places to visit in switzerland spring

Switzerland in Spring: Best Things To Do & Places To Go By A Local [2024]

By Gemma Tedaldi | Published: 24th January 2024 | Updated: 16th February 2024

Switzerland in spring is a beautiful blend of freshly blossoming landscapes, weather beginning to warm up again and wonderful local festivals. You can experience the cows heading up into the mountains for the summer, stunning spring blossom hikes with the Alps as a backdrop and of course the incredible Basel Fasnacht , (our favourite festival in Switzerland that is held in our home city), All of which make Switzerland the perfect destination to visit in the spring.

So, are you looking to find out more about this wonderful destination? Here is our guide to Switzerland in spring.

Table of Contents

• Is it worth visiting Switzerland in Spring?
• Holidays and Festivals in Switzerland in Spring

Hikes to do in Switzerland in Spring

Activities to do in switzerland in spring, best places to visit in switzerland in spring, where should i stay in switzerland in spring.

• Switzerland in Spring FAQs

Planning Your Trip? Use our favourite travel resources below:

Accommodation: We recommend Booking.com

Rental Car: We recommend Rentalcars.com

Flights: We recommend Kiwi.com

Tours: We recommend Get Your Guide

Is it worth visiting Switzerland in spring?

It is very much worth visiting Switzerland in spring. The weather is warming up, there is still a possibility of snow depending on where you are in the country, and the festivals celebrating the end of winter and beginning of spring are really something to witness. Generally hiking trails up to 2000m will also now be snow-free so you can lace up those hiking boots again, (this can obviously not be guaranteed but on average spring means hiking season is back.

Average temperatures across Switzerland in spring:

📍 16 – 23° C / 60 – 74° F in Zurich

📍 3 – 23 ° C / 37 – 73° F in Basel

📍 1 – 23° C / 34 – 73° F in Geneva

Average rainfall across Switzerland in spring: 137mm – 173mm rain.

Is this peak season or low season?

Spring is considered a low season in Switzerland ; however, it is also one of the loveliest times to visit, with blossoms blooming and the hiking trails beginning to open for the year. Spring is also some of the cheapest months to visit Switzerland as accommodation prices are reduced. Just be mindful that the weather can be a little rainy in June.

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

Holidays and Festivals in Switzerland in spring

Spring in Switzerland is from March 20th through to June 21st. The Easter holidays fall between April and May, with Ascension Day, Whit Monday and Corpus Christi also falling throughout the end of May and into June. Alongside these holidays there are a number of wonderful festivals as well; here are the top 6 festivals in Switzerland in spring that you should try and visit:

Switzerland in March

📍 Lucerne Spring Festival

From late March through to early April depending on the year, the Lucerne Spring Festival is 3 days of incredible classical music, giving the city a taste of the Lucerne Summer Festival, which happens in August. Each year the festival focuses on a different composer each night, with Mendelssohn, Chopin and Rachmaninoff as some of the recent ones.

Switzerland in April

📍 La Fête de la Tulipe, Morges

La Fête de la Tulipe or the Tulip Festival in Morges is held along Lac Léman from the end of March through to the middle of May showcasing more than 140,000 flowers and 300 different types of tulips. With over 50 years of the festival, Morges really knows how to put on a show with the tulip displays. This is also the location of the Dahlia Festival from July to October, so Morges is the place to go in Switzerland if you want to experience the flowers.

📍 Sechseläuten Zürich

Zurich’s answer to saying goodbye to the winter and hello to the spring, Sechseläuten, (happening on the third weekend in April), is the cities spring festival with parades, guildsmen in costume and the symbolic burning of the giant wooden snowman, called a Böögg. This unique festival is like no other in the country, especially as the time span from the starting of the fire to the final explosion of the head of the snowman has been said to predict the weather for the upcoming summer.

Switzerland in May

📍 Gruyères Cheese Festival

The medieval town of Gruyères hosts one of the best cheese markets in Switzerland in May, with cheese makers from around the local region sharing the traditions behind Gruyère AOP cheese making. With plenty of opportunities to taste and take home the cheeses as well, this festival along the Rue du Bourg may be smelt before it is seen, but it is well worth a visit too.

📍 Alpaufzug / Estive alpine cattle ascent, throughout May, June and July

The alpine ascent known as the Alpaufzug or Estive, happens throughout May, June and July. Farmers decide at short notice when exactly is will happen depending on the weather so there isn’t a set date, but the goats, cows and sometimes sheep will make their way to the mountain for the summer season.

Switzerland in June

📍 Eidgenössisches Jodlerfest

The Eidgenössisches Jodlerfest, or the National Yodeling Festival, occurs once every three years at the end of June, (the most recent was held in 2023 in Zug, with the next in 2026 in Basel), and is the place to be if you want to experience yodelling, alphorn blowing and traditional flag waving.

The years in between the official Jodlerfest have numerous cantons holding smaller Jodlerfest from mid-June through to early July.

Best Things To Do In Switzerland In Spring

Switzerland offers wonderful experiences like no other during the spring. With traditional local festivals, the hiking season just beginning and of course, spring blossoms to witness everywhere! So here are our favourite and top things to do in Switzerland in spring;

📍 Blossom Hike, Zug

Zug may not be the most well-known destination to visit in Switzerland in spring, but it is by far one of the best purely for its wonderful blossom hikes. There are three different hikes you can choose from to see the blossom, all starting in the Old Town of Zug, and with a dedicated ‘ Chriesitelefon ’ or ‘Blossom Phone’ that you can ring to check if the blossom is ready, meaning you can time your hike to see the perfect blossom.

We would recommend hiking the Zug to Goldau route, which takes which follows alongside the eastern shore of Lake Zug, (Zugersee), passing through historic cherry, apricot, apple and pear orchards, as well as past waterfalls and through forests, all while in the view of Mount Rigi.

Taking roughly 5 hours to complete the 18km, this one-way route is not for the faint-hearted, but you can easily shorten the route by finishing at Oberwil, Hörndli or Walchwil instead, and then hopping back to Zug on the local train.

📍 Mürren to Gimmelwald

Lots of people come to the Lauterbrunnen Valley, but not many venture to the very south to Stechelberg. From here you can take a series of cable cars up to the summit of Schilthorn , (best known for being in a James Bond film), where there are of course plenty of summer hiking trails you can do, but in the spring when there is still snow you can instead hike from Mürren down to Gimmelwald .

Both Mürren and Gimmelwald are car-free traditional mountain villages, and both are well worth a visit in their own right, so the short and easy hike between them is a must. Taking roughly an hour and a half to walk the 3km long route, you will pass through both the villages as well as wildflower-filled pastures, with a cow here and there too. This route is also ideal for families as it is mainly on well-paved paths.

If you are into your paragliding, or fancy giving it a go, then Mürren is also a great place to do this, with the cable car having a dedicated paraglider wing crate that sits alongside the main car.

📍 Mount Rigi

You can walk various trails up and down the mountain, but we would highly recommend taking the train to Rigi Kulm , (the very top), then walking back down via Rigi Staffel, Staffelhöhe, Chänzeli and finishing at Rigi Kaltbad . This 4km long route follows a ridge line most of the way alongside the train tracks, before joining with route 558 to Rigi Kaltbad. Walking this way you get some of the best views, even if there is a cloud inversion like the day we first did it.

Depending on how far you want to hike, you can either stop at Rigi Kaltbad for a bite to eat or a dip in the spa before taking the cable car or train down, or you can continue hiking on one of the many routes that lead from here down.

📍 Go To An Easter Market

Easter Markets aren’t held everywhere across Switzerland, but where they are they are great places to wander through for some Easter treats. Bremgarten in Aargau is the largest of all the Easter Markets with over 400 market stalls to explore.

📍 Witness The Alpine Cattle Ascent

Although not as well known or celebrated as the Alpabfahrt, the Alpine cattle ascent takes place in June and is a wonderful thing to witness during spring in Switzerland. A few locations across the country celebrate this festival, but one of the most well-known is the ascent up to the Engstligenalp via narrow rocky pathways.

📍 Visit The City Of Roses

The city of Bischofszell in the canton of Thurgau, also known as the ‘city of roses’, is a great and unique place to visit in Switzerland in spring. With specially decorated fountains around the city and a walking route that takes in both the beautiful old town and the spring flowers, Bischofszell should be added to your list of places to visit in spring.

📍 Take A Lake Cruise

Lake cruising in Switzerland is great any time of year, we are regularly hopping on a ferry throughout the year, but spring in Switzerland is particularly lovely for a lake cruise. With the country waking up from the winter, there are blossoming trees popping up all along the lake edges, in particular along Lake Zug, (Zugersee).

📍 Visit Alpine and City Flower Gardens

If spring isn’t the best time to visit the alpine flower gardens and city gardens, then we don’t know what is! Whilst tulips and daffodils are springing to life in the cities, the alpine flower gardens start blooming on the mountain slopes, with unique plants and flowers only native to the Swiss Alps.

📍 Taste The New Season Asparagus

Switzerland is a great place for seasonal and local produce throughout the year, and spring in Switzerland is no different with fresh asparagus making its way into every dish you can think of. Both the green and white varieties are available across the country and both or equally delicious and must tries if you are here.

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

📍 Zug in Spring

Zug is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in spring. Known for its cherry blossoms as well as its cherry-flavoured cuisine , this picturesque lakeside town is a great place to spend a day or two. As well as the Old Town to explore, you can also hop on board a boat on Lake Zug, (Zugersee), to witness the blossom from the waters as well.

📍 Morges in Spring

Home to one of the biggest spring flower festivals in Switzerland, with over 100,000 tulips that bloom here each year in April and May, Morges is without doubt a wonderful place to visit in the spring whilst in Switzerland. Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, (Lac Leman), Morges is also known for its impressive castle and quaint old town alleyways, which are more often than not, brimming with flower displays, (even when it’s not spring). Due to its location on the shores of Lac Leman, you can also take to the lake via one of the many boat cruises and ferries that connect Montreux in the east to Geneva in the west, with numerous stops in both Switzerland and France along the route.

📍 Rigi in Spring

Known as the ‘ Queen of the Mountains ’, Rigi is the perfect place to spend the day just as spring has begun. With the hiking trails just reopened, you can take the cogwheel train or cable car up to the summit before wandering back down and taking in the views with a warming mountain delicacy or by taking a dip in the spa pools. You might even get the chance to witness a cloud inversion during this time of the year, which is truly spectacular, and makes you feel like you are surrounded by a sea of clouds.

📍 Lauterbrunnen in Spring

The valley of Lauterbrunnen is a great place to visit in the spring, in particular, due to the sheer number of waterfalls that flow down into the valley from above. Spring not only brings the waterfalls to their peak flow due to the snow melting, (this is the best time to visit Trümmelbach Falls and see Staubbach Falls ), but also fields beginning to bloom with wildflowers. Some snow may still be hanging around at the beginning of the season, but it just adds to the scenery of the area.

📍 Ticino in Spring

If you want to visit anywhere to get a true sense of spring in Switzerland, then Ticino is the place to go. This Italian-speaking canton is also the warmest canton in the country , so spring often comes a little earlier here than elsewhere, which is great if you want to shake off those winter blues. With luscious Mediterranean gardens lining the shores of Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore alongside towns such as Locarno, Ascona, Lugano and Morcote, spring in Switzerland is at its best here.

Zurich is a great place to stay in Switzerland in spring, with the city coming to life after the cold winter months but being within an easy-reaching distance of numerous mountain locations that might still be clinging to the last snowfall of the year.

Switzerland in Spring FAQ’s

How to get to switzerland.

Switzerland has excellent connectivity with the rest of mainland Europe and numerous international destinations. With three international airports located in Geneva, Zurich, and Basel, as well as additional airports in Bern, St Gallen and Lugano. Switzerland is also convenient to reach from its neighbouring countries of France, Germany, Austria, and Italy.

How to get around Switzerland

Navigating Switzerland is best done using its extensive and fantastic public transportation. With a comprehensive network of trains, boats, buses, trams, cable cars and funicular railways transporting you between both the mountains and the cities, the more well-known tourist destinations, and the small unknown locations.

To optimize your time in Switzerland and get the most out of your budget, then you should consider booking your transport tickets in advance through either the SBB website or the SBB mobile app , (you can of course buy your tickets on the day before you board any public transport, but you may end up paying more than if you had bought in advance). Depending on your length of stay in Switzerland, you can get a Swiss travel pass or a number of day passes instead, both of which are great value for money and give you unrestricted access to the public transport network across the entire length of your ticket i.e. a day pass is 24 hours worth of transport anywhere in the country, (it is worth noting that some cable cars / funicular railways may not be included).

Alternatively, if you would rather make your own way then you can, of course, hire a rental car to see this wonderful country instead. We can highly recommend using Rentalcars.com  for this, we’ve used them numerous times throughout Europe, and they always have a wide selection of vehicles as well as being budget-friendly, (something you will want when visiting Switzerland!).

How many days do I need in Switzerland in spring?

If you want to visit Switzerland in spring, then we would recommend you spend at least a week exploring both the alpine landscapes and the cities. That way you can experience quaint lakefront or riverside cafes in the cities and beautiful quiet hiking routes and picnic spots in the Swiss landscape.

What is spring like in Switzerland?

Spring in Switzerland is a wonderful time of year, with some of the best, and most unusual festivals happening across the country alongside the landscape blooming into life. The weather can be a little unpredictable, with June bringing the most rainfall of the year, but the months gradually warm up and offer plenty of opportunity to get out and enjoy spring in Switzerland.

Switzerland in Spring Tours

Tours are a great way to see Switzerland and are even better in the spring when the weather is warming and the tourists are still away. We can highly recommend these tours in Switzerland:

Get a day pass up Mount Rigi with added Spa admission

See the glacier & snow at Mount Titlis

Book your Switzerland in spring tours here

Which month is best for spring in Switzerland?

The best month to visit Switzerland for the spring is April. With the festival season beginning to kick off, the landscape beginning to bloom after the winter and the hiking season starting, April is a great month for visiting both Swiss cities and the lower-elevation alpine villages and hiking trails.

What do people do in spring in Switzerland?

With numerous bank holidays falling within the spring, the Swiss like to spend their long weekends exploring the Alps and holidaying in the warmer cantons of the country, with Ticino being the favoured one.

Is Switzerland worth visiting in April?

100% yes, Switzerland is worth visiting in April. This is the time of the year that the flowers start blooming, (the canton of Ticino is particularly well known for its early blooms), there are cherry and almond blossom trails throughout the country and you may even stumble upon an Easter Market or two, depending on when Easter falls that year.

Is it better to visit Switzerland in April or May?

Both April and May are great months to visit Switzerland, with the weather getting gradually warmer and the snow beginning to thaw. If you want to witness the spring blossoms though then April is the time to visit, whereas May is the perfect time to start hiking in the mountains, as the cable car routes and funicular railways open again after the winter season.

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

Switzerland in spring is truly wonderful, with blossom blooming across the country, the weather warming up and the hiking season just beginning, all the while the snow hangs on at the higher elevations should you want a last-minute toboggan or snowshoe hike. Spring is also one of the shoulder seasons in Switzerland so you can expect fewer crowds and much more affordable accommodation and transportation tickets. So, if you are looking to visit this wonderful country, then look no further than Switzerland in spring.

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

Spring in Switzerland: Where To Go & What To Do

The spring season in Switzerland might just be one of the best times to visit Switzerland . As the snow melts and the colder temperatures give way to lush greenery, breathtaking scenery, and stunning natural beauty.

You can enjoy all Switzerland has to offer with snow-capped mountains, spring flowers, forests, pleasant weather, and a lot less crowds than you’d experience in summer plus much more affordable accommodation.

Join me as I run through everything you need to know about spring in Switzerland. From what weather to expect to what to wear and all the great things to do during the spring season in Switzerland you will find it all below.

Table of Contents

Spring in Switzerland runs from April through to mid-June and the temperatures change quite a bit between early and late spring in Switzerland. You also have to take into account altitude, as the mountain peaks will remain a bit chilly while the lowlands will see warm temperatures.

In April, temperatures will range on average from 10°C to 20°C in the lowlands whereas in the peaks of the Swiss Alps it will be between 10°C and 0°C. April is also reliably wet with rainfall hitting all parts of Switzerland.

During May, spring in Switzerland starts to heat up and it has an average temperature of 20°C. It is still a little chillier in the Swiss Alps and while there is less rain than in April, you should still expect a few showers.

June is the warmest part of spring in Switzerland as you would expect. On average, expect temperatures between 16°C to 25°C across the country. Lowlands like Ticino and Geneva can hit temperatures of 35°C and the mountains are reasonably warm with temps around 16°C.

June is also the driest month of spring in Switzerland, a few showers here and there but most days will be filled with blue skies. That being said, mountainous regions always experience some random weather so always be prepared when up in the mountains.

What to Wear

Knowing what to wear during spring in Switzerland is the key to ensuring you are comfortable and enjoy your spring vacation to the max.

The key is having enough layers to match the month you are in Switzerland and where you plan on visiting. If you are in the mountains, more layers will be needed compared to the lowlands.

The great thing about having enough layers and the right ones is that you will never be too hot or too cold.

If you are in the mountains, merino wool base layers are a must, with a fleece, down jacket, and waterproof jacket & trousers that will have you covered for any weather that rolls through. Add in some merino wool socks and waterproof hiking boots and you are always going to be comfortable.

In the lowlands of Switzerland, around Lake Geneva, for example, it is never going to be that cold. A Merino wool jumper with jeans would be enough, then carry a warmer jacket and a waterproof jacket in case the weather changes.

Switzerland is a pretty fashionable country, especially in cities like Zurich and Geneva, so bring some stylish garments that will keep you warm and dry too.

Always pack a hat, sunglasses, and swimwear when going to Switzerland in spring as the sun is strong and the alpine lakes are always inviting you for a dip.

Where to Go & What to Do

Spring festivals.

Switzerland is known for its fun spring festivals that celebrate the end of winter and the coming of spring.

In fact, no matter where you are in Switzerland during the spring, chances are there is a spring festival nearby as each region or town may have its own unique celebration to mark the arrival of spring.

Here are some of the most popular and well-known spring festivals in Switzerland:

Sechseläuten is a traditional spring festival that takes place in Zurich on the third Monday in April of every year. The streets are filled with dancers, music, processions, and beautiful flowers.

The highlight of the festival is the burning of the “Böögg,” a snowman-shaped figure filled with fireworks. The faster the Böögg’s head explodes, the better the upcoming summer weather is believed to be.

Fête de la Tulipe takes place in Morges, a small town on the shores of Lake Geneva. The tulip festival is about as beautiful as a spring festival with over 300 varieties of tulips and 140,000 flowers on show.

Frühlingsfest is the spring festival in Basel. The streets are filled with fun energetic shows from music performances and art exhibitions to street theater and culinary delights.

Gardens & Local Parks

Another lovely thing about visiting Switzerland in early spring to late spring is the flowers in blossom in all their lovely local parks and gardens.

No matter where you are in Switzerland, you are never far from a charming town or charming city that is inevitably going to have a stunning garden or park for you to explore.

The Geneva Botanical Gardens and Observatory might just be one of the top gardens in all of Switzerland and during spring you can see the six million flowers in bloom that call it home.

The capital city of Bern is also a delight and amongst its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’ll wow anyone, there is the Rosengarten . Home to cherry trees in blossom during the early spring and hundreds of different roses in bloom along with stunning views of the city, it is a hard one to beat.

If you are in Interlaken, take a stroll around the stunning Alpine Garden where you will find over 750 different flowers that will be in bloom during the spring.

Panoramic Train Rides

One of the best ways of seeing Switzerland’s breathtaking landscapes all in bloom during the early spring is by taking one of the many panoramic train rides Switzerland has to offer . The Glacier Express is an iconic train ride that runs between Zermatt and St. Moritz. This train ride is an experience in itself as it cuts through deep valleys, around mountains, through stunning alpine scenery, and through picturesque Swiss villages.

The Bernina Express is another spectacular train ride that starts in Switzerland’s oldest city, Chur, and goes all the way to Tirano in Italy. It is a UNESCO World Heritage route that runs through the heart of the stunning Swiss Alps and offers breathtaking views of the Bernina Pass, glaciers, and mountain lakes.

The GoldenPass Line is a scenic train route that stretches from Lucerne to Lake Geneva. It combines three different train lines that take you through the picturesque Swiss countryside, charming villages, and lush green meadows all with uninterrupted views of the Swiss Alps.

Switzerland is home to hundreds of museums and when there is the odd spring shower, hopping into a lovely museum is never a bad idea. Here are some of the top museums in Switzerland to visit.

Kunsthaus Zurich is one of Switzerland’s most famous and important art museums. It is home to a huge collection of modern and contemporary art with works by famous artists such as Picasso, Monet, Van Gogh, Munch, and more.

The Swiss Museum of Transport is the most popular museum in Switzerland. Sitting next to Lake Lucerne, it is dedicated to transportation and showcases an extensive collection of vintage cars, trains, airplanes, and ships as well as interactive exhibits on the history and development of transportation.

The Museum of Art and History in Geneva is a museum not to miss. It houses a diverse collection of art, archaeology, applied arts, and decorative art as well as works from various periods from ancient Egypt to medieval, Renaissance, and contemporary.

The Olympic Museum is located at the International Olympic Committee Headquarters in Lausanne. It is dedicated to the history and spirit of the Olympic Games and features interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations, and memorabilia related to the Olympics.

Switzerland is known for its diverse music scene and it is certainly worth seeing a concert or two when you visit in the spring. All the great cities have excellent concert halls that host a range of different musical events, here are some of the best.

The KKL Luzern , or the Lucerne Culture and Congress Centre, is known for its exceptional acoustics, and stunning architecture, and hosts orchestral concerts, chamber music performances, and other musical events.

Tonhalle Maag is a major concert hall in Zurich that hosts a wide range of classical music concerts, including symphony performances, chamber music recitals, and guest appearances by renowned soloists. It is also the home of the Tonhalle Orchestra Zurich.

Victoria Hall , located in Geneva, is a prestigious concert venue with a rich history. The hall is renowned for its neoclassical architecture, and excellent acoustics and hosts a variety of concerts, from classical to chamber music, and orchestral performances.

Stadtcasino Basel is another famous and historic concert hall and is the home of the Basel Symphony Orchestra . The hall hosts classical music concerts, opera performances, and other cultural events which are well worth attending.

One of the best times to go hiking in Switzerland is in spring as the mountains are covered with wildflowers and lots more. Plus as spring continues, more and more high-altitude hiking trails in the mountains open up.

You are never far from a great place to hike in Switzerland but here are some of the best in my eyes.

The Lauterbrunnen Valley , aka the Valley of 72 waterfalls is incredibly beautiful and is filled with beautiful trails that will have you exploring some of the most stunning waterfalls in the country including Staubbach Falls.

The region around Lake Lucerne is also famous for its hikes. Hop on a ferry to Mount Rigi or take the gondola up to Mount Pilatus where you will find magical views stretching to the Alps and lovely trails to explore.

Other great places to hike include Engadine Valley , Valais , and the Jura Mountains .

If you are into mountain biking then Switzerland in spring is one of the greatest places to do it. There are so many trails that traverse incredible landscapes for mountain bikers to choose from that it is hard to know where to start. Here are some ideas:

Verbier is renowned for its world-class mountain biking trails as is Zermatt is not only famous for There are numerous trails to explore, ranging from easy to highly advanced.

Flims-Laax is another Swiss mountain biking paradise with a network of trails that caters to all levels of riders.

Other great areas with biking trails included the Engadine , Arosa-Lenzerheide , Davos-Klosters , and the Jura Mountains.

Water Sports

The lakes of Switzerland come alive with water sports as the water temperatures increase over spring. You can sail, kayak, stand-up paddle board, wakeboard, wake surf, windsurf, kite surf, and lots more.

There are some parts of Switzerland where you can ski all year round and these higher-altitude ski resorts will still have snow in early spring.

If you want to take to the slopes head to Zermatt to ski the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise or Saas-Fee to hit the Mittelallalin Glacier , or the Titlis Glacier in Engelberg.

Frequently Asked Questions

What months are spring in switzerland.

Spring in Switzerland runs from the months of mid-march through to mid of the end of June depending on where in Switzerland you are.

The mountains see spring starting a bit later as you would expect and it happens a bit earlier in the lowlands.

The best months for spring in Switzerland are May and June.

Is spring a good time to visit Switzerland?

Spring is one of the best times for visiting Switzerland and for quite a few reasons. Firstly, Switzerland is a lot less busy during the spring and this means fewer crowds.

All those must-visit attractions will be a lot quieter, as will the mountains, hiking trails, and pretty much everything else you will want to see.

Fewer tourists also mean more affordable rates. Your flights to Switzerland will be cheaper, as will your accommodation.

The beauty of Switzerland in the spring is also a huge benefit. You will hike amongst wildflowers and lush forests. All the flowers bloom in the local parks and gardens while the mountain peaks still have snow on them which adds to the breathtaking views of the amazing scenery.

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12 Stunning Places to Visit in Switzerland in Spring

Spring is the best time to plan your Switzerland trip. With the cold, winter chill officially over, you have many opportunities to discover and explore the various attractions this central European country has to offer. From breathtaking views at the top of Swiss mountain peaks to historic districts with the glittering water as their backdrop, visiting Switzerland in spring is surely an experience you shouldn’t miss.

However, with so many tourist destinations to consider, you may be pressed on time (and money) to visit them all. Fret not, though, as this infographic lists down the 12 stunning places to visit in Switzerland in spring.

12 Best Places to Visit in Spring for Your Switzerland Trip

1. Montreux

Located on the shore of Lake Geneva, Montreux is an unassuming small town famous for its annual Jazz Festival every July. If the timing doesn’t permit, you can opt to visit the following Switzerland travel destinations in Montreux:

• Chateau de Chillon – It is an 11th-century old castle with stunning lake and mountain views.
• Glacier 3000 – This is a cable car attraction that gives impressive views of 20 mountain peaks over 4,000 feet.
• Rochers de Naye – Part of the Swiss alps, this mountain range provides breathtaking views of the lake.

Did You Know? The Montreux Jazz Festival is the second-largest jazz festival in the world.

Geneva is the second-most populous city in Switzerland. It is also considered to be a “green” city, with 20% of its land consisting of parks. Top sights include the Jet d’Eau, the Cathedral of St.     Pierre, and the United Nations headquarters.

