienced skiers in the beginner or intermediate category. There are nearly 50 miles of runs that fit this level, with a few expert runs dabbled in. For more of a challenge, you can opt to take some of the off-piste trails through the trees right off the main lift system. 

Grindelwald 

Grindelwald is a beautiful town that’s seemingly made for adventurous family vacations. The Bodmi Arena , in particular, offers great beginner slopes and ski lessons for children to gain confidence before joining their parents on the blues at Grindelwald ski resort. Night skiing is even available on select nights when the weather permits.

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

The quaint village of Grindelwald is also filled to the brim with iconic Swiss architecture, Germanic design, stony storefronts and rolling hills, giving you a gorgeous homebase for your travels through the Bernese mountains. From Grindelwald, you also gain access to the Jungfrau region and Lauterbrunnen via train.

Andermatt 

Andermatt is a highly active mountain that appeals to advanced and expert skiers who love the steep slopes and off-piste powder. Though it’s best for highly skilled skiers, there are still plenty of families and intermediate skiers that flock to Andermatt for the season, primarily due to the great snow conditions promised in December. The resort has undergone quite extensive renovations in the last few years, helping it to skyrocket in popularity. 

One of the coolest parts of staying in Andermatt is the fact that the village area remains true to it’s traditional Swiss roots, featuring historic buildings, original woodwork and seemingly unchanged accommodations; while the ski resort prides itself on keeping up to date with state-of-the-art renovations and facilities.

Villars-Sur-Ollon

Villars-Sur-Ollon is a Vaud canton ski resort that overlooks the Rhone valley. It’s an excellent option for a day trip if you’re vacationing near Lake Geneva. Sitting at the top center of the ski area is Bretaye, with nearly 70 miles of terrain that extends from Gryon, Les Diablerets and even over to Glacier 3000 . You can also see the top of Mont Blanc from this ski area. 

There are three different snow parks to explore at Villars-Sur-Ollon and over 25 miles of cross-country skiing here. The snow kindergarten is a great option for tiny beginners, and the adults will enjoy the apres-ski scene which is one of the best in the area.

Crans-Montana

Crans-Montana is closest to Geneva and Lausanne, making it popular with weekend crowds coming in from these areas, but the weekdays should be pretty open and relaxed. This resort is focused on good family fun with loads of activities for children. Some fun experiences to consider Snow Island snow tubing park and the Chalet Alabama indoor action sports center.

The 86 miles of terrain here are primarily geared toward intermediate skiers, but beginners and experts can find runs suitable for them among the pistes. While the snow quality is not quite on par with others mentioned on this list, it’s helpful to know that Crans-Montana places a high priority on snow making capabilities and covers nearly a third of their runs with snow machines. 

Best Things to Do in Switzerland in December

December is the most magical time of year for visiting Switzerland and you won’t want to miss out on all the Christmas-y, festive fun. Almost every city in the country turns into a Winter wonderland, with sparkling lights and delicious comfort foods, but we’ve got some of the best experiences listed here.

Celebrate in Basel 

Basel is the embodiment of a traditional Swiss Christmas. Though it’s busiest this time of year, it’s certainly worth the effort sorting through the crowds in order to experience the pure bliss of festive joy and activity leading up to the holidays. The Christmas Market cannot be missed and is one of the biggest and longest lasting markets in the country. Imagine sipping gluhwein, dining on baked goods and shopping for locally crafted Christmas decorations and ornaments in a wintery, festive setting.

Basel is an art and culture hub, which conveniently sits on the Swiss border near France and Germany – making their Christmas markets readily accessible, too. Basel also has great museums, art galleries and Medieval buildings that glisten in the twinkling holiday lights. The art-nouveau St. Paul’s Church, along with the gothic Basel Minster are incredibly relaxing and beautiful for touring while here. Plus a stroll down the Rhine River will complete your Basel experience.

Visit Geneva

Geneva is a well known city and the home of Europe’s United Nations. This French-influenced city is rich in history and culture and has lots of great activities to experience any time of year; like boat cruises, cultural museums, and even chocolate tasting tours. But nothing compares to the magic of Christmas in Geneva during the month of December.

Geneva has some of the best Christmas Markets in Switzerland and cannot be missed if you plan to travel here. One of the unique things about Geneva’s markets are that they are spread in pockets throughout the city and have different themes for patrons to enjoy, complete with glittering lights and stalls. Open air ice skating rinks, hot mugs of spiced wine, and a citywide icy plunge into Lake Geneva on Christmas Eve are all part of the festivities you can take part in at Geneva.

Explore Lucerne

Lucerne, like all Swiss cities, is a sight to behold in the month of December. It’s beautifully decorated for the holidays and is warm and welcoming to all visitors. Lucerne has some of the most charming Christmas decorations, including sparkling streets and a large Advent calendar-inspired Medieval building. The markets are teeming with shoppers, the ice rink is glowing with illuminations, fondue is in abundance, and you’ll want to slow down to take in each experience.

In December, the cold weather make this historic town feel even cozier and more delightful. The Old Town’s intricately painted architecture, the Medieval Chapel Bridge, and walks through the nine towers at Musegg Wall have a whole new look and feel with soft flurries and chilly winds. A stroll through the Glacier Garden and a stop at the Lion Monument should be on your list of things to see, as well as nearby Mount Pilatus.

Tour Abbey of St. Gall

The Abbey of Saint Gall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest, most historic sites in all of Switzerland. It’s most especially beautiful at Christmastime when the entire city is illuminated by 700 stars and a tree that’s strung with 18,000 lights. The city of St. Gallen also hosts a Christmas market in true Swiss tradition.

The Abbey, the star of the city, is a Carolingian cathedral which has been impressively preserved since its construction in 719 AD. The interior of the Abbey also has some of the highest revered collections of Baroque artistry in Switzerland. 

Certainly a sight to behold, most visitors take a day trip from Zurich or Appenzell just to see the Abbey. The monastery has changed hands over the centuries, but it’s maintained a pristine exterior and strong Catholic influence. Not only is the architecture impressive, but the Abbey boasts one of the oldest and best preserved libraries in the world.

Christmas Markets

Christmas Markets are a European tradition that extends into Switzerland. American tourists especially will marvel at the excited effort and festive flourishes that cities put into their nightly Christmas markets which draw hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Bern, the capital city of Switzerland, is the most obvious choice for this experience. But there are several other cities in particular that you should add to your list for this special experience. 

Zurich’s Christkindlimarkt is one of the largest and longest Christmas markets in the country, covering six different city sections and lasting a full month from November 24 to December 24. The magic of the season is felt at every street corner, where different vendors and light displays highlight the walkways. A glamorous Swarovski Christmas tree is showcased at the center of the market.

Montreaux Noel does not reach such a grand scale, but the historic nature and charming scenery of this glittering town. The snowy peaks in the background and the charming stalls on cobblestoned streets really set the tone for a perfect holiday. You can take your experience to the next level by sipping on a hot mug of gluhwein as you walk under the sparkling night sky. This market lasts a little longer, beginning November 18 and ending on Christmas Eve.

Lausanne’s Marche de Noel is the longest market yet, starting November 17 and going through New Year’s Eve. Lausanne has a more modern approach to the traditional Christmas market, incorporating Christmas light sculptures and pop culture references into their decor. The food scene gets a little cultural twist, as well, serving up interesting comfort foods alongside traditional Christmas fare.

December Events in Switzerland

St. Nikolaus Day

The entire country celebrates St. Nicholas Day on December 6, and while businesses are still operating this day, the people are in a very festive mood. The day seeks to recognize St. Nicholas’ good deeds and memory by sharing small gifts like chocolate and gingerbread with friends and family. Big cities tend to have a parade and Swiss families tend to have smaller celebrations with their children in their homes.

Fete de l’Escalade

Geneva uses this festival to commemorate the victory against Savoy. History says the fight began when Mere Royaume tossed a cauldron of hot soup on the invaders as they climbed the ramparts of Geneva. The festival now uses cauldrons of chocolate fondue to celebrate. The entire city is in celebratory merriment on this long weekend, with festivities ending in a bonfire in front of St. Peter’s Cathedral.

Christmas is celebrated all over Switzerland for the entire month of December. Some cities even begin their festivities as early as the end of November. In addition to the Christmas Markets highlighted above, towns will host other family events and activities. On Christmas Eve, you’ll notice most businesses shutting down with the intention of reopening after Christmas Day. Keep this in mind when celebrating the holiday while on vacation, and stock up on good food or plan to eat inside your hotel.

New Year’s Eve

Fireworks light the midnight sky all over Switzerland and several cities are best for big celebrations. Bern, the capital, will have the largest celebration, but Geneva, Zurich and Basel are also great places to be. The general population celebrates with parties, drinking and live music, and ringing the cathedral bells in town.

The entire month of December is filled with festive delight and holiday cheer in the Wintery villages of Switzerland. Visitors from all over the world come to see the magic of the snowy mountains, marvel at the glistening lights on the decorated streets and indulge on that famous cheese and chocolate fondue.

No matter if you’ve come to celebrate the holidays in all their glory or revel in a ski trip with excellent snow conditions, December is a great month for a vacation to Switzerland.

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

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

Switzerland in October: Everything You Need to Know

Switzerland in July: Everything You Need to Know

© 2024 by Roundtript

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• Switzerland Weather in December: Travel Tips for First-Timers

In Switzerland's low elevations, December is cold, it usually freezes at night, and there is moderate rainfall. In the high elevations, it is freezing. Swiss ski resorts reopen, and travel prices peak during Christmas. You can enjoy touring Swiss cities, the ski resorts, and Christmas events.

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

Content Preview

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

Switzerland Weather in December: Overview

• Temperature range : -1–5°C (30–41°F)
• Total rain/snow : 9 cm (3 inches)
• Days with rain/snow : 11
• Humidity : 84%
• Sunshine hours/day : 2 hours

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

Switzerland's weather is usually cold during the day in December at the low elevations where the biggest cities are. There are only an average of 2 hours of sunlight and 9½ hours of daylight. It might feel gloomy. It is low tourism season with relatively smaller crowds and lower prices.

Lower altitude: The big cities such as Zürich, Geneva, and Lausanne are below about 500 meters (1,600 feet), and the highs only reach an average of 5°C (41°F). The average nightly low is -1°C (30°F). There is moderate rainfall/snowfall.

Higher altitude: Above 1,600 meters (5,200 feet) where the ski resort towns such as Zermatt are, the average daily highs are about 2°C (35°F). The lows are -6 (21°F). There is low rainfall or snowfall and a daily average of 2½ hours of sunshine.

The Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in December

Touring in December features low tourism at the beginning of the month, and skiing and Christmas festivities in the second half of the month. Though it is freezing, you could tour the cities or see the snowy countryside.

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

1. Zürich — See the Historic Sites in Beautiful Winter Scenery

Zürich is in high tourism season in December. Many tourists arrive to transfer to other places since it is the main travel hub with the biggest international airport. The daily average highs are 8°C (47°F), and the average lows are just above freezing.

You could sightsee the Old City area or shop. The big highlights are the Christmas markets and festivities with traditional Swiss food, crafts, and entertainment. These rev up after about the middle of the month. You could watch the New Year's Eve fireworks over the lake.

Since there is an average of 2 hours of sunshine daily, 12 days of rain or snow, and 85% humidity, expect freezing, damp, and gloomy weather. When the weather is inclement, you could enjoy some of the country's best museums, shopping, and gourmet restaurants.

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

2. Zermatt — For Snow, Winter Sports, and Holiday Festivities

Zermatt is Europe's winter sports capital because it has the Switzerland's best ski slopes. The highest ski slope reaches up to altitude 3,899 meters (12,792 feet). Zermatt's average high is 2°C (35°F). The nightly lows are around -6°C (21°F). There are 2½ hours of sunshine and low rainfall and snowfall on average.

For skiing and snowboarding, the high-elevation slopes around Zermatt are among the best in Switzerland in December. The snow quality is good and the crowds are relatively light. The town is beautifully decorated. During Christmas, there are large crowds.

On New Year's Eve, there is a spectacular fireworks display, and the spectacle of colorful lights sparkling off the shiny white cliffs and slopes. A ban on cars keeps the sky pristine and makes for better walking and shopping experiences.

3. Basel — See the Holiday Artwork and Enjoy a Less Touristy City

Basel is a multicultural city near the border of Germany and France. It is called the 'Arts Capital' in Switzerland, and the Christmas decorations are artsy.

The average highs are slightly warmer than Switzerland's average at 6°C (°F), and the lows are 32°C (0°F). There is moderate rainfall about half the days of December. When the weather is good, you could explore the cobbled streets of the Old Town, one of the most intact and beautiful in Europe with unparalleled architectural diversity from the 15th century to the present. The museums are good.

One Christmas Market is next to the Basler Münster Cathedral with a Fairy Tale Forest. Another is near the Barfüsserplatz. Both are open all of December until the 23rd when they close.

For more about things to do in Basel, see visiting Switzerland in September .

4. Interlaken — Enjoy Another Winter Sports Capital

December is generally thought to be the best month to visit Interlaken and the nearby Lauterbrunnen and Lütschental areas due to the rich local culture and traditions for the Christmas holidays. The towns are beautifully decorated.

You can experience the festivities, the Christmas markets, and the holiday events. However, Interlaken may be crowded with holiday tourists. Interlaken is the travel hub for the area that has the train and tram stations. You could go up to the ski resorts to ski.

The average high in December is 4°C (39°F), and the average nightly low is -2°C (28°F). There is moderate rainfall, and on average, it rains about 10 days in December. You can use it as a base for excursions since there are a variety of accommodations.

For information about Grindelwald that is a town above Interlaken, see visiting Switzerland in July .

For information about Lauterbrunnen Valley, see visiting Switzerland in June .

For information about Interlaken and travel there, see visiting Switzerland in January .

Crowds and Costs for Traveling in December

Early December is generally low tourism season similar to November. As the month progresses, the temperatures fall. The beginning of ski season brings in more tourists, and the end of the month is the peak tourism season of the Christmas and New Year holidays.

To save some money, you might want to tour in the beginning of the month. You may find discounted accommodations, flights, and activities with fewer other tourists.

Around the middle of the month, the popular Christmas festivals and markets are in high gear. By staying in a city for a day or two, you can experience the festivities and shop.

Expect to pay peak-season prices in late December. Arrange accommodations and transportation tickets well in advance. The last two weeks of December are among Switzerland's busiest.

Each canton sets its own holidays and observances.

Public holidays in December:

• Immaculate Conception is December 8 annually. It is a Catholic holiday in 12 of the 26 cantons, and is a day off from work. Most businesses and schools might close in those cantons. It celebrates when Jesus was conceived by the virgin Mary through the Holy Spirit.
• Christmas Day is December 25. It is a public holiday in all cantons, and is a day off from work. Schools, government offices, and most businesses close. It celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. The Swiss tend to give gifts on December 24, Christmas Eve.
• St. Stephen's Day is December 26 annually. It is a public holiday in 23 cantons. Most businesses and schools close in those cantons. It celebrates Stephen who was the first Christian martyr.
• New Year's Eve is December 31. It isn't a public holiday except in Geneva, where many businesses and schools close because it is Restoration Day there.

What to Wear in December

For comfort, dress in layers with a winter/mountain outer coat. A warm coat and rain gear will help you to be prepared for every circumstance.

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

• Comfortable shoes with good traction
• Warm waterproof boots with good traction. You might wear them in-flight to travel lightly.
• Winter coat
• Swimwear for hot springs and spas
• Cardigans or thermals
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EPIC TRIP TO SWITZERLAND IN DECEMBER – WHAT TO DO + TIPS

THINGS TO DO IN DECEMBER IN SWITZERLAND

Table of Contents

Are you planning a winter trip to Switzerland and wondering what Switzerland in December will be like? Do you want to find out about the best things to do in December?

Well, let me tell you that every month in Switzerland has its own unique charm! As a confessed Switzerland enthusiast, I can assure you there is never a bad time to visit this beautiful country. 

So, is December a good month to visit Switzerland? Yes, December is a great month to visit Switzerland.  There are some amazing activities you can enjoy in Switzerland – aka Winter Wonderland! From winter sports to Christmas Markets, Lights Festivals, and more – here are the best December activities in Switzerland for your itinerary.

