Best Time To Visit Switzerland: A Month-by-Month Guide
Wondering when is the best time to visit Switzerland? If you’re already planning your visit to the Swiss Alps, then you know that choosing the best time of year isn’t as obvious as you might think.
You wanna maximize your experiences, enjoy perfect weather with minimal crowds, and to top it off, you’d love to do it on a budget . But does this idyllic time of year even exist?
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Hey, we’re Jana and Brett , and this beautiful slice of Switzerland has become our adopted home for the past 2 summers (since 2021). But we don’t just spend time here for our enjoyment — we’re on a mission to help you maximize your trip to Switzerland while minimizing your budget and planning time .
So today we’re gonna help you decide when is the best time to visit Switzerland, based on questions you often ask us about in the comments of our YouTube videos:
- What’s the weather like?
- Which months are cheaper or more expensive?
- What’s open and which trains/mountain lifts are running?
We’ll answer these questions month-by-month using real data. But you know we’re gonna give you more than just the facts, right? So after working our way through the calendar, we’re gonna get down to the nitty gritty—sharing when we would choose to visit based on sightseeing priorities and travel preferences that are way more personal than any amount of research.
So are you ready to plan your trip to Switzerland? Let’s go.
Follow along using our free spreadsheet download of month-by-month weather data, average Airbnb costs, and train openings!
Weather in Switzerland Year Round (Month-By-Month)
As we work through the calendar, here’s what we’ll highlight for each month using data for Interlaken, Switzerland since that’s the hub of the region (and may be one of the best places to visit in Switzerland):
- Average high temperature
- Average # of days with sunshine
- Average # of days with precipitation (rain or snow)
- Average cost of an Airbnb during the month
- Which railways and cable cars are open or closed
Keep in mind, though, that averages only tell some of the story. This region frequently has extreme weather swings, so your experience could be quite different than the averages indicate. And of course, it can change quite drastically depending on the altitude.
So use this as a guide to help make your decision, and then commit to having a great time on your trip to the region no matter what the weather throws at you!
Switzerland Weather in January
- Temperature : 36°F
- Sunshine : 7 days
- Precipitation : 9 days
- Lodging : 4th least expensive
It’s no surprise that the first month of the year is also the coldest, with an average high temperature of 36 °F, 7 days with sunshine, and 9 days with precipitation.
It’s also the 4th least expensive month based on airbnb data.
During January, you’ll find that most of the important mountain trains and cable cars are running, with the exception of ones that run only in summer such as the funicular to Harder Kulm, the cogwheel train to Schynige Platte , and the steam train to the Brienzer Rothorn.
The Berner Oberland Regional Pass (our favorite!) won’t be available for a few more months, but in the past few years a winter version of the Top of Europe pass has been available.
If you love snow or snowsports, then January is obviously a great month to visit, and there are even sledding, snowshoeing, and winter hiking tracks too.
Switzerland Weather in February
- Temperature : 40°F
- Sunshine : 5 days
- Precipitation : 3 days
- Lodging : least expensive month
February looks a lot like January in many ways. The average high temperature is slightly warmer at 40°.
You’re likely to see snow or rain just as often as in January. But it has one of the lowest amounts of total precipitation for the entire year.
But It’s typically not as sunny, with an average of just 5 days with sunshine—however, February also has fewer days, so there is that 😉
A benefit of traveling in February is that it’s the least expensive month to book a rental on Airbnb . And as for rail operation and travel passes, you’ll pretty much find the exact same availability as January.
When is the best time to ski in Switzerland? Possibly February because that’s when the locals go. Schools typically close for a week or two in February and lots of Swiss use this time to go skiing. So if you’re coming primarily for a ski trip you might want to avoid this month, or at least be aware of how school holidays might impact the crowds and prices.