Basel is a city located on the borders of three countries—Switzerland, France, and Germany. Due to this, it has a strong sense of its identity which shows in its art scene. This is especially displayed during Basler Fasnacht, the biggest festival in Switzerland.

Basel is also the home of quirky museums and some of the best theatres in the country. 

4. Interlaken

Used to be known as a watchmaking centre, Interlaken is now the adventure sports capital of Switzerland. It is situated between two lakes—Lake Brienz and Lake Thun—hence the name.

As a mecca for adventure junkies, you should at least try paragliding over the twin lakes or river rafting down the nearby Lütschine River. 

Tip: Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Visit Interlaken’s beautiful castles or sign up at a woodcarving school.

5. Lausanne

Lausanne is the biggest town of the canton of Vaud. It is the home to the International Olympic Committee headquarters, earning its nickname as the world’s “Olympic City.”

Aside from this exhibition, feel free to walk along the medieval streets filled with shops. You should also head out in Lausanne to see its solemn cathedral.

6. Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen is definitely one of the top places to visit in Switzerland in spring. It is a Swiss municipality nestled in a mountain valley which has 72 waterfalls—in which two are prominently located in the centre of the town.

Trummelbach, the biggest subterranean waterfalls in Europe, is worth the visit. You can either take in the magnificent sight at a viewing terrace or get drenched in the waterfall.

Did You Know? Trummelbach consists of 10 roaring waterfalls that came from the snow melting at the glacier.

Popular amongst celebrities, Lugano has been nicknamed the “Monte Carlo of Switzerland.” It is a city located near the border with Italy so the Italian influences—from the language to the cuisine—can be clearly seen.

It is the home to several Swiss heritage sites and financial institutions. The Lake Lugano and Monte San Salvatore are also must-visit attractions during the spring as it gives you uninterrupted views of the gorgeous scenery.

Lucerne is a small city located in the centre of Switzerland that has a lot to offer. From picturesque mountain ranges to boat cruises, museums and shopping centres, it has everything a first-time visitor would want to explore.

Did You Know? The most photographed monument in Switzerland, Chapel Bridge and Water Tower, is located in Lucerne.

Chur is the capital city of the Graubünden canton located in Eastern Switzerland. Considered to be the oldest town in the country, it has a distinct old-world charm that visitors would surely find fascinating.

Spare some time to admire the Martinskirche, the striking landmark of the city, or learn history at the Rätisches Museum.

Did You Know? Chur is a 100% car-free city.

10. Zermatt

One of the reasons why Zermatt is amongst the best places to visit in Switzerland is the fact that it offers an unparalleled view of the Matterhorn. So if you’re into trekking, skiing, and mountaineering, you’ll surely enjoy exploring Zermatt.

No trip to Switzerland would be complete without passing by its largest city. Zürich boasts of cultural sites, shopping centres, and nightclubs which makes it the perfect place for almost everyone. 

If one does get tired of the setting, the city has access to Lake Zürich as well as the highest waterfall in Europe, the Rhine Falls.

Having its old town named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bern is definitely one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in spring. It’s the capital city of the country with a rich history that dates back to the 12th century.

Famous and must-visit attractions in Bern include the Zytglogge, the Münster (Gothic cathedral), and the Kunstmuseum.

7 Essential Switzerland Travel Tips for a Well-Spent Spring Vacation

Planning to visit these places in Switzerland in spring? Read these Switzerland travel tips first to save money and have a better experience.

1. Get a Swiss Travel Pass

If you plan to see different towns during your visit in spring, it’s best to get a Swiss Travel Pass.

It covers unlimited travel (whether via bus, rail, or boat) throughout destinations covered by the Swiss Travel System network.

2. Maximize Switzerland’s Public Transportation

If you opt to skip the Swiss Travel Pass, avoid taking taxis and take public transportation instead. This would help save you money.

Switzerland is actually easy to get around, thanks to its transit system and well-marked signages for bus routes.

3. Pack a Jacket

During spring, the temperature in Switzerland can get up to 20°C or stoop as low as 1°C when the occasional snow and rain sets in. 

That’s why it’s highly recommended to pack a jacket, especially if you plan to visit mountainous regions. 

4. Bring Your Own Water Bottle

Switzerland is the home to some of the best-tasting and cleanest tap water. So don’t bother buying water in the supermarket and bring your own water bottle instead. 

Then feel free to fill it up in the numerous free-flowing fountains located all over the country.

5. Know the Language Spoken

Switzerland has four official languages—French, German, Italian, and Romansh. This makes it quite tricky when communicating with a local.

As a general rule, speak in Swiss-German as the majority of the population speaks it.

6. Be Aware of Closing Times

Keep an eye on closing times when visiting Switzerland. In smaller towns, many stores close early, at around 5 pm. Most shops are also closed every Sunday and Monday.

7. Prepare Minimal Cash

Switzerland is not a part of the European Union and has its own currency—the Swiss Franc (CHF).

So if you’re planning to travel across different European countries, it’s best to take out a small amount for emergencies and use your credit card everywhere else. This way, you will not end up with excess CHF at the end of your Switzerland trip.

Switzerland is a beautiful country known for its breathtaking mountain peaks, clear waters, and historical towns. It’s indeed a must-see when you’re traveling in Europe. Hopefully, this list of 12 stunning places to visit in Switzerland help you spend your spring break wisely.

ALSO READ: Travelling to Europe on a Budget: How to Travel Through ETIAS Countries With Only C$3,000

Haven’t planned yet to visit all these Switzerland destinations? No need to worry as there’s always a next time. But if you do decide to visit this beautiful country in 2021, know that you need to apply for an ETIAS visa waiver . It is simply an authorization that confirms you are able to enter Europe borders for no longer than 90 days.

Need more information? Visit etiaseurope.ca, an independent platform that can assist you in ETIAS online application . Contact us today to get started!

Check our news page for more updates about ETIAS countries.

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Top 15 places to visit in Switzerland during Spring

Switzerland is known for its stunning scenery and has earned a high standing among people all over the world. In this blog, we will inform you about the top 15 most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland during the Spring season. Are you ready to discover majestic Switzerland? Whether you’re visiting or perhaps relocating, don’t miss out on our top 15 places to visit in Switzerland during the Spring season. Let’s start with Zermatt!

Zermatt is a stunning popular mountain resort located in the Swiss Alps and is a perfect destination for a spring vacation. This picturesque town is surrounded by breathtaking peaks and is known for its stunning views of the Matterhorn. The spring season in Zermatt brings with it a fresh blanket of snow, mild temperatures, and an array of outdoor activities to enjoy.

One of the main attractions in Zermatt is the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, which is the highest point in Europe accessible by cable car. From the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and the Matterhorn itself. Another popular activity during spring is skiing and snowboarding, as the ski slopes in Zermatt are renowned for their quality and variety. Good to know, even during spring, it can be a great time to go skiing in Zermatt. The days are typically longer and a bit warmer but you can still enjoy fresh snow days in march or April. Read more about the Matterhorn and how to reach the famous mountain from Zermatt here .

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, Zermatt offers plenty of opportunities for scenic walks and hikes. The Gornergrat Bahn , for example, is a scenic railway that takes visitors on a breathtaking journey through the Swiss Alps, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

Zermatt is also home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, providing a lively atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a gourmet dining experience or a quick snack, Zermatt has something for everyone. Also, Zermatt is home to many hotels with amazing spa facilities to really relax and re-energise.

In conclusion, Zermatt is a must-visit destination during spring, offering a unique blend of outdoor activities, stunning views, a place to relax and a great atmosphere. Whether you’re someone looking to ski or snowboard or simply relax and explore the region, Zermatt is a perfect place to be.

Bern is of course the capital city of Switzerland and should definitely be on this list. It is a beautiful destination to visit during the spring season. The city is known for its well-preserved old town, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city’s medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and charming fountains come to life during the spring months. This makes it a great place to visit with your family or friends during the spring season.

One of the must-visit attractions in Bern is the Bundeshaus, the Swiss Federal Palace. The palace is a symbol of Swiss democracy and is home to the country’s parliament. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building and learn about the country’s political system.

Another popular attraction in Bern is the Bear Pit, which is home to the city’s emblematic bears. The pit is surrounded by the old town and is a great place to relax and enjoy the views.

In addition to its historic attractions, Bern is also home to a vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to numerous museums and art galleries, including the Bern Art Museum. The museum is dedicated to Swiss and international art. Also, just strolling through Bern and enjoying a coffee and the sun in one of the many cosy cafes is a great way to enjoy a day in Bern.

In conclusion, Bern is a fantastic destination for a spring vacation, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich history, admiring its beautiful architecture, or simply relaxing in one of its charming parks, Bern has something to offer everyone.

3. St Moritz

St. Moritz is a world-famous mountain resort located in the Swiss Alps and must be on this list. With its stunning views of the surrounding peaks, mild temperatures, and an array of outdoor activities, St. Moritz is the perfect place for a spring holiday.

One of the main attractions in St. Moritz is its ski slopes, which offer a range of runs for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The slopes are renowned for their quality and variety, making St. Moritz a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

In addition to skiing, St. Moritz is also home to a variety of other outdoor activities, including ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. We love to hike along the nearby lakes and the valleys, this a great way to spend a day.

The town of St. Moritz itself is known for its luxurious shopping and dining experiences. The town is home to a range of high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, providing a lively atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

In conclusion, St. Moritz is a top destination for a spring vacation, offering a unique blend of outdoor activities, stunning views, and luxurious experiences. Whether you’re a winter sports enthusiast or simply seeking a relaxing escape, St. Moritz is the perfect place to be.

4. Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen is a picturesque valley located in the Swiss Alps and is a must-visit destination during the spring season. With its 72 waterfalls, breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, and mild temperatures, Lauterbrunnen is the perfect place for a spring getaway. NIce to know, Lauterbrunnen is known as the valley of 72 waterfalls.

One of the main attractions in Lauterbrunnen is the Trümmelbach Falls, a series of waterfalls that are accessible via a network of tunnels and walkways. The falls offer a unique perspective of power and nature, this is something you have to see in person.

Another popular activity in Lauterbrunnen during spring is hiking. The valley is surrounded by stunning peaks and is home to a range of well-marked trails, offering great opportunities for scenic walks and hikes. In this blog about Lauterbrunnen you can read a lot about hikes and things to do in this village. The nearby village of Mürren is also a popular starting point for hikes and offers panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding peaks.

In addition to its natural beauty, Lauterbrunnen is also home to a vibrant cultural scene. The valley is home to a range of traditional Swiss villages, each with its own unique charm and character. Visitors can also explore the valley’s churches and chapels, which offer a glimpse into the region’s rich religious history. Just stroll through this popular village and enjoy the atmosphere or drink a coffee and enjoy the views, highly recommended.

In conclusion, Lauterbrunnen is a nice destination for a spring vacation, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities.

5. Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a charming mountain village located in the Swiss Alps and is a must-visit destination during the spring season. With its stunning views of the surrounding peaks, mild temperatures, and an array of outdoor activities, Grindelwald is the perfect place for your next holiday to Switzerland during the spring season.

One of the main attractions in Grindelwald is the First cable car, which offers panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding peaks. The cable car is a popular destination for visitors, and provides easy access to the nearby hiking trails.

Another popular activity in Grindelwald during spring is skiing. The village is home to a range of ski slopes, offering a range of runs for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The slopes are known for their quality and variety, making Grindelwald a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

In addition to its outdoor activities, Grindelwald is also home to a rich cultural scene. The village is home to a range of museums, art galleries, and cultural events, providing a lively atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. If you want to read more about what there is to do in Grindelwald, take a look at our other blog about Grindelwald.

In conclusion, Grindelwald is a nice destination for your next spring vacation. Because of the variety of things to do, from skiing to hiking or enjoying the atmosphere. A great option for your next holidays which you should definitely consider. Let’s go to the next one.

6. Lausanne

Lausanne is a beautiful city located on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland. With its mild temperatures, and stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains this is a nice place to be during your spring holidays.

One of the main attractions in Lausanne is the Olympic Museum. It is dedicated to the history of the Olympic Games and the Olympic movement. The museum is a popular destination for visitors. It offers a range of interactive exhibits and displays that provide insight into the world of sports and the Olympic Games.

Another popular activity in Lausanne during spring is exploring the city’s charming old town. The old town is home to a range of historical landmarks. Think of the Cathedral of Lausanne. It offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also explore the city’s quaint streets and alleyways, also really nice to stroll through.

In addition to its cultural experiences, Lausanne is also home to a range of outdoor activities. The city is surrounded by stunning mountains and is home to a range of well-marked trails, great for a hike. The nearby lake also offers a range of water-based activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing. If you want to read more about things to do in Lausanne, take a look at our blog here.

In conclusion, Lausanne is a top destination for a spring vacation, offering a unique blend of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and stunning views. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a relaxing escape, Lausanne is the perfect place to be.

Geneva is a big city located on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland. Thanks to its mild temperatures, and because of the location nearby the lake, its a great place. Geneva is the perfect place for your next spring holidays.

One of the main attractions in Geneva is the Jet d’Eau. This is a towering fountain located in the heart of the city. The Jet d’Eau is a popular destination for visitors, offering panoramic views of the city and the lake.

Another popular activity in Geneva during spring is exploring the city’s Old Town. The Old Town is home to a range of historical landmarks. Also includes St. Pierre Cathedral, which offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

In addition to its cultural experiences, Geneva is also home to a range of outdoor activities. The city is surrounded by stunning mountains and is home to a range of well-marked trails. We also love to take a boat ride on the lake, so nice to see another perspective of the Geneva and its surroundings. If you want to know more about Geneva, take a look at our blog here .

In conclusion, Geneva is a cool destination for a spring vacation, offering a unique blend of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and stunning views. Whether you’re into history or love to combine citylife and a lake, Geneva is the perfect place to be.

Zurich is a vibrant city located in the heart of Switzerland, great destiona all year long. although its not the capital of Switzerland, its probably one of the most popular cities of Switzerland.

One of the main attractions in Zurich is the Old Town. It is home to a range of historical landmarks and quaint streets and alleyways. The Old Town is a popular destination for visitors, offering a unique blend of history and charm.

Another popular activity in Zurich during spring is visiting the Zurich Zoo. It is home to a range of exotic animals from around the world. The zoo is a popular destination for families and animal lovers. It offers a range of educational exhibits and interactive displays.

In addition to its cultural experiences, Zurich is also home to a range of outdoor activities. The city is surrounded by stunning mountains and is home to a range of well-marked trails. Lake Zurich also offers a range of water-based activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing. Read more about things to do in Zurich here .

In conclusion, Zurich is a great place to visit, not only during spring. This place offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and stunning views.

9. Montreux

Montreux is a charming city located on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland. Just like, Geneva and Lausanne, the mild temperatures make it a great place to go during the spring season.

A popular activity in Montreux during spring is visiting the Château de Chillon, a medieval castle located on the shores of Lake Geneva. The castle is a popular destination for visitors, offering a glimpse into the history of Montreux and the surrounding region. We have made a blog about the castle, read it here .

In addition to its cultural experiences, Montreux is also home to a range of outdoor activities. The city is surrounded by stunning mountains and is home to a range of well-marked pathways and hiking trails. Also, water activities are a nice thing to do during your visit.

In conclusion, Montreux is an awesome destination for a spring vacation. The Castle is nice to visit, the lake and its old town.

Flims is a picturesque town located in the Swiss Alps and is a must-visit destination during the spring season.

One of the main attractions in Flims is its natural scenery, including the Caumasee. This lake is seriously so beautiful. So blue, with the forest surrounding it and a nice path towards the lake, so nice…Go for a swim, a picnic or just enjoy reading a book at the lake. Such a beautiful place. Read more about Lake Caumasee here .

Another popular activity in Flims during spring is skiing, with the town offering a range of ski slopes and trails for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. The town is also home to a number of ski schools and rental shops, making it easy for visitors to get started on the slopes.

In addition to skiing, Flims also offers a range of other outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding. The town is surrounded by stunning mountains and forests, offering great opportunities for scenic walks and adventures.

In conclusion, Flims is a top destination for a spring vacation. Skiing and snowboarding are all possible. Also, lake Caumasee is so beautiful. Definitely, a place you should consider visiting during your spring holidays.

11. Interlaken

Interlaken is a beautiful town located in the Swiss Alps and is a must-visit destination during the spring season. With its mild temperatures and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, this is a nice place to visit.

One of the main attractions in Interlaken is its proximity to Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. These are two stunning mountain lakes that offer a range of recreational activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing. A walk along these lakes is also very nice.

Another popular activity in Interlaken during spring is adventure sports, with the town offering a range of outdoor activities, including paragliding, hang-gliding, and canyoning.

In conclusion, Interlaken is a top destination for a spring vacation. With its nearby lakes, nice shopping possibilities and beautiful views. Definitely, a place you should consider. Read more about Interlaken in our blog.

12. Ticino region (Foriglio)

Ticino region in Switzerland is a beautiful destination to visit during spring. The warm temperatures, stunning scenery, and a variety of outdoor activities, make this such a nice place. The Foroglio area in Ticino is a particularly beautiful spot, known for its rolling hills, lush forests, and clear streams.

Visitors to Foroglio in spring can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking. The area is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, offering great opportunities for scenic walks and adventures.

One of the main attractions in Foroglio is the Lago di Vogorno, a stunning mountain lake surrounded by forests and meadows. The lake is a popular destination for visitors, offering a range of recreational activities including swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.

In conclusion, the Ticino region, and specifically the Foroglio area, is a top destination for a spring vacation. Read more about Foroglio in our blog .

13. Verbier

Verbier is a popular ski resort located in the Swiss Alps and is a great destination for a spring getaway. With its mild temperatures and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Verbier offers a range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.

Skiing is one of the main attractions in Verbier during the spring season, with the resort offering a range of ski slopes and trails for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. T

In addition to skiing, Verbier also offers a range of other outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding. Really nice activities besides skiing.

At night, Verbier comes to life with a vibrant après-ski scene, featuring a range of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

In conclusion, Verbier is a top destination for a spring vacation, offering a unique blend of stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and a lively après-ski scene. Read more about Verbier in our blog .

Chur, located in the Swiss Alps, is a charming town that’s worth a visit during the spring season. Chur is an ideal destination for a spring getaway. Also here, the temperatures are quite warm and we would say mildly.

One of the main attractions in Chur is its well-preserved Old Town, with its narrow cobbled streets and medieval architecture. The Old Town is home to several museums and cultural attractions, including the Rhaetian Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the region.

Another highlight in Chur is its scenic location, with the town surrounded by stunning mountains and forests. The nearby Churfirsten mountains offer great opportunities for hiking.

In conclusion, Chur is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway during the spring season. With its charming Old Town, stunning scenery, and range of cultural and outdoor activities, Chur is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Lugano is a charming lakeside city located in southern Switzerland and is a popular destination for a spring holiday. With its mild temperatures and stunning views of Lake Lugano and the surrounding mountains, Lugano offers a unique blend of city life and natural beauty.

One of the main attractions in Lugano is its lakeside promenade, which offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The promenade is a popular destination for visitors, offering a range of recreational activities, including strolling, picnicking, and sunbathing.

In addition to the lakeside promenade, Lugano is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and historic buildings.

In conclusion, Lugano is a nice destination for a spring getaway, offering a unique blend of city life, natural beauty, and cultural attractions. Also, this destination should definitely be on your list.

In conclusion, Switzerland is a breathtaking country with a long range of destinations to visit during the spring season. We hope this list of 15 possible holiday destinations during the spring season, will give you inspiration for your next visit. From the charming lakeside city of Lugano to the stunning mountain town of Interlaken, there’s something for everyone. We hope you will have a lovely time during your visit to Switzleran din the spring season. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below.

Maurits love affair with Switzerland started on his first visit to Switzerland and still continues today. He visits Switzerland often and enjoys writing about his discoveries and sharing his tips with fellow travellers.

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The Best Things to Experience in Switzerland in Spring

Spring in Switzerland is a time of celebration. The winter chill eases away, the days get longer and mountain passes begin to open up again. If you have your heart set on visiting at this time of year, take a look at some of the best sights and attractions in Switzerland this spring.

Caves ouvertes.

Indulge in an all-you-can-drink wine tasting at Switzerland’s caves ouvertes , the best way to get a crash course in one of the country’s lesser-known products. This annual tradition sees thousands flock to the countryside to sample winemakers’ latest wares. It’s pretty simple, you pay for a glass and then taste as much wine as you like (some wineries are more generous than others). The caves ouvertes are a great excuse to get some fresh, country air and also find a good bottle or two to take home.

Watch nature awaken in Ticino

To catch the spring blooms in all splendour, head to the Italian-speaking Canton of Ticino in southern Switzerland. With its warm temperatures and continuous days of sunshine, Ticino is not only a pleasant place to visit, but it’s also beautiful in spring. Around Lake Maggiore, azaleas, magnolias and camellias come into full bloom and make for a wonderful time to go for a trek.

Narcissus blooms

Switzerland’s narcissi blooms, best seen in the countryside near Montreux, are one of the country’s understated natural wonders. Overshadowed by the dramatic scenery of the surrounding Alps, these gentle white flowers turn green meadows into a beautiful white, and for good reason, they are known as the snow of May . Sadly, narcissi are under threat due to agricultural expansion and it is becoming harder and harder to see them bloom en masse. Learn how you can be a respectful traveller and not add to the danger that they face.

Although the hiking season doesn’t kick off in earnest until around June, there are still some great trails to be explored. You can reach areas like the Aare Gorge , one of the most beautiful spots in the entire country, and the Trummelbach Falls , which open in April. Although many trails begin to open , the weather in Switzerland is highly unpredictable, particularly around April, so be sure to check the forecast ahead of time.

Some of Switzerland’s high altitude resorts, like Zermatt and Verbier , offer almost year-round skiing. Most of the lower altitude resorts close up shop as winter comes to an end, particularly in recent years as there have been difficulties with snow surety and this is only expected to get worse. Wherever you decide to go, be sure to check ahead of time for snow cover.

Take a train ride

While summertime is still the best time to enjoy some of Switzerland’s famous train rides, spring offers up some pretty spectacular sunrises and sunsets that can be enjoyed in the comfort of a train seat. The ever-dramatic Bernina Express, which crosses 196 bridges and passes through 55 tunnels, on its way through the Bernina Pass from St. Moritz , is a definite highlight, whatever the time of year. Take a look at some of the most scenic train rides in Switzerland for more inspiration.

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The festivals

In the Geneva region, the return of spring is heralded by children wreathed in floral headdresses who sing their way through the streets following the May King and Queen. In Zurich , locals celebrate the longer days and the warmth of sunshine with a festival, known as the Sechseläuten , that culminates in the burning of a giant Böögg, or snowman. Some of the Swiss cantons enjoy a good old-fashioned Eierläset, or egg race, with super competitive participants (some representing winter and others spring) lining up to fill a basket with eggs. In short, as spring returns, there are dozens of festivals and celebrations to enjoy across Switzerland that will give you more than just a glimpse of the fascinating and perplexing Swiss culture that lies behind the ski resorts and fondue.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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SWITZERLAND IN SPRING 2024

Switzerland in spring : 7 best destinations for a season of discovery and delight.

Spring in Switzerland , from mid-March to mid-June, is a time of enchantment. It’s when sub-zero winter temperatures give way to milder weather, ideal for enjoying the outdoors. This season, filled with unique events like the May Queen Parade, transforms Switzerland into a magical destination, perfect for exploring flower fields and experiencing the Alpine beauty without the intense cold.

Spring in Switzerland

• When is spring in Switzerland? Spring typically starts in mid-March and lasts until mid-June. The temperatures during this period range from 8 to 15 °C, offering comfortable conditions for various activities.
• What unique events can I witness in Switzerland during spring? Spring in Switzerland is known for its festive events, including the captivating May Queen Parade, which celebrates the season’s arrival with vibrant displays and traditions.

1. Bern: The Heart of Swiss Heritage

• Zytglogge : Marvel at this iconic medieval clock tower with its astronomical clock, a testament to Swiss precision and history.
• Rosengarten : Enjoy panoramic views of the city amidst blooming roses and spring flowers, offering a serene escape in the heart of Bern.
• Bern Historical Museum : Discover Switzerland’s past through fascinating exhibits, showcasing everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary art.

2. Lugano: Where Swiss Tradition Meets Italian Flair

• Parco Ciani : Wander through this stunning lakeside park, famous for its vibrant spring blooms and tranquil walking paths.
• Monte Brè : Take a funicular ride up this mountain for breathtaking views of Lugano and its picturesque surroundings, a perfect spring outing.
• LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura : Immerse yourself in contemporary art and culture in this modern cultural center, reflecting the region’s artistic heritage.

3. Lauterbrunnen and Mürren: Nature's Masterpieces Unveiled

• Trümmelbach Falls : Witness the power of these glacier waterfalls inside the mountain, a unique natural spectacle in the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
• Schilthorn : Ascend to this peak for spectacular views and dine at the revolving restaurant, Piz Gloria, featured in the James Bond film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.”
• Staubbach Fall : Admire one of Europe’s highest free-falling waterfalls, especially stunning in spring with the melting snow.

4. Zürich: A Blend of Urban Energy and Natural Splendor

• Lake Zürich : Enjoy boat tours or tranquil lakeside walks with views of the snow-capped Alps, a perfect spring activity.
• Old Town (Altstadt) : Explore historic buildings, quaint shops, and vibrant cafes, where the city’s medieval history meets modern life.
• Uetliberg Mountain : Hike or take a train to the top for panoramic views of the city against the backdrop of its spring landscape.

5. Aletsch Glacier: Witnessing Nature's Grandeur

• Great Aletsch Glacier : Experience Europe’s largest glacier, accessible via scenic hiking trails, offering awe-inspiring views in the spring sunshine.
• Viewpoints at Eggishorn or Bettmerhorn : Get the best views of the glacier and surrounding peaks, a must-see for nature enthusiasts.
• Pro Natura Centre Aletsch : Learn about the region’s biodiversity and the importance of glacier conservation in the face of climate change.