Travel Tips For a Switzerland December Trip – FAQ

In this post, you´ll find out about the best things to do in December in Switzerland and get more travel tips for your trip.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I might earn a small commission when you buy a product (at no extra cost to you) after clicking on my link. More about it  here .

How to Get Around in Switzerland December

Switzerland is a great country for road trips and train travel. But which mode of transportation is the best for a December trip? Here are my thoughts.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION : For December, I recommend traveling by trains/buses – even in the winter months,  they run regularly. Overall, public transportation is safe, reliable, and superb! You can sit back – in the warmth of the train – and enjoy some fantastic winter scenery while the train gets you to every destination – regardless of the weather conditions. 

SWISS TRAVEL PASS : If you opt for public transportation, then consider getting a Swiss Travel Pass. I visit Switzerland often, and most of the time, I get one (even when I road trip). Trail travel in December was STUNNING! Here is why I suggest a Swiss Travel Pass.

• It allows you to use trains and buses without any extra costs.
• You can also do boat cruises without additional costs.
• Also, quite some attractions (like museums) are included.
• It also gives you a 50% discount on most mountain rides (you can get up via cable car/funicular for half of the price, and there are even some mountain excursions, like Mount Rigi, which I will talk about later in more detail, that are free with a Swiss Travel Pass.
• The initial prices for a Swiss Travel Pass are quite high. But it pays for itself if you get around via public transportation and are active in Switzerland for more than three or four days. So, check out prices for boats and trains and then calculate if it is a good option for you. You can find out more about the pass here .

ROAD TRIP :  Should you road trip Switzerland in December? I love driving in Switzerland and I road trip the country several times a year. You can also explore Switzerland by car in December. However, driving in the mountains, especially with all the snow, might be challenging in the winter months . Many streets and roads are cleared from the snow, but this is not always the case. If you decide to drive yourself, make sure your cars have winter tires (and maybe even snow chains).

CHECK OUT RENTAL PRICES IN SWITZERLAND HERE

• Check out my Switzerland road trip itinerary.
• Here are some driving tips for Switzerland.

Where to Stay in Switzerland in December  

The way to choose your accommodation in December depends on what you are interested in doing and seeing.

• If Christmas markets are your main point of interest, then Zurich , Basel, or Lucerne would be the best choices, as you can get around easily and hop from one city to the other while visiting the main Christmas Markets.
• If you want to stay in a snow-capped town that also offers fun winter activities, then Zermatt would probably be the best choice.
• And if you are into winter sports activities, then the region of Interlaken/Jungfrau, Zermatt, Verbier, or St. Moritz are my suggestions.

What to Pack For Your Trip in December

Even if December is not the coldest month in Switzerland, it can get very, very cold. Especially if you head to the mountain peaks. But if you are well prepared and pack – and dress – accordingly, you will not mind the cold because it is the special Swiss winter trip you were expecting.

These are just a few items to pack.

✔️ A warm, waterproof jacket should be one of the first items you think to pack. Avoid choosing a bulky jacket that takes up a lot of space. This can make you feel uncomfortable when you have layers underneath. Instead, opt for a lightweight trench raincoat that will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable. 

✔️ A knitted beanie is a perfect solution for keeping the warmth in while you venture out. A hat will keep you toasty warm wherever you are.

✔️ A pair of gloves can do wonders for your mobility and comfort. When selecting your options, it’s worth investing in a pair that can dry quickly and are touch-screen compatible.

✔️ A warm scarf and/or turtleneck sweater are key items for keeping your neck covered. A turtleneck sweater is perfect as a garment to wear underneath your jacket, while the scarf can be removed easily. 

✔️ Leggings  are an essential item to pack as you can dress them up or down. You can even wear them underneath your denim as an extra layer of warmth. 

✔️ When it comes to packing socks for your Austria winter trip – the thicker, the better. The chances are that you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors in the snow, and you’ll want your feet to be warm and cozy. 

✔️ My favorite winter clothes are thermals .  A quality set of thermals is your key to enjoying the winter weather in Austria . You have to wear them on a cold day to believe what a wonderful invention it is!

✔️ Make sure you have a trusty pair of warm shoes . You’ll want your shoes to be as versatile as possible. Shoes that allow you to enjoy a variety of activities while keeping your feet warm and dry. 

If you go skiing/snowboarding , you will need all your ski equipment, including ski pants and thermal underwear (seriously, I just discovered them, and they are amazing and keep you so warm). If you want to do winter sports but do not/cannot bring your own equipment, then you can rent ski equipment in all ski destinations.

I have a detailed post with “Things to pack for Switzerland” where you will also find tips on what to bring.

PLACES TO VISIT IN SWITZERLAND IN WINTER + THINGS TO DO

Okay, here we go – find out about what to do and see in December.

Visit Christmas Markets

If you plan your vacation to Switzerland in December, you are probably here for the Christmas Markets . 

As winter cloaks Switzerland, its towns and cities come alive with the magic of Christmas markets. Nestled among the breathtaking vistas of the snow-clad Alps , these markets are a cherished tradition, weaving through cobblestone streets and grand squares.

Get lured by the scent of mulled wine, gingerbread, and raclette, as artisans display an array of handcrafted goods. The jingle of bells and chorus of local choirs add to the festive atmosphere.

Each market, from Zurich’s Christkindlimarkt to the historic charm of Basel’s market, is a unique celebration of holiday cheer. Here, the essence of Christmas can be felt in the joyful hearts and warm gatherings, offering a picturesque retreat into the festive spirit of the season.

So, there are a couple of well-known places for their Christmas Markets.

Basel , the most northern city in the country, is known as the art capital, but also for its Christmas Markets. It probably has the most beautiful markets, and the good news is that there is more than one market.  

Eat your weight in snacks and mulled wine at the Christmas Market at Münsterplatz (just next to the pretty Basel Cathedral), including a Fairy Tale Forest. Or visit the Christmas Market Barfüsserplatz. Both markets have a combined 180 stalls (approximately), and it is all about food, drinks, and Christmas gifts. 

But of course, Basel is not the only city with Christmas Markets. Zurich , the unofficial capital of Switzerland, also has several markets to choose from. One in the Old Town, one on the Sechseläutenplatz near Bellevue, and one at the Zurich Main Train Station.

If you visit the capital of the country, Bern , you´ll find more markets in the old town of the city where you can indulge in gingerbread, roasted almonds, mulled wine, and more. Check out my Bern winter guide for more tips.

There are around 70 stalls in Lucerne that have snacks, drinks, and gifts – and of course, Lucerne is also decorated festively and is another great place to see in December. Check out my Lucerne winter guide for more tips.

Can’t get enough of Christmas Markets? Then head to Montreux  in December and visit one of the most iconic ones in the country and the best one at Lake Geneva – the Marché de Noël à Montreux.

WHERE TO STAY IN LUCERNE

Luxury: Schweizerhof Lucerne  – If you want to book a luxury hotel in Lucerne, I recommend this beautiful 5* hotel.

➡️ Book your stay at Schweizerhof Lucerne here.

Mid-Range: Hotel des Alpes  – On my last Lucerne trip, I stayed at Hotel des Alpes. The room view was amazing (and included views of the Chapel Bridge and Mount Pilatus).

Budget: The Bed + Breakfast  – If you want to stay in a budget hotel,  have a look at this B&B . Some rooms have a shared bathroom, and some have a private one.

➡️ Book your stay at The Bed & Breakfast here.

Click here to read my full post on the best hotels in Lucerne.

WHERE TO STAY IN ZURICH

Luxury: Baur au Lac  –  Zurich has some great luxury hotels that are amazing for getting spoiled and enjoying life. Baur au Lac  is one of the best-rated luxury hotels close to the city center.

➡️ Book your stay at Baur au Lac here .

Mid-Range: The Glärnischhof by TRINITY  – This 4-star hotel  is one of the best-rated mid-range hotels close to the city center, right next to the famous Bahnhofstrasse, 

➡️ Book your stay at The Glärnischhof by TRINITY here .

Budget: Oldtown Hostel Otter  –  Warning, there are not many budget hotels in Zurich. This is a good-rated hostel in Zurich. I stayed here once and for a hostel, it actually was quite good for a hostel – especially because of its great location.

➡️ Book your stay at Oldtown Hostel Otter here .

WHERE TO STAY IN BERN

Luxury – Bellevue Palace  – Bellevue Palace is a 5-star hotel and centrally located – the perfect choice for those who like to indulge in luxury.

➡️ Check out rates, click here.

Mid-Range – Goldener Schlüssel  – I stayed at the 3-star hotel Goldener Schlüssel for 1 night, located in the city center/old town. Though my hotel room was pretty small though, with no direct (and free) parking options and the breakfast was simple, the location was perfect and made up for it.

➡️ Check out rates here.

Budget – Bern Youth Hostel  – Bern Youth Hostel is located in the city center and it offers affordable dorm beds but also private rooms with private bathrooms.

➡️ Check out rates here .

WHERE TO STAY IN BASEL

Luxury – Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois  – For the most luxurious stay, check out rates and prices at Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois ,  which is centrally located and one of the city’s best hotels.

➡️ Find out about the rates here.

Mid-Range – Hyperion Hotel  -I stayed at the Hyperion Hotel , which is very well-known for its great views. It is located in Kleinbasel, and the tram station is just in front of the hotel. The hotel was great: good breakfast, a good location, and a modern style. 

➡️ Find out more about the hotel here.

Budget in Basel

We all know that there are no real bargains when it comes to accommodations in Switzerland. Hostels , where you could also book private rooms are my recommendations in this case.

➡️ There are a few budget hotels and hostels that you can check out here.

Winter Sports in December

Are you a fan of winter sports? The rush of skiing down the slopes or the thrill of snowboarding can be an unforgettable experience. Switzerland boasts some of the best winter sports destinations in the world, with places like Verbier , Grächen, Zermatt , and St. Moritz you have an abundance of places where you can hit the slopes.

Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities or a heart-stopping adventure, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re planning a trip in December, there are plenty of ski resorts to choose from. 

Did you know that even non-winter sports enthusiasts can have a blast on the slopes? I speak from experience – I went on my first (and so far only) winter sports vacation a few years ago.

It all went down in Verbier, a picturesque town located in the canton of Valais. I tried skiing and snow hiking for the first time and it was a thrilling experience. Who knows, maybe you could be the next convert to winter sports!

So, what about winter sports in December? 

Every year is different, and we never know long in advance whether there will be enough snow in December or not. Some ski resorts might not offer every kind of winter activity in the first weeks of December, and the  best time to ski is actually from mid-January onwards. 

However, you should be good to experience a fun winter vacation with many winter sports activities from mid-December. Winter sports in December include – amongst others – skiing, snowboarding, snow hiking, sledding, and ice skating . 

Besides Verbier, Zermatt , and St. Moritz, the Jungfrau Region is ready to welcome you in December for some winter sports.

• Check out my guide on the best places to ski in Switzerland.  

WHERE TO STAY IN VERBIER

Chalet d’Adrien Verbier is a luxurious 5-star property located next to the Savoleyres Ski Lift with a spa and swimming pool that is the perfect choice for those who want to indulge in luxury.

➡️ Click here to book your stay at Chalet d’Adrien Verbier

W Verbier is another luxurious hotel in Verbier that offers a lot of luxury to its guests.

Click here to get the best rates for W Verbier here.

Mirabeau – I stayed at this 3-star property and enjoyed great room views (especially sunrise views). The hotel is quite basic (and so was breakfast), but the view and the fireplace in the lobby made up for the simplicity.

➡️  Click here to find out about the best hotel rates for Mirabeau.

Enjoy Mountain Views

Get ready to be blown away by the breathtaking mountain views and idyllic lakes that make this country truly one of a kind. And here’s the best part – even in December, you can still enjoy the stunning mountain panoramas that Switzerland is famous for.

Don’t miss the opportunity to bask in the beauty of these amazing places!

The country is so well prepared for visitors coming at any time of the year that its cable cars/funiculars/trains etc. run throughout the year (at least most of them) and you can get up many mountains without hiking.

You get amazing mountain views in almost all of Switzerland. However, if you want to have snow-capped mountain peaks, then visit places that are high above sea level. You will find them almost everywhere in the country apart from, I would say, the northern part as the high mountains are more in Central, Southern, and Eastern Switzerland.

BEST MOUNTAIN VIEWS IN SWITZERLAND

So, where to go for amazing mountain views in December? Here are some of my tips:

Rigi Kulm (Rigi Mountain) near Lucerne

Mount Titlis near Lucerne

Mount Pilatus near Lucerne

Corvatsch Mountain near St.Moritz

Grindelwald First in Grindelwald

Jungfraujoch near Interlaken/Grindelwald

Mont Fort near Verbier

Gornergrat in Zermatt

Klein Matterhorn in Zermatt

Schilthorn Mountain near Lauterbrunnen/Muerren

• Some mountain excursions are included in the Swiss Travel Pass – e.g., Mount Rigi.
• But even if you “only” get a discount, getting up there is often well worth the price. Check out the prices for a trip to Jungfraujoch or tickets for getting up Mount Titlis.
• Check out my post with the most beautiful mountain views in Switzerland

Hop on a Train

Let me tell you about my love affair with Switzerland, and it’s not what you’d expect! It’s all (or at least mostly) thanks to their incredible public transportation system and the breathtaking views from the train windows. I’m not kidding – you won’t be able to take your eyes off the scenery!

If you happen to visit Switzerland in December, make sure you take a train ride and witness the magic for yourself. Trust me, it’s worth it!

While Switzerland may not have the most amazing window views every time, don’t worry, because most of the time you’re in for a visual treat. And let’s not forget about the incredible routes you can take, regardless of the season! Speaking of which, December is absolutely enchanting for train sightseeing – picture yourself cozying up in a warm train while taking in the winter wonderland around you. Pure magic!

The most scenic train rides – normally – are the “express” trains . These are: the Glacier Express , Bernina Express, Lucerne-Interlaken Express, GoldenPass Panoramic, Gotthard Panorama Express, and Voralpen Express.

My favorite routes in December are the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express but also the one from Stechelberg (above Lauterbrunnen) to Murren! It is just WOW!

Switzerland might not be completely covered in snow in December, but the chances are good that you will enjoy some nice scenic train rides – especially those in high altitudes in Grisons or Valais.

You can do all the train rides with your Swiss Travel Pass.  You will need to pay a fee for the “reservation” (which can cost up to 30€ in winter) on some express trains, but seriously, riding a train in the winter months can be STUNNING.

Take that ride! You will enjoy it, I‘m sure! 

TIP: Reservations are compulsory for the Glacier Express, the Bernina Express, and the Gotthard Panorama Express. To avoid reservation fees, you can hop on local trains that have the same route, and you get the same views. They might take a bit longer, but you have the option to get out of the train, too.  If you get out of the other 3 express trains, you will lose your reservation.

Do a Helicopter Ride

Are you looking for a unique way to experience the stunning scenery of Switzerland? Look no further than a helicopter ride! Whether it’s summer or winter, Switzerland’s views from above are absolutely breathtaking. While reaching the summit of a mountain offers incredible views, a helicopter ride will take your breath away with a whole new perspective.

If you’re planning a trip in December, be sure to check out helicopter rides in Jungfraujoch – a popular area for experiencing Switzerland’s beauty from above. 

• If you are brave, you can combine a helicopter ride and a skydive! Check out prices here for that unique experience .

Visit Museums  

Discover the magic of Switzerland beyond its picturesque outdoors! Whether you’re dodging summer sun or winter snow, there’s always something fun to do indoors. Experience the country’s rich cultural heritage with visits to museums and galleries that showcase Switzerland’s art, history, and science.

The Transport Museum in Lucerne is the most visited museum in the country, but there are many more museums to visit – yes, Switzerland is not only about stunning outdoor places.

The Foundation Beyeler in Basel is actually the most visited art museum in the country and is known to be one of the world’s best.   Ernst and Hildy Beyeler gathered an art collection that is on display for people from all around the world.

Apart from a permanent collection, there are also contemporary art collections on display. So, even if you have visited Fondation Beyeler before, you might want to revisit it because there is always something new on display.