Switzerland Weather in March
- Temperature : 48°F
- Sunshine : 10 days
- Precipitation : 11 days
- Lodging : 5th least expensive
March is kind of a weird month in a lot of ways. Winter is starting to say goodbye, especially at lower elevations, but it really isn’t spring yet either.
There’s an average high temp of 48° in Interlaken with 10 days with sunshine and 11 days with precipitation. But your experience could really vary depending on where you visit.
Lower elevation ski areas such as Oeschinensee and the Niederhorn wrap up their winter season and close for maintenance by the middle of the month.
And airbnb prices are beginning to pick up, but it’s still the 5th least expensive month of the year.
Switzerland Weather in April
- Temperature : 54°F
- Sunshine : 14 days
- Precipitation : 12 days
- Lodging : 7th least expensive
April really is the beginning of Spring in Switzerland, especially at lower elevations. Interlaken sees an average high temp of 54°, but you’ll probably see days in the 60s as well, especially later in the month.
There are an average of 14 days with sunshine and 12 days with precipitation, but it also ranks 7th for your budget, indicating that international tourism is beginning to come out of hibernation.
The Top of Europe summer pass is usually available around the middle of the month, but it’s a complicated time to plan your sightseeing. More cable cars and mountain trains are shut down part of the month for maintenance, with the Schilthorn included in that mix.
But the funicular to Harder Kulm opens midway through the month, and might just be the best spot for a sunset view on a clear day.
And around this time, you also see Lake Thun and Lake Brienz spring back to life, with boat cruises beginning to run regularly. It’s not a great time for hiking or skiing in the high mountains, but at lower elevations it might be one of the most beautiful times of year.
Waterfalls and rivers flow freely, wildflowers begin to bloom, and it’s all set against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
Keep in mind that schools also closed for a week or two around Easter for a spring break of sorts. So you might find more Europeans traveling and perhaps some smaller shops or restaurants closed for the break.
Need a cheat sheet?
I know, this is a lot of technical information. But when you’re planning a trip to the mountains, this is the stuff you need to know!
So we created a free download with all of the weather data and Airbnb stats we’ve been referencing, plus we made a comprehensive chart of 23 trains, cable cars, and funiculars in the Jungfrau Region and which months they’re open or closed.
Sign up for the free download and it will be sent straight to your inbox!
But for now, let’s dive into the next few months which are the peak tourism season in the Swiss Alps.
Switzerland Weather in May
- Temperature : 64°F
- Sunshine : 11 days
- Precipitation : 19 days
- Lodging : 9th least expensive
May feels more like the springtime you might be used to with average high temperatures of 64° and plenty of days well into the 70s.
It also rains like the spring you might be used to—with just 11 days with sunshine and 19 days with precipitation on average, making it the rainiest month of the year. (Maybe that’s why they call it “spring?”)
But as colleges in the U.S. wrap up their spring semesters, you’ll see the return of more international tourists, as well as higher prices on airbnb.
There are still times of maintenance for some of the mountain railways and cable cars; but very few of them are shut down for the entire month.
The cable car and train from Lauterbrunnen to Mürren is closed for maintenance for a couple weeks. But thankfully the Schilthornbahn is open once again so you can reach Mürren using that cable car instead.
On top of that, the cogwheel train to Schynige Platte and the gondola to the beautiful blue lake at Oeschinensee are running by the end of the month, and you’ll finally be able to use our favorite train pass: the Berner Oberland regional pass.
Oh and we forgot to mention that our free download also shows you which train passes are available for every month of the year.
Switzerland Weather in June
- Temperature : 70°F
- Sunshine : 12 days
- Precipitation : 18 days
- Lodging : 2nd most expensive
When June comes around it’s officially summer in Switzerland—both in terms of weather and tourism.
The average high temperature is just 70°, but you’ll likely see temps reach well up into the 80s at some point.
June sees an average of 12 days with sunshine. But along with the heat, you’ll also see plenty of precipitation.