6. Montreux: Springtime Elegance by the Lake

• Chillon Castle : Visit this historic water castle located on the shores of Lake Geneva, a picturesque setting enhanced by spring’s beauty.
• Montreux Jazz Festival : If visiting in late spring, don’t miss this world-famous music festival, attracting artists and audiences from around the globe.
• Lavaux Vineyards : Explore the UNESCO-listed terraced vineyards with stunning views over Lake Geneva, especially beautiful in the spring light.

7. Lucerne: A Tapestry of Culture and Scenic Beauty

• Chapel Bridge and Water Tower : Discover the history and charm of Lucerne through its most iconic landmark, dating back to the 14th century.
• Mount Pilatus : Embark on a thrilling cogwheel railway journey to this mountain, offering panoramic views that are particularly breathtaking in spring.
• Swiss Transport Museum : Dive into the history of Swiss transport, a fascinating exploration for all ages, enhanced by the pleasant spring weather.

Spring in Switzerland is an unforgettable experience, blending natural wonders with cultural treasures. Plan your journey with SwissASAP.com , and explore these destinations seamlessly with the Swiss Travel Pass . Embrace the comfort of premium panoramic trains and the comprehensive Grand Train Tour of Switzerland for a journey that captures the essence of Swiss spring.

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The best things to do in Switzerland this spring

Find out where to go and what to do this spring with our ultimate guide

Have you noticed? Those sub-zero conditions are gradually making way for warmer temperatures and there are even some sunny days appearing. Yep, spring is here and we couldn’t be happier about it, frankly.

Mainly because it signals the start of tons of good stuff happening across Switzerland, including lots more options for exploring the country’s great outdoors. Below, we’ve given you a heads-up on the very best a Swiss spring has to offer, from world-class art exhibitions to boat trips to botanical gardens and much, much more. This is how to do spring like a professional.

Around Switzerland

Uncover a new side of Zurich

Once you’ve seen Zurich’s big-draw sights, how do you get deeper into the city? How do you learn about Zurich’s achievements, its vibrant neighbourhoods and its secrets? By booking on to an insider’s guided tour, covering anything from architecture to local love stories to conceptual art. Click here  for more information and to start revealing fascinating tales from incredible places and tucked-away locations.

View six countries from one amazing place

The St Gallen-Lake Constance region is a wonderfully scenic place, but perhaps the most jaw-dropping sight of all can be found 2,502 metres up Mount Säntis, the highest mountain in the area. Take the Schwägalp-Säntis cable car to the summit and enjoy the stunning views over six countries: Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, France and Italy. And don’t forget to explore the rest of the region, too, where you can cruise around Lake Constance, lunch at a landmark restaurant (Berggasthaus Aescher-Wildkirchli) built into the side of a mountain.

Journey to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games without leaving Switzerland

• Events & Festivals

Propel yourself into the 2024 Olympic Games, whether or not you managed to get tickets, by visiting a temporary exhibition at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne. ‘Paris Olympique™: An Immersive Journey’ lets visitors put themselves in the shoes of former champions and discover how the Games have evolved over the centuries to become the world’s foremost sporting competition. This free and experiential exhibition is a chance to explore all three Parisian editions of the Olympic Games, as well as glimpse into past and present identities of the City of Light. Find out more by clicking here .

See Lugano from up high at Monte Brè

Catch the funicular railway from the lake shore at Cassarate, which trundles up to the summit of Monte Brè, Lugano’s local mountain. At the top, active types can follow hiking trails or race down some of the 30 mountain bike runs, or you can simply enjoy lunch in one of the mountaintop restaurants, perhaps explore the pretty village of Brè afterwards, a short walk down from the summit.

Ride the GoldenPass Express

Ready to take your train travel to the next level in just three hours and 15 minutes? Then step aboard the GoldenPass Express and get comfy. This stylish locomotive travels smoothly between Montreux and Interlaken, passing through some of Switzerland’s finest scenery along the way and offering passengers a unique and sleek experience. Click through to get to know this special route a little better.

Lac de Joux

The huge Lac de Joux in the Jura valley of the same name is a draw for outdoor enthusiasts at any time of year. From spring it’s a magnet for swimmers, sailors and windsurfers making the most of the warm water and favourable winds, while cyclists and hikers take to the many marked trails around the lake. 

Visit three must-see exhibitions in Basel’s museums

Thanks to nearly 40 museums housing various world-class collections, this picturesque and peaceful city is a hub for world-class art. Get to grips with the scene by visiting three unmissable exhibitions taking place in 2024. Click through below to find out more.

People-watch at the Zurich Horn

People flock to the promenade in Lake Zurich’s Seefeld district, known as the Zurich Horn, to stroll, cycle, skate or show off their street art skills. Take it all in by sitting on a bench and watching the world go by – with an ice cream, of course. 

• Industriequartier

This stretch of shops, restaurants and bars is built into the arches of the old railway viaduct that runs between the bank of the river Limmat and Hardbrücke station. It has become one of the places to be in town. During the day, visit the quirky shops (don’t miss Westflügel, a book shop with a carefully curated selection) and buy organic delicacies at the Markthalle. The bars and restaurants attract a busy crowd in the evening, and there is always an event or concert going on in one of the arches.

Botanischer Garten

Take an early morning stroll across the vast grounds or just sit and relax on a sunny afternoon. The botanical garden is rarely crowded and can deliver instant peace and happiness when you stumble upon some fine flora.

Wander the hip hangouts of Zurich West

Get your finger firmly on the pulse by exploring the alternative heart of Zurich. These days, the ‘Industriequartier’ is filled to the brim with buzzy bars, restaurants,  cafés  and shops, particularly those in the Viadukt and the cool, cute Frau Gerolds Garten.

Soak up the views from Lindenhof

Overlooking the Old Town, Limmat river and cathedral, this elevated spot is full of history, but people now come here to relax rather than ruminate on the past. It’s a great place to head for a picnic or just with a good book to while away an afternoon.

Unearth vintage treasures at Flea Market Bürkliplatz

Arguably Zurich’s best flea market, this weekly event is a paradise for those who love a good rummage. Sift through jewellery, antiques, clothes and more until you find some old-school gold.

Seebad Enge

A badi is never just about swimming, and this one offers on-site swim coaches, yoga classes, ving-tsun (a martial art), stand-up paddle-boarding and lots more besides. 

Carouge market

• Markets and fairs

There’s never a bad time to hang out in Carouge, Geneva’s Italianate district created by a bunch of architects from Turin in the 18th century as an independent town. Its shuttered townhouses are attractive, it’s packed with great restaurants and nightlife and the area’s numerous independent shops and artisanal workshops mean the shopping is way more interesting than in the centre of town. On Wednesdays and Saturdays Carouge gets a further boost with the arrival of the market on the lovely Place du Marché. Take a big bag and fill it with fruit and veg, cheese, honey, fresh bread, flowers, wine and locally made treats.

See Lake Geneva from a paddle steamer

Hop on a ferry and explore the towns that sit on the vast shore of this ever-endearing lake, including Montreux, the medieval French village of Yvoire and famous spa town Évian-les-Bains.

Relax and get cultured at Bains des Pâquis

It doesn’t have to be summer to take advantage of this public swimming bath, as there’s a sauna, Turkish bath, hammam and massage service to enjoy year-round, plus all manner of cultural happenings.

Browse the bargains at Plainpalais flea market

• Plainpalais

This long-running oasis of bric-a-brac appears every Wednesday and Saturday, and the first Sunday of the month, offering punters the chance to sift through everything from books to clothes to vinyl, in hope of finding a gem.

Lounge around in Parc des Bastions

• Old Town (Vieille Ville)

This leafy idyll in the heart of Geneva is perfect for a lazy sit in the sun or to spectate on people playing chess and go on giant boards. Reward your strenuous efforts with a coffee at the old bandstand-turned-café. 

Hermitage park

• Attractions
• Parks and gardens

Sandwiched between the medieval Cité and the Sauvabelin forest, this well-tended park blooms in spring and summer, making it a beautiful spot for lounging around with a book, picnicking or kicking a ball with the kids. At its centre is the Hermitage Foundation, which sits on a plateau with a lovely view over the lake and mountains beyond. When snow hits town the slope below the Hermitage is a great place to take the kids for a spot of gentle tobogganing.

Fill your belly at Lausanne Market

• Ville Marché

You can find all sorts at Lausanne’s twice-weekly market, but the foodie side is really where it’s at, whether you’re after fresh fruit and veg, cheese, charcuterie, local booze or premium snacks like empanadas and macaroons.

Get back to nature at Musée et Jardins Botaniques Cantonaux

Explore this garden's 6,000 plants spread over terraces and in hothouses, with a splendid view from the top. Once you’re at the peak, find your own spot of greenery and gaze out at the mountains to feel at one with the world.

Appreciate the alternative at Collection de l’art Brut

• Art and design

This fascinating museum showcases Jean Dubuffet’s collection, created by untrained artists on the fringes of society. The work here is offbeat, imaginative and thoroughly eye-opening.

Lounge around in Ouchy

Warmer weather means it’s time to head back to Ouchy, Lausanne’s lakefront district. The best tactic is to go there with absolutely zero plans and just see what’s going on. Grab an ice cream and go for a stroll, café-hop to your heart’s content or just sit outside a bar and watch the world go by.

Splash some shopping cash

If you feel the need for some serious retail therapy, Lausanne’s hip boutiques, gift shops and quirky independent stores will set you right. Start off at shopping hub Place St François and just start wandering.

Shop in style through Bern’s Old Town

Bern’s Old Town isn’t just a feast for the eyes – it’s also full of endearing, classy stores, such as über-cool stationery shops, ludicrously beautiful flower boutiques and a packaging-free concept store.

Find some fine flora in the Rose Garden

No matter how many times you’ve been, Bern’s Rose Garden is still a winner. Home to over 220 rose varieties, it also offers a splendid water lily pond and grand views of the River Aare and Old Town.

Get giddy at Bern Cathedral

Even if you’re a local and you’ve done it before, visiting the gothic wonder that is Bern Cathedral is always a lovely distraction, offering amazing architecture and incredible views across the city – as long as you have a good head for heights. 

Clearer spring days mean it’s the perfect time to soak up jaw-dropping views from this mountain, just a short hop from Bern city centre. There’s a funicular if you don’t feel like the walk, plus restaurants at the top and a viewing tower to really make the most of those views.

Eco-sail over the Rhine

One of the best ways to experience the free-flowing heart and soul of Basel is in an environmentally friendly boat. Powered by the river current, these vessels ferry passengers along the Rhine from four different locations, all without noise or pollution. 

Browse Kleinbasel’s boutiques and galleries

• Altstadt Kleinbasel (central Kleinbasel)

On the other side of the Rhine to Basel old town, Kleinbasel is bubbling with small independent businesses, including art galleries, eateries and boutiques that knock the socks off the city’s tourist traps. Great for shopping or a culture fix, and as a great bonus, the south-facing riverbank also enjoys a serious amount of sun. 

Sightseeing in the Old Town

• Walks and tours

Get to grips with Basel’s extensive and very well-preserved historic heritage by leisurely strolling through the Old Town without too much of a plan. But make sure you factor-in the Mittlere Brücke, which also allows you to appreciate the beauty of Basel on the river.

E-bike hire

Switzerland's popular e-bikes or pedelecs have a bit of extra va-va-voom. These electrically-assisted bikes can be rented at the rail station and are a nippy way to get around town or explore more of Basel and the surrounding region’s lush countryside, including the historic town of Liestal. 

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Travel in Switzerland

10 Things to Do in Switzerland in Spring

Introduction.

Switzerland, known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities, is a must-visit destination in spring. As the snow begins to melt and the flowers bloom, this picturesque country comes alive with an array of exciting activities and events. In this article, we’ll share 10 incredible things to do in Switzerland during the spring season. Get ready to explore stunning natural wonders, attend world-famous festivals, and immerse yourself in Swiss culture.

Visit the Rhine Falls

Best time for viewing.

The Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall, is a spectacular sight to behold, particularly in spring. The snowmelt from the Swiss Alps feeds the falls, making them even more impressive during this time. Visit during April and May for the best views and don’t forget to take a boat tour to get up close and personal with this natural wonder.

Explore the Charming City of Lucerne

Chapel bridge and water tower.

Lucerne is a picturesque city nestled beside Lake Lucerne, surrounded by the Swiss Alps. Start your exploration with a walk across the iconic Chapel Bridge, a 14th-century wooden bridge adorned with beautiful paintings. The adjacent Water Tower, once a prison and torture chamber, is another must-see.

Wander through Lucerne’s Old Town, with its well-preserved medieval buildings, colorful facades, and narrow, cobblestone streets. Be sure to visit the Lion Monument, a moving tribute to Swiss soldiers who died during the French Revolution.

Enjoy the Zurich Spring Festival

Zurich’s annual spring festival, known as Sechseläuten, is a vibrant celebration that marks the end of winter. With a colorful parade, lively music, and the symbolic burning of the Böögg, a snowman effigy, it’s an event not to be missed. Sechseläuten typically takes place in April, so plan your visit accordingly.

Hiking in the Swiss Alps

Hiking Trails

Spring is the perfect time to explore the Swiss Alps on foot, with a plethora of hiking trails to suit all skill levels. Popular options include the Five Lakes Walk in Zermatt, which offers stunning views of the Matterhorn, and the Panorama Trail in Grindelwald, which provides breathtaking vistas of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.

Nestled amidst the Swiss Alps, the stunning Oeschinen Lake (Oeschinensee) is a true gem for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. Surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks and lush alpine meadows, this glacial lake boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters that offer an incredible backdrop for a day of exploration. Accessible via a scenic gondola ride from the town of Kandersteg, followed by a short hike, Oeschinen Lake provides a variety of well-marked trails for all skill levels. From leisurely lakeside strolls to more challenging treks leading to panoramic viewpoints, Oeschinensee promises an unforgettable hiking experience in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

Tips for Hiking

Before embarking on a hike, ensure you have appropriate footwear, clothing, and equipment, as well as plenty of water and snacks. Always check the weather forecast and trail conditions, and inform someone of your intended route and expected return time. Keep in mind that some trails may still have snow or be closed due to avalanche risks in early spring.

Cruise on Lake Geneva

A cruise on Lake Geneva is a relaxing way to soak in the beauty of the Swiss landscape. With the snow-capped Alps as a backdrop, you’ll pass by charming lakeside towns and picturesque vineyards. Many cruises offer gourmet dining experiences, allowing you to savor delicious Swiss cuisine while taking in the stunning scenery.

Discover the Bernese Oberland

Interlaken, a charming town nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, is the gateway to the Bernese Oberland. Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Swiss Alps, Interlaken offers a variety of outdoor activities, from paragliding and zip-lining to scenic train rides and leisurely lakeside strolls.

Grindelwald

The picturesque village of Grindelwald, located at the foot of the Eiger North Face, is another must-visit destination in the Bernese Oberland. Take a cable car up to the Grindelwald-First area for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, or enjoy a thrilling ride on the First Cliff Walk suspension bridge.

Tour the Swiss Chocolate Factories

Switzerland is renowned for its delicious chocolate, and spring is the perfect time to indulge your sweet tooth with a visit to a Swiss chocolate factory. Many factories, such as Maison Cailler in Broc and Lindt’s Swiss Chocolate Experience in Kilchberg, offer guided tours and tastings. Learn about the history of Swiss chocolate and the art of chocolate making while sampling some of the finest confections in the world.

Attend the Basel Tattoo

The Basel Tattoo, held in July, is a world-famous military music festival that attracts top-notch performers from around the globe. The event takes place in the historic city of Basel and features a spectacular show of music, precision marching, and impressive choreography. Secure your tickets early, as the Basel Tattoo is a popular event that often sells out.

Visit the Montreux Jazz Festival

Held annually in July, the Montreux Jazz Festival is one of the most prestigious music festivals in the world. Set on the shores of Lake Geneva, this two-week event showcases a diverse lineup of international artists, from jazz legends to emerging talents. Don’t miss the chance to experience live music in a stunning setting.

Explore the Swiss National Park

Established in 1914, the Swiss National Park is the oldest national park in the Alps. With over 170 square kilometers of pristine wilderness, the park is home to an abundance of flora and fauna, including ibex, chamois, and marmots. Spring is an ideal time to explore the park’s numerous hiking trails, as the wildflowers begin to bloom and wildlife becomes more active.

Switzerland in spring offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences, from exploring its charming cities and majestic mountains to attending world-class festivals and indulging in delectable Swiss chocolate. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or a nature lover, there’s something for everyone in this enchanting country during the spring season.

• What is the weather like in Switzerland in spring? The weather in Switzerland during spring can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from chilly to mild. Expect some rain, and be prepared for snow at higher elevations. Layered clothing is recommended to accommodate varying conditions.
• When is the best time to visit Switzerland for spring flowers? The best time to see spring flowers in Switzerland is from late April to early June, depending on the altitude and region. Lower elevations will see blooms earlier, while higher elevations may experience a later bloom.
• Is it possible to ski in Switzerland during spring? Yes, skiing is possible in some Swiss ski resorts during spring, especially at higher altitudes. However, the ski season typically begins to wind down in April, so check resort-specific conditions before planning your trip.
• What type of clothing should I pack for a spring trip to Switzerland? Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket, warm sweaters, and comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen, as the sun can be quite strong at higher altitudes.
• Do I need to speak German, French, or Italian to enjoy a trip to Switzerland? While Switzerland has four official languages (German, French, Italian, and Romansh), English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. However, learning a few basic phrases in the local language can enhance your experience and is always appreciated by locals.

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Home » Trip Planning » Spring

25 Best Spring Hikes in Switzerland

• Last Updated: 12 Apr 2023
• By Tanya, Founder of Swiss Family Fun

If you buy something through a link here, we may earn a commission. See our disclosure policy . Note that p rices and opening times may change without notice.

Spring can be a beautiful time to hike in Switzerland. But since many mountain resorts and trails aren’t open until mid June, you’ll need choose your trails carefully. But don’t worry! We’ve done the research for you.

Here are my top suggestions for hiking in Switzerland in spring, from April to June.

What to expect when hiking in spring

1. the swiss path, 2. lake lucerne waldstätterweg, 3. zug cherry blossom trail, 4. zug alpine panorama trail, 5. hochstuckli engelstock loop trail, 6. stäuben falls, 7. fürenalp engelberg, 8. grosser mythen, 9. walensee & seerenbach waterfalls, 10. chli aubrig, 11. näfels obersee, 13. ebenalp wildkirchli, 14. rhine gorge (aka “swiss grand canyon”), 15. lauterbrunnen valley, 16. oeschinensee lake, 17. giessbach falls, 18. les pleiades narcissus flower hike, 19. lavaux vineyard terraces, 20. creux du van, 21. areuse gorge, 22. weissenstein, 23. valle verzasca, 23. monte generoso, 24. san salvatore to morcote, 25. füri to zermatt, don’t go here in spring.

Most trails listed here should be in good condition in May. But you may encounter paths that have suffered some damage during winter (e.g. landslides, broken fences, mud bogs), since regular trail maintenance often doesn’t happen until prime hiking season starts in June.

Also, it usually rains a lot in spring and conditions can change quickly. So always check the forecast and current trail conditions before heading out and have a back up plan.

Spring hikes near Lucerne

The Lucerne area is a great choice for spring as there are many lower elevation areas to explore. See also our Lucerne in Spring guide .

Best starting in mid April

The Swiss Path is a long distance trail, circling around the southern half of Lake Lucerne. It is divided into six sections, accessible by public transportation, so you can easily adjust how long you want to hike. We have hiked all the sections and our favorite is from Sisikon to Brunnen , as shown in the picture below.

Since it stays at lower elevations near the lakeshore, it is usually warmer and free of snow in early spring. Also the trail is accessible by train, bus and boat, which run year round. We typically hike this trail at the end of April, when the alpine meadows start to fill with wildflowers. But it’s  a little prettier around mid May when the trees are all green.

Learn more about the Swiss Path .

Best starting in May

Like mirror of the Swiss Path, this long distance trail circles around the northern half of Lake Lucerne. We like Stage 7 from Beckenried to Treib, which visits two big waterfalls near the start of the trail.

It has a steep climb through a forest, then a gentle descent through alpine meadows with big views to the lake and mountains. At the end of the trail, you can ride the ferry back to your starting point, a fun extra to an already lovely day.

You could do this trail anytime if there is no snow. But we think this hike is prettiest starting mid May. The ferry runs year round, but the spring schedule that has more frequent connections starts in mid April.

Hike: moderate • 3.5 h • 10.5 k • 410m up, 370m down

Location: Beckenried – 2o mins by car from Lucerne,

Learn more about the Lake Lucerne Waldstätterweg

Best around mid to late April

This trail hikes in the hills above the Zugersee lake, where you can find many cherry trees blossoming in mid to late April. It’s about a three hour walk, starting at the lake, wandering through small villages. Then it heads up the hills, often in the forest with occasional views across the lake to Mt Rigi.

The trees are usually blossoming in the second half of April. You can check the bloom status buy contacting the Zug flower hotline: 041 723 68 00 or [email protected]  

Hike: moderate • 3 h • 8 k • 240m up, 225m down

Location: Near Zug. Start at Zug Fridbach train station , end at Walchwil Bahnhof

Learn more about the Zug Cherry Blossom Trail

Best starting late April

This trail wanders through the countryside near Zug, passing through farms and fields filled with dandelions. It’s a long trail, but not difficult, with only one short uphill climb.

This trail also has lots of cherry trees, which blossom around the end of April. We did this trail in mid May, missing the peak bloom, but the weather was sunny and warm and plenty of other flowers along the way. 

Hike: Easy • 3.5 h • 11.6 k • 200m up, 500m down

Location: start in Unterägeri and end in Zug

Learn more about Zug Alpine Panorama Trail

Opening 22 April 2023

This family mountain is one of the first to open in spring because of its low elevation. A gondola takes you up to 1200m, where you find lovely views, restaurants and a family amusement center with bouncy castles, trampolines, summer toboggan, suspension bridge and more.

The Engelstock LOOP trail hikes around the mountain, with panorama views of many mountains and lakes. The dirt path is suitable for strollers and has activities for kids with a goat theme.

Hike: Moderate • 2 h • 5.7 k • 140m up, 130m down

Location: Sattel Hochstuckli gondola , about 45 mins by car from Lucerne or Zurich

Learn more about Sattel Engelstock Panorama Loop

Best starting mid May

You can reach these impressive waterfalls with an easy one hour walk on a service road along the river. If the snow has melted (or you have snowshoes), you may be able to visit the falls in late March or early April. But we think it’s prettiest starting in mid May when the flowers are blooming and trees green.

Once spring hits, the walk itself is very lovely, with lots of green meadows that fill with wildflowers. Near the falls, there is a picnic area and the Gasthöfli Aesch restaurant , though they typically don’t open until June.

Starting in late May, you can take an alternate route, riding a cable car up the mountain and hiking around the alps above the falls before reaching this viewpoint. This narrow dirt trail is best for those with hiking experience and a good fitness level.

Hike: easy • 2 hours round trip • 6 km there and back • 200m up & down

Location: Unterschächen , about 50 mins by car from Lucerne

See details for  Stäuben falls .

Opening 6 May 2023

The Engelberg valley west of Lucerne is classic Switzerland, exactly how you imagined Switzerland would look like, speckled with mountain huts on green hills, surrounded by towering peaks. The Fürenalp hike here (1800m), which usually opens in May, is one of the nicest (and most affordable) spring hikes we’ve done. It has big views and a roaring waterfall and river in the middle of the hike.

If you want even bigger views, you can combine this with a ride up to Mount Titlis, where you can stand on the glacier and soak in 360 views from one of the highest peaks in the region. The cable cars to Titlis run year round, with a short maintenance break in November.

Get more details about the Fürenalp hike and Mount Titlis

Starting early May

This tall peak is a defining feature of the Mythen Region. Starting the middle of May, you can ride a cable car to the base of the peak. From there, it’s a little over an hour of steep rocky switchbacks to the top, gaining about 400m elevation over 2 km.

At the top, you can get warm drinks and snacks at the hut to enjoy while you take in the panorama views. It’s a demanding trail, best for those with hiking experience and a head for heights.

If snow melts early, you can do this trail without the cable car, either by hiking across from the Ibergeregg pass or from Brunni Alpthal (the valley cable car station). I did this once for a sunrise hike before the cable car opened for the day. But first check the status of the trail to make sure it’s open and free of ice.

Hike: challenging • 2 h round trip • 3.8 km up and back • 410m up & down

Location: Brunni-Holzegg cable car – Brunnistrasse 14, 8849 Alpthal

Learn more about Grosser Mythen hike

Spring hikes near Zurich

Zurich has dozens of low elevation hikes that are great for spring. So I’ve only chosen a few favorites for this list. See also Easy Nature Walks near Zurich and Zurich Walks for April

Best starting mid April

One of my favorite spring traditions is hiking to the Seerenbach Falls near the gorgeous Walensee lake. You can start your day with a short ferry ride to reach the trail. Then walk on a private road past a few farms, greeting cows and goats along the way. Near the cliffs, a dirt foot path leads into the forest and up to a viewpoint close to the falls.

There are a couple picnic areas with fire pits and a restaurant near the start of the trail. If you want to hike longer, you can follow the trail past the waterfalls and traverse the mountain couple hours , ending at the tiny lakeside village Quinten and catch the ferry there instead.

Hike to falls: easy • 1h30 round trip • 3.5 k there & back • 110m up & down 

Location: Weesen boat dock – from Zurich, 45 mins by car, 1 hour by train/bus

Learn more about the Walensee hike

Because of the relative low elevation at 1642m, you can usually hike to this peak starting in May. No gondola required either. You just drive to the mountain pass where the trail starts.

The trail starts on a service road for dairy farmers, through alpine pastures bursting with wildflowers. Then a narrow dirt path up the mountain and steep scramble to the peak, where you can enjoy panorama views across the Einsiedeln region. After visiting the peak, the trail loops below the peak through some marshy fields that can be flooded right after rain.

Trail:  Moderate • 3 h • 9.5 k • 400m up/down

Location: Sattelegg – from Zurich, 45 mins by car, not possible by public transport

See details for  Chli Aubrig Hike

As spring arrives in the mountains in late May, this area turns bright green, absolutely gorgeous with the mountain peak reflecting in the water. There is an easy path around the lake, with a few nice picnic spots where you can build a fire and linger to enjoy the view.

You can drive directly to this small alpine lake, no gondola required. However, the narrow one lane road could be impassable or dangerous if there is recent snow. 