Lausanne has an interesting indoor museum about the Olympics – I am not into sports or the Olympics, but even I enjoyed my time in that museum. It is interactive and presents the history of the games very well.

If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, many museums (including the Olympic Museum) are included, and you do not need to pay any entrance fees. So, double-check before you pay!

Check out the best museums in Switzerland here.

Spa and Wellness Treatments

Discover Switzerland’s hidden gem: luxurious spas and thermal baths scattered throughout the country. From quaint villages to bustling cities, there are options for every type of traveler. If you’re looking to indulge in some rest and relaxation, look no further than the Zurich Thermal Baths & Spa.

I just recently visited the Zurich Thermal Baths & Spa.  I was not allowed to take any pictures, but I promise you the views from the outdoor thermal pool were beautiful! But even the indoor pools are perfect after a cold day in December.

I mean really, really beautiful views! I could not believe it took me all the years to spoil myself with this visit. Ticket prices are actually not that high and start from around CHF 36. Much less expensive than I had expected. Check out prices here.

Fancy something more luxurious? Then visit the Tamina Therme in Bad Ragaz.  The public thermal baths unite traditional spa culture with a modern range of saunas.

➡️  BOOK YOUR THERMAL BATHS & SPA IN ZURICH

➡️  BOOK YOUR THERMAL BATHS & SPA IN THE CAPITAL, BERN

FINAL THOUGHTS ON A DECEMBER VACATION IN SWITZERLAND

In December, Switzerland transforms into a storybook tableau, with its landscapes wrapped in pristine snow and cities aglow with festive lights. It’s a time where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly, offering enchanting Christmas markets, world-class skiing, and tranquil spa retreats.

The month brims with the promise of warm memories, be it through exhilarating winter sports or the simple joy of a hot chocolate savored by a roaring fire. Switzerland in December is truly a mosaic of winter’s finest offerings, inviting all to indulge in its seasonal splendor.

Visiting Switzerland in December is an awe-inspiring experience. Whether you’re skiing down the slopes, taking a train ride through the snow-covered landscape, or enjoying some rest and relaxation at one of the country’s luxurious spas, Switzerland has something for everyone to enjoy in the month of December.

So don’t hesitate – take the plunge and explore all that this incredible country has to offer! You won’t regret it.

• Read more: Best things to do in the winter in Switzerland

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Switzerland in December: Travel Tips for Christmas Holiday

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As an Alpine country, Switzerland is known for its stunning scenery, magnificent snowy slopes, and excellent ski resorts. It is home to some of the world's most beautiful winter destinations, such as Zurich, Davos, and Saint Moritz. So, naturally, many people dream of visiting Switzerland in December to experience the charm of a European white Christmas. With its magical wintry landscapes and centuries-old traditions, celebrating Christmas in Switzerland is indeed a special treat.

Switzerland Weather in December

December is the official start of winter in Switzerland , although the snow will start falling in the Alps in November. Thus, the weather in Switzerland in December is very cold, and temperatures range from -1°C to 4°C.

In lowland cities like Lugano, Zurich, and Geneva, the average temperature fluctuates between -1.6°C and 5.4°C. Higher elevation areas, such as the Alps, are much colder during this time. For instance, the average temperature in Zermatt varies between -3.5°C and -12°C.

Switzerland experiences several days of snow during December, so pack plenty of layers and winter clothes. To increase your chances of experiencing a perfect Christmas in Switzerland, visit an Alpine location, such as the Jungfrau Region and Zermatt.

Check out our seasonal overview for the best time to visit Switzerland .

Weather in Switzerland in December - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit switzerland in december.

Many tourists avoid Switzerland in the winter due to the extremely cold weather. But there are great reasons why you should visit Switzerland in December . Here are some:

• Beautiful Christmas markets: Visiting Switzerland in December also means enjoying its many pop-up Christmas markets in various towns and villages. Montreux's Christmas market is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland. It is the time of year when this resort town on Lake Geneva transforms into a magical winter wonderland.
• Winter playground: Winter in Switzerland is synonymous with winter sports like skiing. In fact, skiing is one of the best things to do in Switzerland. Most tourists head straight to the spectacular ski resorts in the Swiss Alps to play on the magical, snowy playground during winter.
• Stunning mountains: Switzerland is home to many natural wonders, such as the iconic Matterhorn, dubbed the ‘Toblerone Mountain’, which looks even more beautiful when covered in snow. The winter season also adds charm to Switzerland's many beautiful lakes, such as Oeschinen Lake, which glows like a mirror reflecting the snowy surrounding peaks.
• Fewer crowds: December is a low tourist season in Switzerland, which frees up the main cities of Zurich and Geneva, leaving them less crowded for you to explore in a more relaxed way. Take advantage of this opportunity to visit the Swiss National Museum , The Grossmünster Cathedral, and the Saint Pierre Cathedral of Geneva, among other attractions.
• Great hotel deals: There are many awesome hotel deals to take advantage of when you visit Switzerland during the off-season. Except in the Swiss Alps, a hotspot for skiers in December, you will find many great hotel deals during the winter season in Switzerland. Here are our best deals for a Switzerland vacation .

Where to Go and What to Do

On your winter trip to Switzerland, marvel at historic churches and guild houses in Zurich's Old Town. Since the streets are quiet, you will be able to explore this historic part of the town without having loads of tourists blocking your way or photobombing your snaps. The quiet streets of Zurich are what make the city worth visiting in December. Have a look at our tours to Zurich.

In Lucerne, spend your days hunting down its postcard-worthy structures dating back to the Middle Ages. The city is also home to some of Switzerland's most beautiful Christmas markets, so be sure to check them out. After a day of exploring, the best way to relax is to soak in the thermal baths of Switzerland. You will find the best thermal baths in Zurich, but if you want to unwind while being surrounded by spectacular mountain views, head to The Therme Vals in Graubunden Canton.

When you visit Switzerland in December, sleeping in an igloo is one of the fun things you can do. For this experience, head to the Igloo Village in Zermatt. Spend a night or two there depending on how many days you will spend in Switzerland .

Given its cold weather, some might argue that December might not be the greatest time to travel to Switzerland. But with its incredible wintry landscapes that seem straight out of a fairytale, a holiday to Switzerland in December is always a good idea. This is the time of year when the Swiss Alps create a magical and romantic atmosphere that makes for a truly unforgettable holiday experience. From visiting Christmas markets to soaking in the thermal baths and sleeping in an igloo hotel, a trip to Switzerland in December is one you will never forget.

Plan a customized trip to Switzerland with the help of our local travel specialists.

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

What are the best things to do in Switzerland in December? What is the weather like in Switzerland in December? What are some tips for traveling to Switzerland in December?

A winter vacation in Switzerland is usually a wise choice because of the breathtaking winter scenery that seems like it belongs in a storybook.

Despite its tiny size, Switzerland has a lot to offer travelers, particularly in the cold months like December.

Due to its great winter sports, mostly skiing, Switzerland attracts tourists from all over the world as well as a sizable number of domestic and European visitors in December, particularly from its neighbors like Germany.

Switzerland is stunning throughout the year, but in the winter when the mountains turn snowy and the air is crisp and clean, the beauty is only enhanced.

It’s hard to believe how many kilometers of slopes there are, how many white valleys you pass through on train rides, and how many snowy peaks you can see from a hot tub filled with natural mineral springs.

In addition to its stunning natural surroundings, Switzerland in December is a hive of activities, Christmas markets, and winter sports, so visiting this country this month will make you delighted.

Table of Contents

Get to know Switzerland

Switzerland is a country located in the center of western Europe, and its capital city is Bern.

It shares borders with Germany to the north, Austria, and Liechtenstein to the east, Italy to the south, France to the west, and Germany.

The Jura, Alps, and Swiss Plateau make up Switzerland’s three main geographical regions.

While the Alps make up the majority of the country, the Swiss population is mostly centered on the plateau, which is home to the country’s greatest towns and economic hubs, including Zürich, Geneva, and Basel.

The high Alps peaks and countless lakes may be found in Switzerland.

The nation is renowned for its ski resorts and hiking routes, and its towns include historical sites and medieval districts.

One of the most well-liked travel locations in Europe is Switzerland, particularly during the winter when there are so many activities to choose from.

In general, everyone who travels to this country will have a fantastic time because it is so well-arranged and beautiful.

Places to visit and things to do in Switzerland in December

Switzerland is a wonderful place to visit in the winter.

It’s hardly surprising that there are a ton of incredible things to do during this time as Switzerland transforms into a winter paradise while other nations curl up and hibernate throughout the colder months.

There is plenty for everyone to do in this incredible country, from every snowsport you want to name and serene Alpine treks to top-notch Christmas shopping and attractive, snow-covered villages to visit.

Here is a list of the best places to visit and things to do during your visit to Switzerland in December:

TRAIN RIDES

There is no better way to see this small but very beautiful nation than by train.

The finest natural attractions in the country, including lush valleys, and towering mountain peaks, are all reachable by rail, and some of these routes are regarded as some of the most beautiful in the whole world.

The Bernina Express will be the first one to mention.

By traversing the Swiss Engadin Alps, this railway connects Chur with Poschiavo in Switzerland and Tirano in Italy.

From the panoramic crimson carriages of the Bernina Express, you can enjoy breathtaking vistas.

The second one to mention will be the popular, Glacier Express .

This train runs between the Swiss Alpine ski resorts of St. Moritz and Matterhorn, which are close to Zermatt.

Just after leaving Brig, the Glacier Express offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, the Matter Valley, and the glistening Rhone.

And the third one to mention is called Jungfrau Railway .

Jungfrau Railway transports passengers to Europe’s highest train station.

A portion of the Jungfrau railway line tunnels through the Monch and Eiger Mountains, which are surrounded by the snow-capped Jungfrau Mountain.

Some other train journeys also worth mentioning are Cogwheel Railway and Gornergrat Cog Railway.

SHOPPING AT CHRISTMAS MARKETS

The opportunity to shop at some of Europe’s top Christmas markets is one of the joys of visiting Switzerland in the winter.

During the holidays The Christmas markets of Basel, Bern, Zürich, Baden, Lausanne, and Lucerne are among the best, and the winter beauty in various locations radiates its Christmas ambiance with its glittering lights.

Christmas markets abound in Zürich, notably Christkindlimarkt , the biggest indoor market in Europe, which is located within the main railway station.

In Basel, a large number of craftsmen set up shop in the central city center to sell their products, whilst Bern’s Waisenhausplatz Christmas market sells souvenirs in addition to Christmas decorations and presents.

WINTER HIKING

For many individuals, going on a winter walk in Switzerland is a dream come true.

The breathtaking peaks, a profusion of snow, and the captivatingly quiet landscape produce a scene from a fairy tale.

When you combine the excellent location for enjoying the coldest season with the warm and inviting tiny eateries you come across when winter trekking in Switzerland.

The finest places to go snow hiking in Switzerland are at higher elevations.

The mountains have more snow than the lowlands and lower areas.

Easy snow pathways are ideal in high-altitude valleys.

The Upper Engadine, Lower Engadine , Upper Rhone valley , and Matter valley have some of the best locations for this kind of activity.

ICE-SKATING RINKS

There are several ice skating rinks in Switzerland’s cities, but the best experience is to skate on a natural rink.

In Switzerland, several natural rinks are surrounded by woods or located deep within valleys, and ice skating on these rinks is a lot of pleasure.

Europe’s largest natural ice rink is located in the Swiss winter sports destination Davos, and other lakes in the Jura region of Switzerland freeze over in the winter and convert into enormous ice rinks also ideal for enjoying this sport.

There are also some other noteworthy locations for ice skating in Switzerland, such as Katzensee Lake , Lac de Joux , Lac des Rousses , and Lac des Tailleres .

THERMAL SPAS

It’s a must-try while visiting Switzerland to unwind in a heated outdoor pool as snowflakes fall on your face, whether it’s at a modest spa center or a grand health resort.

Leukerbad-Therme , the biggest spa destination in the Alps, draws water from a private spring that is rich in minerals.

There is also The Mineralbad & Spa Rigi Kaltbad , which has a view of Lake Lucerne and is one of the most well-known thermal baths in Switzerland.

Here, you may choose between an indoor pool and an outdoor pool, as well as herbal steam rooms and a patio for relaxing.

And one more to mention will be The Termali Salini & Spa on Lake Locarno, which has outdoor saltwater lakes that overlook the lake, is another fantastic thermal spa resort.

TITLIS CLIFF WALK

The narrow, one-meter-wide Cliff Walk suspension bridge, which is located three thousand meters above sea level and five hundred meters above the snow-covered cliffs, is not for someone who has a weak heart.

It does, however, provide some breathtaking mountain vistas as Europe’s tallest suspension bridge.

Starting with a Rotair gondola trip up Mount Titlis, which gives rotating vistas over the beautiful glaciers, you may reach the bridge itself, which runs along the face of the mountain.

The lengthy bridge connects this location with the Ice Flyer glacier chairlift station on the opposite side, and you must pass through a glacier cave to get to an observation platform once you arrive.

STAYING IN AN IGLOO

When going to Switzerland in December, you can spend the night in an igloo for a unique experience.

The igloos at many Alpine ski resorts are designed to double as ice chambers in the winter. Each location has its offerings, but igloo rooms include sleeping bags, welcoming hot beverages, and either lamps or battery-operated lighting.

The well-known Berghotel Engstligenalp igloos are situated two thousand meters above sea level on the Engstligenalp plateau in the western Alps.

A hot water bottle to keep warm in the sleeping bag, use of the restrooms and showers in the adjoining chalet, a three-course meal, and a buffet breakfast are all included in the price of the stay.

Deciding to go to a museum when visiting Switzerland in December could be a fantastic way to learn more about this country.

The most popular museum in the country is the Transport Museum in Lucerne, but there are a ton of other museums to explore.

Also one of the most popular art museums in the country is the Foundation Beyeler in Basel, and the art collection that Ernst and Hildy Beyeler assembled is on exhibit for visitors from all around the world.

There is also a fascinating indoor Olympic museum that is located in Lausanne, It is interactive and does a great job of explaining the history of the games.

Skiing in Switzerland in December

Every skier dreams of taking to the slopes in the Swiss Alps, and everyone may do so, regardless of their level of experience.

Both types of skiers will be content skiing in the Swiss Alps, whether they like groomed paths or first tracks in fresh snow.

Everyone enjoys beautiful scenery, reliable snow conditions, and an efficient lift system, and Switzerland has all three as well as a variety of destinations to suit every preference.

If you’re planning on engaging in this type of activity while visiting Switzerland, then find the best slopes for your upcoming winter trip with our list of the top five ski resorts in Switzerland, and learn more about those locations before you go.

Europe’s most recognizable mountain is located near Zermatt, the highest winter sports destination in the Alps with extensive ski terrain and more than two thousand meters of vertical drop.

A large portion of the mountain’s path network, which links two nations and three ski resorts, provides views of the imposing Matterhorn, which rises just behind the town, and which other side lies in Italy.

Skiing over the Theodul Pass and descending into the Italian trail network is one of the most memorable experiences in a skier’s lifetime.

The average temperature in Zermatt in December is from -6°C to 2°C.

Saint Moritz

With around twenty-five lifts, Saint Moritz offers terrain for skiers of all abilities.

It is renowned for having some of Switzerland’s greatest intermediate terrain, including some extremely lengthy intermediate lines.

Saint Moritz continues to be renowned for its sophisticated and expensive party scene, despite the town center losing some of its old attractions.

In this ski resort, you may discover family-friendly lodgings in Silvaplana, which is close to the Corvatsch ski area and has a kid-friendly slope and many more.

The average temperature in St. Moritz in December is from -14°C to -2°C.

The three peaks of the Jungfrau massif, which are all close to four thousand meters high, offer a scenic landscape for the two hundred kilometers of slopes and runs, many of which include many intermediate cruisers.

Take one of the hundreds of lifts and cableways to get runs, or take the Jungfraubahn railway, which can be easily accessible from Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald.

This is the highest railroad station in all of Europe, and the ski slopes in The Jungfrau are renowned for their lengthy courses and consistently heavy snow.

Beginners and novice skiers should aim toward the slopes close to Wengen, while experienced skiers can go to Mürren’s routes because they are known to be the most difficult in the area.

The average temperature in Jungfrau in December is from -18°C to -13°C.