The first part of the month can still feel like Spring in Switzerland, depending on the year. But by the middle of the month we’re very much into high season, making this the 2nd most expensive month according to airbnb data.
A couple of mountain trains and funiculars, like the one to Allmendhubel , wait until the first or second weekend of the month to open for the summer season, but by the middle of the month, everywhere you’d like to visit in the mountains is open.
Schools break for the summer starting early in the month, which means you’ll definitely notice a difference in how busy this place gets as June moves along.
And that definitely won’t show any signs of slowing down as we move into July.
Switzerland Weather in July
- Temperature : 75°F
- Precipitation : 17 days
- Lodging : Most expensive
July could probably be thought of as the high of high season, and there are plenty of good reasons for that:
- Schools and universities are on break in Europe and North America, bringing tons of international travelers.
- The snow has melted at most higher elevations, making world-class hiking trails available all over the region.
- The weather is the warmest and the days are the longest.
While the average high temperature is only 75°, don’t be surprised to see that thermometer stretch up into the high 80s or even the 90s.
Your chances of sunshine tend to be higher than during the Spring, but you’re probably going to see your fair share of rain as well.
Unfortunately all that means July is also the most expensive time to book an airbnb . But along with high prices and lots of daylight, you also have every summer activity imaginable at your disposal.
All of the mountain trains and cable cars are running throughout the entire month, and this is also the perfect time for cruising on—or even swimming in—the lakes.
If you’re coming for summer sports activities and are willing to pay a premium and endure the crowds, July is a safe choice.
Switzerland Weather in August
- Sunshine : 16 days
- Precipitation : 15 days
- Lodging : 3rd most expensive
Moving on to August, it would be a mistake not to mention that the 1st of the month is the Swiss National Day, kind of like Independence Day in the U.S.
There are activities and parades in nearly every village and town, and we think it’s a lot of fun to be in Switzerland during this time. But you’ll likely see a lot more of the Swiss traveling to the area and some small shops might be closed at least for the day, so keep that in mind.
August has the same average high temperature as July, and the first part of the month is almost certainly going to feel like the heat of summer. But as the month goes along, you just might find hints of Fall temperatures around the corner.
It also tends to be a little more stable than Spring and early Summer, with an average of 16 days with sun compared to 15 days with precipitation.
August is the 3rd most expensive month on airbnb. But just like July, all of the mountain trains and lifts will be running, making it another fantastic month for summer sports of all kinds.
Switzerland Weather in September
- Temperature : 68°F
- Sunshine : 20 days
- Precipitation : 10 days
- Lodging : 5th most expensive
By early September, schools are back in session in Switzerland, Europe, and North America, so you’ll notice a discernible decrease in the number of tourists.
The average high temperature drops back to 68°, but there is normally still an abundance of sunshine and quite a bit less rain, and you’ll probably see plenty of days with temperatures in the 70s.
It’s the 5th most expensive month on airbnb, but all of the mountain trains and cable cars are still running, making it a solid option for those traveling on a budget who still want high mountain hiking options.
The last two years we’ve noticed pretty drastic weather changes between the first and second half of the month. And while that might not be typical every year, it’s worth mentioning that Autumn really has arrived by the end of the month.
All that to say, if you crave warm temperatures and long, sunny days, both are likely gone by the time the calendar changes to October! But to us, the blue September skies just look a little clearer and this is one of our favorite months to visit this region.
Switzerland Weather in October
- Temperature : 57°F
- Sunshine : 22 days
- Precipitation : 8 days
- Lodging : 6th least expensive
Speaking of October, this is the month when the locals enjoy spending time in their mountains.
Schools are on break for a couple weeks and most international tourists have packed up and left, so October is perhaps one of the most authentic times to enjoy the Jungfrau Region.
The weather tends to be pretty cooperative too, even though it’s quite a bit cooler, with an average high of 57° and temperatures rarely reaching beyond the 60s.