Hike: Easy • 1 h • 2.7 k loop • 20m up & down

Location: Näfels Glarnerland – from Zurich, 50 mins by car

Get the details for  Näfels Obersee

Chair lift opens 29 April 2023

Amden is a small mountain area south of Zurich where the snow melts earlier than other mountains because of the low elevation and excellent sun exposure. The Höhenweg is a lovely loop that wanders through alpine meadows, moor and rocky forest with beautiful mountain views.

The chair lift that services the trail usually opens at the end of April. But if there’s no snow before that, you can just hike down the mountain without the lift, adding about 2 km and 380m of elevation.

Hike: Moderate • 2.5 h • 8.5 k • 280m up, 290m down

Location: Amden – from Zurich, 50 mins by car and 1h15 by train

Learn more about Amden Höhenweg

Scheduled to open 1 May 2023 

Starting in May, the Ebenalp cable car opens for summer season, enabling you to easily access the famous cliff restaurant, Berggasthaus Aescher. From the top of the cable car, it’s a short walk down through a cave and around the mountain on a wooden walkway built into the cliffs.

The other mountain hikes in this area usually aren’t ready until June due to snow. Check the Ebenalp website for trail status and restaurant opening times.

Hike to cliff restaurant: moderate • 1 h round trip • 1.4 km there and back • 120m up & down

Location: Wasserauen , Appenzell Region • from Zurich, 

Get the details for the Ebenalp Wildkirchli hike

The Rhine Gorge is a section of the Rhine river in central Switzerland, where the water has created a unique craggy rock formations in the limestone walls. It has been affectionately nicknamed the Swiss Grand Canyon . Since this area is low elevation and doesn’t require gondolas, it’s a good choice to visit in spring.

There are many ways to enjoy the charms of this area. Our favorite is to ride the vintage open-air train up the gorge, admiring the dramatic gorge walls on the way. Then walk back along the riverbanks, about three hours, then catch the train back to your starting point. Since the trail parallels the train route, you can walk as little as one hour or as long as 27 km. 

Learn more about the Rhine Gorge river walk

Another popular choice is starting in Flims and hiking out to the gorge lookout tower at Conn. Next to the tower, there’s a picnic area and nice restaurant ( reservations recommended !). The path is easy walking through the forest, on a wide path suitable for strollers. Along the way, you’ll pass the beautiful Caumasee lake, worth a short detour for some pictures before they start charging in late May (26 May 2023). 

After enjoying the view, you can hike back the way you came or hike down the canyon to the river and catch a train back back to your starting point. 

Learn more about Hike to Rhine Gorge lookout tower  

Jungfrau Region & Bernese Oberland

Most popular summer trails in the Jungfrau Region and Bernese Oberland won’t be open until mid June or later, depending on when the snow melts. So even if the mountain railways are running in spring (like Grindelwald First or Schynige Platte), the trails probably won’t be open ( check trail status ). 

If you want to hike here in spring, here are a few lower elevation options. See more spring ideas for Bernese Oberland .

Open year round

A walk down the Lauterbrunnen valley is a good choice any time of year. It’s particularly nice in spring when the many waterfalls falling down the cliff walls will be in their prime. The full path is about 2 hours from Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg, where you can take a bus back to your starting point. But you can walk less, just wandering out and back as far as you like.

Right as you start the path, you’ll see the big Staubbach falls and I suggest a short detour on the path that leads close to the water and to a lookout behind the falls. I also suggest combining this walk with a visit to the Trummelbach Falls , a tourist attraction that opens in early April. 

Get details for the  Lauterbrunnen valley walk

Summer season starts 14 May 2023

This gorgeous lake is one of the first mountain lakes you can visit in spring, with the gondola and other services usually opening in early May. From the top of the gondola, it’s an easy walk about 40 mins to reach the lakeshore. This is a wonderful place to enjoy a lakeside picnic, admiring the impressive mountain peaks above.

One advantage of visiting the Oeschinensee in spring is that the waterfalls are much bigger. In May and June, there is usually a huge waterfall right next to the lakeshore. But by June, that waterfall often dries up and disappears altogether.

Note that the Panorama Trail above the lake usually isn’t free of snow until early June, so don’t plan to do that ( check trail status ). If you want to visit before the cable car opens for summer season, you can hike up from the Kandersteg village, about 1hr.

Hike: easy • 1.5 h round trip • 4 k • 110m up & down

Location: Kandersteg – from Interlaken, 40 mins by car and 1h30 by train

Get details for Lake Oeschinen

Open starting 7 April 2023

The lovely Giessbach falls are a popular spring outing, when the water volume is at its highest. You can reach the main falls by riding a ferry to the base of the falls, then a vintage funicular up to the hotel/restaurant.

For a short hike, you can follow the narrow footpath up along the upper falls. It leads to a walkway underneath the roaring water and nice view down to the lake far below. Instead of taking the funicular back down to the lake, you can walk down a paved path where you can enjoy a few views of the lower falls.

The ferry, funicular and restaurant all open for summer season at the beginning of April. But the ferry doesn’t run every day until mid-May. So check the schedule carefully before heading out.

If you want a longer hike, you might like the Brienzersee Drei Wasserfälleweg (aka “Three Waterfall Trail”). It along the southern shores of Lake Brienz. The full trail is about 18 km from Bonigen to Brienz, with stops in the pretty village Iseltwald and the Giessbach Falls. See trail maps for Stage 1 and Stage 2 of this trail. 

Hike up falls: moderate • 1 hour • 2.1 km up and back • 220m up & down

Location: boat from either Brienz or Interlaken to Giessbach (See)

See details for Giessbach falls

Montreux & Lake Geneva region

Flowers bloom in late May/early June

In early June, the hills near Montreux and Lausanne are full of narcissus flowers. The easiest places to see them in the easy hike at Les Pleiades, shown below. Even if the flowers aren’t in full bloom, this area is a lovely area for walking in spring.

Hike: Easy • 2 h • 5.45 k • 200m up & down

Location: Les Pleiades – from Montreux, 25 mins by car and 1 hr by train

See details for Les Pleiades hike

Possible year round, best starting in May

The Lavaux terraces along the shores of Lake Geneva are a beautiful place to hike in spring. The contrast of the green grape vines against the bright blue lake makes for fantastic photos.

There are several trails crisscrossing through the vineyards, connecting the villages and wineries that speckle the hillsides. We suggest the trail from St Saphorin to Cully (about 2 hours) or a bit farther to Lutry (about another 90 mins). In both villages, there are restaurants and lovely promenades along the lakeshore. 

On weekends, some vendors have stands where you can taste and purchase local wines. I suggest combining this with a lake cruise and visit to Chillon Castle back in Montreux. 

Hike: moderate • 4 h • 12 k • 230m up, 240m down (can shorten)

Location: start in St Saphorin , 30 mins drive west of Montreux

See details for Lavaux terrace hike  

Northwest Switzerland (Jura, Solothurn)

Creux du Van is a natural amphitheater located in the Jura Mountains in western Switzerland. The semi-circular cliff face rises over 160 meters above the surrounding landscape, and it stretches for more than a kilometer.

You can visit this area year round by driving close to the cliffs and doing a short walk through farm fields to reach the viewpoint. Then you can walk along the cliff arena, behind a stone wall for safety.

If you are coming by public transportation, you must hike up the mountain to reach the cliff viewpoint. Since that could be dangerous with snow or ice, we don’t recommend doing that trail until around late April.

Hike along cliffs: Easy • 1 h • 4 k • 90m up, 70m down

Location: Val-de-Travers , west of Neuchâtel

Get the details for Creux du Van  

Best starting in late April

This hike follows a river through forests and meadows, with a few narrow gorge sections with cliff wall rising up on both sides. It’s a bit long, but easy walking mostly downhill. One highlight is this classic bridge where everyone takes a photo. 

You can hike this trail any time of year. But it will be prettiest in spring when the trees have filled in, around early May.

Hike: Easy • 11.5 k • 120m up, 350m down

See details for Areuse Gorge  

Open mid April, best starting in May

This mountain north of Bern is a good choice for spring because of its relatively low elevation at 1280m. The cable car runs year round, usually with a short maintenance break at the beginning of April. And even if the cable car isn’t running, you can drive to the top of the mountain and park near the trailhead.

The trail visits to two viewpoints, peering cliffs down to Swiss farmland dotted with yellow fields. If there’s no snow, you can start hiking here in April, but we find it best in late May when the trees have turned green again. 

Hike: Moderate • 2h40 • 7 k • 210m up, 430m down

Location: near Solothurn north of Bern –   Weissensteinstrasse 187, 4515 Oberdorf

See details for Weissenstein hike .

Spring comes earlier to Ticino, the southern part of Switzerland south of the alps, so it can be warmer and greener at this time of year. These are our top picks in Ticino for spring. See more Ticino hikes .

This river is famous for its arched stone bridge and summer swimming area with crystal clear water. Before the hot weather arrives, we love the long trail along the river, starting far up the valley in the tiny village Sonogno.

The trail winds through forests and lush fields and past clusters of charming “Rustico” stone houses. The full trail takes about four hours, but since it parallels the bus route, you can easily shorten it down to about 90 mins. The last part of the trail has activities for kids, with elaborate marble runs built into the landscape.

Hike: easy • 4h • 14 k • 10m up, 390m down (can easily shorten)

Location: Lavertezzo , near Locarno

Get the details for the Valle Verzasca river hike

Opens for summer season 25 March 2023

This mountain sits at the southwest end of Lake Lugano, so you can start your day by riding ferry boat to the base of the mountain. A cogwheel mountain train takes you to 1704m, where you can enjoy fantastic views of both Swiss and Italian alps.

Near the station, there is a panorama terrace along the cliffs and a restaurant. There is a short 1 km loop that goes up to the Monte Generoso peak and viewpoint. Or for a longer hike, there is a lovely 8 km loop that starts along the mountain ridge and dips down into the forest before looping back through alpine meadows to your starting point. 

Hike:  Moderate • 3 h • 8 k • 390 up/down

Location: 25 mins by car, 15 mins by train

See details for  Monte Generoso hike

Best starting in April

The San Salvatore peak is just south of Lugano, almost part of the city. To get to the top, you can ride a vintage funicular or hike up if you want some fitness. From the panorama terrace, you can enjoy spectacular views across Lake Lugano.

San Salvatore is the starting point for a popular hike to Morcote, considered by some the most beautiful village in Switzerland. The trail follows the ridge shown in the above photo, visiting a few villages before arriving at Morcote at the southern end of this range.

Location: San Salvatore funicular – Via delle Scuole 7, 6900 Paradiso

Hike: moderate • 3h • 9.2 km • 190m up, 750m down ( see trail map )

Learn more about San Salvatore

If you want to hike, Zermatt is not the best choice in spring. Since Zermatt is at a high elevation (the village is at 1620m), the snow stays longer and summer hiking season doesn’t really start until late June/early July.

You can always visit the beautiful viewpoints at Gornergrat and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise . But the mountain hiking trails will definitely be closed.

If you must visit Zermatt in May or June, I would suggest the hike from the Füri cable car station down to Zermatt, assuming that is free from snow. From your starting point at Füri, you have very nice views of the Matterhorn.

On your walk down, you have beautiful views of the Zermatt village as shown below. If you visit Zermatt in April, the hiking trails will probably be under snow and you should do a winter hike instead .

See Füri trail and more Zermatt spring hikes .

Some parts of Switzerland are at such high elevations, that spring comes late and you will have a hard time finding things to do there. Don’t misunderstand: we love these areas in summer! But in spring, you will probably enjoy your time more in the parts of Switzerland mentioned above.

St. Moritz in the Engadin valley is very high at 1856m, as high as mountain tops in other regions. We’ve been skiing in this region as late as mid-May! If you do go to this area in spring, probably best to do walks in the valley, along the lakes, maybe rent bikes and do a long valley ride.

Davos, Lenzerheide, Arosa – These areas are also higher elevations (valley stations around 1400 to 1600m) and don’t open for hiking until June. On holiday weekends in May, the cable cars will take you to the top for pretty views and a meal but don’t expect to hike.

See also mountain peaks you can visit year round

• TAGS: Spring Hiking , Top 10 Lists for Switzerland

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9 Responses

Hi, Thanks so much for all the information you have put up on the web and all your hikes on YouTube etc, they have been very helpful and beautiful to watch! I have been looking at this post Top (10 Spring Hikes in Switzerland 17 Mar 2018) and would love to know where the photo was taken that is right up the very top, above the title of this article. I am planning a holiday as soon as the COVID situation allows and would love to visit this spot. Thanks. Kind regards, Virginia

That photo is from the Fürenalp hike. https://swissfamilyfun.com/furenalp-hike/ I think that was near the end of April when I took that pic. I hope you enjoy it!

Hi, thanks for the article. I would like to go camping for one weekend in this month. It’s gonna be the first time we will do it with some friends. We don’t have too much experience hiking and doing this, so I would prefer a medium/easy hiking and then to camp for just a night. What places do you suggest? I would really appreciate your answer.

I suppose you mean wild camping? It’s not super popular in Switzerland, but in general, you are allowed to bivouack above the treeline in many areas unless specifically forbidden (check the local regulations). You can’t do it in nature reserves. You can do it on private land with permission, which is somewhat common and we’ve done that a few times. You ask the farmer that works that land or at the nearby hut. There’s this document provided by SAC (Swiss Alpine Club) that explains the guidelines: https://www.ticino.ch/dam/jcr:65ec8a47-1717-4db5-ae56-6012f22fc663 I don’t have a particular area to suggest at the moment, that would take some time to research. Good luck!

Thank you so much for such a great article. I’m finding it challenging to find information on hiking outside of the main season so this was super helpful. I am coming to Switzerland (from Australia) in early June and reading this has just increased my excitement for the experience!

Yay, so happy you found this post helpful! Wishing you the best on your upcoming trip.

Thank you so much for scribbling the road map for hiking in Switzerland. I really liked the way you explained each hiking trail in your blog. I am a professional hiker and climber, I really liked your article.

Thank you. Being a professional hiker sounds dreamy!

Thank you for a great blog! We will be visiting Switzerland four weeks in June with our two year old. We love nature and hiking! We are planning to stay nine nights at each of the following destinations; Ticino, Luzern (area) and BO/Grindelwald. Would you be able to recommend the best place to base ourselves in Central Switzerland/Luzern for hiking and great views? Maybe Engelberg? Other places that are more off the beaten track?

We are also doing two more weeks in the start of September, planning to visit Engadine and Zermatt. Hopefully we have covered much of the best sights in the country by then 🙂

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

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Together In Switzerland

All Things Swiss

Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in Spring

Zoe | General

Spring is a magical time to visit Switzerland, when the snow starts to melt, flowers begin to bloom, and the country comes alive with fresh energy. Switzerland is a popular country to visit, with each destination, home to some of the most beautiful and picturesque spots in the world, and there are many amazing places to visit during springtime. So we’ve been inspired to make a post about the Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in Spring!

From the stunning lakes and mountains to charming cities and quaint villages, Switzerland offers a diverse range of experiences for travellers based on also your personal travel preferences. The spring season brings mild temperatures and not as many tourists, making it an ideal time to explore the country’s natural beauty and cultural treasures like a local.

Best Places to Visit in Switzerland During Spring

Here are a collection of 9 great submissions from other travellers about their best places to visit in Switzerland during Spring:

Lauterbrunnen

Canton: Bern

Lauterbrunnen is easily one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been. This quaint village in Switzerland, surrounded by rugged snow-dusted mountains and waterfalls cascading off cliff faces, feels like a postcard come to life.

Spring is a great time to visit as the sun is often shining and the breath-taking valley fills with spring blooms. It’s the ideal season to do the  Lauterbrunnen waterfall hike , as all the paths are open and the weather isn’t too cold. I’d highly recommend visiting Trummelbach Falls- it is Europe’s largest subterranean waterfall and a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

Another activity I’d highly recommend trying in Lauterbrunnen during spring is paragliding. There really is no better way to soak in the stunning alpine scenery than by floating through the sky. The weather in spring tends to be fairly stable, so you’ll have a good chance of favourable weather conditions!

Last time I visited in Spring I stayed at the Valley Hostel, which was cheap, centrally located and well-equipped with everything we needed for a comfortable stay. If you are looking for more luxurious accommodation, I’d recommend the Hotel Silberhorn, which offers panoramic views over the valley.

By Nicola from Polkadot Passport

Nearby Tours

Airplane Skydiving over the Swiss Alps

Lauterbrunnen: Paragliding past cliffs and waterfalls

Swiss Paragliding Tandem Flights Beatenberg – Interlaken

Canton: Zurich

We rented an RV and drove around Switzerland during our holidays with the kids. Since we arrived in Zurich late afternoon, we decided to camp at Fischers Fritz on the banks of Lake Zurich.

Camping at this location provided a peaceful and natural environment to relax and enjoy the mountain views.

There is a trampoline and playground on site, and wakeboarding is available as well for the adventurous kinds.

The campsite restaurant had indoor and outdoor seating, which was great depending on the weather for Spring. We fell in love with the massive outdoor fire pit against the stunning backdrop of the lake. Although it’s a little pricey, it’s worth it.

Fischer Fritz is the perfect base to explore the city. We took a 10-minute bus ride to the centre outside the campsite with our Swiss Pass. It keeps travelling costs low, and covers travel on boats, trains, and gondolas.

Walking around Zurich was surreal; there was so much to do. Among other things, we visited the Wow Illusion Museum, the Technorama Science Museum, and the Lindt Chocolate Museum .

The Rhine Falls are another ‘must-see’, which is easily doable on the outskirts of Zurich. In addition to walking the stunning walkway, take a boat tour to get as close as possible to the waterfall.

By Karen from Travel Mad Mum

TIP: Read our full Zurich post for more things to enjoy, where to eat and what to visit! ….and for those who love cats, we have a full recommended post on Visiting A Cat Cafe Zurich: Cafe Casa del Gato 

Canton: Ticino

For one of the sunniest Spring visits in Switzerland, Lugano is a great place to visit during Spring time . I’ve personally visited a few years ago to Lugano during Spring. The weather for Spring time ranges from 19-21°C on average, allowing you to even sit out side and relax in a blouse or t-shirt. And since then, I’ve ended up moving here, so to me it’s definitely one of the Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in Spring!

Flowers were blooming everywhere, with the famous pinks, whites and red camellia flowers all over the place. You can spot these along the Lugano lakeside promenade as well as visit the pretty Camilla Flower exhibition in Locarno – where you can see more than 200 different types!

Visiting Ticino during Easter weekend ? Check our 10 tips to have a truly memorable visit during Easter.

For some explorations, you can consider visiting Monte Bre or Monte San Salvatore with their funiculars. Both are open and ride daily to the top. Both are easily reachable from the city centre of Lugano.

I also feel that Lugano is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in Spring because of the city activities. They often have live music, car shows and weekly markets for some local shopping. Most restaurants have an outside area too, perfect for sitting in the sunshine. A personal restaurant recommendation is to visit Spaghetti Pomodoro – they make the most delicious pizzas!

For more Spring Gardens in Ticino, check here too!

By myself from Together In Switzerland

We have a fully-loaded, high content Ticino Guide listing local things to see, do and explore with each season: Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter.  Click here

As a lover of both beautiful scenery and Swiss chocolate, visiting Bern in spring was an absolute dream come true for me. The vibrant city is nestled in the heart of the Alps and boasts an array of stunning sights to take in.

During my stay, I spent my days exploring the charming cobblestone streets of the old town, admiring the iconic medieval architecture and stunning fountains. The city is home to a wide array of museums, galleries, and theaters, offering a diverse range of cultural experiences for visitors. I particularly enjoyed visiting the Zentrum Paul Klee, which houses a fascinating collection of contemporary and classic art. Don’t miss the famous Käfigturm clock tower, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

No visit to Bern would be complete without indulging in some  Swiss chocolate . I made sure to visit one of the city’s famous chocolatiers, where I was treated to a range of delectable chocolate creations, from truffles to pralines. I even took a chocolate-making class to learn more about the process and the different varieties of chocolate available.

For accommodation, I chose to stay in a cozy bed and breakfast in Nydeck near the city center, which offered easy access to all the main attractions. One of the highlights of my trip was a visit to the famous Bear Park, where I had the opportunity to observe the city’s famous mascots in their natural habitat.

Spring is a great time to visit Bern, as the weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. I recommend taking a stroll along the banks of the Aare river, which offers stunning views of the city’s skyline.

Overall, Bern is a perfect destination for those seeking a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation. It’s important to note that some activities and attractions may require advanced booking, so it’s advisable to plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

By Trijit Mallick from Budget Travel Buff

Nearby Tours And Activities

Swiss Ski Experience in the Jungfrau Region

Grindelwald Gondola Ride to Mount First

Grindelwald: Glacier Canyon Entrance Ticket

Canton: Vaud

I visited Lausanne on a short trip during my one week road trip across Switzerland. The picturesque setting of this beautiful city immediately captivated my eye – no wonder why it is commonly referred to as one of the most beautiful locations in Switzerland. 

I spent the night at the Agora Swiss Night by Fassbind, a 4 star hotel located conveniently in the center of the city, a short walking distance from all the main attractions. There is no better way to experience Lausanne than to take a boat tour along Lake Geneva, where you can get a close-up look at the mansions and estates that line the shores. Springtime is a wonderful season to experience the magic of Lausanne.

Since 1994 Lausanne has been recognized as the Olympic capital, make sure to check out the Countdown clock which symbolizes the Olympic spirit of Lausanne and is located right along the promenade. You can also visit the Olympic Museum which boasts over 10,0000 artifacts, being the largest archive of Olympic Games in the world. 

Lastly if you are a wine lover then you are in for a treat as Lausanne is ideally located next to the vineyards of Lavaux. This majestic landscape has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007 and offers explicit views of the Valais Alps and the Savoy. Are you ready to discover Lausanne? 

By Elena from Passion for Hospitality

More Vaud Canton Content

The Most Luxurious Train In The World – The GoldenPass Railway: A Swiss Bucket List Experience for Train Enthusiasts

Most Beautiful Villages In Switzerland

Exploring the Winter Wonderland of Chateau-d’Oex Switzerland

Festival International de Ballons

Canton: Lucerne

Small in size but big on character and culinary delights, Lucerne is the perfect place to indulge in delicious fondues, tucked away from Switzerland’s more high-profile cities. I fell in love with the peaceful beauty of the city.

Spring is an ideal time to visit this charming city. The weather is mild in the spring making strolling around the city a perfect activity. Enjoy walking through the colourful traditional Alpine houses in Old Town. In the heart of the city is the breathtaking Lake Lucerne. On a warm day, you can take a boat tour around the lake or hike up Mount Pilatus for panoramic views.

It is one of the oldest cities in Europe, which means there are plenty of  things to do in Lucerne . Walk along the iconic Chapel Bridge to see the beautiful art along the bridge. Explore Glacier Garden to see this area during the Ice Age.

When in Lucerne, be sure to take some time to visit a local pub, shop for traditional Swiss souvenirs, or simply admire the scenic beauty of the city.

I stayed in the Hotel Himmerlrich which is a little outside of the city but has incredible views of the Swiss Alps and lake.

Visiting Lucerne will bring an appreciation for the city’s beauty, no matter where you go.

By Pamela from The Directionally Challenged Traveler

Mount Pilatus Cable Car, Cogwheel Train & Lake Cruise

Round-Trip Catamaran Cruise on Lake Lucerne

Swiss Chocolate Adventure Experience In Lucerne

Canton: Valais

Sion is one of the most beautiful towns in Switzerland – and particularly pretty in the spring months. Why? That is for many reasons. If you appreciate breathtaking views and nature walks then this Swiss town should be at the top of your list! As a Switzerland addict, I have seen a fair number of gorgeous spring destinations but this is one of my favourites. 

The mild temperatures make it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as biking or hiking. Especially the Place Maurice Zermatten is a must-see in my eyes! Not only do you have great views of both Castle Tourbillon and Valère Castle – but also the first flowers of the season blossom here.

Aside from its stunning landscape, I also enjoyed the old town of Sion, which is filled with cobblestone streets and historical sites, including the area’s churches, museums, and buildings that have been around since the 12th century. And all that, while the crowds are not here yet and it is not hot yet – there were many reasons I fell in love with Sion during this season, and I am sure you will, too.

By Arzo from Arzo Travels

Rhine Falls

Canton: Between Schaffhausen and Zurich

Located in the northern part of Switzerland, Rhine Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in Europe, and a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

I highly recommend visiting Rhine Falls in the spring, when the weather is mild and the waterfall is at its most impressive. The snow from the winter melts and feeds into the Rhine River, making the waterfall even more magnificent than usual.

As an outdoor enthusiast, I took a boat tour to get up close to the waterfall. There is a little island in the middle that you disembark at.  From there you can climb some stairs to get to the top, and it really feels like the rushing waterfall is coming right at you.  The shore also has places to eat depending on whether you go on a weekday or weekend, or alternatively you can also bring a picnic and simply taske in the stunning views of the waterfall.

One of the best things about visiting Rhine Falls in the spring is that it’s not as crowded as in the summer months. I didn’t  have to worry about long lines or jostling for a good view of the waterfall. With less tourists, it leaves opportunity to take some great pictures!

By Diana from Travels In Poland

Schaffhausen: Self-Guided City Sightseeing & Scavenger Hunt

Neuhausen am Rheinfall: Rhine Falls Boat Tour

Smilestones Miniature World Entry

Canton: Geneva

Spring is my favourite time to visit Geneva – the snow is melting away and the flowers are blooming! Temperatures are picking up and the days are getting longer, making it ideal for exploring.

Spring is a great time to visit if like me you’re  exploring Geneva on a budget  as there are many things you can do for free like admire the Jet d’Eau fountain that sprouts water 140 metres into the air, visit the Promenade de la Treille – the world’s longest wooden bench (over 120 metres long!), or a stroll around the Old Town. The weather is usually good so you’ll be spending plenty time outdoors, although spring showers can happen so bring an umbrella. I also recommend bringing comfortable shoes as Geneva is best explored on foot!

I stayed at Hotel Longemalle – located in the ideal spot close to the Jardin Anglais and Lake Geneva. Lake Geneva is great to visit in springtime as you can enjoy a fun boat cruise or pedalo hire. Visiting the Geneva Flower Clock in spring was great too as it was in full bloom. Geneva also hosts the annual Geneva International Film Festival in April and May which is a lot of fun!