Davos, Klosters and Parsenn

Davos is a collection of ski resorts that stretch for kilometers in the valley of the Landwasser River in eastern Switzerland.

It is one of the largest and highest-altitude winter sports destinations in Europe.

Davos and Klosters, two very different towns, serve as the two primary hubs.

Davos’ cross-country ski paths, some of which are lit up for night skiing, are also well-liked by Nordic skiers.

Choose Klosters as your base to experience the feel of an Alpine community, yet because the several ski areas are connected, it’s simple to ski any combination.

The main region, Parsenn, which connects Davos and Klosters, has some of the most difficult terrains in the Alps.

The average temperature in Davos and Parsenn in December is from -7 to 0, and in Klosters from -5°C to 2°C.

Verbier is one of the top resorts in the world for off-piste skiing because it has a wealth of backcountry terrain, well-designed slopes for long-distance skiing, and both.

The ski area in Verbier known as Torin is the most recommended for experienced skiers since it has one of the world’s most hazardous and deadly ski lines.

Advanced free riders go to Verbier’s snow park for its challenging terrain of chutes and drops, which is where the annual Verbier Ride freestyle competition and Verbier Xtreme free ride contests , both of which are a member of the Freeride World Tour , are held.

The average temperature in Verbier in December is from -9°C to -2°C.

Events in Switzerland in December

Being in Switzerland in December is such a fantastic experience, and there is so much to see and do there because it is the month of Christmas, the New Year, and the Holidays.

Even if the Christmas season is just around the corner, December in Switzerland also has some other events.

We are also going to mention some of the most spectacular festivals that are held this month.

Keep reading and find out some useful pieces of information about each of those happenings before visiting.

Some of the best events in Switzerland in December:

St. Nikolaus Day

St. Nicholas Day is celebrated on the sixth day of December and is often regarded as being an essential part of the holiday season in many European nations.

On St. Nicholas Day, families gather together in Switzerland to celebrate this event and to prepare little, unexpected gifts for one another, especially for the kids.

Other nations also have their traditions around St. Nicholas Day, ranging from more conventional celebrations to more storied rituals.

St. Stephen’s Day

A large part of Switzerland celebrates St. Stephen’s Day, which falls on December 26.

This is a really important event in the country and people all around the country spend St. Stephen’s Day with family and friends.

Some people choose to attend a church service on this day, while others use the last day of the Christmas period to stay at home and relax or to do activities such as walking or skiing.

Fête de l’Escalade

There is a celebration in Geneva that is called Fête de l’Escalade, it is celebrated on December 12 and it is also a popular event among the people there.

It is an occasion to commemorate Geneva’s historical achievements, such as torchlight processions in period attire honoring the city’s evasion of capture in 1602.

This is one of the most significant events in Geneva, Switzerland.

Illuminarium

Illuminarium is a festival that is held in Zürich and it runs from the middle of November until the end of December.

The Swiss National Museum is turned into a light festival for this event, with delicious food kiosks and thousands of lights adorning the courtyard walls.

You may also see a light and music display that is projected on the building walls.

Lausanne Lumières

Approximately twenty artists’ light displays are displayed every evening on buildings in the heart of Lausanne during Lausanne Lumières.

To visit all the structures, make a three-kilometer lap around the town and enjoy the view.

This festival is held throughout the whole month of December and on Saturdays, they often provide no-cost, English-language guided tours, for which registration is not necessary.

Weather & Temperature in Switzerland in December

As in many other countries, December marks the start of the winter season in Switzerland either.

In the mountains, the climate changes with height and slope exposure, and winter winds may also cause unexpected and changing weather.

In this month, Bern has an average temperature of -2°C to 4°C, Zürich 0°C to 4°C, Geneva 0°C to 6°C, Lucern -1°C to 4°C, Lugano 2°C to 8°C, and Davos -1°C to 4°C.

Since the northern side of the Alps has a lower average temperature than the southern side and a lower snowline, the majority of the country is situated there.

Although ski areas reopen in December, the season’s deepest snow doesn’t accumulate until later.

The month of December may be gloomy, chilly, and rainy in Switzerland’s towns, cities, and lower valleys, but it isn’t always snowy.

Lower elevations seldom get significant amounts of snow, and while it’s possible to get a dusting, true white Christmases are uncommon.

With the shortest day of the year occurring in late December, the short days make the already chilly temperatures feel considerably colder.

With December being one of the months with the highest relative humidity, it is possible that rain could turn to snow during this month.

Generally, in December, Switzerland is a lovely place to be.

You may engage in a range of pastimes throughout this month, including skiing, hiking, ice skating, train journeys, and visiting the Christmas markets that give many cities a particularly enchanted atmosphere at this time of year.

If you like to refresh a little in a delightfully chilly and distinctive winter atmosphere, December is often a great time to visit Switzerland.

Tips for visiting Switzerland in December

There may be a variety of queries you have when you plan your vacation to Switzerland, and there is also a lot to discuss, including crowds, pricing, and what to wear in addition to train passes.

We’ve put together this collection of practical travel advice for Switzerland to assist you to get ready for your trip there in December and to aid you with any queries you might have.

You may confidently plan your winter holiday to Switzerland by getting ready with our tips. Keep reading and find out!

What to wear in Switzerland in December

When traveling to Switzerland in December, it’s important to pack the appropriate clothes to be warm and cozy wherever you go.

The ideal strategy is to layer, and that goes for anywhere you go.

Layering your clothing makes it simple to modify it to the current temperature both indoors and outside.

You’ll need warmer gear than you would in town because higher elevations may get significantly cooler.

Bring a particularly thick jacket with you if you intend to explore the high peaks because it is not only extremely cold but also windy there.

Even in cities, you should dress warmly for temperatures below zero by wearing a thick jacket, a scarf, a hat, and gloves.

Winter footwear recommendations include waterproof and warm boots.

If you intend to visit a Christmas market, wearing the appropriate attire is also equally crucial.

The amount of time they’ll be spending outside is frequently underestimated, you could feel absolutely fine for an hour, but after two or three hours, you’ll feel the cold.

Prices in Switzerland in December

Since December is a month of holidays and New Year, many people will go to Switzerland to celebrate, which tends to drive up rates.

Even if there are more affordable alternatives for things like lodging and meals, you will still pay more in Switzerland than in some other countries.

Due to the ski season, December also may be rather pricey, so be aware of that too.

But don’t worry too much, because the good news is that hiking and visiting cities and landscapes on foot are both completely free in Switzerland because their natural beauty contributes significantly to the country’s popularity as a tourist destination.

Crowds in Switzerland in December

Switzerland has its first snowfall in December, which has an impact on the rise in tourism there.

People choose to travel to this nation in the winter months to take advantage of the chance to take in the stunning snowy scenery.

Early December, before many ski areas open, can still be considered low season but in the two weeks before Christmas, Switzerland shifts into the high season when the resort towns come back to life.

When visiting Switzerland in December, stay away from the busiest towns like Basel, Bern, Lucerne, Geneva, and Zürich to escape the crowds.

And finally – A trip to Switzerland!

Whether you are interested in spending your quality time skiing in the Alps or just going through the cities, December will be a great time for you to visit this country.

So, pack all of your necessities and go to Switzerland to see why it is such a magical place in December!

More destinations to discover:

• Switzerland in October
• Switzerland In November

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20 Absolute Best Places to visit in Switzerland in Winter

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

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

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

20 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in Winter

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Preparing for your trip to Switzerland winter getaways

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

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

What are the Winter Months in Switzerland? 

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

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

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

Temperatures:

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

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

Does Switzerland have snow all year?

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

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

Read : When is the best time to visit Switzerland?

Switzerland winter packing list

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

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

20 Best Places to visit in Switzerland in winter

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

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

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

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

Read : One day in Zurich itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read: One day in Bern itinerary

3. Basel: For Christmas Markets in Switzerland and nearby

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read: One day in Basel itinerary

4. Engelberg: For cross country skiing in winter

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

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

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

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

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

5. Rapperswil: Visiting Christmas Markets in Switzerland

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

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

Read : Most beautiful towns in Switzerland

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

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

6. Zermatt: A Fairytale Resort Town

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

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

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

7. Saas – Fee: Winter Sports Adventures

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Grindelwald: For a charming snowy getaway

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

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

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

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

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

10. Wengen: Charming mountain town, and winter activities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Chur in Winter: Oldest city in Switzerland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy : Buy your Swiss Travel Pass here

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. Jungfrau region: Head to the Top of Europe

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read: One day in Lucerne itinerary

18. Locarno: For a warmer winter vacation

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read : Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary

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

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

Murren is in the Bernese Oberland region in Switzerland.

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

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

20. Geneva: Winter outdoor and indoor fun

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is it worth visiting Switzerland in winter?

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

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

Additional Travels Tips for Switzerland Winter Trip

Travel documents and visa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

January is the coldest month in Switzerland.

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

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

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

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

More Switzerland travel guides:

• Where to stay in Switzerland
• 2 day Switzerland itinerary

Pin: Switzerland in winter for non skiers & skiers

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

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

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

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

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

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

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

Hope this helps!

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Everything Dee

Petite Travel Blogger

Incredible 7 Day Switzerland Itinerary – How to Spend December in Switzerland

Switzerland has been on my bucket list for awhile now. It’s filled with so many beautiful cities and it’s a country you can visit during anytime of the year. We wanted to go away on vacation in December and thought Switzerland was the ultimate winter wonderland getaway. We spent seven incredible days in Switzerland and got to explore the cities of Zermatt, Grindelwald, Interlaken, and Zurich. In this guide, I will be sharing a 7 day Switzerland itinerary in these four cities and all the details on how you can spend a week in December in Switzerland.

7 Days in Switzerland Itinerary: Overview

• Day 1 – Zermatt
• Day 2 – Zermatt
• Day 3 – Zermatt
• Day 4 – Interlaken
• Day 5 – Grindelwald
• Day 6 – Zurich
• Day 7 – Zurich

How to Get to Switzerland

There are two major airports in Switzerland: Zurich and Geneva. You can choose either one depending on the first spot in your itinerary. In this 7 Day Switzerland Itinerary, our first stop will be Zermatt. Each airport is about a 3 hour train ride to Zermatt. If Zermatt will also be your first stop, you can book whichever flight is the cheapest. I landed in Geneva and departed from Zurich.

How to Travel Around Switzerland

For getting around Switzerland, you can either rent a car or take public transportation. I recommend using public transportation. Public transportation like trains and buses in Switzerland is so easy to use and super convenient. And the train rides in Switzerland are some of the most beautiful train rides in the world. The scenery is absolutely incredible.

Switzerland offers the Swiss Travel Pass and Half Fare Card that I highly recommend getting if you are visiting multiple cities in Switzerland.

What is the Swiss Travel Pass? It is an all access ticket that allows unlimited use of Switzerland’s public transportation. This includes trains, buses, and boats. You even get free entrance to more than 500 museums and up to a 50% discount on most mountain excursions. Purchase the pass here! You just have to select the number of days. They have 3, 4, 6, 8, and 15 day options. And please note that this is unlimited travel on fixed and consecutive days.

What is the Swiss Half Fare Card? The Swiss Half Fare Card provides unlimited half price tickets on trains, buses, and boats. You also get up to 50% discounts on most mountain excursions. This card has a validity of one month. You can purchase the Swiss Half Fare Card here!

If you are deciding between the Swiss Travel Pass and the Swiss Half Fare Card, the best way to decide is to look up prices of all the transportation you will be doing in Switzerland. I recommend getting the Swiss Travel Pass if the total amount is more than the Swiss Travel Pass. If half the total amount of transportation is more than the Swiss Half Fare Card, I recommend getting the Swiss Half Fare Card.

For this itinerary, I recommend using the Half Fare Card. If you plan on taking longer and more expensive train rides, the Swiss Travel Pass might be best for you!

Language in Switzerland

Even though Switzerland is a small country, did you know it has four official languages!!

• German – most of the country speaks Swiss-German (north, east and central Switzerland)
• Italian – this is spoken in some parts of South Switzerland
• French – this is spoken in the west and south (including Zermatt and Geneva)
• Romansh – spoken by few but still an official language that you will find in the southeast
• English – not an official language but most people speak English!

It was cool exploring Switzerland and noticing the official language changing depending on the city we were in! But we never had a hard time communicating since almost everyone we spoke with knew English.

7 Day Switzerland Itinerary: Details

Day 1: arrive in geneva / take train to zermatt.

Transportation Info: 2 hours 55 minute train from Geneva to Zermatt

If you arrive in Zermatt in the afternoon, you may have time for a few activities! You can explore Zermatt village and check out the different shops. I recommend grabbing hot chocolate at Petit Royal . It is the best hot chocolate I’ve ever had!

Right before sunset, you can walk to Zermatt Matterhorn Viewpoint (you can put that exact name in Google Maps). It’s about a twenty minute walk from downtown. You will have to walk up a bunch of stairs, but you will get to see the most amazing view of Zermatt and the Matterhorn.

Day 2: Spend the Day in Zermatt

Matterhorn glacier paradise + gornegrat.

One of the best things to do in Zermatt is to see two incredible vantage points – the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and the view from the Gornegrat ridge. The PEAK2PEAK Ticket ticket allows you to see both in one day!

We started with a gondola ride to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. It takes you to 3,883 meters above sea level and then you take a lift to a 360 degree viewing platform. It is a beautiful glacier paradise. At the peak, you can also find a cinema lounge, food, ski slopes and even hiking trails on the way to the top.

The advantage of the PEAK2PEAK ticket is you don’t have to go all the way back down to go back up to the Gornegrat. You can take the cable car to Riffelberg and then change there to go up the Gornegrat railway.

Please note that the the Peak2Peak Ticket is available in July and August and from November to April. And if you are going in the winter, I recommend wearing layers because it is freezing up there!

Try Swiss Fondue

After spending a day in the mountains, when you get back to Zermatt, I recommend trying Swiss fondue! The traditional way is a mix of Swiss cheese and white wine. It is mainly served with bread, but you can also pair it with potatoes, charcuterie, mushrooms, and cornichons (pickles). I wasn’t the biggest fan because it has an alcohol after taste. It might have been the restaurant we went to so I didn’t have anything to compare it to. But it was a cool experience and a must-try in Switzerland!

Hotel in Zermatt

The hotel we stayed at in Zermatt was BEAUSiTE Zermatt . This boutique hotel is beautiful and has an amazing view of the Matterhorn. The staff is super nice and friendly. The breakfast and lunch is so good and I highly recommend visiting their spa! We went to the spa in the morning and had the pool to ourselves!

Day 3: Morning in Zermatt / Take Train to Interlaken

Transportation Info: 2 hour train from Zermatt to Interlaken

On your last morning in Zermatt, you can sleep in, have a late breakfast, and relax at your hotel spa! The spa is usually less crowded in the mornings and sometimes you can have the whole place to yourself. Carl and I love busy itineraries, but we also love making time to relax throughout our vacations. We spent our last morning in Zermatt hanging out at the hot tub and taking in the view of Zermatt and the Matterhorn one last time before we left.

Now it is time to visit the next city in Switzerland, Interlaken. Interlaken is nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps and lies between two lakes, Thun and Brienz – hence the name! Interlaken is also a great home base for exploring the central region of Switzerland.

Once you arrive in Interlaken, you can walk around the city, explore, and grab dinner.

Day 4: Spend the Day in Interlaken

Interlaken is filled with so many things to do. There are amazing hiking trails to explore. You can take a day trip to Jungfraujoch , which is known as the Top of Europe. If you are up for an adventure, paragliding is also a very popular activity in Interlaken!

Chocolate Making Class in Interlaken

A fun activity Carl and I did in Interlaken was making our own chocolate! We took a chocolate making workshop class with the Funky Chocolate Club . It was so much fun!

The class is 90 minutes and started off with talking about the history of chocolate and how it’s made. We got to try all different types of chocolate – cocoa bean, cacao nibs, various percentages of dark chocolate, milk chocolate, white chocolate, and even red chocolate made from ruby cacao beans!