If you like sunshine and cooler temperatures, this just might be the month for you. 22 days with sunshine compared to just 8 with precipitation makes this one of the sunniest and driest months of the entire year.
Having said that, October will also bring a few more planning complications compared to the summer in Switzerland. By the end of the month, lots of mountain trains and lifts start closing for maintenance, with Grindelwald First included in this group.
But all in all, October (which is the 6th least expensive month) might just be an all-around bargain. With Fall colors on full display, and fresh mushrooms and local game on offer at restaurants, there’s a lot to love about this time of year.
Switzerland Weather in November
- Temperature : 45°F
- Sunshine : 15 days
- Lodging : 3rd least expensive
What can we say about November? For starters, it seems to have a bit of an identity crisis. It’ll make you think it’s Autumn in Switzerland and it’ll also tell you it’s Winter—and sometimes both at the same time!
The average high temperature is 45°, but you might see days with highs in the low 30s and other days in the low 60s.
The amount of sunshine also drops quite a bit, though you likely won’t see huge amounts of precipitation either. Gray, misty fog just might be the best picture of an average day in November.
But November is also the 3rd cheapest month according to airbnb.
Most of the summer trains and cable cars have shut down by this point, and even the Schilthorn goes into maintenance mode partway through the month.
Jungfraujoch is open 365 days a year, but even a visit there could be more complicated. Both the Eiger Express from Grindelwald and the train from Wengen to Kleine Scheidegg are closed for maintenance for part of the month, meaning it could take up to an hour longer than normal to reach Jungfraujoch depending on where you’re staying.
Answers to your travel questions
Travelers just like you have asked us a ton of questions about when to visit, what’s the weather like, and what to do if the lifts are closed—and this post and our free download are made to give you a realistic picture of what it’s like to visit Interlaken during each month of the year.
Just want to remind you to snatch up the free-and-helpful goodness using the form below!
And now, let’s wrap up with the final month of the year.
Switzerland Weather in December
- Temperature : 38°F
- Lodging : 2nd least expensive
If Christmas markets, mulled wine, puffy coats, and snow sound charming to you, then you’re probably going to love December.
I’m sure we don’t need to tell you it’ll be cold, with average high temperatures in the upper 30s. But that’s what gets you in the holiday spirit, right?
Unsurprisingly, the amount of sunshine drops along with the temperatures, but average precipitation for the month remains pretty low.
If you avoid the days surrounding Christmas and New Years, December is pretty budget friendly, with airbnb ranking it the 2nd cheapest month of the year.
Though the first half of the month still has quite a few closures, all the important ski areas and sightseeing spots—including Grindelwald First and the Schilthorn —will be open and waiting for your visit.
So if you like the holiday season and know how to pack your layers, December in the Jungfrau Region could be an experience unlike anything you’ve enjoyed before!
That was helpful but…now what?
We’re all about helping you maximize your trip while minimizing your budget and planning time, so here are some bonus tips that will help you decide when to visit based on specific priorities and activities.
We get lots of questions like, “When is the most beautiful time to visit the Swiss Alps?”
While that’s an impossible question and every time of year is beautiful here, we know this usually means a few things: wildflowers in bloom, green alpine meadows, and waterfalls filled to the brim with snow melt.
To enjoy scenes like these that inspired even great writers like Tolkien, there’s nothing like Springtime in the Jungfrau Region. Particularly, aim for mid-April to mid-June .
Giessbach Falls will be raging, the Sprutz and Staubach falls will be plunging mightily, and the entire Lauterbrunnen Valley will look like a fantasy.
If you’re looking for the best combination of springtime beauty and hiking availability, look to June. You might not be able to access the highest of alpine hikes, particularly early in the month, but you’ll find plenty to keep all of your senses busy!
If you’re like us and you love hiking in the Swiss Alps , then plan your visit sometime from June to September . A word of caution though about June: snow sometimes covers trails above 2000m well into the month. So if it’s really important to you to have the best trails available with good conditions, you might wanna wait until at least the second half of June .