By Catrina of 24 Hours Layover

Chocolate Flavors Walking Tour of Geneva

50-Minute Lake Geneva Cruise

Geneva 2-Hour Tour of International Quarters and Old Town

Check some of our other  top collaboration posts  here: The  Best Locations To Visit Switzerland  in 2023 Valentines Day in Switzerland  – Places to visit and things to do with your loved one!

Summary of these Best Places to Visit in Switzerland During Spring

Overall, Switzerland is a perfect destination for travellers seeking natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural attractions. For Spring time, it can be even more magical, with the flowers blooming and the weather getting warmer.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, we hope this list of 9 personal experiences inspire you to visit Switzerland in Spring as well.

Reader Interactions

February 22, 2023 at 7:31 am

Fabulous list of resources here. Loving the images too. The Rhine Falls look sensational. I love being in nature.

February 22, 2023 at 7:48 am

Thanks! They sure do, we haven’t been long near the Rhine Falls so we hope to go back ourselves soon!

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Switzerland in Spring (2024) : Info and The Best Places to see in Spring in Switzerland

Switzerland in spring is quite refreshing as while it may be colder than summer time it means you get to see spring in switzerland without the crowds. while you may still need to layer up, it also means budget-friendly stays, even in places like lucerne and zurich here are the best places in switzerland in spring you shouldn’t miss.

Switzerland has been and will always be one of the most romantic places that people tend to pick for honeymoons. Yet, this beautiful and rugged region is home to the best hikes and outdoor activities on the planet.

Switzerland also boasts some of the freshest air in the world.

All of this comes at a price of course as Switzerland is one of the pricier destinations in the world, not just Europe . This is why Switzerland in spring is one of the best times to travel to Switzerland.

Switzerland in April may not be one of the warmest places in Europe in April , but it definitely is refreshing.

Sure, Switzerland is a place which is a great choice even in winter, especially for skiing and winter sports, however, if you’re not someone who loves the cold and bundling up, are looking to avoid the insane crowds that fly to places like Lucerne and Matterhorn, then spring in Switzerland is an ideal time to visit.

Lush fields and cattle everywhere, stunning sunrises and sunsets and if you choose to go on hikes, hazy mornings full of drama in the Alps. Here’s all you need to know to plan a trip to Switzerland in spring.

Switzerland in spring: the best places to see, things to do and pack!

When is it spring in switzerland.

Switzerland experiences the spring season from the end of March to the beginning of June.

Switzerland in spring is chilly and dry at the beginning, i.e., in March . But it gets warmer as the season proceeds towards summer after May. The climate is more than pleasant in the spring months, April and May.

Hence, these months also make it the best time to travel to Switzerland. Though the weather is warm in most parts of the country, some areas in Switzerland have snow-covered mountain peaks, making Switzerland’s springtime a bit more exciting!

Spring in Switzerland in March

Weather in switzerland in march.

March in Switzerland marks the end of the winter season and the beginning of spring.

The average temperature at the start of the season ranges between 8 to 11 degrees Celsius. Spring begins to pick up from the southern regions keeping the northern part of Switzerland still covered in blankets of snow. Southern Switzerland in March has beautiful stretches of lush greenery and astonishing landscapes, making it the best time of year to visit Switzerland for sightseeing.

If you are looking forward to skiing, heading north is the perfect thing to do. Because it is the end of winter, you may expect a less chilly climate, making it more enjoyable for ski rides!

Monthly rainfall averages for March: 33-97 mm (1.3-2.8 in), which varies a lot from North to South, the highest is 255 mm in Santis and 150 mm in Mount Pilatus

Daily temperature averages (High) for March : 11°C

Daily daytime temperature averages (Low) for March: 8°C

Daily daylight hour averages for March: 8-9 hours

Things to do in Switzerland in March

Be a part of Basel Fasnacht

Basel Fasnacht is one of the most significant events in Switzerland. It is celebrated between February and March .

This UNESCO-recognized festival lasts three days, starting Monday after Ash Wednesday. The carnival participants dress in bright clothes and masks and march in parades with an orchestra.

So, if you are going to be present in Switzerland in spring anytime between the end of February and the beginning of March, you must witness the vibrancy of Basel Fasnacht.

Attend Chalandamarz

A traditional spring festival is marked to wave goodbye to the winter season and welcome warmth for prosperity and well-being.

Celebrated on March 1st, Chalandamarz takes place in most places in Switzerland by ringing bells, wearing beautiful costumes, singing songs, playing instruments, and enjoying delicious traditional food. It is an experience you should not miss if you are visiting Switzerland in spring.

Places to see in Switzerland in March

The Switzerland spring season is a good time to visit places that need more time exploring, especially cities that tend to get crowded in summer. Here are the best places to visit in Switzerland in spring especially if you are going to Switzerland in March.

Located in the south, Zermatt is a mountainous region with some of the best picture-postcard views of Switzerland in its natural beauty. Located just below Matterhorn, this place is a must-visit in March since it is famous for various adventure activities. You can explore nature’s abundance as you go skiing, hiking, climbing, and sightseeing.

Apart from that, you may also want to enjoy food at some great restaurants in the vicinity, go shopping in the stores nearby or even have fun ice-skating.

Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva is beautiful year-long, but spring makes it prettier. If you are a water baby, you can enjoy activities like skiing, boating, scuba diving, and windsurfing near Lake Geneva.

 Swiss National Park

You probably shouldn’t miss visiting Swiss National Park . The territory is known as a World UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and has brilliant natural beauty.

The park is home to magnificent views of snow-covered mountaintops and rare wildlife. Swiss National Park is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in March, for it gets covered with greenery once spring arrives making it quite pleasing to take a walk here.

Spring in Switzerland in April

Weather in switzerland in april.

Spring is at its best in Switzerland in April. If you are looking for the best places to visit in Switzerland in April , you won’t be disappointed. If you are wondering what the weather would look like in Switzerland during April, here’s everything you must know.

The average temperature during April in Switzerland is 15 degree Celsius. However, the temperature may drop to 6 degrees Celsius at night. In some cases, expect light rainfall.

But an average day in April in Switzerland consists of at least six hours of sunshine; if you are lucky, you can also catch rainbows!

Monthly rainfall averages for April: 40-85 mm (1.6-3.3 in)

Daily temperature averages (High) for April: 15°C (56°F)

Daily daytime temperature averages (Low) for April: 8°C (42°F)

Daily daylight hour averages for April: 8-9 hours

Things to do in Switzerland in April

If you are looking forward to visiting Switzerland in April, here are some of the festivals and events you should not miss.

Attend Lucerne Festival

It is one of the most famous events in Switzerland in the world of classical music. Lucerne festival hosts a series of music shows that attract a worldwide audience.

You will find world-famous orchestras and famous artists if you plan on visiting the Lucerne Festival.

The event takes place between the end of March and the beginning of April and is one of the most-visited places by tourists who come to Switzerland in spring.

Attend Zurich Spring Festival

Also called Sechseläuten , the third Monday of April marks the celebration of this festival. Easter has its roots in Christ’s Resurrection and is celebrated to welcome summer.

People gather from different parts of the world to join their friends and families on the day of celebration. The locals go to a Church for service followed by a traditional meal.

As a tourist, if you are visiting Switzerland around Easter, you can get a chance to enjoy Zurich city breaks with live music, fireworks, tasty food, flower decorations, flags, and so much more.

Caprices Festival

This internationally recognized festival, Caprices is known for its Modernity stage. If you have always dreamed of having a musical weekend up on a scenic mountaintop, this is for you.

Set up on the top of the Swiss Alps in the ski resort of Cras Montana , it is an experience filled with lots of excitement for tourists. So if you are present here in April, take the chance to party in the mountains with electrifying music.

Places to see in Switzerland in April

There are great places to visit in Switzerland in April.

Rhine Falls

Located on the border of Zurich and Schaffhausen, Rhine Falls are one of the best and most powerful waterfalls in Europe. Rhine Falls are a must-visit spot if you visit Switzerland in spring.

The high volume of water makes it a stunning site to be at in April in Switzerland. You can take a boat to reach the falls or even take the adventure trail. You could also watch the waterfalls from the viewing platforms.

Lake Brienz

Situated to the North of the Alps, in Bern, this lake is one of the five deepest lakes in Switzerland. Surrounded by tall and beautiful mountains, waterfalls and lush greenery, the lake looks surreal. The colours of spring make the place come alive thus making Lake Brienz a spectacular site.

Apart from relaxing in nature, you can also spend time here indulging in adventure activities.

The city of Geneva

Placed between the Jura mountains, and the Alps, Geneva is a city located in the south of Switzerland.

The city is known for its breathtaking views of Mont Blanc. Geneva could be one of the cities you could start your Switzerland itinerary if you are visiting Switzerland in spring.

It is a place to see if you are fond of history, culture, knowledge, nature, and modern architecture.

Spring in Switzerland in May

May in Switzerland is regarded as the start of the shoulder season meaning there are more tourists in May than in March and April. But there are still plenty of places to stay around the country and a tonne of exciting things to do and places to go on weekends in Switzerland in May.

Weather in Switzerland in May

The climate in Switzerland in May is more pleasant, making it the best time of the year to visit Switzerland. The average temperature in May ranges from 7 to 20 degrees Celsius.

Furthermore, May experiences only a few cold days as compared to the other months in spring. Many regions in Switzerland start experiencing hotter climates by the end of May. However, travellers and adventurers from different parts of the world start arriving in this month making it one of the busiest months to visit Switzerland in spring.

Monthly rainfall averages for May: 52-81mm (2 – 3.2in)

Daily temperature averages (High) for May: 20°C (50°F)

Daily daytime temperature averages (Low) for May: 7°C (40°F)

Daily daylight hour averages for May: 9 hours

Things to Do in Switzerland in May

Consider yourself lucky if you are visiting Switzerland in May. It is one of the best times of year to visit Switzerland, as there are lots of opportunities to capture landscapes lit up by sunlight, the weather is comforting for those who do not enjoy cold weather but like going on hikes. Here’s a list of the best things to do in Switzerland in May:

Cheese festival in Gruyères

This festival is hosted every year in spring in May on the main street of Gruyères. Many cheese-makers and enterprises come together to present hundreds of cheese varieties at the show.

If you are a cheese lover or a passionate chef, you will enjoy watching people making cheese. You can also watch artisans make regional artefacts like laces, jewellery, wooden spoons, etc.

Top places to see in Switzerland in May

Located in Zermatt, Matterhorn is known as the king of Swiss mountains. The tooth-shaped mountain is one of the most visited places in the Swiss Alps in April and May.

If you are an avid trekker, Matterhorn offers unparalleled opportunities to go trekking and glacier hiking. If you visit Switzerland in May, take advantage of the cable car rides that give you panoramic views of the mountain range. Fun fact – It is the mountain that you will find on the wrapping of the iconic Toblerone.

Mount Titlis

If you love snow and have always imagined Switzerland as a snow-covered destination, Mount Titlis is so for you! One of the most popular tourist locations in Switzerland, this place is covered in snow throughout May.

So you can play your heart out in the snow, do ice skating, hike, and take a cable car ride to enjoy the stunning landscapes this spot has to offer.

Interlaken 

Known as one of the best skydiving locations in the world, Interlaken is an ideal place to visit if you love adventure sports. If you plan on taking this up, know that it’ll be one of the best things you’ll ever do!

At Interlaken , you can also take up other adventure activities like bungee jumping, mountain biking, paragliding, and hiking.

What to wear in Switzerland in spring

Spring in Switzerland is tricky. The temperature changes quite frequently. While some days may be warm and cosy, others can be pretty chilly.

Furthermore, while some days start with the perfect sunrise, they tend to get quite cold later during the day, and vice versa. So, depending on which areas of Switzerland you wish to visit, you will need to be extra thoughtful about what you choose to wear in Switzerland in spring.

Here’s a quick list of essential items to carry to Switzerland.

Consider wearing bright and fresh-coloured outfits for spring in Switzerland as it makes for great pictures against the Alps as a backdrop! Trousers and long-sleeved shirts, comfy spring dresses paired with leggings or jeans are a good choices.

Though it is spring, and you may not expect cold weather, but having some underlayers, warmers, and sweaters handy is a good idea. Also, consider carrying additional winter wear, especially if you are on a trip with your little ones in the North or are keen to hike.

Choose comfortable footwear. Also, carrying a pair or two of waterproof walking shoes is recommended since you might need to walk a great deal if you’re planning to go hiking.  You should also carry your hiking shoes if you prefer the outdoors.

Switzerland’s climate fluctuates a lot during April and May, so you can consider carrying all-season jackets, overcoats, or windcheaters that make you feel comfortable almost anywhere. It is necessary to consider the weight of these jackets. The lighter, the better and ones that help against the wind, help.

Spring hikes in Switzerland in spring

Switzerland is synonymous with hiking. So, if you are heading to Switzerland for a spring vacation, you should know about the best spring hikes in Switzerland.

While many options are available, it is essential to understand that some are shut down until June sometimes due to unpredictable weather. So, if you are visiting Switzerland in April or May, keep reading and mark these paths.

Furenalp Engelberg

Located in central Switzerland, this region has spectacular natural beauty filled with greenery, snow-capped peaks, and blue skies. You also get to experience the beauty of waterfalls, rivers, forests, rocks-filled pathways, open fields, etc.

If you are visiting Switzerland in May, Furenalp Engelberg is a must-go. However, if you want something more adventurous, consider going up by cable car to Mount Titlis.

Nafels Obersee

Nafels Obersee is an Alpine lake and one of the best places to go spring hiking in late May. Located in the Obersee Valley, the lake has a 21 km stretch and is best known for its beautiful landscapes day-long.

The lake turns blue-green in May and is a fab hiking spot for picnics with friends and family, where you can enjoy magical views while keeping yourself warm around a campfire.

Giessbach Falls

Feeding into Lake Brienz, Giessbach Falls is a beautiful hiking place in Switzerland. You can easily reach the falls by getting on a ferry that leaves you at the base of the falls. From here you can start hiking or take a historic funicular to the top.

Hiking here is fun as the path has a few spots you could eat at coupled with amazing views of the waterfalls and the lake! The best time to visit the falls is after mid-May when the ferry service is up and running. Ferry timings can be found here .

I went to Wasserauen for a hike and while I’m not much of an active person, this has been one of my favourite hikes ever. Do consider it if you’re in the area. All details in this article .

Switzerland in Spring by Region: 5 Spots To Visit In Switzerland in Spring

Spring is undoubtedly one of the best times to visit Switzerland. It is that time of the year when you can finally explore the Alps without freezing. Here are the top five places to visit in Switzerland in spring.

This famous city is also the largest in Switzerland and is not the capital of Switzerland although many get confused and assume it to be, Bern is the capital of Switzerland. However, it is one of the top city getaways in Switzerland as there’s much to do here, especially for art lovers.

Kunsthaus Zurich has numerous masterpieces as does Rietberg Museum, Switzerland’s biggest for non-European cultures. Fraumunster Church is also quite famous as are the twin towers of the Grossmunster where you can climb to the top of the Karlsturm and enjoy panoramic views of the city. In addition to this the town centre and the parks are worth visiting if you’re with family.

The Alps are incredible almost any time of year. And so, Zermatt is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in spring. While there are numerous activities you can do here there are many attractions you can visit as well.

Matterhorn is the most famous with it having the highest cable car station in Europe accompanied by restaurants and views of Italy too; Gornergrat is also quite popular due to its mountain panoramas. You’ll also find a village tour here and the 5 lakes walk where the views are picture-perfect.

Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen is a small town in the centre of the Swiss Alps located only an hour from Bern.

Staubbach waterfall is a must-visit for hikers and nature lovers. You can also consider visiting Mount Schilthorn, the highest mountain in Lauterbrunnen.

There are lots to do in Lauterbrunnen. You can go paragliding here, visit the pretty Church, or go on the Trummelbach Falls hike. Interlaken is close by and worth exploring as well.

A tiny city based on the borders of Lake Lucerne, this stunning city is by far one of the most visited places in Switzerland. It is famous for its unique architecture and beautifully decorated lake-side cafes that provide views of snow-covered mountains all around.

While in Lucerne, apart from enjoying your favourite drink sitting in a lakeside restaurant, you can also explore the town. The best things to see in Lucerne in spring include the Chapel bridge, Spreuer bridge, Needle Dam, Bourbaki Panorama, and Glacier Garden.

Jungfraujoch

If you are going to be in and around the Jungfrau region, visiting Jungfraujoch in spring is a must-do.

Jungfraujoch is less crowded in spring and stunningly beautiful. Out of the many things you can do here, a few important ones include a train ride from Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch, riding up the Sphinx Terrace, hiking at Monchsjochhutte, visiting the Ice Palace and the Glacier Plateau.

I visited Switzerland in May and it was chilly but a couple of layers and it was all good! Afternoons were hot and quite summery. In terms of prices, it was cheaper than summer and even with it being May, the crowds were increasing.

So yes, it may be chilly at times but irrespective of the weather, the countryside is fabulous in Switzerland. No matter when you go, you’re bound to have the perfect holiday!

Spring break in Switzerland: Things to do in Switzerland in spring

If you are looking forward to taking a spring break this year in Switzerland, here are the top things to do in Switzerland in spring:

Visit Interlaken

If adventure sports in the Swiss Alps were on your bucket list, there is no better place than Interlaken to tick it off. From cruising, hiking, sightseeing, riding jetboats, paragliding, and riding on cable cars to witnessing the miracles of nature all around, there’s much to do in Interlaken.

Enjoy traditional food

A spring break in Switzerland is complete only when you’ve tried some of the traditional delicacies on offer. If you are a foodie, you certainly cannot miss trying dishes like Fondue, Raclette, Zurcher geschnetzeltes, Tartiflette, lekerlis biscuits with hazelnuts, etc. The food in Switzerland is mouth-watering, and you should make sure to give it a try, even the pizzas!

The outdoor baths in Bern

The thermal baths at Marzili are one of the oldest and free, located right in front of the Parliament building making it a fun activity especially if you’re on a budget.

The castles of Bellinzona

The castles of Bellinzona are some of the oldest medieval monuments in Ticino, North of Lugano. Castello di Montebello and Castello di Sasso Corbaro are located by the Murata ie the defense wall. The location is a UNESCO World Heritage site .

Now that you know how beautiful Switzerland in Spring can be, and you have some of the best recommendations to plan your itinerary, make sure you pick the best spots as it can be quite a budget-friendly visiting during this time of year.

However, irrespective of when you plan to visit, the landscapes here and the cheese (and meat) will definitely keep you hooked and make it one of the most memorable trips of your lifetime!

Switzerland in Spring – FAQs

Is spring a good time to visit switzerland.

Spring in Switzerland is a good time to explore the country. The months of April, May, and the first 2 weeks of June are considered to be the shoulder season where tourists are few, accommodation is cheap, and flights are low-priced.

You will still find snow-clad mountains and that too without crowds before the summer begins.

Is April a good time to visit Switzerland?

April can be an ideal time to visit Switzerland as it will allow you to enjoy plenty of outdoor activities without the interference of touristy crowds.

You will find snow on the mountain peaks but the winter air is starting to disappear. You will find sunny days but summer is still weeks away.

Where to go in Switzerland in spring?

Some of the popular destinations in Switzerland in Spring are Interlaken for its adventure activities, Geneva for its popular tourist sites, Lugano for its natural beauty, and Bern and Zurich for their historic attractions.

Is it better to visit Switzerland in April or May?

Between the months of April and May, it is better to visit Switzerland in April. This month will allow you to enjoy adventure activities but there will be fewer tourists.

If you visit Switzerland in May, the chances of coming across travelers are higher as summer tourists start arriving in June.

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.

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Switzerland In Spring: 10 Best Towns You Shouldn't Miss

Visiting Switzerland in spring? Here are the towns to explore.

Switzerland's stunning scenery has made it a favorite tourist destination among many people around the world. Spring is a great time to explore this country; as the temperatures get warmer, there are plenty of things to do. Snow begins to melt, flowers start to bloom, and the atmosphere is incredibly vibrant so vacationers can make the most of their trip. Switzerland is home to some of the most beautiful towns in the world. These towns come with amazing features, including cultural attractions, natural beauty, and the incredible ruins of Switzerland . A spring vacation in these towns is bound to be unforgettable. Planning to travel to Switzerland in spring? Here are the best towns you shouldn’t miss.

Related: Switzerland Vs Austria: Which Has The Better Alps?

10 Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen is always worth visiting for its uniquely breathtaking scenery. The town is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders, which tourists should explore at least once in their lifetime. In spring, the town turns into a magical place, and with a scenery that feels like a fairy tale village, Lauterbrunnen is one of the unmissable spring destinations in Switzerland. Hiking is one of the must-dos in spring in Switzerland, thanks to its jaw-dropping views of the charming village. There are plenty of blooms to see in the valley during the hike.

Dating back to 15 BC , Zurich is one of the top towns to explore in Switzerland in spring, and there are plenty of things to do. One can spend time camping around Fischers Fritz, along the banks of Lake Zurich. Camping here offers a unique, peaceful, and mind-blowing natural environment for relaxing and taking in the breathtaking views of the beautiful scenery of the mountains. Seeing the town's museums, such as Technorama Science Museum, Lindt Chocolate Museum, and Wow Illusion Museum, is one of the best things to do in spring. Zurich is home to beautiful weekend markets and gardens with gorgeous plants that are always in bloom during spring. Hiking along Lake Zurich is another favorite activity, thanks to the beautiful trails and cherry blossoms that adorn the area. This town is among the incredible places in Switzerland one has to see before one dies .

8 Grindelwald

Grindelwald is one of the most beautiful towns in Switzerland to visit in spring. It is a magnificent mountain town in the Swiss Alps, boasting incredibly spectacular views, beautiful weather, and numerous outdoor activities. Skiing is one of the most popular spring activities, and there is a wide range of slopes offering fun adventures for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Museums, art galleries, and numerous cultural festivals and special events are among the top things to do in Switzerland’s Grindelwald .

Related: Grindelwald: A Guide To Switzerland's Most Beautiful Village

Located in the famous Swiss Alps, Zermatt is a charming mountain resort town surrounded by stunning peaks and incredible views of the Matterhorn. With splendid weather and plenty of fun outdoor adventures, Zermatt is one of the best Switzerland towns to visit in spring. With a fresh blanket of snow, skiing, and snowboarding are just as enjoyable in spring as they are in winter. The fact that people can still enjoy skiing in spring in Zermatt is amazing, making it an absolutely unique destination not to miss. Vacationers can also go hiking to enjoy the magnificent views of the Swiss Alps and the Matterhorn. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Europe’s highest point, is one of Zermatt’s most striking attractions and a must-see in spring!

6 St. Moritz

Another gorgeous town in the Swiss Alps, St. Moritz, shouldn't miss the Switzerland spring bucket list; thanks for being surrounded by gorgeous views. It also boasts warm temperatures and plenty of outdoor adventures. Its ski slopes are some of its most striking treasures and offer unforgettable skiing and snowboarding memories, thanks to their quality and availability in variety.

Vacationers can enjoy other winter activities, such as cross-country skiing, ice skating, and snowshoeing in spring.

With bustling luxury shopping and culinary scenes, tourists can explore a few high-end boutiques and restaurants during their trip to St. Moritz.

Related: Experience Luxury At These 10 Most Expensive Hotels In Switzerland

Sion is one of the best towns one shouldn't miss in Switzerland, especially during spring, thanks to plenty of breathtaking views and natural scenery to catch. At this time, the town boasts mild temperatures, making it suitable to enjoy the great outdoors. Place Maurice Zermatten is one of the must-sees, as it offers incredible views of the Castle Tourbillon and Valere Castle. Vacationers will also see beautiful flowers in bool around this place. The old town is another unmissable spring spot in Sion, and tourists can enjoy exploring its cobblestone streets and historical sites.

Located between steep mountain slopes and the gorgeous Lake Geneva, which has plenty of things to do , Montreux is one of the Switzerland towns one shouldn’t miss in spring. Whether looking to explore spectacular natural scenery or want to experience the city lifestyle, Montreux comes with an incredible blend of that. During spring, the environment gets more stunning, thanks to the gorgeous colors of the blossoming flowers here and there. Some of the best places to see are the 13th-century Chateau Chillon, one of the most impressive castles in Europe, and the six-mile Montreux Promenade, which is beautifully lined with plenty of spring flower displays, street performers, and gorgeous views.

3 Interlaken

Looking for perfect spring destinations in Switzerland? Interlaken is a must-visit. Surrounded by the gorgeous Lake Brienz and the world-famous Swiss Alps, this charming town has a lot to experience for travelers of all ages and interests. The snow melts gradually, the flowers are in bloom, and the weather is perfect for going outside. Vacationers can see different types of flowers at the Alpine Garden, including 777, crocuses, and the soldanellas.

Related: 10 Cities Art Lovers Should Visit In Switzerland

Flims is one of the most beautiful must-visit places in Switzerland . It is located in the Swiss Alps and is among the best spring destinations to explore in the country. There is plenty of things to do, including picnicking, swimming, hiking, and relaxing by the lake with a drink or a book at hand. Skiing is another enjoyable activity to enjoy in Flims, thanks to the wide range of ski slopes that suit all levels of skiers and snowboarders. It is surrounded by gorgeous mountains and forests, which provide more opportunities for adventurous vacationers.

Lucerne is an incredible destination in spring and among the top spots with a German touch. Vacationers can see numerous beautiful cafes located by the riverside, medieval splendors, and spectacular lakeside views. Lake Lucerne is one of the top places to explore for its breathtaking scenery of the surrounding hills and mountains, including Mount Pilatus.

Extending your stay in Lucerne? Plan a day trip to the nearby Mount Titlis and get rewarded with stunning glaciers and incredible cuisine.

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12 things you can do in spring in Switzerland

Spring is the season when nature comes to life. Many look forward to the months of March, April and May when the days get longer and the temperatures warmer. In Switzerland, there are many destinations and ideas that you can try in spring or during your spring vacations

From Grindelwald: Ticket Jungfraujoch incl. seat reservation

Book your ticket from Grindelwald to the Jungfraujoch and travel to the Top of Europe without queuing. The modern cable car "Eiger Express" and the Jungfrau Railways take you on one of the most spectacular journeys to the highest station in Europe.