We got to make three chocolate bars and chose either milk or dark chocolate. Carl and I made ours with dark chocolate! After selecting the chocolate, the first step is tempering the chocolate. We have to stir it until reaches 30 degrees Celsius. Then, you pour the chocolate into a funnel that you use to fill three chocolate bar molds. After filling the chocolate molds, you get to decorate! You have the option to decorate with icing and an array of different toppings.

After you are done decorating, the chocolate bars take about an hour to cool. You can either walk around the city or hang out at the Funky Chocolate Club’s cafe and try something from their menu. I recommend their hot chocolate or chocolate covered strawberries!

Day 5: Day Trip from Interlaken to Grindelwald

Transportation Info: 45 minute train from Interlaken to Grindelwald

On your second day in Interlaken, you will be taking a day trip to Grindelwald. Grindelwald is a beautiful mountain town in the Jungfrau region. It is the perfect city to visit for all the awesome outdoor activities.

We stayed one night in Grindelwald, but found the town to be quite small and not enough things to do at night. I recommend staying in Interlaken and just visiting Grindelwald for the day.

Sledging in Grindelwald

Today, we will be going sledging! Carl and I are not snowboarders or skiers, but we still wanted to do a fun snow activity. Sledding in Switzerland is totally different from the sledding we are used to doing as kids! It’s enjoyed by both adults and children. It is so much fun and really gets your adrenalin going!

There is a sled run in Grindelwald called the Jungfrau Eiger Run. It’s a 2 mile trail that takes about 30 minutes to complete (can take longer if there are more people). And you are surrounded by the most incredible views!

The season starts end of November and ends mid-April depending on the snow conditions. It is 58 CHF for a one day sledding pass. You can buy your pass here! They also have options for multiple days. This pass will give you unlimited access for the day to hike and sled in the Jungfrau region.

How to get to the Jungfrau Eiger Run? From Grindelwald, you can take a taxi or bus to the Grindelwald Terminal. From the terminal, you will take the Eiger Express to Eigergletscher, where you will begin the sled run.

Where to rent sleds? You can rent sleds at the shop, Intersport. One is located at the Grindelwald Terminal. It costs about CHF10 for one day’s use.

Day 6 + 7: Take Train to Zurich / Explore the City

Transportation Info: One hour and 33 minutes train from Interlaken to Zurich

It is time to travel to your final destination in Switzerland….Zurich! Zurich is such a beautiful city with so much history and things to see! It is one of the most popular places to visit in Switzerland. You will find luxury shops, historic streets, and a beautiful waterfront. I recommend spending at least two days on your 7 day Switzerland itinerary in Zurich to explore the city

Here are the top things that you can do in Zurich, Switzerland :

Walk the Historic Street of Augustinergasse

Augustinergasse is one Zurich’s most beautiful historical street. I love the colorful buildings and how it feels like you are in a fairytale. You will find a mix of local boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.

Visit a Chocolate Shop: Laderach + Confiserie Sprungli

You can’t visit Switzerland without buying their famous Swiss chocolate! The two most popular chocolate shops are Laderach and Confiserie Spruengli . We got a sample from both to compare! They were both really good but Spruengli was my favorite!

Explore Altstadt (Old Town)

One of the main things to do in Zurich is to explore Altstadt, also known as Old Town. It’s filled with picturesque buildings and charming cobblestone streets.

Explore Bahnhofstrasse

Bahnhofstrasse is Zurich’s main downtown street and one of the world’s expensive shopping avenues.

Church of St. Peter

The Church of St. Peter in Zurich has the oldest church clock face in Europe!

Grossmünster

Grossmünster is an iconic church in Zurich to visit. It sits along the Limmat River. I love the medieval architecture design.

For the best photo, I recommend walking across the river.

Fraumunster Church

Fraumunster Church is another stunning historic church to visit that is located in Zurich’s old town.

Check out the views at Lindenhof Hill

Lindenhof Hill is a nice quiet park that overlooks the city. You will get great views of Zurich and the river.

Zurich Christmas Markets

If you are planning this trip in December like I did, I highly recommend checking out Zurich’s Christmas markets! Here is a list of the ones you can visit:

• Zurich Train Station – Christkindlimarkt
• Werdmuhleplatz Christmas Market
• Niederdorf Christmas Market

Currency and Credit Cards

Since Switzerland is not part of the EU, they use the Swiss Franc. Credit cards are widely accepted so we actually never used cash which was super convenient.

Packing Tips

Check out my Winter Vacation Packing Guide to get a list of items to pack for your trip and tips on what to pack for a cold weather trip.

Hope you enjoyed my 7 Days in Switzerland Itinerary!

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12 comments.

Thanks for sharing your experience of Swiss visit during December !!! Did u visit any christmas market? How’s night life there on christmas eve? Total budget? Thanks for sharing your experience of Swiss visit during December !!!

I’m glad you enjoyed reading about my experience! My favorite Christmas market I visited in Zurich was Christkindlimarkt at the Zurich Train Station. We weren’t there for Christmas Eve so I’m not sure how the night life would be on that night, but Zurich is magical during the holidays! This was our honeymoon so we did splurge a little bit on this trip 🙂

Sorry I missed it, but where did you stay in Interlaken and Zurich? Recommend? Ty!

For the hotels in Interlaken and Zurich, we only stayed at each hotel for one night. In Interlaken, we stayed at the Boutique Hotel Bellevue. It was a nice hotel and we loved the location since we were able to walk everywhere. In Zurich, we stayed at the Sorell Hotel St. Peter. This was also a nice hotel! We enjoyed our stays at both of these!

Hello Deanna!

Thank you for sharing your experience and all these info. I wonder, how expensive is it? i am thinking of going there for my 35th birthday. I was wondering what would be my budget if i went for those exact 7 days.

Hi! I’m so glad you enjoyed my post! Visiting Switzerland for your birthday will be amazing! Depending on which hotels you book, your budget will probably be between $3,000-$5,000.

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Hi Deanna – just wanted to let you know I used your article for so much inspiration (with a few changes). My first stop was Montreaux, but then went to Zermatt. Stopped at the coffee shop you recommended as well as got a spa pass for the day at Beausite (the rate was a bit too high to stay there). Then went to. Interlaken – we LOVED the chocolate making class. Then on to Zurich. Thanks for all the inspiration!

Hi Kelly! I am so happy to hear that!! I’m so glad you had an amazing trip!

I am so happy I stumbled across your blog! I’m currently planning a trip to Switzerland in December. This gave me so really good ideas and the confidence I can do this on my own without the expense of a travel agent.

My concern is luggage. Is luggage allowed on the trains?

That makes me so happy to hear! I’m so glad you found my post helpful! Luggage is allowed on the trains. There are luggage racks on the train that you can put your luggage on or you can just have them next to you. My husband and I each had a large suitcase and a backpack and it was always easy bringing them on the trains. Feel free to ask me any other questions while planning your trip!

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Is Switzerland Worth Visiting? (20 Reasons to Go To Switzerland)

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Home » Is Switzerland Worth Visiting? (20 Reasons to Go To Switzerland)

Are you wondering if Switzerland is worth visiting? I’ll share my opinion in our Switzerland review below!

Switzerland is unquestionably one of the top destinations in Europe for travelers.

From its breathtaking mountains and lush valleys to its renowned cities such as Zurich and Geneva, the country has something to offer everyone.

Our family recently took a trip to Switzerland with our toddler, and the experience was unforgettable.

We also have relatives who live in Switzerland, and their insider point-of-view allowed us to gain an authentic perspective of everything Swiss. So is Switzerland a good place to visit? If you’re still on the fence about visiting Switzerland, our advice is simple: go! You won’t regret it!

The country offers an incredible mix of natural beauty and city life while still maintaining its status as one of the safest destinations in Europe.

But let’s have a look at 20 great reasons to visit Switzerland (to prove that this country is worth visiting, despite it being one of the most expensive countries to visit).

20 Reasons to Go To Switzerland

Is Switzerland a good vacation spot? Here are 20 reasons why you should visit Switzerland!

1. Breathtaking Alpine Scenery

Is Switzerland a good vacation spot for nature lovers? For sure!

The Swiss Alps have long provided an unbeatable setting for travelers looking to explore the outdoors. We highly recommend you include the Matterhorn, Jungfrau, Titlis, and Mt Pilatus in your itinerary.

The Matterhorn (one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland ) is notable for its unique pyramid shape and is one of the most photographed mountains in the world.

Meanwhile, the Jungrau offers a challenging hike with amazing views from its summit, while Titlis boasts a cable car ride with incredible panoramic views of some of Switzerland’s most beautiful lakes.

Finally, Mount Pilatus has been dubbed as “the dragon” due to its mythical legends and provides hikers with a unique exploration of the region’s natural beauty.

No matter which peak you choose to explore, these majestic mountains will capture your heart with their awe-inspiring grandeur!

2. Charming Architecture From Medieval to Modern

Switzerland is a land of enchanting views and interesting architecture.

Travelers to Switzerland are often charmed by the way that medieval architecture sits side-by-side with modern, making every city and town a unique visual experience.

The streets are lined with both old and new, offering an ever-changing view of the country.

From ancient churches to modern skyscrapers, Switzerland has something for everyone!

Whether you’re looking for a cultural history lesson or just some beautiful views, Switzerland will not disappoint – its charm lies in its ability to integrate old and new in an effortless blend.

3. Some of the Best Skiing and Snowboarding in Europe

Is Switzerland worth it if you love winter sports? Switzerland is a paradise for adventure travelers looking to ski and snowboard!

With its highest winter sports area in the Alps at Zermatt, you can enjoy year-round skiing.

The world-famous St. Moritz offers some of Switzerland’s best intermediate terrain, while Verbier is one of the premier ski resorts for off-piste skiing.

Whether you are looking to experience a classic winter holiday at a ski resort or take on a thrilling off-piste adventure, Switzerland has something for everyone!

The ski season runs from mid to late November and extends till late April. Looking for a winter getaway to Switzerland? Read our post on where to visit in Switzerland in December .

4. Many UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Is Switzerland a good holiday destination if you love history? Switzerland is a country full of incredible UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

From the Abbey of St Gall in St. Gallen to the Prehistoric Pile Dwellings Around the Alps, there is something for everyone.

But if you’re looking for something truly unique to explore, make sure you don’t miss Monte San Giorgio – nicknamed “the wooden mountain” because it’s covered in lush forests and foliage.

It’s one of the oldest sites in Switzerland and provides a spectacular natural landscape that cannot be found anywhere else.

And lastly, on our list, today is the Old Town of Bern, the entire Old Town is a UNESCO world heritage site – how great is that!

5. Some of the World’s Best Health Spas & Hot Springs

Switzerland is known for its stunning natural landscapes, but it’s also home to some of the world’s best health spas.

From Zurich’s Thermalbad & Spa to Termali Salini & Spa in Locarno and Bogn Engiadina in Scuol, travelers who love health and relaxation will be sure to find a spa that will meet their needs.

For those looking for something truly unique, Mineral Baths & Spa Rigi Kaltbad offers an incredible experience with thermal baths surrounded by alpine meadows and forests.

So if you’re looking for a place to recharge your batteries and relax, Swiss hot springs are the perfect destination!

6. The Stunning Railway Journey from Zermatt to St Moritz

The Stunning Railway Journey from Zermatt to St Moritz is a must-do for any traveler visiting Switzerland.

The “Glacier Express Train” that connects the two towns has been world-renowned for its spectacular views, crossing 291 bridges, passing 91 tunnels, and traveling through gorgeous valleys and mountain ranges.

From the panoramic coach seats, you will continually be enchanted by what lies outside – beautiful snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, and lush green pastures; together with a few tunnels, it’s an experience unlike any other.

Another fantastic train that you can take is the Bernina Express, which is particularly fantastic if you want to stop and explore.

7. Multicultural Cities with a Vibrant, Cosmopolitan Atmosphere

Nestled in the heart of Switzerland, Zurich, and Geneva have become renowned for their multicultural atmosphere and vibrant cosmopolitan culture.

From Zurich West, a trend-setting pocket of bright lights and colorful urban culture, to the culturally diverse city of Geneva, travelers will be captivated by Switzerland’s many unique offerings.

Whether it’s exploring the beautiful architecture and breathtaking landscapes or indulging in local cuisine, both cities are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

When visiting these beautiful cities in Switzerland , visitors can expect to be immersed in a truly unique cultural experience.

8. Highly Efficient Public Transportation System

Traveling in Switzerland is a breeze!

With an efficient transport system, it’s easy to move from place to place without breaking a sweat.

Moreover, there are scenic train rides that make your journey even more enjoyable. Travelers get the chance to take in the stunning Alpine views from the comfort of their seats.

What we highly recommend you do is grab a Swiss Travel Pass that allows unlimited travel on train, bus, and boat. It also includes entry to 500+ museums and up to 50% discount on many mountain excursions.

9. Abundance of Stunning Hiking Trails

Is Switzerland nice to visit in the summer? The June weather in Switzerland makes it a perfect time to visit! There are plenty of places to visit in Switzerland in summer , where you can go for a swim, a boat ride or a nice hike.

Hiking in Switzerland is an incredible experience! The alpine hills around Lucerne are perfect for anyone looking for a bit of adventure.

From the incredible views to the peaceful atmosphere, there’s something special about this area that will stay with you forever.

And if you head out to Interlaken and Grindelwald, don’t miss the Eiger Trail – it offers some of the best views in Europe.

For a real challenge, try the Hornliweg hike near Zermatt – it’s certainly not for the faint-hearted!

Finally, be sure to take on at least one of the Aletsch Glacier Panorama Trails, which is located not too far away from Zermatt!

Hiking here promises to be an unforgettable experience!

10. Crystal Clear Lakes

There are many good reasons why Switzerland is so beautiful , one of which is its natural beauty.

Switzerland is home to some of the most picturesque lakes in all of Europe offering so many things to do in Switzerland in Augus t. Oeschinensee has been touted as one of the clearest and most beautiful alpine lakes in Switzerland.

The lake is surrounded by panoramic views, with snow-capped mountains surrounding it like a ring for an unforgettable experience.

Blausee near Kandersteg is known for its crystal clear water and lush greenery, making it perfect for swimming and picnicking.

Lake Brienz’s deep blue waters stretch around the jagged peaks of the Swiss Alps, making it an ideal spot to kayak, sail, or take a leisurely boat cruise.

Bachalpsee is located high up in the Swiss Alps and boasts stunning views from its vantage point above Grindelwald Valley.

Riffelsee near Zermatt offers visitors an idyllic alpine setting complete with snow-capped Swiss mountain peaks as the backdrop.

Last but definitely not least is Lake Geneva with its dazzling blue waters surrounded by charming countryside villages and vineyards – an ideal destination for a day trip!

11. Fairytale Mountain Villages and Towns

Switzerland is a land of fairytale mountain villages and picturesque towns, the kind you used to read about in books when you were little.

From Zermatt to Wengen, Gimmelwald to Sion, Lauterbrunnen, and more, the country is full of stunningly picturesque villages that will take your breath away.

These quaint alpine towns have something for everyone.

Enjoy traditional Swiss hospitality at one of the many cozy guesthouses or spend an afternoon exploring the cobbled streets and ancient churches.

With breathtaking views around every corner, a visit to Switzerland’s mountain villages promises a dream-like experience that you’ll always remember!

If you love the idea of visiting a Swiss village, you will enjoy our post on the best villages to visit in Switzerland .

12. Impressive Castles and Churches

Switzerland is a country steeped in history and culture, making it the perfect destination for travelers with an appreciation of those things.

One of the greatest examples of that is its famous castles and churches, which are a must-see when visiting.

From the Castello di Montebello in Biasca to the beautiful Church of Saint Peter and Paul in Mürren.

The medieval Aarburg Castle is utterly enchanting, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the majestic Aare River.

Chillon Castle, situated on Lake Geneva, provides breathtaking views from its rocky home. With stunning architecture and enchanting ambiance, it’s Switzerland’s most visited historic building.

And that is just to mention some of my favorites from Switzerland, there are so many more to explore!

You can see the Chillon Castle if you follow our Switzerland Itinerary for 5 days .

13. Delicious Swiss Chocolates

Swiss chocolates are a must-have for any traveler to Switzerland.

From the iconic Lindt truffles to specialty artisanal bars, Swiss chocolate provides an indulgent and unique experience unlike any other.