And if you’re looking for fewer tourists and perhaps a lower budget, the first half of September has proved to be a great time to visit. You’re less likely to experience extreme heat, the weather is a little more stable, and the snow usually hasn’t yet returned even at higher elevations.
Now if the hiking you’re more interested in isn’t so high in the mountains, mid-May to mid-June and mid-September to mid-October could be a great choice as well. But don’t count on being able to hike mountain trails above 1700 or 1800, even though it might be possible depending on the year.
It goes without saying that if you like to swim in the lakes and you’re not cold-blooded, July and August will be the best times to visit.
But enjoying a nice boat ride on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz can happen anytime from mid-April until the last week or so of October . This entire time is also great for lakeside strolls .
Winter in Switzerland
If you love winter wonderlands yet winter sports aren’t your reason for traveling, it’s hard to imagine a better time to visit than December , when the Christmas markets and decorations are in full swing, and the charm level is dialed up to a 10 out of 10.
If winter sports are your jam, we’ve heard that January and February are the best time to ski in Switzerland, although February is particularly busy due to school breaks. So December and March might offer fewer crowds and better prices.
But admittedly, we aren’t skiers, and we haven’t yet been here for Winter in Switzerland. But we wanted to share our perspective with you based on our own experience as well as lots of research.
When is the best time to visit Switzerland?
Our goal is to help you travel with confidence by reducing your planning time and stretching your budget, and that’s exactly what our free download does!
So check your inbox for the free guide , and we’ll see you in Switzerland!
Jana is an SEO copywriter and content editor plus travel YouTuber. She loves all things gelato, sunshine, and words. Her perfect day? Tossing on sunglasses to read a book and catch some rays, then dinner with her husband and friends. In her free time, Jana disciples teen girls and cooks from scratch (like homemade pasta). Jana lives in Switzerland with her husband, Brett.
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Best Time To Visit Switzerland: Monthly Guide By A Local & Tips [2024]
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- Post last modified: February 8, 2024
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Are you thinking about exploring Switzerland and want to enjoy the best possible time ? Choosing the right season (month) for your visit is one of the most important factors.
I lived in Switzerland for 3 years and experienced every month and season in the country, cities, and the mountains. So in this article, I’ll tell you when the best months to visit Switzerland is ( for different purposes ), and we’ll break each month down.
Let’s get to it!
✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈
Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.
Best Time To Visit Switzerland: Answered!
The best time to visit Switzerland is June, September, and winter , especially December and January . These months are also less crowded, prices are slightly lower, and temperatures are mild.
June is the best month to visit Switzerland overall because you’ll enjoy the scenery in its best beauty.
Imagine green meadows with cows and flowers, snowy mountains with glaciers, rivers full of water from the melting snow, and crystal blue lakes. The landscape in June is incredibly unique . Besides, everything is open, and you can enjoy all the excursions and hiking.
September is another great month, similar to June. The only difference is that it might snow in the mountains towards the end. It’s not every year and is rather unusual, but I experienced it.
Switzerland is also great to visit in winter , with perfect skiing slopes, winter landscapes, and Christmas markets. Prices are also lower in the first two weeks of December and January than in other winter months.
👉 READ ALSO: Best Of Switzerland Itinerary: 8 Days By Train
Best Time For Hiking In Switzerland
June, July, August, and September are the best months for hiking in Switzerland. The hiking trails and mountain huts are open, and the landscape is full of beauty.
The landscape colors and views at this time of year, especially June, are breathtaking .
Best Time For Snowfall In Switzerland
January and February are the best times to visit Switzerland for snowfall . These two months, snow in the mountains, its towns, and Swiss cities is 99% guaranteed.
December is also a great month to visit Switzerland for snowfall. Still, it mostly snows in the mountains , and cities in the north, like Zurich, Basel, and St. Gallen, might still be without snow.