Harder Kulm Ticket from Interlaken East

The Harder Railway takes you up Interlaken's local mountain, where a wonderful view over the Bernese Oberland awaits you. The funicular railway takes you from Interlaken Ost to Harder Kulm in just 10 minutes.

Mount Rigi day pass

With the Mount Rigi day pass, you can enjoy a day of unlimited travel on two rack railroads and two cable cars. Ride up to Rigi Kulm, Rigi Scheidegg and many more.

Schilthorn Ticket from Mürren or Stechelberg

Take this return ticket from Stechelberg or Mürren on the Schilthorn cable cars to the summit in 20 minutes and enjoy the panoramic view. The Thrill Walk, the James Bond Adventure World and the Piz Gloria await you on the summit plateau.

Schynige Platte Ticket rack railroad from Wilderswil

Enjoy an unrestricted view of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau triumvirate during the one-hour ride on the nostalgic Schynige Platte Railway.

Ticket Chateau Chillon in Montreux

Visit the famous historic Chillon Castle, explore the interesting exhibitions and be enchanted by the romantic location of the castle on Lake Geneva.

Day ticket Lake Thun and Lake Brienz in summer

With the day ticket, experience unlimited travel by boat on Lakes Thun and Brienz, two beautiful and turquoise blue lakes in the Bernese Oberland.

Lake Geneva ticket from Lausanne to Evian-les-Bains return

Take a beautiful boat trip from Lausanne to Evian and back with a view of Lake Geneva. You will make your way to the source of the world famous Evian water.

Monte Generoso cog railroad ticket

Climb the Monte Generoso in Ticino on the cog railroad. Enjoy a 360° panorama and visit the famous stone flower by Mario Botta.

Spring is the favorite season for many. Especially for those who do not necessarily appreciate the cold winter and are often plagued by fog at lower altitudes. Therefore, it is all the more beautiful when nature really comes to life again in March, April and May, depending on the altitude. The days become longer, the temperatures warmer and there is a new desire to do something.

For your spring vacations or for your spring in Switzerland, we list 12 things you can do in this beautiful season.

• Admire the cherry blossoms

To see the cherry blossoms in their full glory, you don't even have to travel to Japan. Also in Switzerland, especially in the northwest of Switzerland, the many cherry trees show their most beautiful side in spring. Here are four hikes where you can marvel at the cherry blossoms.

• Fricktaler Chriesiwäg : This trail in Gipf-Oberfrick is located in the Jurapark-Aargau Nature Park . The Fricktal is a region particularly rich in cherry trees. Along the route, there are always information boards that introduce you to the world of cherries. The trail starts at the community center Gipf-Oberfrick and there are two variants of different lengths. The 5 km long trail takes about 2 hours, for the 9 km long trail you need about 4 hours.
• Chirsiweg Nuglar-St. Pantaleon: This 4.3 km long trail leads you in the north of the canton of Solothurn on a circular path through the municipal districts of Nuglar and St. Pantaleon. Depending on the weather and the time of flowering, it is most beautiful here in March or April. For the well signposted, easy hike you need about 1.5 hrs.
• This 10.7 km long trail leads you through the cherry blossoms in the Baselland. You can start your hike in Sommerau and end it in Oltingen or vice versa. On the way you will pass narrow valleys and sunny Tafeljura plateaus. Allow approx. 3 hours for this hike.
• Zug is famous for its cherry blossom cake. So it's hardly surprising that you can take numerous cherry blossom hikes here in spring. A somewhat longer tour, for example, leads from Arth to Zug or vice versa. If this 20 km long route is too much for you, you can reach one of the villages on the way by public transport. Walchwil or Oberwil bei Zug are good options.

Of course, cherry trees can be found everywhere in Switzerland. Even in the cities, it's worth sitting in a park in spring and enjoying a bit of Japanese flair.

• Walking through apple blossoms

What cherry trees can do, apple trees have been able to do for a long time. In particular, the canton of Thurgau in eastern Switzerland is known for its many orchards. But the Valais and the Lake Geneva region are also important growing regions. At Lake Constance, there are numerous smaller and larger hiking trails where you can marvel at the apple blossoms on foot or by bike.

• Apfelweg Altnau: The apple trail in Altnau actually consists of three trails and is most beautiful in April and May. All three paths start in the village, about 500 m from the train station. The apple trail "Lisi" is 4 km long, the apple trail "Emma" is 3 km long and the apple trail "Fredi" is 2 km long. You can also combine these three trails to one long route and go by bike. By the way, you can find out the current state of the blossoms by calling +41 71 531 01 30.
• Roggwiler Weg:** This 9 km long trail leads you through large orchards via Freidorf back to Roggwil. Here, too, you will encounter a blooming splendor in spring.
• This poetically named trail starts in Sulgen and leads through blooming fields with tall fruit trees down to Amriswil. The hike is just under 15 km long and takes about 3:45 hrs.

• Visit a waterfall

Waterfalls often carry extra water in the spring due to the melting of snow in the mountains. There can also be heavier downpours in the spring, making the waterfalls even more impressive.

• Lauterbrunnen : The "Valley of 72 Waterfalls", as the Lauterbrunnen Valley is also called, is an ideal destination in spring. You will find a spectacular waterfall at the Trümmelbach Falls . These underground accessible waterfalls are closed in winter, but open their gates to visitors in April.
• Rhine Falls : The largest waterfall in Europe carries a full 600,000 liters of water per second. This is equivalent to about 3500 full bathtubs. It's quite a spectacle and especially beautiful in spring when the trees in the parks shine lush green.
• Giessbach Falls: The Giessbach Falls plunge 400 m in 14 cascades behind the grand hotel of the same name on Lake Brienz . There is a path that leads behind the waterfall. From here you can discover the Grandhotel Giessbach and Lake Brienz from a new perspective.
• Reichenbach Falls: Famous for the detective Sherlock Holmes and his rival James Moriarty, this waterfall in the Bernese Oberland captivates visitors with its 120 m height. On three viewing terraces you get a great view of the waterfall and the Haslital. From here you can also hike to the Rosenlaui glacier gorge or to the Aare gorge.

• Visit animal babies

Spring is the time when lots of cute, cuddly baby animals see the light of day. That's why it's especially worthwhile at this time of year to plan a visit to the zoo, animal park or farm in your neighborhood.

At the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum near Brienz you will also see many cute calves, piglets, puppies or kittens romping around in spring.

By the way, many animal parks in Switzerland are accessible for free. These include:

• Wildpark Peter und Paul in St. Gallen
• Roggenhausen Wildlife Park in Aarau
• Lange Erlen Zoo in Basel
• Alpine Park in Interlaken
• Animal Park in Biel
• Animal Park in Langenthal
• Wildpark Bruderhaus in Winterthur
• Wildlife Park in Zurich
• Wildpark Heitern in Zofingen

• Sleep on the straw

If you want to immerse yourself in farm life, sleeping on straw is the perfect opportunity. On the website MyFarm of Agrotourism Switzerland you can find farms all over the country that offer sleeping on straw. This way you are even closer to the offspring of the animals on the farm. You can also watch the awakening of nature in the best location.

• Make your own syrup or jam

When everything in nature blossoms, amateur cooks and kitchen fairies also blossom. There is so much that you can use in spring to make a delicious jam or a refreshing syrup. This way you have a suitable souvenir for every visitor for the rest of the year and can benefit from spring for a long time to come.

• Dandelion Blossom Jelly : Pick the yellow flowers from the dandelion and boil them in about a quart of water. Let them stand overnight and cool. The next day, pass the flowers through a sieve and boil the mixture again with jelling sugar and lemon juice. After 5 minutes you can fill the mixture into sterile jars and seal them airtight
• Elderflower syrup:** Put the picked flowers in a bowl and pour water over them. Add sugar and citric acid and stir until everything has dissolved. After two days covered at room temperature, you can strain the syrup, boil it and bottle it in pre-warmed bottles Lilac blossom jelly: Pluck the lilac blossoms and boil them for 10 min in bubbling hot water. The next day, strain the flowers and squeeze them with a cloth. Heat the flower liquid with the jelling sugar and boil it for 5 min. Now you can fill the jars and wait until your lilac blossom jelly has set.

• Explore a dam

Switzerland is the country with the highest density of dams and counts over 220 large dams. Many dams and reservoirs can be visited on a shorter or longer hike. Of course, there are often trails you can take on a mountain bike as well. Dams are especially in the Valais a great destination in spring, when the mountains are often still covered with snow.

• Grande Dixence: The melt water from 35 Valais glaciers collects here. The Grande Dixence is the highest gravity dam in the world at 285 meters. You can reach the dam by cable car from Hérémence in Valais. Here you can also hike along the lake or start a bigger hike in Valais .
• Cleuson dam: If you're looking for a turquoise-blue reservoir, a trip to the 87m high Cleuson dam in Valais is perfect. Thanks to the fine-grained silt sediments that reflect the sunlight, the lake gets its unique color. On a walk you will learn interesting facts about the project on numerous information boards.

• Escape the fog on a mountain top

Especially in the midlands, even in spring there are days when a thick layer of fog spreads. In this case, the best option is to seek the heights as soon as possible. Often there is still snow at higher altitudes. So you can say goodbye to winter in peace and experience another wintry day.

The many mountain railroads in Switzerland are ideal for turning your back on the fog for a day. In our guide about 20 mountain peaks in Switzerland you will find more information to spend a sunny day in the heights.

• Plan a trip by boat

On certain lakes you can travel by ship all year round. In the winter, however, the ships don't run as often as in the summer. Most of the shipping companies in Switzerland start operating more in the spring. Therefore, this time of year is perfect for a trip on the lake. Watching the awakening nature from the lake is definitely something worth doing.

• Boat trip on Lake Lucerne : Spend a whole day on the lake with the day ticket, take a round trip or combine the boat trip with a hike. By the way, a great destination for an excursion with children on Lake Lucerne is the Glasi in Hergiswil or the Museum of Transport in Lucerne.
• Boat trip on Lake Geneva : On Lake Geneva you can travel by boat all year round. But taking a boat from Lausanne to Chillon Castle or Evian in the spring is the perfect excursion in this mild climate.
• Shipping on Lakes Thun and Brienz : There are no boats on Lake Brienz in winter. Also on the Thunersee the timetable is heavily thinned out. Fortunately, the season starts again in spring with the spring timetable. By boat you can visit for example the Beatus Cave on Lake Thun and the Giessbach Falls on Lake Brienz. Depending on the melting snow, the waterfalls carry a lot of water at this time of year
• Ship on Lake Constance : At the end of March, you can travel by boat on Lake Constance on weekends and holidays. From the end of May, the ships operate daily again. This gives you the opportunity to admire the blossoming apple and cherry blossoms from the ship. You can also stop off in Rorschach, Romanshorn, Kreuzlingen and Constance to enjoy the first ice cream of the season.

• Visit a castle

Certain castles keep their doors closed during the winter and do not reopen until spring. Others are open all year round, but with limited opening hours. However, a visit to one of Switzerland's many castles is worthwhile not only because of the extended opening hours. Often you will find mighty trees in the immediate vicinity of the castle, which show off their flowering splendor in spring. Be it magnolias, cherries, beeches, maples or even rose bushes; your visit in spring will be made even more special by the enchanting blossoms.

• Schloss Wildegg : Next to this castle in the canton of Aargau is a large tulip garden with a magnolia tree. Therefore, the castle is a popular destination in spring.
• Lenzburg Castle : The picnic areas around the castle, the baroque garden and the rose garden are the perfect place for a trip in spring. Here you feel like a lord of the castle or a lady-in-waiting in the awakening nature.
• Chillon Castle : The waterfront between Montreux and Chillon Castle is also in full bloom in spring. You will probably rarely be alone here. In early summer, even more visitors seek the summer temperatures on the lake and around the castle.
• Rapperswil Castle: The rose garden next to the castle Rapperswil blooms especially beautifully in spring. Travel for a day trip by boat from Zurich and visit the stately castle in the cute lakeside town.

• Taking a bike tour

The Swiss like to call their country "Veloland". No wonder that the overview page of all bike paths on SwitzerlandMobility bears this very name. The more than 12,000 km of bike paths invite you to take leisurely tours, especially along the lakeshores and in the midlands in spring. An excursion by bike can also be combined with a visit to a waterfall, a lido (in later spring), a castle or a pretty town.

• Kreuzlingen to Stein am Rhein:** For this 27 km long route you need about 2 hours. You cycle along the Rhine, past blossoming orchards and can visit the pretty old town of Stein am Rhein at the end.
• If you've always wanted to ride through the lush green vineyards of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll love the tour from Lausanne to Montreux . You'll ride for about 40 km through the Lavaux vineyards. The path goes up and up and the descents feel like you are on a roller coaster. You are constantly accompanied by the view of the enchanting Lake Geneva.
• Solothurn to Altreu: From Solothurn to the largest stork colony in Switzerland in Altreu it is only about 10 km. A large part of the route leads along the Aare. In spring the storks return from their winter stay in the south. Then a visit to this idyllic oasis on the Aare is particularly worthwhile. And in Solothurn, a delicious ice cream is waiting for you at the vitamin station when you get back.

• Hiking to a mountain lake

In Switzerland there are about 1500 lakes and rivers. So it is not surprising that you will pass a mountain lake on very many hikes. Depending on the snow conditions you can visit the higher lakes only in summer. But many of them are already an ideal destination in April or May.

• Seealpsee:** You can visit the Seealpsee in the Alpstein all year round. But in spring with the awakening nature it is especially beautiful, even if the water is still a bit cold for swimming. If you are tough, you can swim here in the middle of the idyllic landscape of the Appenzellerland. Otherwise you can simply enjoy the view and watch the ducks on the lake. You can reach the Seealpsee in about 1:30 hours from Wasserauen. Oeschinensee: It's no secret that Oeschinensee is one of our favorite lakes. The approximately 1 square kilometer lake is the largest mountain lake in Switzerland. It is fed by the surrounding glaciers and is correspondingly cold. You can reach it from Kandersteg either on foot or by cable car.
• Caumasee: The turquoise blue Caumasee near Flims is a jewel in the middle of the forest. Numerous hiking and mountain bike trails lead to this oasis. Even though the lido does not open until the beginning of June, a hike through the forest to this enchanting lake is worthwhile.

As you can see, spring in Switzerland offers many possibilities. We would be very happy if you share your favorite picture of this beautiful season with us. On Instagram with #swissactivities or @swiss_activies or on Facebook with @Swissactivites.com.

Table of contents

Discover leisure activities, top destinations.

• Lauterbrunnen

Top Activities

Top attractions.

• Harder Kulm
• Jungfraujoch
• First Cliff Walk
• Museum of Transport
• Mount Titlis
• Lake Lucerne
• Eiger Glacier
• Schynige Plate
• Glacier Gorge Grindelwald
• Grindelwald First
• Chillon Castle

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• Spring in Switzerland – Places to visit + Things to do

Ah, the wonderful season of spring! Everything from the blooming flowers to sunny days and fresh air. 

If you’re looking for a place to take in all that springtime has to offer, then Switzerland should be top on your travel list right now. 

From breathtaking mountain peaks and crystal clear glacial lakes, there is no better place than Switzerland to experience the warmth of brighter days and the striking beauty of the changing seasons. 

So, read on to find out all the best places to visit and things to do in beautiful Switzerland during the spring!

Is spring a good time to visit Switzerland? 

Switzerland is a country with natural beauty that knows no bounds, and during springtime, it is truly a sight to behold. 

Not only is the weather mild and welcoming, but the scenery is breathtaking , with fields of vibrant wildflowers and snow-capped mountains that provide the perfect backdrop for picturesque photos. 

The best part about springtime is that it’s not crowded, providing a more intimate and peaceful experience that allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural wonderland that Switzerland boasts. 

In addition, there’s a variety of activities to enjoy during this season, from hiking and biking to exploring quaint towns nestled in the Swiss Alps. 

All in all, spring is an ideal time to visit Switzerland.

7 places to visit in Switzerland during the spring

Spring is exceptional as the snow begins to melt, and nature awakens, bringing colorful and vibrant landscapes. 

There are several places to visit in Switzerland during this delightful season, such as:

• Rhine Falls,
• Lauterbrunnen, 
• Interlaken,

Rhine Falls – The largest waterfall in Europe

One of the most impressive places to see is Rhine Falls , Europe’s largest waterfall, located in the town of Schaffhausen. 

The roar of the water is deafening, and mist rises high into the air, creating a magical atmosphere. 

Visitors can take a boat ride right up to the waterfall , feel the power of the falls, and admire the beautiful colors of the water. 

In the spring, the lush green hills surrounding the waterfall are particularly breathtaking, making it an absolute must-visit for any traveler visiting Switzerland.

Lauterbrunnen – Scenic, picturesque, and alpine town

Lauterbrunnen is another must-visit place in Switzerland during the spring season. 

This small town is nestled in a valley surrounded by towering mountains, including the famous Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau peaks. 

The town is a popular destination for its scenic beauty and offers plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and paragliding. 

During spring , the lush green meadows start blooming with wildflowers, and the waterfalls start gushing with melting snow, making the entire town a heavenly sight to witness. 

Read more about Lauterbrunnen and other picturesque Swiss villages here.

Interlaken – Adventure experience

Interlaken , situated in the heart of Switzerland, is a beautiful city to visit during the spring season. 

Surrounded by a stunning mountainscape, Interlaken offers the perfect blend of scenic beauty and adventure. 

A must-visit attraction is the Harder Kulm , where one can take a funicular ride up to the top of the mountain for a breathtaking view of the city and surrounding areas. 

For the more adventurous, Interlaken is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as paragliding, kayaking, and canyoning. 

The city also has a variety of restaurants offering delicious local cuisine and nightlife options.

Geneva – The Pearl of Switzerland

Switzerland is a stunning country full of picturesque views, and Geneva is certainly no exception. 

This city is one of the most cosmopolitan in Switzerland, offering extensive history, architecture, and culture. 

During the spring, Geneva’s Old Town provides a glimpse of the past with its medieval alleys and centuries-old buildings. 

Moreover, the Jet d’Eau fountain is an iconic landmark, overlooking Lake Geneva and providing a stunning photo opportunity. 

Visitors can also embark on a peaceful boat tour of the lake, taking in its panoramic views and relishing in the fresh air. 

Zurich – The cultural hub of Switzerland

The city boasts an array of architectural marvels, scenic views of the Limmat River and Lake Zurich , and a plethora of museums, galleries, and cultural events. 

Take a stroll down the picturesque Bahnhofstrasse, explore the historic Old Town with its cobbled streets and numerous sights, or visit the hip and trendy Zurich West district for some great food and drinks. 

Don’t miss out on a visit to the Kunsthaus Zurich , which houses an impressive collection of 19th- and 20th-century art, including works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso. 

With so many sights to see and things to do, Zurich is the perfect destination to experience the best of Switzerland during spring.

Bern – The capital of Switzerland

Bern boasts a rich cultural heritage and a plethora of picturesque sites to visit, particularly during the spring season. 

One of the most prominent attractions is the historic old town, which dates back to the medieval era and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . 

Here, visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the narrow alleys and admire the perfectly preserved architecture of centuries gone by. 

Another must-see attraction is Bern Bear Park , home to several resident bears that are beloved by the local community. 

Finally, a walk along the tranquil Aare River is a perfect way to soak in the natural beauty of this charming city.

Lugano – Gem waiting to be discovered

Boasting awe-inspiring landscapes, this Italian-speaking town offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Whether you want to unwind by taking a serene stroll along the lake or exploring the abundance of natural parks, Lugano has a unique charm that caters to all ages. 

Make sure to add Parco Ciani to your itinerary as it provides a tranquil atmosphere of trees, flowers, and fountains. 

With its beautiful surroundings and stunning mountain ranges, Lugano is a true gem waiting to be discovered.

Amazing things to do in Switzerland during the spring

If you are looking for a memorable springtime adventure, Switzerland should definitely be at the top of your destination list.

This country provides visitors with a diverse range of adrenaline-pumping activities to enjoy throughout the spring, such as:

• Hiking and cycling
• Skiing and snowboarding
• Paragliding
• Food and drink tasting

1. Hiking and cycling around Switzerland

During spring Switzerland is the perfect place to visit for hiking and cycling enthusiasts. 

The snow has melted away, and the temperature is mild, providing the ideal conditions to enjoy the outdoors. 

The Swiss Alps offer countless hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of lakes and greenery. 

Cycling in Switzerland is equally impressive, with roads that are well-maintained providing you with incredible vistas that are sure to take your breath away.

2. Skiing and snowboarding during the spring

Despite the end of winter, Switzerland’s ski resorts continue to attract thrill-seekers with their extended spring ski season. 

Skiers and snowboarders can enjoy breathtaking scenery and quality snow on the glaciers of Zermatt and Verbier. 

As the sun shines longer and the temperatures begin to climb, spruce up your energy levels and hit the slopes for an adventure-packed day. 

Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner, Switzerland’s glacier skiing is a must-do experience. 

3. Paragliding through the incredible Swiss landscapes

Spring is the perfect season to experience the thrill of paragliding in Switzerland.  

With picturesque views of the Swiss Alps, places like Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen offer the ultimate paragliding adventure with trained and experienced instructors. 

By taking to the skies, you’ll have a unique perspective of the stunning Swiss landscape, making it a memorable experience that you’ll cherish for years to come. 

4. Boating on Switzerland’s beautiful lakes

Boating is a great way to experience Switzerland’s natural beauty, and with so many breathtaking lakes to choose from, it’s hard to go wrong. 

Lake Geneva, one of the largest lakes in Europe, is a popular destination for boaters. With its stunning views of the Alps and Geneva’s famous Jet d’Eau, it’s easy to see why. 

Moreover, Lake Lucerne is another popular spot, with its picturesque surroundings and historic landmarks such as the Chapel Bridge. 

And of course, there’s Lake Zurich, offering a unique combination of urban and natural landscapes. 

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a boating trip in Switzerland is sure to impress.

5. Food and drink tasting

From savory cheese dishes to sweet chocolate treats, Swiss cuisine is unmatched in its variety and quality. 

If you’re a food lover and want to explore the local cuisine, spring is the perfect time to do so. 

You can head to Zurich’s famous Lindenhof Hill and savor the city’s signature dish, the delicate Zürich Geschnetzeltes. 

To pair it, enjoy an exquisite Swiss wine or craft beer, perfectly brewed to complement the food. 

Venture out to the charming town of Gruyères to dig into its famous cheese fondue and taste the distinct cheeses of the region.

As you can see, there are countless things to do and places to visit during spring in Switzerland. 

Whether you’re an extreme sports enthusiast or a casual nature-lover, there is something perfect for every type of traveler to enjoy during their Swiss adventure.

On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a luxury ride around Switzerland during your vacation, we have the best solution for you – limousine service.

Alphazg limousine service will provide you safe and reliable ride wherever you want to make your vacation even more unforgettable. 

So, if you need a luxury ride and want to avoid the stress of planning transportation around the country, feel free to contact us and book your memorable ride.

Everything else will be taken care of by professionals.

Thank you for reading!

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Solo Female Travel – Switzerland, Europe and Beyond

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN SWITZERLAND IN SPRING – 2025

Spring in Switzerland | Top Things to Do + Travel Tips

Table of Contents

Switzerland in spring is a time to celebrate as winter’s bitterly cold temperatures give way to sunny, warmer climates. The Swiss spring season is ideal for outdoor activities and hiking through the Alps without the crowds and freezing weather. 

In early spring, some of the best towns to visit in Switzerland still experience snowfall. Others bloom into verdant greenery and floral landscapes.

I visit Switzerland several times a year, and also often in the spring months (actually, while I am updating this post, I am in Switzerland right now in May 2024). Spring is always full of surprises – I cannot really rely on the weather and my Swiss spring vacation is always different. But I am trying my best to prepare you for a spring trip in 2025.

This guide will help you plan your Switzerland spring getaway and explore some great destinations you can add to your itinerary.

SWITZERLAND WEATHER IN SPRING

Swiss spring lasts between mid-March and mid-June.   Swiss weather can be quite unpredictable all year round. It is still chilly and snowy in some parts during the early months of spring, but May and June bring sunshine and pleasant weather in many areas.

Due to the mountainous regions, expect snow in high-altitude areas even in late spring – but due to climate change, weather conditions are also changing.

Warm, sunny days are not guaranteed but spring still allows for many outdoor activities. There are also many fantastic indoor activities for the coldest days.

• Mountainous areas like the Jungfrau Region, Zermatt , or the Engadine Valley and St.Moritz may still experience scattered snowfall throughout March. Its colder temperatures range from -5℃ (21 °F) to 6℃ (42,8 °F).
• In lower-altitude towns like Zürich and Lugano, the first spring blossoms bloom towards mid-March. The temperature is slightly warmer, with averages of 9℃ (48 ° F).
• Average daytime temperatures in April range between 10℃ (50°F) and 20℃ (68°F).
• Mountainous areas are still rather chilly, with temperatures that can drop below 0℃ during the night.
• You can expect some rainfall in April country-wide.
• May weather is moderate and pleasant, with the average daytime temperature being 20℃ (68°F).
• Nighttime temperatures drop to around 7℃ (44,6°F).
• You can expect some rainfall. While I am in Switzerland right now (May 2024), I might have to adjust the info and say, that rain is really common in May., 
• June weather across Switzerland is pleasant, with daily averages of between 16℃ (61 ° F) and 26℃ (78,8°F )  in mountainous areas. 
• Low-lying regions like Ticino and Valais can experience warmer (and even hot) temperatures of up to 35℃ (95°F).
• Daylight hours increase, with up to 12 hours of sunshine daily .

As a testament to how unpredictable weather can be here, early March 2022 was what you’d expect. Warm and sunny days in lower altitude villages, towns, and cities. But, in late March and April, you would still find heavy snow even in lower altitude areas like Iseltwald (566 meters above sea level), which isn’t the typical conditions you’d expect then.

So, my Switzerland family trip in late March/April turned for a few days into a winter trip. Just keep that in mind and check the weather forecast a few days before your Switzerland spring vacation.

SWISS TRAVEL PASS IN SPRING

Before talking about the best spring activities, I like to introduce you to the Swiss Travel Pass. I recommend getting a Swiss Travel Pass . Swiss Travel Passes are available for non-Swiss residents. I visit Switzerland often, and most of the time I get one – even if it’s a road trip because they are amazing.