The variety of flavors available means that there’s something for everyone – whether you like sweet, nutty, creamy, or tangy there’s something to suit your taste buds.

A great place to experience the best of Swiss chocolates is at the Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum in Zurich .

14. World-Renowned Swiss Cheese

Want to know what Switzerland is known for ? Switzerland is often associated with its world-renowned cheese, and for good reason!

From the nutty Gruyère to the creamy Raclette, Swiss cheeses are among the best in the world.

For travelers interested in trying out Switzerland’s iconic cheese, there is no better place to visit than Gruyères .

Located in the Fribourg region of Switzerland, Gruyères is home to some of the finest artisanal cheese makers around.

Tours of local farms are available so you can see firsthand how each cheese is made and aged.

You can also try some samples during your visit and purchase a few wedges to take home as souvenirs.

Experience for yourself why Swiss cheeses have made such an indelible mark on the culinary landscape!

14. Popular Festivals and Events To Attend

Switzerland is an incredible country for travelers. Not only are there breathtaking views of the Alps, but there are also several popular festivals and events that attract people from all over the world.

In January, the Grindelwald Snow Festival showcases some of the best international snow sculptures, while Basler Fasnacht (Carnival of Basel) in March features colorful parades with masqueraders in elaborate costumes. You can also take part in the International Hot Air Balloon Festival or visit the Zurich Festival for a combination of musical fireworks, dancing, and food.

And that is just a mention of some of the festivals, there are many more ! No matter when you visit Switzerland, there’s sure to be something exciting going on.

15. It is One of the Safest Countries in Europe

Switzerland is a great destination for solo travelers and families with small children.

It has the 11th-highest ranking on the Global Peace Index , making it one of the safest countries in the world for travelers.

In addition to its excellent security measures, Switzerland also boasts a fantastic health system with hospitals that provide top-notch care.

While medical treatment is not free for tourists, seeing a doctor is easily accessible.

All of this makes Switzerland an ideal place to travel for those who want adventure without compromising on safety and security.

16. Beautiful Glaciers

Switzerland is home to many beautiful glaciers, and a visit to this country wouldn’t be complete without seeing some of them.

Whether you’re looking for the thrill of witnessing a massive glacial wall or want to experience snowshoeing and skiing in a winter wonderland, Switzerland has it all.

The Aletsch Glacier is the longest glacier in Europe, and the Gorner Glacier offers incredible views from high up on the mountain. We love the walk through the Rhone Glacier.

The glaciers are also an ideal place for those wanting to go hiking and explore nature’s awesomeness.

17. Yummy Traditional Swiss Cuisine

Traditional Swiss cuisine has something for everyone!

For those looking for classic dishes, look no further than fondue, Rösti, and raclette, three hearty and delicious meals that will have you wanting seconds.

If you want the traditional Swiss experience, try the veal cordon bleu – it’s a delicious blend of fried veal and ham in a creamy cheese sauce.

For those with an adventurous palate, why not try some air-dried beef or dried meat?

The texture of these dishes is unique, and if you don’t believe us (which we know you won’t!), just take a bite! You won’t regret it.

18. Must-See Unique Waterfalls

Switzerland is a beautiful country with some of the most mesmerizing waterfalls in the world.

From thundering cascades to romantic plunges, there are plenty of breathtaking waterfalls to explore in Switzerland.

A few of the most spectacular ones include Rhine Falls, Trümmelbach Falls, Staubbach Falls, and Reichenbach Falls.

Each one offers its own unique experience with its own stunning beauty and they all make for a great way to spend an afternoon while traveling in Switzerland!

19. Paradise for Wildlife Lovers

Switzerland is a paradise for wildlife lovers!

Among the most popular animals in Switzerland are the charming Charmois, mischievous Marmots, majestic Alpine Ibex, stately Red Deer, and elusive Wild Board.

You can easily spot these beautiful creatures in their native habitat by going on one of the many guided nature tours or hikes.

So grab your camera and get ready to explore this amazing country and its incredible wildlife!

20. Magical Christmas Markets

Is it worth visiting Switzerland in the winter?

Switzerland is an ideal location for travelers looking to explore some of the best Christmas markets in Europe.

From Bern to Zurich, here are just a few of Switzerland’s spectacular Christmas markets:

• The Christkindlimarkt in Basel is known for its handmade decorations and traditional stalls;
• The Christkindlmarkt at Lake Geneva is home to artisan goods and delicious local specialties; and
• The Winterzauber market in Lucerne!

Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs or just some wintery fun, Switzerland is one of the best destinations in Europe to visit during December .

Is Switzerland Worth Visiting? Final Thoughts

So is Switzerland worth visiting – despite how expensive it can be? You bet it is! And I hope we have convinced you why you should visit Switzerland at least once in your lifetime!

From the fresh mountain air of the Alps to the serene lakes and stunning views, Switzerland has it all.

The country is filled with different cultures, delicious food, and plenty of opportunities for adventure. So if you’re looking for a place to escape from your everyday routine, a trip to Switzerland may be just what you need. For those who have yet to experience the beauty of Switzerland firsthand, we hope this post has encouraged you to take the leap and explore all that this incredible destination has to offer.

Is Switzerland a nice place to visit with kids? For sure! There are so many fun things you can do with the kids from train rides, to boat rides, to museums, to toboggans, mountain scooters, alpine playgrounds, and more!

Let your inner wanderlust take control and make sure to read our Switzerland travel guide to start planning your trip. Happy travels!

Read More About Switzerland:

• Summer Switzerland Itinerary for 7 Days
• The Best Time to Visit Switzerland
• Should you rent a car in Switzerland ?
• 4 Days in Switzerland Itinerary
• Compare travel insurance for Switzerland

Jolene Ejmont

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What to Pack for Switzerland: The Ultimate Packing List for All Seasons

Hey there, wanderlust warriors! If you're dreaming of chocolate-box villages and snow-kissed Alpine peaks, it's time to pack those bags for Switzerland, one of the most enchanting destinations on the planet! Given the country's ever-changing weather and varied landscapes, packing can feel a bit like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube blindfolded. But don't you worry, I've got your back! I've crafted the ultimate, all-season Swiss packing list, so you can focus less on packing dilemmas and more on those breathtaking Swiss panoramas that await.

Travel essentials to pack all year round

• Travel Insurance : Don't forget to secure a reliable insurance plan before you jet off! be it lost luggage, unexpected health issues, or trip cancellations. Compare various insurance providers here .
• Your passport is your key to the world: ensure its expiration date generously spans your whole journey. And leave some room for those valuable fresh stamps – a blank page will do!
• Flight details, boarding passes, and airline tickets should always be accessible – consider them your intangible passport to the sky.
• Details of your hotel reservation , particularly the address, should be within arm's reach – not only are they necessary for finding your temporary abode, but they're also vital for smoothly navigating through any customs forms.
• Longing for an extended romance with Switzerland? A stay exceeding 90 days often calls for a visa. Double-checking your visa requirements before you jet off is a wise move.
• Pre-arranged hotel transfers ? Excellent! Ensure the specifics are easily accessible upon landing.
• It's time to discuss the dollars and cents! Carry a mix of cash & credit cards for those impromptu retail therapy sessions or chilled-out biergarten excursions.
• A travel eSIM card with data plan for your smartphone to stay connected.
• Finally, never underestimate the importance of other identification, such as your driver's license – their usefulness can surprise you!

Apart from the absolute essentials, we've curated a list of 14 must-have items designed to enhance your Swiss journey with convenience, security, and an extra dose of happiness. We've thought of it all – from the pragmatic stuff like a travel adapter and filtered water bottle , to those joyful extras such as pocket-sized Wi-Fi and a comfy neck pillow. Take a look at our Swiss Essentials Checklist to ensure nothing slips through the cracks!

Clothing Tips for Summer in Switzerland

So, you're ready to bask in the Swiss summer sunshine? Here's the lowdown on the dressing drill. The weather during Swiss summers is generally pleasant, but it's always smart to pack layers. Bring lightweight clothing for daytime explorations—think breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. For the cooler evenings, a light jacket or sweater will keep the chill at bay. And remember, Switzerland is a hiker's paradise, so packing a good pair of walking shoes or hiking boots is a must, especially if you plan on conquering those awe-inspiring Alpine trails. Finally, don't forget your sunglasses, a hat, and a reliable sunscreen – the Swiss sun can be deceptively strong, especially in the mountains!

• Layer Up : Swiss summers are generally warm, but temperatures can drop in the evenings or at higher altitudes. Pack lightweight layers that you can add or remove as needed.
• Breathable Fabrics : Opt for clothes made of breathable materials like cotton and linen. These fabrics will keep you comfortable during those sunny Swiss afternoons.
• Light Jacket/Sweater : A light jacket or sweater is essential for those cooler summer nights or breezy lake shores. Choose something easy to carry in your day pack.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes : Switzerland is known for its beautiful trails and city streets. Ensure you pack comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for those adventure-filled days.
• Swimwear : With Switzerland's beautiful lakes and public pools, you'll want to have your swimwear ready for a refreshing dip.
• Sun Protection : Don't underestimate the Swiss sun, especially at higher altitudes! Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from UV rays.
• Rain Gear : Swiss weather can be unpredictable. Carry a compact umbrella or lightweight rain jacket just in case.
• Formal Attire : If you're planning on dining at a fancy restaurant or attending an opera in Zurich or Geneva, you'll want to pack a semi-formal outfit.
• Scarf or Pashmina : A light scarf or pashmina is great for both fashion and function – perfect for dressing up an outfit or warding off a chill.
• Day Pack : Finally, a comfortable, lightweight day pack is essential for carrying your extra layers, water bottle , camera, and souvenirs from your Swiss escapades.

The ultimate packing lists for Summer in Switzerland (June, July, August)

As we gear up for an unforgettable Swiss summer, it's essential to know what to pack to make the most of this Alpine paradise. Whether you're exploring charming villages, embarking on scenic hikes, or savoring fine chocolates and cheeses, the right gear will significantly enhance your experience. So, let's dive into our comprehensive packing list for a Swiss summer, ensuring you're perfectly equipped for each and every sun-kissed, mountain-framed moment. From the most practical items to a few surprise luxuries, we've got your Swiss packing essentials covered!

• Lightweight, Breathable Clothing: Think layers! Pack t-shirts, shorts, and a light sweater or two for fluctuating temperatures.
• Waterproof Jacket/Raincoat: To keep you dry during the occasional summer showers.
• Sturdy Hiking Boots: Perfect for exploring Switzerland's famous mountain trails.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: For strolling through Swiss cities and towns.
• Swimsuit: Essential for a dip in the picturesque Swiss lakes.
• Sunglasses and Hat: To protect you from the summer sun.
• Travel Adapter : Switzerland uses type J plugs, different from most of Europe.
• Reusable Water Bottle with a Filter: For staying hydrated during your mountain hikes. Swiss tap water is safe to drink and delicious!
• A travel eSIM card with data plan for your smartphone: To stay connected, especially useful for maps and translations.
• Neck Pillow and Eye Mask: For a comfortable journey and better sleep.
• Sunscreen: The sun at higher altitudes can be stronger than expected.
• Snacks: Consider packing some granola bars or nuts for your hikes.
• Camera or Smartphone: Capture the stunning Swiss landscapes.
• Swiss Francs and Credit Card: For purchases and spontaneous biergarten visits.
• Travel Documents: Passport, IDs, tickets, and any necessary visas.
• Daypack or Backpack: For carrying your essentials during day trips and hikes.
• Travel Guidebook: A handy reference for local customs, attractions, and language phrases.

Remember, packing right can make all the difference to your Swiss adventure, enabling you to focus on the breathtaking views and unique experiences that await you in this Alpine wonderland. Happy packing!

View from the bank of river Aare in Bern.

Clothing Tips for Fall in Switzerland

Heading to Switzerland to experience the magic of its fall hues? Here's how to dress to impress while staying comfy. Swiss fall, spanning September to November, is marked by cooler temperatures and a higher likelihood of rain, making it crucial to pack a variety of layers. Think warm sweaters, long-sleeve tops, and a sturdy, waterproof jacket to shield you from unexpected showers. Given the season's unpredictability, it's wise to include gloves and a scarf in your suitcase. Don't forget your sturdy walking shoes or boots, especially if you're planning to crunch through the fallen leaves on those scenic Swiss trails. Lastly, an umbrella is a handy addition, offering both a respite from the rain and a charming prop for your fall-inspired photoshoots.

• Layer Up : Fall in Switzerland calls for layers. Packing items like long-sleeved shirts, light sweaters, and vests will provide flexibility for varying temperatures.
• Warm Sweater : When the fall chill sets in, you'll be thankful for a cozy sweater. Opt for wool or a blend for maximum warmth.
• Waterproof Jacket : Given the chance of rain in the fall months, a waterproof or water-resistant jacket is a must.
• Walking Shoes or Boots : Whether you're exploring city streets or rustic trails, good walking shoes or waterproof boots are essential for comfort and traction.
• Scarves and Gloves : A stylish scarf and a pair of gloves not only serve as fashionable accessories but also provide that extra layer of warmth during brisk fall days.
• Umbrella : A compact, sturdy umbrella is a wise addition to your packing list to fend off those unexpected showers.
• Long Pants or Jeans : Opt for long pants or jeans to keep your legs warm as the temperatures dip.
• Thermal Undergarments : Depending on how late in the season you're traveling, thermal undergarments can be a lifesaver for chillier days and nights.
• Hat : A warm hat can help keep you comfortable in colder weather, especially during windy days.
• Daypack with Rain Cover : A daypack is crucial for your daily adventures, and one with a rain cover is ideal for protecting your belongings during fall showers.

The ultimate packing lists for Fall in Switzerland (September, October, November)

As we ready ourselves for a captivating Swiss fall, understanding what to pack is key to truly immerse yourself in this Alpine wonderland. Whether it's strolling through picturesque fall foliage, embarking on serene trails, or savoring the perfect fondue, having the right essentials can greatly elevate your experience. Let's delve into our comprehensive packing list for a Swiss fall, preparing you for each and every crisp, vibrant, and cozy moment. From the most practical layers to a few unexpected comforts, we've taken care of your Swiss packing needs!

• Layered Clothing for Cooler Weather : Pack long-sleeved tops, light sweaters, and vests for layering in fluctuating fall temperatures. You might want to include a pair of thermal undergarments for colder days and nights.
• Waterproof Jacket : Stay dry during occasional fall showers with a waterproof or water-resistant jacket.
• Sturdy Hiking Boots : Ideal for exploring Switzerland's breathtaking fall trails. Make sure they're waterproof for those damp days.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes : Perfect for wandering through quaint Swiss towns adorned with fall colors.
• Swimwear : While you might not take a dip in the lakes, Switzerland's thermal baths and spas are enticing in the cooler weather.
• Hat and Gloves : Replace the summer hat with a warm hat and gloves to protect you from the chilly fall breeze.
• Travel Adapter : Don't forget the type J plug adapter for Switzerland, different from most of Europe.
• Reusable Water Bottle : Stay hydrated during your excursions. Swiss tap water is potable and tastes great.
• Travel eSIM Card : To stay connected, especially useful for maps and translations, and sharing those fall Instagram shots.
• Neck Pillow and Eye Mask : For a comfortable journey and better sleep after a day of exploring.
• Camera or Smartphone : Capture the stunning fall landscapes of Switzerland.
• Swiss Francs and Credit Card : Have some local currency on hand for spontaneous café visits and credit cards for bigger purchases.
• Travel Documents : Keep your passport, IDs, tickets, and any necessary visas at the ready.
• Daypack or Backpack : A sturdy, water-resistant bag is a must for carrying your essentials during day trips and hikes.
• Travel Guidebook : A handy companion for local customs, attractions, and language phrases, and finding the best spots for leaf-peeping.

Train passing through famous mountain in Filisur, Switzerland.

Clothing Tips for Winter in Switzerland

Venturing to Switzerland for a winter wonderland experience? Expect a season of snow-kissed landscapes, crisp Alpine air, and possibly the best hot chocolate you've ever tasted! Swiss winters, spanning December to February, can be quite cold, with temperatures often below freezing, especially in mountainous regions. Your packing list should include warm clothing like thermal undergarments, sweaters, and a heavy coat to combat the chill. Don't forget a good-quality hat, gloves, and scarf to protect your extremities from the cold. Finally, if skiing, snowboarding, or other winter sports are on your itinerary, proper snow gear including snow boots, ski pants, and goggles are a must. Remember, in Swiss winter, it's all about staying toasty while you explore this winter wonderland!