• A Swiss Travel Pass allows me to use trains and buses without any extra costs – so basically, I can use almost all trains and buses for free.
• I can also do boat cruises without additional costs.
• It also gives me a 50% discount on most mountain rides (I can get up via cable car/funicular for half of the price), and some mountain excursions are even included – including a trip up to Mürren.

The initial prices for a Swiss Travel Pass are quite high – but it pays for my trip and it helps me to save money. So, check out prices for boats and trains, and then calculate if it is a good option for you.   Check out prices here .

PLACES TO VISIT IN SWITZERLAND IN SPRING

The guide below will help you explore some of the best options to add to your itinerary.

Experience Spring in Bern

The picturesque Swiss capital of Bern boasts many cultural and historical treasures. Combine this with breathtaking panoramic views of natural landscapes, and you’re in for an amazing trip. 

There are many fantastic things to do in Bern throughout the year, including in spring. Although the temperature remains a bit chilly, there are fewer crowds around, and you can see most of its significant landmarks in one day.  

Experience the city’s unique medieval feeling and charming atmosphere by taking a stroll along the Aare River. You’ll come across many of the city’s remarkable landmarks. You’ll also pass through a significant part of the celebrated Old City of Bern .

One of the best places to spend a springtime afternoon is the  Rosengarten . From late March to mid-April, the ornamental Japanese cherry trees in the park spring into full bloom. This picture-perfect scenery, paired with the phenomenal view of Bern’s Old City, makes it a truly great experience. I never miss a chance to enjoy from here.

Also, from mid-March, the famous brown bears in the bear park of Bern awake from their hibernation, so this is another reason to visit in spring.

Enjoy the Charm of Lugano

Located in the Ticino region of southern Switzerland is Lugano. The city is a unique blend of Swiss, Italian, and Mediterranean lifestyles. It’s well-known for its fairytale-like small towns and villages, including the picturesque Gandria and Morcote .

Lugano has mild and comfortable spring temperatures, allowing for breezy walks around town. The city’s Mediterranean-style main square, Piazza Della Riforma, has markets, arcades, and bistros. 

The glacial Lake Lugano is a popular outdoor destination during the warmer spring months. Surrounded by spectacular mountains and valleys, the lake is great for avid hikers. Active visitors can also enjoy swimming, paddle boarding, and canoeing in the lake’s fresh, clear water.

In summer, it often is too hot in Ticino – for my taste – so, it is normally the spring and fall seasons, I visit this gorgeous canton.

There are occasional thunderstorms in the region during springtime. So be sure to check the weather in advance if you are planning outdoor activities in Lugano .

Explore Nature in Lauterbrunnen and Mürren

Lauterbrunnen is a small village located in the Jungfrau Region in the Bernese Alps. It is the perfect destination for nature lovers. From lush green valleys to snow-capped mountain peaks and waterfalls , the area’s natural beauty is astonishing.

One of the most spectacular natural wonders in the area is the internationally acclaimed Trümmelbach Falls . It is Europe ‘s only subterranean falls, made up of a series of ten waterfalls hidden in the mountains of Lauterbrunnen Valley. It is closed in the winter months and opens in spring (sometime in April) .

While a visit anytime during spring is great, May and June are the best times due to their lovely all-around weather conditions. 

And if you head up to the cute village of Mürren , you will find snow until April when the winter sports season ends. It is located at the foot of the Schilthorn peak , at 1638 meters above sea level.

  Murren is composed of very few streets lined with cute houses, covered in snow in the winter (which lasts until mid-April), and decorated with colorful flowers in late spring and the summer.

With those mountains in the background, Mürren is a perfect postcard of Switzerland! Since Mürren is car-free you can only get there by cable car/train – but that train ride is one of the most scenic in Switzerland. Actually, the train ride is one of the main reasons, why I keep going back to Muerren, because it is absolutely amazing (it is just 20 minutes, though).

Also, the gondola and then the train ride to Murren are included in your Swiss Travel Pass.

Admire the Beauty of Zürich

Switzerland’s biggest city, Zürich, is a perfect spring destination. With its charming streets lined with gorgeous terraces, eclectic shops, festivals, and scenic gardens, there’s something for everyone.

A popular springtime event in Zürich is the annual traditional festival Sechseläuten in mid-April . It celebrates the beginning of the spring season in a fun way. There’s a parade featuring guild members dressed in historical costumes, traditional music, horses, colorful flags, and flower displays.  

Lake Zurich is an enticing outdoor experience where you can hike, cycle, or simply relax on the shore. It is also a paradise for bird watchers, with observation decks in quieter areas. The lake is a wonderful destination for a family-friendly day in the sun. 

For a few days in early spring, you will also find “rose fountains” all over the old town of Zurich. It is a lovely and unique sight to see.

For the best spring experience, I would visit Zurich only from mid-April to June and not in March (as there it still be can quite rainy and grey overall). Check out my guide on the best time to visit Zurich to find out more.

Journey to the Aletsch Glacier

Stretching almost 15 miles in length, the imposing Aletsch Glacier is a magnificent wonder of nature. It holds the title of the largest glacier and the longest ice stream in the Alps . During spring, the immense ice flow starts to melt and makes for a spectacular sight.

A fun way to explore the splendor of the glacier is to take a cable car ride up – either to the  Hohfluh, Moosfluh, Bettmerhorn, and Eggishorn  viewpoints. All these viewpoints are high above the ground with a staggering altitude of around 7,000 feet. This provides exceptional panoramic views of the glacier, surrounding peaks, and lush greenery sitting at the foot of the mountain. 

This region also has an extensive network of running and hiking trails. For the more adventurous traveler, some activities will get your adrenaline pumping, such as paragliding, ziplining, and ice caving.

Though I have not done any of these activities, I truly enjoyed getting up, doing some short walks and just admiring the views”

Feel the Sophistication of Montreux

Montreux is a gorgeous town nestled between steep mountain slopes and the beautiful Lake Geneva . It combines magnificent natural scenery with an elegant urban lifestyle for a unique, vibrant atmosphere.

While it is also a great destination during the other seasons, it is great to see Montreux waking up and showing its prettiest colors from spring onwards.

The six-mile-long Montreux Promenade is one of the most popular destinations in town. Spectacular displays of spring flowers, street performers, vendors, and breathtaking views line this lakeside boardwalk. This is especially beautiful in late spring. Along the path, there is also a larger-than-life bronze statue of Freddie Mercury that is a popular spot to take a break and pose for some photos. 

Situated on the banks of Lake Geneva is the historic Château Chillon , one of Europe’s most well-preserved medieval structures. Dating back to the 13th century, the castle is a highly renowned attraction that draws many visitors. Montreux experiences occasional rainfall during spring, so the castle’s perfect for rainy days.

Montreux is one of my favorite destinations, but a clear sunny day in spring is the best time to visit because I love the flowers against the snow-capped mountains in the background – a dream!

Experience the Charm of Grindelwald and  Grindelwald First

Grindelwald is an idyllic small village surrounded by the majestic mountains of the Jungfrau Region. This famous mountain resort has natural beauty and spectacular scenery, including snow-capped mountains and green valleys in spring.

Thousands of dandelions spring up all over the rolling green meadows from March onwards. This provides the perfect backdrop for the many Alpine cows with their signature Swiss cowbells that roam the area. 

There is much to enjoy during spring in Grindelwald, including many seasonal outdoor activities. The town boasts 1,864 miles of hiking trails and is also an excellent spot for mountain biking, and running.

If you want to spend some time in the snow, even in March or April, make sure to get up Grindelwald First Grindelwald – a dream destination for any adventurists or adrenaline junkies. At Grindelwald First, a mountain at 2184 meters above sea level,  you can do winter sports even until mid-April.

It is also known as the “Top of Adventure” –  throughout the year you can do a couple of thrilling activities.  The First Cliff Walk is an exhilarating experience that is sure to take your breath away. It is a metal walkway that leads to a viewpoint that juts out from a cliff with a sheer drop of close to 150 feet. While the height might be harrowing, what awaits is totally worth it.

As it is still a snowy wonderland during spring, skiing, and snowboarding are popular activities in the area. Another thrilling experience is the First Flyer – a 2,625-foot zipline that flies above the valley at speeds of up to 52 miles per hour. Here is more about a day trip to Grindelwald and Grindelwald First.

Reach New Heights at Jungfraujoch

The Jungfraujoch is a saddle connecting two major 4000ers of the Bernese Alps: the Jungfrau and the Mönch.  Fondly dubbed “the top of Europe”, Jungfraujoch sits at a staggering 11,630 feet above sea level. Due to the altitude, the mountains are snow-capped well into spring, and ski season lasts longer than usual.

A great way to explore the area is by taking a trip on the Jungfrau Railway, Europe’s highest railway station. There are also various observation platforms at the railway station. Here, the views of surrounding mountain peaks are sure to take your breath away. And you will also see the Aletsch Glacier (the longest glacier in the Alps) from a different perspective. 

A trip to Jungfraujoch is a great way to round up your experience in the Bernese Oberland. You get to stand on one of the highest, most easily accessible sites in Europe, play in the snow, and soak in the magnificent scenery.

Experience Swiss-French Culture in Sion

Located in the southwest of Switzerland in the Valais Region, Sion is one of the most sun-blessed towns in the country. It shares a border with France , and some French culture, including the language, has spilled over into the area.

Sion is home to many renowned vineyards, wineries, historical castles, and ancient ruins. A notable structure is the eleventh-century Château de Tourbillon , a Swiss National Heritage site. This fascinating medieval castle sits atop a hill, and there are hiking trails that lead to it that include a tour of the building’s interior.  The surrounding vineyards look a bit bleak in March and April but therefore Cherry blossoms and more are all around the castles .

During spring, Sion’s l ovely weather is perfect for spending time outdoors. It has a large park designed for fun and recreation, Domaine des Îles, a popular family-friendly destination. You can enjoy activities like swimming, tennis, mini-golf, and more here. 

I’d also recommend a stop at Lac Souterrain, Europe’s largest underground lake . It has vivid blue waters that stay incredibly still and a temperature of 52ºF — just be wary of the bats.

Enjoy the Waters of Lake Thun

Located in Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland, Lake Thun is an Alpine body of water named after the nearby city of Thun . The charming town is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, and is also a great place to start your journey to Lake Thun.

Get a dose of history at Thun Castle, take in nature at Schadau Park, and enjoy a picturesque stroll along the Aare River.

Springtime’s moderate and breezy weather brings many fun activities to the banks of Lake Thun. This includes kayaking, waterskiing, sailing, and canoeing. There are also hiking trails and guided excursions to the Stockhorn, Niesen, and Niederhorn mountains on offer.

Adjacent to Lake Thun is the popular resort town of Interlaken, where adventurers can enjoy many thrilling experiences. The resort offers skydiving, paragliding, and base-jumping, and is a perfect destination for adrenaline junkies.

FINAL THOUGHTS – SPRING IN SWITZERLAND

Switzerland in spring is a captivating symphony of nature’s renewal. As the snow melts away, the landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colors. The Swiss Alps, still crowned with white peaks , contrast beautifully with the lush green valleys below . 

In the cities, spring is marked by a palpable sense of awakening. Outdoor cafés begin to fill, and the streets buzz with the energy of locals and tourists alike, eager to embrace the warmer weather.

During the springtime, Switzerland is absolutely lovely. I love to visit during spring, because it is much less crowded than in the summer and winter months. And I can  experience some of the most magnificent scenery and have a wide variety of amazing destinations and activities to choose from.

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Best places to visit in switzerland.

Switzerland is known around the world for its chocolate, cheese, charming towns and scenic landscapes . Everywhere you turn, you're treated to a little bit of history and a little bit of nature's beauty, as well as plenty of mouthwatering cuisine in between. U.S. News considered factors like sights, culture, accessibility and variety of things to do, plus traveler and expert input, to calculate the best places to visit in Switzerland. Peruse the list below, and vote for your favorite spots.

Appenzell District

Jungfrau region.

Interlaken's unique location between two lakes – Lake Brienz and Lake Thun – makes it a breathtaking spot for a vacation. Here, you can spend hours hiking various trails, taking in the castle-studded shores of Lake Thun on a boat cruise or gazing at the surrounding mountains from the Harder Kulm observation deck (accessible via a funicular). To see more of the region's stunning scenery, go for a ride on the Schynige Platte Railway or sign up for a paragliding or skydiving excursion.

Travelers looking to ski or snowboard in the Swiss Alps should head to Zermatt. This small, car-free town in the middle of the Alps is famous for housing one of the world's most famous attractions — the Matterhorn (a peak so popular that it inspired a Disneyland ride) — and Switzerland's highest ski resort. Novice and expert skiers and snowboarders can spend the bulk of their vacation hitting the slopes, which showcase incredible mountain views. After shredding powder, visitors can ride the Gornergrat train, pick up a slab of homemade chocolate from a local shop or savor cheese fondue at a traditional Swiss restaurant.

Picturesque Lucerne sits on Lake Lucerne in central Switzerland, framed by snowcapped mountains and medieval buildings. This beautiful city's old town is home to historic attractions, lively town squares, boutique shops and old churches. Top attractions include the Musegg Wall and its towers (the preserved fortifications date back to the 13th century) and Europe's oldest wooden covered bridge, the must-see Chapel Bridge, which was originally built in the 1330s. Those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure can also ride a cable car to Mount Pilatus for stunning views of Lake Lucerne and plenty of activities at the top.

This lakefront city on the Swiss-Italian border offers visitors a unique travel experience. Because Lugano shares waters with neighboring Italy, the city features a mix of Swiss and Mediterranean influences in everything from its cuisine to its architecture. Plus, Lugano boasts unforgettable panoramas. Visit Monte San Salvatore and Monte Brè, both of which you can reach by funicular, for bird's-eye views of Lake Lugano and the city. Or, spend a few hours hiking the Olive Grove Trail or strolling the gardens of Ciani Park. If you'd rather lounge on a beach, head to Lido di Lugano.

Zurich is a cosmopolitan financial center, a foodie haven and a romantic European city that appeals to all types of travelers. A vacation here should include spending time admiring Lake Zurich, exploring the trendy bars and Michelin-starred restaurants, meandering through Lindenhof park and exploring the city's distinct neighborhoods. Join well-heeled shoppers (or just admire the window displays) on Bahnhofstrasse, a world-famous exclusive retail boulevard. While here, be sure to sample the famous dark chocolate Champagne truffles from specialty chocolatier Teuscher.

Visit the medieval town of Gruyères if you want to feel as if you've stepped back in time during your next trip. Its good looks (think: car-free cobblestone streets, fountain-filled squares and a 13th-century castle) create an old-world ambiance you're bound to love. Plus, the town is world-renowned for its Gruyère cheese, which you can sample and learn more about at a local cheese dairy or cellar. Sampling chocolate is also a must-do here, so be sure to check out a chocolate factory or attend a chocolate workshop while in town.

Like its neighbor Lugano, Locarno is located in the Ticino region near the Italian border. This quiet, small town is surrounded by stunning scenery (it sits on the shores of Lake Maggiore in the foothills of the Alps), and since it's the warmest destination in Switzerland, you'll have plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and explore. Be sure to stroll through the picture-perfect main square, Piazza Grande, where the city hosts several summer festivals, and trek to Madonna del Sasso, considered sacred among Roman Catholics. Then, head to the Verzasca river valley to swim or bungee jump.

Appenzell captures the essence of Switzerland with rolling hills, a car-free village and well-preserved customs. Visitors can take in the scenic landscape of the Appenzell District (located in the northeastern part of the country) by taking a cable car to the oft-photographed Aescher guest house, picturesquely built into the rock face, or hiking the region's "experience trails" like the Gonten Barefoot Trail and Appenzeller Kapellenweg, which weaves past 11 chapels. Meanwhile, the tiny village of Appenzell boasts quaint, frescoed shops and Museum Appenzell, which highlights the region's traditional crafts, folk music and art.

You'd be hard-pressed to find a small town that boasts more charm and incredible scenery than Brienz. Located in the stunning Bernese Oberland region, Brienz sits on the northeastern shore of Lake Brienz, which features gorgeous turquoise water and is flanked by towering evergreen mountains. Some of the best ways to soak up the awe-inspiring setting include strolling picture-perfect Brunngasse (often proclaimed the most beautiful street in Europe), riding the Brienz Rothorn Bahn (which traverses a steam rack railway) and taking a boat tour to lake attractions like Giessbach Falls.

Set along the banks of crystal-clear Lake Geneva in western Switzerland, this city is known for its incredible views and as the headquarters of the Red Cross and the United Nations. Geneva is also home to some iconic sights, including the Jet d'Eau (one of the world's tallest water fountains) and an old town with cobblestone streets and picturesque squares. While exploring the latter, be sure to check out the Saint Pierre Cathedral, which features Roman, Gothic and neoclassical details.

The capital of Switzerland, Bern sometimes gets overlooked for flashier Swiss cities like Zurich and Geneva. But Bern holds many charms, including an old town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) featuring the iconic Zytglogge clock tower, Renaissance-style fountains and a Gothic cathedral with the highest spire in Switzerland. The city also boasts many museums – several dedicated to Albert Einstein, who lived in Bern when developing his theory of relativity. Head to Gurten mountain – which you can reach by funicular, by bike or on foot – for sweeping views of the city below.

As the largest ski area in central Switzerland, Engelberg is a winter playground, with a long, snowy season for downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding and sledding. But don't sleep on a summertime visit here; warmer months allow for a bevy of fun family activities like a toboggan run, 300-plus miles of hiking trails and water activities on Trübsee lake. Regardless of when you visit, you won't want to miss the TITLIS Rotair, a revolving cable car that takes riders up Mount Titlis, and the other cable lifts that stop at a glacier cave, a panoramic restaurant, and the TITLIS Cliff Walk.

Considered "the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism," St. Moritz welcomes travelers with world-class skiing, swanky hotels, renowned après-ski offerings and top-notch restaurants. In addition to offering downhill skiing trails so highly regarded that the town has hosted the Olympics twice, St. Moritz features excellent spots for cross-country skiing, sledding and winter hikes. Come summertime, the area invites outdoor lovers to golf, bike, hike or enjoy water sports and swimming in the surrounding lakes.

The Jungfrau Region is the perfect place for first-timers wanting to experience the otherworldly splendor that is the Swiss Alps. But be forewarned: The destination is sky high. Popular attractions like the Jungfraujoch (which features Europe's highest train station), the Grindelwald-First cable car and the First Cliff Walk Presented by Tissot sit at the top of towering peaks. The innovative Eiger Express gondola offers even faster transport to the top (just 15 minutes from Grindelwald). For those who'd rather stick closer to Earth's surface, prioritize a hike on a lower-level valley path and a visit to the Pfingstegg toboggan.

Tourists may not be as familiar with Montreux as they are with its Lake Geneva neighbors, which makes this Swiss town such an undiscovered gem. Quaint Montreux features a waterfront promenade dotted with flowers and trees, a medieval castle and a charming old town, not to mention a statue commemorating Freddie Mercury (Queen recorded multiple albums here from 1978 to 1995). Montreux is also surrounded by vineyards and hosts a popular open-air jazz festival every summer, while the holiday season brings the festive Montreux Noël market.

Located less than 5 miles from Montreux, Vevey is another Lake Geneva gem. This town's picturesque promenade along the lake is filled with flowers and features a sculpture of Charlie Chaplin, who spent the last 25 years of his life in Vevey. The Alimentarium, a nutrition-focused museum, also adorns the shoreline with its beautiful sandstone building, which once served as the headquarters to Nestlé (the company is still based in Vevey). After admiring the town, visitors can take a cog railway to the scenic Les Pléiades vantage point for its stunning views and the astronomy-centric Astropléiades trail.   

The second-largest city on Lake Geneva, Lausanne is characterized by its renowned Gothic cathedral and surrounding hilly terrain. The stunning lake views and colorful city center don't hurt, either. Travelers can take in Lausanne's lively atmosphere by checking out the city's cafes, admiring the old town's beautiful architecture and perusing the exhibits at the Olympic Museum. No visit would be complete without venturing outside the city to nearby Lavaux, where you can enjoy wine from vineyards that are so scenic and well-preserved (some date back to the 11th century), the area was deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Spring Travel to Switzerland: where to go and what to do

Late winter and early spring are said to be one of the best times to visit Switzerland. Here's a guide to festivals and special events in Switzerland in March, April, and May that you don't want to miss in 2023. Plus, you'll find the top places to visit in Switzerland during spring.

Published: Feb 13, 2023 • min read

Spring in Switzerland is a time to rejoice as the severely cold temperatures of winter give way to bright, milder weather. Without the crowds and frigid temperatures, the season is excellent for outdoor sports, including hiking over the Alps. Some of the nicest towns to visit in Switzerland still have snow in early April. Others flourish into lush foliage and flowery vistas.

Spring brings with it a plethora of memorable Swiss experiences. This offers thawed hiking paths, water activities, and stunning landscapes to explore. On bright days, you may soak up the rays by strolling through one of the numerous parks or along the picturesque pathways that snake past forests and towns.

Weather in Switzerland in Spring:

• March . Mountainous locations like the Jungfrau Region may still have occasional snowfall in March. Temperatures in the winter range from -5°C to 6°C. In mid-March, the first spring blooms emerge in lower-altitude places like Zürich and Lugano. The temperature has risen somewhat, with averages of 9°C.  
• April . In April, average daily temperatures vary from 10°C to 20°C. Temperatures in the mountains may still drop below zero degrees Celsius at night. Rainfall is expected around the country in April.  
• May . The weather in May is mild and pleasant, with an average daytime temperature of 20°C. However, temperatures dip to roughly 7°C at night. There will be some rain.

Spring in Bern

Bern, the charming Swiss City, is home to several cultural and historical treasures. When you combine this with beautiful panoramic views of natural surroundings, you're in for an unforgettable journey.

There are many excellent things to do in Bern all year, even in the spring. Although the weather stays cool, there are fewer tourists, and you can explore most of the City's major attractions in a single day. A stroll along the turquoise Aare River will allow you to enjoy the City's distinct medieval vibe and beautiful ambiance. Many of the City's spectacular monuments, including the iconic Bear Pit, will be visible along the trip. You'll also pass through a substantial portion of Bern's famed Old City.

The Rosengarten is one of the nicest spots to spend a spring afternoon. The magnificent Japanese cherry trees in the park bloom from late March to mid-April. This picture-perfect setting and the breathtaking perspective of Bern's Old City make it a really unforgettable experience. In addition, the famed brown bears in Bern's bear park awaken from their hibernation beginning in mid-March.

Spring in Lugano

Lugano is a city in the Ticino region in southern Switzerland. The city's lifestyle is a unique combination of Swiss, Italian, and Mediterranean influences. It is well-known for its fairytale-like little towns and villages, such as Gandria and Morcote.

Lugano's spring temps are temperate and agreeable, allowing for pleasant hikes throughout town. Piazza Della Riforma, the city's major plaza in Mediterranean style, has marketplaces, arcades, and bistros. You may spend a leisurely afternoon here while enjoying the city's colorful, unique environment.

The glacial Lake Lugano is a popular outdoor attraction during the milder spring months. The lake is ideal for hikers since it is surrounded by stunning mountains and valleys. Swimmers, paddle boarders, and canoeists may all enjoy the lake's clean, clear water.

During the spring, the area experiences isolated thunderstorms. Therefore, if you plan outdoor activities in Lugano, check the weather ahead of time.

Spring in Zürich

Zürich, Switzerland's largest city, is an ideal spring trip. It has excellent weather and a variety of entertaining activities. There's something for everyone on its picturesque streets lined with lovely terraces, unique boutiques, festivals, and stunning gardens.

The yearly traditional festival Sechseläuten, held in mid-April, is a popular springtime event in Zürich. It's a beautiful way to commemorate the start of the spring season. A procession with guild members dressed in historical costumes, traditional music, horses, colorful banners, and floral displays takes place. The festival's climax is the traditional burning of the Böögg, in which an eleven-foot-tall snowman effigy is set alight at 6 p.m. This represents the end of winter, and the event concludes with a boisterous party and a fireworks show.

Lake Zurich offers an intriguing outdoor experience, with opportunities to walk, ride, or simply rest on the lakeside. It is also a bird watcher's heaven, with observation platforms in calmer sections. The lake is a great place to spend a sunny day with the family.

Spring in Montreux

Montreux is a lovely and affluent town set between rugged mountain ranges and Lake Geneva. It mixes breathtaking natural landscapes with an attractive urban lifestyle to create a distinct and energetic ambiance. While it is undoubtedly a wonderful trip in other seasons, it is adorable to witness Montreux springing up and displaying its most beautiful hues from spring onwards.

The six-mile-long Montreux Promenade is one of the city's most prominent attractions. This lakeside boardwalk is lined with spectacular displays of spring flowers, street entertainers, vendors, and beautiful vistas. This is really lovely in the late spring. Along the way, a larger-than-life bronze statue of Freddie Mercury is a popular rest stop and photo opportunity.

The ancient Château Chillon, located on the shores of Lake Geneva, is one of Europe's best-preserved medieval castles. The castle dates back to the 13th century and is a popular tourist destination. In addition, Montreux gets some rain in the spring. Thus the castle is ideal for wet days.

Spring in Lauterbrunnen and Mürren

Lauterbrunnen is a tiny settlement in the Bernese Alps' Jungfrau Region. It is an ideal place for nature enthusiasts and those seeking peace and tranquillity. The region's natural splendor is breathtaking, with lush green valleys, snow-capped mountain peaks, and waterfalls.

The globally famous Trümmelbach Falls is one of the area's most magnificent natural attractions. It is Europe's only subterranean falls, consisting of ten waterfalls concealed in the Lauterbrunnen Valley's mountains. It is closed over the winter and reopens in the spring. While visiting in the spring is enjoyable at any time of year, May and June are ideal owing to the pleasant weather conditions.

Hinteres Lauterbrunnental, the valley's bottom section, is an excellent spot for trekking and discovering nature. Many established routes will lead you through quiet waterfalls, lush forests, floral meadows (at least in late spring), mountain streams, and moorlands.