• Thermal Undergarments : The Swiss winter can be quite cold, so pack thermal undergarments to stay warm.
• Warm Sweaters : Woolen or heavy knit sweaters are perfect for layering under a jacket. They provide much-needed warmth, especially on chilly days.
• Heavy Coat : A good-quality, insulated coat is a must for a Swiss winter. Opt for a waterproof version if you plan to engage in snow activities.
• Snow Boots : Especially for snowy regions, snow boots with good traction are essential to keep your feet dry and prevent slipping.
• Hats, Gloves, and Scarves : Protect your head, hands, and neck from the cold with a warm hat, gloves, and scarf.
• Snow Gear : If you're planning on skiing or snowboarding, you'll need appropriate snow gear, including ski pants, a ski jacket, and goggles.
• Warm Socks : Pack several pairs of warm socks, ideally wool or another thermal material, to keep your feet cozy.
• Long Pants or Thermal Jeans : Long pants, thermal jeans, or lined pants will help keep your legs warm during the colder days.
• Sunglasses : Despite the cold, the winter sun can be quite bright, especially when reflected off the snow. Don't forget your sunglasses to protect your eyes.
• Daypack : Finally, carry a sturdy daypack to store your essentials, including a water bottle to stay hydrated in the dry winter air. Make sure it's water-resistant or has a cover to protect your belongings from snowfall.

The ultimate packing lists for Winter in Switzerland (December,

January, february).

As we bundle up for an enchanting Swiss winter, understanding what to pack is crucial to fully enjoy this snow-kissed paradise. Whether it's descending powdery slopes, embarking on magical winter walks, or warming up with a cup of world-class hot chocolate, having the right gear can tremendously enhance your winter experience. Let's delve into our comprehensive packing list for a Swiss winter, ensuring you're prepared for every magical, frosty, and cozy moment. From the most practical thermal essentials to a few unexpected winter comforts, we've got your Swiss winter packing needs sorted!

• Waterproof and Insulated Jacket : Stay dry and warm during the occasional winter snowfall.
• Sturdy Snow Boots : Perfect for exploring Switzerland's famous snowy trails and slopes.
• Comfortable Insulated Shoes : Keep your feet warm while strolling through Swiss cities and towns blanketed in snow.
• Thermal Swimwear : Essential if you plan on visiting the inviting hot springs.
• Sunglasses and Warm Hat : Protect your eyes from the bright winter sun and keep your head warm with a good quality hat.
• Travel Adapter : Switzerland uses type J plugs, which differ from most of Europe.
• Insulated Water Bottle : Staying hydrated in dry winter air is key, and Swiss tap water is perfectly safe and delicious to drink.
• Travel eSIM Card : Stay connected with a travel eSIM card , especially useful for maps, translations, and sharing your winter wonderland shots.
• Travel Comfort Essentials : A neck pillow and eye mask for comfortable travel and better sleep after a day out in the snow.
• Sunscreen : Despite the cold, the sun's rays can be stronger than expected at higher altitudes.
• Snacks : Consider packing some high-energy snacks like chocolate or nuts for your winter hikes or ski sessions.
• Camera or Smartphone : Capture the stunning Swiss winter landscapes.
• Swiss Francs and Credit Card : Have some local currency for spontaneous café visits and a credit card for larger purchases.
• Travel Documents : Passport, IDs, tickets, and any necessary visas should be readily accessible.
• Daypack or Backpack : Carry your essentials during your winter excursions with a water-resistant daypack or backpack.
• Travel Guidebook : A handy reference for local customs, attractions, and language phrases to fully immerse yourself in the Swiss culture.

Downtown Zurich on a sunny day in Spring

Clothing Tips for Spring in Switzerland

So, you've chosen to witness Switzerland's grand awakening in spring? Great choice! As the snow melts away, it paves the way for a delightful display of blossoming flowers and sprightly greenery. The Swiss spring, running from March through May, can see a mixed bag of weather – think sunny afternoons and occasional showers, with temperatures often fluctuating. As such, your best bet is to pack layers, including T-shirts, light sweaters, and a waterproof jacket for those sudden showers. Don't forget a sturdy pair of walking shoes for those crisp springtime strolls, and if you're venturing into the mountains where snow might linger, warmer clothing and boots are a good idea. To top it all, a stylish hat and sunglasses will offer both protection and a dash of fashion flair!

• Layer Up : The temperatures in the Swiss spring can be unpredictable, varying from warm afternoons to cooler evenings. Pack layers like T-shirts, light sweaters, and cardigans to adjust as needed.
• Waterproof Jacket : Spring showers are a common occurrence. A lightweight, waterproof jacket will keep you dry and comfortable during these sudden downpours.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes : The thawing trails and city streets will be calling your name. Ensure you have a pair of comfortable walking shoes or waterproof boots for your excursions.
• Light Scarf : A light scarf can be a versatile accessory – it adds a pop of style to your outfit and provides an extra layer of warmth on cooler days.
• Long Pants or Jeans : Bring along a pair of long pants or jeans to keep comfortable during those chillier spring evenings.
• Umbrella : Compact and convenient, an umbrella is a must-have for those spring showers.
• Sunglasses and Hat : The Swiss sun can be intense, especially at higher altitudes. Pack a hat and sunglasses for protection.
• Thermal Layers : If you're planning mountain visits, where snow might still be present, thermal layers can keep you warm.
• Swimwear : Some of the lakes and public pools begin to open in late spring. If you're a water-lover, don't forget your swimwear!
• Daypack : Lastly, a lightweight daypack is crucial for carrying your essentials during your daily adventures. Bonus points if it's water-resistant to protect your belongings from those spring showers.

The ultimate packing lists for Spring in Switzerland (March, April, May)

As we gear up for a rejuvenating Swiss spring, understanding what to pack is key to fully embrace this blossoming wonderland. Whether it's exploring vibrant flower fields, embarking on picturesque lakeside walks, or sampling fresh local produce, having the right gear can significantly uplift your experience. Let's jump into our comprehensive packing list for a Swiss spring, ensuring you're well-prepared for every fresh, colorful, and inspiring moment. From the most practical layers to a few unexpected springtime necessities, we've got your Swiss spring packing needs covered!

• Light, Layered Clothing : Spring weather can be unpredictable, so think layers! Pack t-shirts, long-sleeve tops, and a couple of light sweaters for varying temperatures.
• Waterproof Jacket : Stay dry during the occasional spring showers with a waterproof or water-resistant jacket.
• Hiking Boots : Perfect for exploring Switzerland's renowned trails adorned with blooming wildflowers.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes : Ideal for strolling through Swiss cities and towns bursting with springtime vibrancy.
• Lightweight Swimwear : Essential if you're planning a dip in the crystal-clear Swiss lakes as they begin to warm up.
• Sunglasses and Hat : Shield your eyes from the bright spring sun and protect your head with a light hat.
• Travel Adapter : Remember that Switzerland uses type J plugs, different from most of Europe.
• Reusable Water Bottle : Stay hydrated during your springtime adventures. Swiss tap water is perfectly safe to drink and refreshing.
• Travel eSIM Card : Keep connected with a travel eSIM card , particularly useful for maps, translations, and sharing your springtime snapshots.
• Sunscreen : The sun can be stronger than expected in the Swiss mountains, even in spring.
• Snacks : Consider packing some granola bars or nuts for your hikes and day trips.
• Camera or Smartphone : Capture the stunning Swiss landscapes blooming in springtime colors.
• Swiss Francs and Credit Card : Keep some local currency handy for spontaneous café visits, and a credit card for larger purchases.
• Travel Documents : Keep your passport, IDs, tickets, and any necessary visas easily accessible.
• Daypack or Backpack : For carrying your essentials during spring day trips and hikes.
• Travel Guidebook : A handy reference for local customs, attractions, and language phrases, helping you fully immerse in the Swiss culture.

What NOT to pack!

• Expensive Jewelry or Items: Avoid attracting unnecessary attention or risking loss. Switzerland is generally safe, but it's better to be cautious, especially while traveling.
• Unnecessary Electronics: Apart from your phone, camera, and perhaps an e-reader, additional gadgets will likely just add weight and complexity to your travel experience.
• Bulky Towels: These take up precious suitcase space. Most hotels, and even many hostels, provide them. If you plan on swimming in lakes or hot springs, consider a quick-dry travel towel instead.
• Excessive Amounts of Cash: Switzerland is very card-friendly, and carrying a lot of cash can be a risk. It's good to have some on hand, but a credit card and debit card are usually sufficient.
• Full-Sized Toiletries: Not only do these take up a lot of space, but they also might not meet airline regulations for carry-on liquids. Opt for travel-sized versions or purchase some upon arrival.

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Best Time to Visit Switzerland Season by Season

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

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

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

What's in this Article

How to Determine the Best Time of Year to Visit Switzerland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Spring in Switzerland

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

Spring is an exciting time to visit Switzerland.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Summer in Switzerland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Autumn / Fall in Switzerland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Winter in Switzerland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See this year’s Switzerland Christmas market dates !

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Average Temperatures in Switzerland

Final Thoughts about the Best Time to Visit Switzerland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Geneva in winter: what to do + why you will love geneva in december and the winter months.

A visit to Geneva in winter is a real treat: with cozy restaurants, Christmas markets and snowy slopes nearby, these are the many reasons to plan a winter trip to Geneva, Switzerland. | Updated 202 1

I love visiting Geneva in the winter.

A very close friend of mine lives in this interesting, international city and in the last few years I have made a habit of always going to visit her a couple of times a year, usually in spring and right before Christmas.

While both times are special, my winter visit to Geneva is always my favorite.

In winter, this austere city dresses up with understated but beautiful Christmas decorations, the smell of hot chocolate and fondue fills the air and the peaks surrounding the city get more than a dusting of snow, creating a beautiful natural backdrop to the city’s medieval center.

It is a wonderful time to visit Geneva with kids but also my favorite to go kids free and make the most of Geneva’s shopping and eating opportunities.

By the end of this article, I believe you will agree with me winter is a magical time to visit Geneva and the best time to visit Switzerland if you love snow and romantic atmospheres!

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Table of Contents

Top things to do in Geneva Switzerland in winter

Visit Geneva’s Christmas market

One of my favorite things to do in Geneva in December is taking a stroll at the city’s Christmas market.

Geneva does not have a strong tradition of Christmas markets however, it does host some and one of them is in the scenic and central location of parc des bastions.

The market is small but well laid out.

Near the entrance you have a merry go round and Christmas trees and the market is organizes as a series of wooden huts selling Christmas food (think fondue, mulled wine, hot chocolate but also falafel and international food) and the occasional Christmas craft.

The market doesn’t compare with big ones in Germany but is lovely and very easy to visit while sightseeing : during my stay in Geneva last winter, I ended up going every day!

The park also hosts a nice ice-skating rink which, when active, is one of our favorite places in Geneva for kids

Take a stroll in old town Geneva

The most beautiful part of Geneva is the old town.

Dating back to medieval times, the old city center develops on the highest part of town, on top of a hill, and is a delight of small alleys, piazzas, churches and museums.

The best way to enjoy Geneva old town is simply to walk around and take in the views.

In winter, this area is particularly pretty as decorations appear on many of its trees and the night lights make its pointy roofs look remarkably like a nativity scene!

Visit Geneva’s St Pierre cathedral

When in the old town, make sure you do not miss the inside of St Pierre, Geneva’s cathedral.

The church is imposing from the outside but the real gem is its interior. As well as a vast main nave, the church has a stunning side chapel, the Maccabean capel, which has stunning frescoes.

As well as beautiful, St Pierre is also historically significant as this is where Jan Calvin, founder of Calvinism, used to preach.

Explore Geneva’s oldest house, now a museum

Another great place in old town Geneva is the city’s oldest house, now a museum.

The house is easy to visit and it is a great way to learn about the city: here you can see how an old town house used to look like and you also have a reconstruction of Geneva as it used to look, complete with city walls and all!

Go shopping in Carouge

Carouge is a district of Geneva and an absolute delight to visit any time of the year but especially in winter.

This area has small, pretty houses, quiet streets and a plethora of independent boutiques, shops and restaurants that make is exceptionally pleasant for Christmas shopping: if you are looking for one of a kind type of gifts, this is the place to be!

As well as shopping opportunities, Carouge is also generous with cute corners and pretty streets: this is without a doubt one of my favorite places to visit in Geneva in winter!

Indulge in Geneva’s winter foods

How to warm up after sightseeing in Geneva’s cold winter weather? But with warming foods of course, of which the city is generous.

For a traditional Swiss feast, order hot chocolate or dip your bread into cheese fondue but make sure you also taste some of Geneva’s international food (I am partial to their Mexican options).

Also, pay a visit to Chez ma Cousine in the old town: they specialize in roast chicken and their food is not just gorgeous, it is also incredibly cheap, a rarity in this city!

Admire the lights installations of the Geneva’s Lux festival

To brighten up the winter nights, every December Geneva hosts a lights festival, a time when art installations made of light appear all around the city.

The installations are free to enjoy and make the old town look positively magical!

Hit the slopes

Geneva is not just a lovely city for a city break it is also a fantastic base for a day on the slopes.

You have a vast choice of day trips from Geneva .

The city is close to many ski resorts and facilitates day trips out of town with a skibus, offering a package of transport + access to two sky resorts.

This means you can sky during the day and enjoy the city in the evening: the perfect combination!

Take in a view of the lake

Geneva lies along on Lac Leman and no trip to it would be complete without at least a short stroll along its shores.

The lake is easier to enjoy in spring and summer, when it becomes a favorite hang out for local families, but it is beautiful in winter too and worth a stop.

Check out the flower clock, on its shores, take a mouette (the free water taxi) or just sit on a winter terrace while admiring the jet d’eau for an afternoon of guaranteed winter relaxation.

What to pack for Geneva Switzerland winter weather

Geneva in winter is cold and warm clothes are paramount.

Depending on the exact month of your visit and the year, you may or may not find snow in Geneva but in winter you are guaranteed to want to wrap up.

You can find here >>> my complete packing list for Geneva .

Warm, good walking shoes are a must

The style in Geneva reflects the constraints of this mountain city: opt for comfort first and embrace lined boots and warm coats.

Make sure your winter packing list for Geneva includes:

• Warm boots, good for walking and snow-proof (or at least, rain proof).
• Good quality, padded winter coat
• Scarf, hat, gloves
• Good quality sweater
• Thermal underwear (this may or may not be needed, I found a thermal top in particular came in handy)
• If traveling with a baby or toddler, you can find our winter packing list for baby here.

Tours and experiences in and near Geneva Switzerland in winter

If you are looking for an organized activity or tour during your winter trip to Geneva, here are some to consider (all offered by get Your Guide, with instant booking and easy cancellation options. The following are affiliate links)

One for chocolate lovers: a 3 hour chocolate tasting walking tour

Glacier 3000 and Montreaux : Full day excursion to Glacier 3000, a winter wonderland for outdoor lovers with skiing and tobogganing opportunities, a suspension bridge, great restaurants and a stunning views plus a stop in stylish Montreaux on the way back

Dreaming of visiting Chamonix? easily done from Geneva thanks to the several day tours available such as this one

I hope you enjoyed this selection of things to do in Geneva in winter and it inspired you to book a trip soon. Safe travels!

This post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission.

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Marta Correale

Marta Correale is the creator, writer and creative mind behind Learning Escapes. A travel loving mama of two from Italy, Marta currently lives in Ireland with her husband and two kids, they take frequent trips to European destination, the US and beyond. A professional travel blogger for over a decade, Marta is passionate about traveling with kids and helping others to travel more and better as a family.

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Switzerland in Winter: Best places to visit | Get Ready for a Snowy Trip!

If you are looking to plan your trip to Switzerland in winter, don’t worry as you have come to the right place. Switzerland The country begins with few things but ends with many things. Although it is one of the most expensive countries to travel to that sits in the middle of Europe . If you love mountains, chocolates, sweets, lakes, adventures, waterfalls, rolling hills, swiss-trains, cable cars, swiss-cows, and shopping then you should plan a trip to Switzerland for at least 2 days. Here is the list of places that recommend you to visit Switzerland in winter while planning a trip to that country.

Also read: Honeymoon visit in Switzerland

Switzerland Honeymoon Package @ ₹82,287*

Visiting Jungafrau - Top of Europe. Swiss Chocolate Tasting tour. Exploring Stunning Chillon Castle. Visiting Beautiful Chapel Bridge. Boating at Rhine Falls.

Things to Pack for Switzerland Winter Weather:

Its a bitterly cold weather so you have to pack a lot of things to protect yourself from winter. If your travel plans involve more uphill hiking and trekking pack the right items that make you have a more enjoyable trip. Make sure to bring a warm jacket, gloves, hats, scarves, waterproof boots, hiking shoes, ski shirts, and waterproof socks. Ensure everything is waterproof to protect your body.

List of Top-rated places to visit in Switzerland:

• The Jungfrau Region
• Oberalp Pass Via Glacier Express
• Mt. Pilatus
• Lake Geneva

1. The Jungfrau Region

The Jungfrau Region is a place compiled with three famous peaks: Jungfrau, Monch, and Eiger at 4158m, 4099m, and 3970m respectively. These three are the World’s major ski places with splendid natural attractions. Undoubtedly this is the place where you have many different hiking options and ski options. In addition, the Cable car is the biggest attraction here in Jungfrau. Sightseers can easily access mountains and enjoy the views by rattling down the mountainside on a three-wheeled scooter. Jungfraujoch is the place where you can see Europe’s highest train station.

Zermatt has breathtaking views that few places in the world can match and is well known as a great place for skiing, climbing, and hiking. The iconic mountain Matterhorn which is a major visitors’ attraction lies just below the mountain resort. If you are a foodie, Zermatt is the best place you can spend where it offers a wide variety of culinary options, traditional swiss dishes, from little street vendors to starred restaurants. The best thing to do in Zermatt is to stay overnight at Iglu – Dorf, ride the cog train to Rotenboden station, run on Rotenboden Toboggan.

3. St. Moritz

St. Moritz Town is one of the best places to experience the stunning nightlife. Moreover, it gives you an opportunity to indulge in skiing, snowboarding, and snow-shoe trekking. St. Moritz offers you the greatest winter view and is also a hub of happening nightlife. To show time or sequence go for a bob racing, an adrenaline rush is guaranteed. To make the heart of any gourmet beat faster, go shopping in Metropolitan where chic meets old town charm.

4. Oberalp Pass Via Glacier Express

Switzerland trip is incomplete without taking a train in Glacier Express. That is a direct train from Zermatt to St. Moritz, also famously known as the slowest express train in the world which takes approximately 8 hours of destination travel. As the name itself says Oh yes! you will see the Glaciers up in the mountain. In fact, the ride gives you incredible scenery through tight curves, 291 bridges, rock formations, fierce streams, tons of snow, narrow valleys, and 91 tunnels.

5. Mt. Pilatus

One of the most popular and highest peaks in Lucerne , Mt. Pilatus is a 2,120-metre tall mountain. You can easily reach the highest peak via a cable car which gives you a delightful view. You must add this destination to your wishlist to enhance the Swiss vacationing experience to the fullest in winter. Don’t miss out to do the remarkable winter walk on the golden round trip. Also, the place has cable walking, hiking, cogwheel railway.

6. St. Gallen

St. Gallen is a stunning winter destination you will definitely want to bubble up. This place has many indoor activities to offer you such as Abbey Library of Saint Gall, St. Gallen Cathedral, Botanical Garden, and Natural History Museum which is all free of cost to visit. It is home to a UNESCO World Heritage site where it has centuries-old houses with beautiful scenery.

7. Interlaken

This is a Swiss’s cute little stunning city that every visitor should go to. Interlaken is located in between two lakes and is presided by three mighty mountains. It has an adrenaline-filled activities like sky-diving, paragliding, skiing, hiking, cable car, and many more. There are various snow sports in Interlaken than you imagined. Swiss is well known for two things: cheese and chocolate, thus Interlaken is a region that offers mouth-watering tastes.

8. Lake Geneva

The best part of Lake Geneva (surrounded by stunning snow-capped peaks) can be explained only by live experience in winter. Everything will be at a higher price rate when compared with summer times. The very famous celebration in Lake Geneva is Winterfest where the ice castle competition and abominable snow race are both worth watching. A beautiful lake is full of ice boaters, ice coasters, skaters, ice fishers along with all the snow activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding.

With eye-catching snow-capped mountains, white snowy landscapes, ski runs as far as the eye could see: the winter scenery is incredibly impressive over and over again. Arosa is among the coolest places to visit in Switzerland in Winter where you should stay for a little while. Undoubtedly, a home for sports activities such as Skiing, Sledging, Snowboarding, Winter hiking, Cross-culture skiing, Ice Hockey, Curling, Ice Stock Sports, Ice Skating, and many more. Arosa Bear Sanctuary opens all year round and its timing is from 9 am to 5 pm. Thus it offers you to visit the bear mini-golf, the playground at the middle station, the Weisshorn bear photo point, and the experience trail will also be very exciting.

Davos is a winter sports metropolis for skiing and snowboarding lovers. Absolutely worth the nightlife experience! Davos Klosters is conducted during some 100 winter days – the world’s best winter guest program. Tourists can entertain themself in many shopping choices and refined dining. From all the sports activities to shopping, from early morning sunrise to stunning nightlife, from healthy resorts to casinos, bars, and discotheques everything can be found in the town of Davos.

So, are you excited to plan your Switzerland trip right away? Experience the pure magic weather in Switzerland in Winter. Get all the up-to-date information on the Switzerland package tour offered at Pickyourtrail and choose the one that suits you the best or customise your own Switzerland itinerary according to your preference. HAPPY TRAVELLING! 🙂

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Winter In Basel: Weather, Things To Do & Packing Tips

A winter trip to Basel is an excellent idea. You won’t get to swim in the Rhine, but you will get to experience one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, explore all the town’s best landmarks, and maybe even witness the iconic Morgenstreich carnival!

Basel has a surprisingly mild climate for a northern Swiss city, making it an excellent destination for travelers who want a winter city break, preferably somewhere where it’s not extremely cold. You’ll still be able to walk around the town as much as you want, and if it ever gets too chilly, there’s always a hot cup of coffee or a bucket of fondue to warm you up!

Table of Contents

Winter Weather in Basel

Basel is cold and gloomy in the winter, but probably not as cold as you might expect considering its geographical location. Although it’s situated in the north of Switzerland, the city boasts a milder climate than the Swiss Plateau. This means that Basel, along with Lugano, is one of the least snowy cities in Switzerland.

The temperatures in the winter can drop below freezing, but it’s usually just as night. During the day, it is somewhat warmer as the temperatures often stay above zero degrees (Celsius), although in the single digits.

Best Things to Do in Basel in Winter

Shopping and treats at basel christmas market.

The Christmas Market in Basel has previously won the title of the best in all of Europe. The city’s entire historic center gets adorned with lights and Christmas decorations, transforming the heart of Basel into a winter wonderland.

The traditional Christmas Markets are at Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz in the center of the old town, and it’s where to go if you want to spend money on mulled wine and unique souvenirs. Stop by the courtyard of the Basel City Hall and write down a wish in the Basel Wish Book to leave a permanent trace of your presence in the magical city.

I can’t discuss Christmas in Basel without mentioning the Johann Wanner Christmas House . The shop at Spalenberg sells Christmas decorations year-round, and it’s by far the best place to visit if you want to take home some gorgeous Christmas decor.

Experience The Fabulous Basel Carnival – Morgenstreich

If you can’t visit Basel in December for the Christmas Market, then a trip to the city in late February is the next best thing. Aim to be in Basel during Morgenstreich , the iconic city carnival that has been added to the list of UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The three days of the carnival are the best time to be in the city, so don’t hesitate to visit Basel during this period if you want to experience something truly incredible. The carnival starts at 4 AM on Monday after Ash Wednesday, with thousands of people joining the costumed parade. Witness a lantern exhibition, attend concerts, or just watch from afar as the costumed carnival-goers march throughout the heart of the city.

See The Best Landmarks In Basel’s Old Town

The best and most famous landmarks in Basel don’t change seasonally. Make the most of your winter trip to Basel by exploring all of the city’s top attractions, starting with the Basel Cathedral . The Gothic-style church originates from the 9th century and only two of its original five towers are still present. It’s possible to climb either tower for epic city views.

If you’re not in the mood to climb 250 steps, head to the Pfalz Viewing Terrace instead. It’s just behind the cathedral and offers a beautiful view of the Rhine River and Kleinbasel. After a visit to the Cathedral, head to Marktplatz and see the Rathaus (Basel City Hall). The building is famous for its decorated red facade and sculptures and paintings in the inner courtyard.

The best way to Marktplatz is through Freie Strasse, Basel’s best shopping street. With dozens of stores on either side of the street, this is the best place in the city to shop for winter sales. Spalenberg Street also has some great stores and cafes, especially if you prefer smaller boutiques to huge shops. Also, following Spalenberg Street will eventually get you to Spalentor, one of only three remaining city gates in Basel.

The final landmark you need to visit in Basel is the Tingley Fountain. Rain shouldn’t be an excuse to miss this fabulous attraction because the fountain is wet anyway, plus all the sculptures in it are covered with a layer of ice in the winter and look even more impressive. The fountain is an homage to the city’s old theater company, featuring a choreographed chaos of sculptures dancing in water.

Take A Guided Tour of Basel

A walking tour of Basel is the best way of exploring the city, so consider it if it’s not wet or too cold. You can book a guided walking tour and be taken around the town by a local who knows all the best spots in Basel, or you could organize a tour yourself and just walk to the top attractions in the city.

The alternatives to a walking tour are bus or tram city tours . They’re the best way of exploring Basel in the rain or snow because you’ll keep out of the wet and warm up a bit while riding past the top city sights in Basel. A Vintage Tram Tour is a unique way of seeing the city but the tours are available only in (Swiss) German.

The BaselCitytour sightseeing bus offers two tours per day, with 12 stops at the city’s best landmarks. The bus tours are available in multiple languages and are generally the best option for tourists in Basel.

Seek Shelter In Basel Museums & Zoo

If it gets too wet or too cold for walking around the city, seek shelter in one of the countless museums in Basel . The city has loads of excellent museums that can keep you busy for hours, allowing you to stay warm and dry, while still learning about Basel and its history.

The Museum of Natural History Basel is possibly the best one in the city, the Toy Worlds Museum Basel is unique and perfect for families with children, and the Basel Fine Art Museum is the best destination for all art lovers in the city.

The Basel Zoo is also a great place to visit on a rainy day because it features several large indoor areas. The aquarium and the reptile house are both fully indoors, plus many animals are moved from their outdoor enclosures for the winter season. The zoo is right next to the Basel SBB train station, so it’s easily accessible even if you’re staying a bit outside the city.

Finally, you can always avoid the rain in the University of Basel’s Botanical Garden greenhouse. The imposing Victorian-era greenhouse is home to all the plants that couldn’t make it in the regular Swiss climate, so you’ll get to see some cacti, orchids, agave, and many other wonderful plants.

Have a Coffee Or Afternoon Tea

Any time of day is a good time for coffee, and cold weather is the perfect excuse to walk into the nearest coffee house and take half an hour to recharge. Warm up a little, rest your feet, and recharge your batteries with some much-needed caffeine or tea.

Basel’s old town is home to countless cafes, and any one of them is a good option for a cup of coffee. Look for a place that looks cozy and inviting, preferably with a beautiful view you can enjoy with your coffee.

If you’re not a coffee drinker, afternoon tea at Hotel Les Trois Rois might be a better fit for you. It’s Basel’s take on classic British afternoon tea with delicious sandwiches and even a “Royal” option that includes a glass of champagne.

Take a Break At a Wellness & Spa Center

Switzerland is known for its many elaborate wellness and spa centers , and Basel is one of many Swiss cities that attract tourists for this reason. There might not be too many fabulous options in the city proper, but they’re all easily accessible by tram and from the main train station.

Naturbad Riehen is a short tram ride away from central Basel and it’s perfect if you want to experience a Finnish sauna. The natural swimming pool transforms into a yurt village for the winter season, and it’s perfect for experiencing something out of the ordinary.

Dampfbad Baselis in the northwest area of the city, easily accessible by tram from the Basel SBB railway station. It’s a proper wellness center with hammam steam rooms, a dip pool, and many types of massage treatments, all of which will get you in a state of pure bliss and relaxation.

Go On A Rhine River Cruise

Although most shorter boat rides from Basel are only possible from spring to fall, winter is as good a time as any for a proper river cruise. I’m talking about multi-day cruises on the River Rhine, which will take you from Basel to other Swiss cities, but also to other countries.

Board a cruise ship in Basel and travel to Cologne or Amsterdam for an epic adventure. Most cruises are a week long and include stops at multiple ports that you can explore until you arrive at the final destination. If you have plans to travel to multiple cities in Europe anyway, cruising on the Rhine River is definitely a special way of traveling through Europe!

Warm Up With Fondue & Raclette Cheese

Hardly anything epitomizes winter in Switzerland as well as fondue. The iconic Swiss dish is served everywhere as soon as it gets a little cold, and it’s the perfect meal for a cold winter’s day. Dipping tiny pieces of bread into a bucket of hot, melted cheese is an easy (and delicious) way of staying warm in the harsh Swiss winter.

And then there’s Raclette, a dish centered around a slice of melted cheese with side dishes no one really cares about. Many restaurants in Basel serve both Fondue and Raclette , but few do it as well as Walliserkanne. Situated in the heart of Basel’s old town, this cozy restaurant is the top destination for anyone who wants to try some delicious, melted Swiss cheese, whether it’s in a pot or on a plate.

Spend an Afternoon Ice Skating

Winter season in Basel means open-air ice skating rinks in several places in the city. They’re open to the general public, and anyone is welcome to come and enjoy some ice skating for a small admission fee.

Margarethen Park boasts two ice skating ratings, one open-air and the other covered, so you can enjoy gliding on ice even if the weather is poor. The park is a short walk from the Basel train station, and easily accessible to anyone staying in the city.

The other ice skating rink is at Eglisee, closer to the Basel Bad train station. This ice rink often stages fun events for both children and adults, so there’s everything from disco on skates to ice hockey games.

An Evening At The Basel Theater

A particularly gloomy winter’s day is the perfect excuse for purchasing theater tickets. The performing arts theater in Basel is the perfect place to escape the cold while staying engaged in the city’s culture and tradition.

Most plays are performed in German language, so you’ll need to know the language to enjoy the experience fully. A ballet or opera are better alternatives if you don’t speak German, but still want to experience a night out at the theater while you’re staying in Basel. Tickets usually start at 30 CHF, but it’s very important to note that discounts are offered for everyone under 30, and young adults can often get tickets for as little as 10 CHF.

Alternatively, you can just hang out in the foyer. The Basel Theater opened its foyer to the public, and it’s a great place to come if you want to meet friendly locals. The foyer is like a vast coworking space, where you can read, work, play video games, board games, or just interact with others.

What to Pack for Winter in Basel

Winters in Switzerland are cold, wet, and gloomy, so you’ll want to bring clothes that will allow you to explore the city even in those conditions. At the very least, you need a warm and waterproof jacket and a pair of shoes.

Pack t-shirts to layer under sweaters and hoodies, so you can easily take off the clothes when switching from outdoor to indoor tours. It’s warm inside Basel’s cafes, shops, and theaters, so you might be a little too warm if you’re wearing thick sweaters indoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does basel have snow.

It snows every now and then in Basel, but the snow doesn’t usually settle for very long periods. 

Is Basel good at Christmas?

Yes, Basel is a great place to visit at Christmas. The city’s Christmas Market has previously won the title of the best one in Europe, and it’s easily the highlight of any winter trip to Basel. 

Is Basel worth visiting in winter?

Basel is absolutely worth visiting in the winter. The city offers loads of attractions to tourists who are into city breaks, and there are several great ski resorts in its vicinity for those who prefer skiing or snowboarding. 

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