And if you go up to the charming town of Mürren, you'll find snow until the conclusion of the winter sports season in April. It is situated at 1638 meters above sea level at the foot of the Schilthorn summit. Murren is made up of a few streets lined with lovely buildings covered in winter (which lasts until mid-April) and decorated with brilliant flowers in the late spring and summer. Mürren is a wonderful postcard of Switzerland, especially with those mountains in the backdrop! Because Mürren is automobile-free, the only way to get there is by cable car or train - but the train trip is one of the most gorgeous in Switzerland, so you won't mind.

FESTIVALS in Switzerland, 2023

• International Jazz Festival in Bern . Marians Jazzroom is a concert venue that hosts two performances every day (excluding Sunday and Monday) from September until the end of May. Marians (Jazzfestival-level) players are top talents on the international Jazz and Blues scene who are rarely seen or heard in such an intimate environment. Jazz, Gospel, Blues, Rhythm & Blues, Soul, and other genres are included in the weekly program. The concerts begin at 7.30 p.m., conclude at 9.30 p.m. (10:00 p.m. on weekends), and run for 75 minutes. The second concert in the evening is frequently cheaper. Because seating is limited, we strongly advise you to purchase your ticket in advance. Marians Jazzroom originally opened its doors in December 1992 and has since established itself as one of the world's top jazz clubs. It features world-class musicians in a comfortable setting at moderate costs. The 48th International Jazz Festival Bern takes place from March 21st through May 27, 2023.  
• Lucerne Spring Festival . Classical music luminaries from all over the world attend the event. The world's most renowned orchestras, great conductors, and brilliant soloists unite to celebrate a music festival in this exquisite setting located on Lake Lucerne in the heart of Switzerland. Lucerne Spring Festival takes place from March 31st until April 2nd, 2023.  
• Sechseläuten , Zürich (springtime festival culminating with burning of a snowman on Monday). Every year since 1991 - on the occasion of the 700th anniversary of the Confederation - the central committee of Zurich's guilds has invited a canton to be a guest at the Sechseläuten in Zurich. The guest canton presents itself at the Lindenhof with an exhibition, a colorful entertainment program, and culinary specialties. In addition, the guest takes part in the children's parade and the parade of the guilds to the fire with their own delegation and traditional, typical parade motifs. In 2023, the  Canton of Schwyz  will be a guest area at Zurich's Sechseläuten for the second time after 2003. With a careful selection of different elements, the Canton of Schwyz wants to present itself as a diverse region with a high quality of life, a powerful business location, and an attractive tourist region on the outskirts of Zurich. Sechseläuten will take place in Zurich from April 14th through April 17th, 2023.   
• Cheese festival in Gruyères . Numerous cheesemakers will be on hand this year for a cheese market in Rue du Bourg. Cheesemakers from the French-speaking section of Switzerland and from beyond the Sarine region are glad to welcome many craftspeople who round out the market with regional know-how. The Cheese festival will be held in Gruyères on May 7th, 2023. 

Early spring in Switzerland is also perfect for a last-minute ski vacation. Some of the world's top ski and snowboarding slopes are located in Switzerland. Every ski/snowboard season, hundreds of people visit the resorts spread around the nation. Check out the best ski resorts to stay at in Switzerland. 

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20 of the Best Places to Visit in Switzerland — From Quaint Villages to Glamorous Cities

From tiny medieval towns to iconic ski resorts, here are 20 of the best places to go in Switzerland.

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When you close your eyes and think of Switzerland, what do you see? Is it snow-capped mountains? Perhaps a verdant valley punctuated by springtime wildflowers? Or maybe it's a quaint Swiss city filled with cultural attractions and world-class restaurants. No matter which vision comes to mind, all of them are right — because Switzerland is all that and more. 

"Switzerland is small, yet we have four official languages, and every single one of the 26 cantons (states) is unique and has something different to offer," Catja-Camilla Straub, a tour guide with GatyaGoes , shared with Travel + Leisure . "There are different ways to explore and experience Switzerland, and there is something for everyone's interests: the outdoors, activities, luxury, a large number of festivals, food, culture, and history." 

Straub isn't the only one to see the nation's remarkable beauty. "Switzerland can offer you all Europa has to offer in one country," Tim Wehrle, a tour guide and underwater archaeologist in Zurich, said. "From lonely mountain valleys to a Mediterranean flair in the south of Switzerland, from busy nightlife to historic town centers, you can find everything in Switzerland." 

Ready to see it all? Here are 20 of the best places to visit in Switzerland.

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

“Zurich is a small gem with only 450,000 inhabitants, yet it's the largest and most vibrant city in Switzerland,” Straub shared. Zurich may be best known for its banking and shopping, but, as Staub noted, it “actually has a rich history dating back to the Romans.” Staub recommends seeing it all and learning everything you can on a walking tour with a local like her.

Mount Rigi Kulm

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Make your way to the top of Mount Rigi to get a view of three countries at once. The mountain, located between Lake Lucerne and Lake Zug, offers views of Switzerland, France, and Germany at the top, which you can reach by taking a train or hiking all the way .

Lake Lucerne

Xantana/Getty Images

Lake Lucerne offers some of Switzerland’s most fantastic views. The glittering lake stretches on for 43 square miles, offering visitors the chance to hike around it, boat through it, or stay at any number of fantastic hotels lining its shores to enjoy the view. 

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Make your way about an hour northeast of Lake Lucerne to the town of Rapperswil , which sits on Lake Zurich. The town is known for its abundant roses in the spring and summer and for its medieval architecture, including its very own castle.

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History lovers, this one is for you. Ticino, a town in southern Switzerland, is home to not one but two UNESCO World Heritage Sites — the Bellinzona castles and Monte San Giorgio. Come explore them all year long, dive in the lake in summer, or take to the mountains for a ski trip in winter. 

Janoka82/Getty Images

Tucked between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, travelers can find the town of Interlaken . It’s well known as an adventure-lovers paradise, offering the chance to hike, ski, paraglide, skydive, and more through the majestic mountain range surrounding the town.

Freeartist/Getty Images

Quinten , which sits on the shores of Lake Walen, is the place to be for those who love to see everything on foot. The entire community is car-free and offers spectacular views throughout its terraced neighborhoods lined with vineyards overlooking the Churfirsten mountain range.

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Want another car-free adventure? Head to the picturesque town of Appenzell in northeast Switzerland. The small community of just 7,000 full-time residents is known for its hand-made cheeses, best enjoyed with a picnic out in the rolling green pastures. 

Pintai Suchachaisri/Getty Images

Montreux, positioned on the shores of Lake Geneva, is loved for its palm-lined promenade, castles, and gorgeous alpine vistas. It’s also the place to be over the summer when it hosts the annual Montreux Jazz Festival, which is worthy of planning an entire trip around.

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If you’re into cheese, you’ve likely heard the name Gruyère before. Visit its namesake town, located in southwest Switzerland, to dig into the cheese-making tradition and to visit its fairy-tale streets surrounded by a positively bucolic landscape.

Oeschinen Lake

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Explore another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Switzerland with a visit to the glacial Oeschinen Lake. Like many places in Switzerland, this lake comes flanked by snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows, and it offers more than its fair share of outdoor fun, including everything from hiking and biking to ice fishing in the winter.

Lavaux Vineyard

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Wine lovers will adore visiting Lavaux Vineyard, the nation’s largest contiguous vineyard area that goes on for nearly 2,000 acres. The vineyard is yet another one of Switzerland’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which comes with the added bonus of gorgeous views and divine wine tastings .

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Want to feel like you’re on top of the world? Head to Stoos , a town located at 4,265 feet. The entire (car-free) town is adorable, but the coolest part is its funicular railway — which holds the record as the steepest on Earth — that takes guests some 2,400 feet high in under 10 minutes. 

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Find a little slice of luxury in St. Mortiz. The high-end town marries some of the best skiing in the world with some of the best shopping. It’s got glitz, glamour, and plenty of bona fides to back up its reputation as a winter sports heaven; St. Moritz hosted the 1928 and 1948 Winter Olympic Games.

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Geneva, the second-largest city in Switzerland, is renowned for its international organizations like the United Nations European headquarters and the International Committee of the Red Cross. It’s also a spot where travelers can find luxuries galore, including high-end watch shops selling some of the most exclusive pieces on Earth.

Rhine Falls

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Feel the power of Mother Nature at Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall. Visitors can marvel at the thunderous waters from viewing platforms, and those feeling more adventurous can take boat trips for a closer experience. Just make sure to wear something waterproof.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Zermatt , which sits in the shadow of the Matterhorn, is one more car-free village that combines rustic charm with high-end amenities, including some of the best skiing in Europe. Of course, guests can explore the mountains all spring, summer, and fall by hiking and biking, or just enjoy the town’s fantastic (year-round) shopping opportunities.

Bern, Switzerland's capital, offers an enticing mix of old and new. The city has retained much of its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets, now the setting for world-class dining venues, boutiques, and beer gardens, all worthy of visiting on your next trip.

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Find a little taste of Italy in Lugano, the largest Italian-speaking city in Switzerland (which counts Italian among its four official languages). The Swiss city offers more gorgeous promenades to stroll, along with delicious Italian-influenced restaurants and an art scene that can't be beaten. 

Swiss National Park

Get one more taste of Switzerland’s incredible natural beauty with a visit to Swiss National Park , located in the Engadin Valley. The park encompasses 68 square miles, making it a fantastic place to explore. While on a hike, see how many animals you can spot, including the park’s resident marmots, ibexes, and golden eagles.

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The Best 17 Places to Visit in Switzerland

It's no secret that Switzerland has scenery in spades. The small European country is big on towering, snow-capped mountains, shimmering lakes, storybook villages, and vibrant cities. For active vacationers, Switzerland offers virtually every winter sport, including, of course, some of the world's best skiing, plus hiking, biking, climbing, hang-gliding, and other temptations for adrenaline junkies. There's also plenty to fill a more leisurely vacation, with hearty cuisine, including what some say is the world's finest chocolate, high-end shopping, first-rate museums, and, at every turn, another gobsmacking panorama.

Switzerland is a year-round destination, and it would take many, many trips to see all that it has to offer. But assuming you don't have a lifetime to explore the country, here's our list of the top 17 places to see in Switzerland.

TripSavvy / Michela Sieman

Switzerland's largest city is a stunner—at once historic and modern, cosmopolitan and bohemian. Divided by the Limmat River and wrapping around Lake Zurich's shores, Zurich offers some of Switzerland's best museums, Swiss and international dining , and Bahnhofstrasse—rightfully called the world's most expensive shopping street. Plan to spend much of your time in the Altstadt, or Old Town, and enjoy at least one traditional meal in a restaurant housed in a former medieval guildhall. Many a tour of Switzerland begins or ends here, as the city is seamlessly connected to the rest of the country and Europe, thanks to the ultra-efficient Swiss Rail System .

©GenèveTourisme; ©www.geneve.com 

Switzerland's second-largest city, French-speaking Geneva sits at the southwestern end of Lake Geneva and has a long lakefront promenade on two shores offering views of the famous Jet d'Eau fountain. Geneva is one of Europe's most expensive cities in which to live; that prosperity is felt in its elegant streets and parks, high-end shopping avenues, and five-star hotels with luxury sedans parked out front. But the city is also rich in history, as the center of the Swiss Reformation and, today, the home of the International Red Cross and the United Nations.

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

The Swiss capital of Bern sits on a sharp bend in the River Aare in the western part of the country. Its Altstadt, or Old Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to so many well-preserved medieval buildings. But the undisputed star of the show is the Zytglogge, the fascinating astronomical clock that Einstein is said to have studied when developing his Theory of Relativity. Bern Minster has the tallest church spire in Switzerland and a stunning main portal. Those with more modern tastes can head to Zentrum Paul Klee, a museum dedicated to the country's most famous artist.

Like so many Swiss cities, pretty, walkable Lucerne occupies a magnificent setting—this time on Lake Lucerne with the Alps as a backdrop. The 14th-century wooden Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) is one of the most photographed sights in Switzerland, and Lucern's medieval Altstadt (Old Town) looks much the same as it did hundreds of years ago. The innovative Swiss Museum of Transport  is the most visited museum in Switzerland.

Lake Geneva

 MontreuxRiviera.com

With one shore in Switzerland and one shore in France, Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) is a sparkling, half-moon shaped international playground. On the Swiss side, it offers the elegant city of Geneva; relaxed Montreux , famous for its jazz festival; and Lausanne, home of the International Olympic Committee. The terraced vineyards of the Lavaux wine region are a UNESCO World Heritage Site—some date back to the 11th-century. Last but definitely not least, 12th-century Chillon Castle is everything a castle should be—complete with a (partial) moat, dungeons, and a keep.

David Hanson/GettyImages 

The smallest Swiss canton, Appenzell Innerrhoden is set in the rolling hills south of Lake Constance. This is storybook Switzerland, complete with villages of brightly painted houses, folk traditions, and residents in traditional costume. In the fall, the cows literally come home, as herdsmen bring their cattle—decked out in bells and flower garlands—down from the mountains for the winter. Appenzell's car-free village is a center for folk-art, traditional festivals, baked goods, and yes—yodeling.

St. Moritz & the Engadine

Francesco Meroni / GettyImages

St. Moritz ranks as one of the world's top winter playgrounds for the jet set, and its palatial hotels, luxury shopping, and tony apres-ski scene are fun to dip into. Non-one-percenters might prefer some of the smaller, more down-to-earth towns and villages of the sunny Engadine Valley, known for its glaciers, snowy peaks, glacial lakes, forest, and folk culture. Listen closely, and you may hear Romansch being spoken—the ancient Latin-based language is still taught in the Engadine schools. The area is also a summer paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, and windsurfers.

Interlaken & Jungfrau

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Set between lakes Thun and Brienz, the pleasant town of Interlaken is the most convenient base for exploring the towering peaks of the Bernese Oberland—the region of glaciers, craggy mountains, and pristine lakes that offer postcard views at every turn. From Interlaken, a system of trains, cable cars, and cogwheel rails connect to the region's major ski areas and the Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe. For more than a century, it’s been the highest railway station in Europe. There, a high altitude playground awaits, with observatory platforms offering multi-peak views, the Eispalast (Ice Palace) walk inside a glacier, plus restaurants, and, of course, more skiing.

Lugano and Ticino

You'd be excused for thinking you've crossed over into Italy once you reach Ticino, the region wedged between the Alps and the Italian border. There's a distinctly Mediterranean vibe here, and Italian, not Swiss, is the first language. Lakes Lugano and Maggiore shares shores with Italy and offers a summertime playground for hiking, sailing, and swimming, with a touch of la dolce vita thrown in. Lugano's lakefront city is the bustling regional hub, but climb—or take a cable car—up any mountain to discover sleepy, rustic villages, clean air, and traditional country inns and restaurants.

raymondchan photo / GettyImages 

Something looms large over the car-free, stylish-yet-traditional mountain town of Zermatt—the Matterhorn. Europe's most famous mountain peak draws hordes of visitors to this otherwise sleepy town in the valley for skiing, ice-climbing, and arduous summer hikes and mountain biking. There's plenty of passive sightseeing to do here as well, and the views never disappoint. A mountaineering museum, traditional restaurants, luxe spas, and cozy—if not cheap—hotels can keep you pleasantly occupied here for a few days.

Stuart Dee/GettyImages

Near Lake Constance and the border with Liechtenstein, historic St. Gallen has a car-free center, a UNESCO-listed abbey and cathedral, and a textile-making tradition more than a thousand years old. The Rococo-style abbey library, stocked with 170,000 priceless volumes and documents, is a must-see here. There's a full cultural program in this important university town, as well as easy access to biking, hiking, boat rides on Lake Constance, and jaunts into Germany, Liechtenstein, and Austria.

Andrew Bain / GettyImages 

Pass the cheese, please. Though there's more to this charming medieval town than its namesake cheese, it would be a shame to leave Gruyères without sampling traditional raclette or fondue and visiting the Maison du Gruyère, where they make—you guessed it. In-between bites of cheese, visit the imposing 13th-century Gruyères Castle and take in the pastoral countryside. Oh, and did we mention there's a chocolate factory here, too?

Great St. Bernard Pass

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Connecting Italy to Switzerland, the Great St. Bernard Pass has been a strategic gateway for the continent—long before the Romans first laid claim to it. The St. Bernard Hospice is still here, as are the iconic St. Bernard dogs—though they perform fewer mountain rescues than they once did. You can drive over the scenic pass or spend the day crossing it on foot, stopping at cozy village inns for hearty sustenance along the way.

Rhaetian Railway

 Dirk von Mallinckrodt / GettyImages

It's all about the journey rather than the destination when you climb aboard one of the Rhaetian Railway trains, the network of scenic Alpine train rides that includes the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express . Panoramic train cars allow for sweeping views of passing glaciers, glacial lakes, mountain passes, and dense forests. The astonishing engineering feats of these high-altitude train tracks are reason enough to make the trip on at least one leg.

Trümmelbach Falls

Catalin Daniel Ciolca / GettyImages 

If you're visiting the Jungfrau, be sure to stop and see where all that spring snowmelt goes. Trümmelbach Falls are a series of falls that crash through a scenic gorge, carrying waters of the Jungfrau as they roar through underground caverns and pools. A series of elevators, bridges, and pathways puts visitors right in the spray of the mighty falls, which are closed in the wintertime.

Ayhan Altun / GettyImages

Palm and lemon trees give Locarno a nearly tropical feel. Switzerland's warmest city sits on Lake Maggiore and is the relaxed alternative to busy Lugano. Wandering the narrow streets of the town, strolling along the lake, and having a coffee or aperitivo on Piazza Grande—these are the simple pleasures of Locarno. A hike or funicular ride up to the Madonna del Sasso pilgrimage church rewards with breathtaking views of the lake, the town, and the surrounding mountains. From there, explore the villages and streams and waterfalls of the surrounding Valle Verzasca.

 Alexander Spatari / GettyImages

Literary Lausanne has inspired writers and artists through the ages, no doubt inspired by Lake Geneva's views, the city's pedestrian-only medieval center, and, perhaps, its mighty Gothic cathedral. Divided between upper and lower towns connected by a subway, Lausanne the smallest city in Europe with a metro system. It's the International Olympic Committee's home and a sporty vibe pervades—as evidenced by all the bikers, walkers, swimmers, and sailors.

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Sit back, relax and soak in Switzerland's stunning scenery with these transport options © rudi_suardi / Getty Images

Nowhere does the saying "the journey is the destination" ring truer than in Switzerland .

With valleys deep and mountains high, get ready for rides of a lifetime – from hairpin-bend road trips to trains chugging high into the snowy wilds of the Alps and and heavenly boat journeys across piercing blue lakes. Travel in Switzerland isn’t only beautiful – it’s also environmentally sound. The eco-minded Swiss have nailed rail travel like no other nation, and climate-neutral boats, solar-powered cable cars, electric buses and car-free towns and resorts further boost its sustainable credentials. Thanks to plentiful charging stations, the entire country is drivable by electric car.

Journeys in Switzerland aren’t just about getting from A to B – they are travel moments you’ll be raving about for years to come. Here's how to get around this tremendously scenic country.

Be wowed by the Swiss scenery when traveling by train

You’ve got to hand it to the Swiss – their trains really are the dream: efficient, slickly modern, eco-friendly and with views that keep you glued to the window for the duration of the journey. 

Most major cities, including Bern , Geneva , Zurich and Basel , are connected by rail with daily services. Tickets do not need to be bought in advance, and they can be purchased at stations on the day of travel or on the official Swiss Railways website . That said, look out for sizable discounts when booking “supersaver” tickets ahead of travel.

Ride the panoramic trains for the best views

Primarily geared towards tourists, these panoramic trains often have cars with extra large (and remarkably well polished) windows that emphasize the incredible scenery and let you get some great photos. They all require reservations, with tickets usually sold for a specific leg on the routes rather than the full journey.

• Glacier Express : The "wow" never leaves your lips on this legendary Alpine train journey between Zermatt and St Moritz. The Brig–Zermatt Alpine leg makes for pretty powerful viewing, as does the area between Disentis/Mustér and Brig.
• GoldenPass Line : Skirting the shores of some of Switzerland’s most ravishing lakes, this route links Lucerne to Montreux . The journey is in three legs, and you must change trains twice. Regular trains, without panoramic windows, work the whole route hourly.
• Bernina Express : This route negotiates 55 tunnels and 196 bridges as it travels the Alpine valley of Engadine one way from Chur to Tirano in four hours, hitting its high point at 2253m (7392ft) above sea level. Between May and October, you can continue from Tirano to Lugano by bus.
• Mont Blanc/St Bernard Expresses : Go from Martigny to Chamonix, France, or over the sensationally wild St Bernard Pass.
• Voralpen Express : Glide between Lake Constance and Lake Lucerne, through St Gallen, Rapperswil and Romanshorn on this route.
• Gotthard Panorama Express : This rail-boat combo starts with a wonderful 2.5-hour cruise across Lake Lucerne to Flüelen, from where a train winds its way through ravines and past mountains to Bellinzona or Lugano.

Tip for saving francs on scenic train journeys: Regularly scheduled services, which often ply the same routes as the tourist trains, can be just as enjoyable and significantly less expensive.

Driving in Switzerland is a breeze 

Skirting lakes and vineyards and twisting up and over passes in the high Alps, Switzerland’s roads are beautiful on a cinematic scale, and the country has plenty of drives that are too darned scenic to rush.

The headline road trip is the 1600km (994-mile) Grand Tour of Switzerland , an epic, efficiently signposted lap of the country that links 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and shows off the Alpine nation from its most flattering angles. And the environmental clincher? It’s entirely drivable by electric car.

You’ll find car rental companies at airports and in cities and towns. Many now rent out electric cars, too. The minimum rental age is usually 25 but falls to 20 at some local firms. You always need a credit card. In winter, rental cars are usually equipped with winter tires.

Switzerland’s roads are well signposted and maintained, but you should always check conditions before heading up into the Alps, especially in winter. The highest passes are only open from June to October and, depending on the weather, you may need to use a tunnel instead. 

Tip for driving on freeways in Switzerland: You’ll need to pay an annual one-time charge of Sfr40 to use Swiss freeways and semi-freeways, identified by green signs. This is available as an E-vignette online or as a Vignette (sticker) at the border, at Swiss gas stations, post offices and at Swiss tourist offices abroad. The sticker must be displayed on the windshield. 

Buses serve remote mountain regions

If you are in no hurry, Switzerland’s bright yellow postal buses can be a fun way to reach the remote mountain regions. The country’s PostBus service is synchronized with train arrivals, and bus stops are handily located right next to railway stations.

Prices are comparable to train fares. Swiss national travel passes are valid, but a few tourist-oriented Alpine routes levy a surcharge. Tickets are purchased from the driver, though on some scenic routes over the Alps (for instance the Lugano to St Moritz run) reservations are necessary.

Take a mountain railway, cable car or funicular ride

What a way to commute! The cable cars, funiculars, cogwheel railways and gondolas that climb up to the country’s highest Alpine reaches  are an absolute joy to experience and a highlight of traveling in Switzerland (as long as you have a head for heights!). 

True marvels of engineering, the mountain gondolas graze treetops, rail-bound funiculars shimmy precariously close to rock faces, and cable cars wobble across valleys (don’t worry – they are safe and subject to regular checks), before all emerge at a spectacularly snowy summit or glacier. It’s worth checking out what money-saving passes are available locally because they often work out cheaper than individual tickets and costs can quickly mount up in a country with so much vertical.

Tip for taking cable cars: A word of warning: always check what time the last cable car goes down the mountain unless you fancy a very long trek down. In mountain resorts in winter, it's as early as 4pm when the light starts to fade. 

Boat travel is a slow but wonderful way to cross Switzerland's lakes

Switzerland is a landlocked country, but boats ply the country's large lakes, serviced by steamers operated by Swiss Federal Railways or private companies for which national travel passes are valid.

Passenger boats run on Lake Geneva , Constance, Lucerne , Lugano , Neuchâtel , Biel, Murten, Thun, Brienz and Zug. Traveling by boat is a slow and delightfully scenic way to get around.

Tip for seeing Switzerland from the water: Check out SwitzerlandMobility for a detailed overview of regional and national canoe routes on lakes and rivers - from Bodensee (Lake Constance) in the country’s north to Italian-flavoured Ticino in the south. 

Consider investing in a Swiss Travel Pass

Though travel in Switzerland is efficient and convenient, it can also be expensive, and visitors planning to use intercity routes should consider investing in a Swiss Travel Pass . With this transport pass, you're allowed unlimited travel by train (including premium panorama trains), bus and boat, as well as local public transportation in cities, free entry to 500 museums and discounts of up to 50% on mountain excursions.

Tip for families: Children under 16 travel free of charge with the complimentary Swiss Family Card when accompanied by at least one parent (holding a Swiss Travel System ticket).

Experience Switzerland up close by bicycle

Whether you’re looking to crawl up hills on a road bike, tear down trails on a mountain bike or simply want a gentle pedal through orchards and vineyards hugging the shores of a shimmering lake, Switzerland is brilliantly set up for cyclists. Many cities have free or inexpensive bike-rental schemes , and bicycle and e-bike rental is usually available at train stations.

There are many well-signed and highly scenic cycle routes heading along rivers and lakeshores in Switzerland, perfect for two-wheel adventures. For details on national, regional and local routes, rental (including e-bike rental), bike-friendly accommodations, guides and maps, check SwitzerlandMobility .

Tip for traveling by train with a bike: Bikes can be taken on slower trains, and sometimes even on InterCity (IC) or EuroCity (EC) trains, when there’s room in the luggage carriage. Advance booking is sometimes necessary.

Accessible transportation is good in Switzerland

Switzerland ranks among the world’s most easily navigable countries for travelers with physical disabilities. Most train stations have a mobile lift for boarding trains, and city buses are equipped with ramps. The majority of modern hotels also have wheelchair access (although budget accommodations tend not to have elevators).

Switzerland Tourism has excellent information on barrier-free travel , including details on airport arrangements, assisted rail travel and disabled parking, or get in touch with Procap , an authority on barrier-free travel in Switzerland. The SBB has helpful pages on accessible travel , including details on tickets, booking assistance and journey planning.

Ready to plan your trip to Switzerland? Here are your next steps:

• When to go? Read on for the best time to visit Switzerland
• Save these top places to go in Switzerland to your profile
• Traveling on a budget? Check out this  guide to Switzerland on a budget
• And here's everything you need to know before you head over

This article was first published Aug 23, 2021 and updated May 24, 2024.

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