Best Time For Honeymoon In Switzerland
June, September, December, and January are the best months to visit Switzerland for the honeymoon .
June and September because the landscape colors are the most beautiful, everything is open and less crowded, and there are mild temperatures.
December and January are amazing for experiencing the Swiss winter wonderland , staying in wellness hotels, treating yourself, skiing, and enjoying winter hikes. These months are also less crowded, and the prices are slightly lower than other winter months.
Best Time To Visit The Swiss Alps
June, September, and January are the best months to visit the Swiss Alps . The landscape colors are the most beautiful, temperatures are mild, and you can enjoy both summer and winter hikes .
In January , you can also go skiing and sledding and enjoy other winter activities.
Hotels and some activities will be slightly cheaper than the rest of the year, too.
Travel Itinerary Planning Services
Seasons in switzerland: weather & best time to visit.
Let’s break it down to seasons. In the section below, I’ll give you an idea of what Switzerland looks like in each season , what the weather is like , what temperatures are there, and which month of the season is best to visit.
Best Time To Travel To Switzerland In Spring
The best months to visit Switzerland in spring is the beginning of April or the end of May . Generally, you can enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds in spring in Switzerland.
Temperatures in spring in Switzerland range between 8°C/46°F and 14°C/57°F . It might still snow in the mountain towns at the beginning of April. And it gets warmer at the end of April and in May.
You can still enjoy skiing in many places at the beginning of April . Yet, the snow melts significantly, so there won’t be any snow in the mountain towns, only on the slopes.
Bear in mind that at the end of April (last two weeks) and the beginning of May (first two weeks) is a shoulder season in Switzerland , when many places close after winter and prepare for summer.
It doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit Switzerland at this time (if you can’t choose another time, stick to your schedule). But if you can choose, avoid visiting between 15th April and 15th May .
The end of May is the start of the summer season, so you can go hiking in some places, but some might still be closed, so check the status of the place online.
Best Time To Travel To Switzerland In Summer
The best time for visiting Switzerland in the summertime is June .
It’s the best time overall as everything is open, the landscape colors are incredibly beautiful , and you can enjoy Switzerland with everything it offers, with fewer crowds than during the peak summer season, which is July and August.
The summer temperatures in Switzerland range between 17°C/62°F and 30°C/86°F . It doesn’t have to be that it’s cold in the mountains. It’s usually the opposite; sun shines directly onto you in the mountains, so it’s quite hot , and there is a high risk of getting sunburned , so put on sunscreen .
It also rains a lot in the mountains in summer with many thunderstorms .
Best Time To Travel To Switzerland In Autumn
September and the beginning of October are the best autumn months to visit Switzerland. They have stunning autumn colors , and the mountains are usually covered by snow. So you can enjoy picturesque train rides and still some hiking trails.
Avoid visiting Switzerland in November if you can, as it’s the shoulder season . Many businesses are closing to prepare for the winter season, and many cable cars are in maintenance.
While you can still do a lot, it’s important to check the status of each activity and see whether the things you want to do are open.
Autumn temperatures in Switzerland range between 6°C/43°F to 14°C/57°F . September is the warmest autumn month, October has mild temperatures, and November starts getting much colder.
It usually starts snowing in November . And the Swiss Alps get the first snow around the end of September or the first 2 weeks of October.
Best Time To Travel To Switzerland In Winter
Switzerland in winter is amazing. It’s the perfect winter wonderland ; even nonskiers can enjoy its beauty.
You can go skiing and snowboarding in one of the best ski resorts in the world. As a nonskier , you can benefit from many activities such as winter hiking, mountain excursions, spedding, panoramic train rides, or enjoying a spa.
The winter temperatures in Switzerland range between 0°C/32°F and -10°C/14°F . Switzerland is usually covered in snow in December, except in the northern part, where it starts snowing later towards the end of December.
January and February are the coldest months in Switzerland.
Is December A Good Time To Visit Switzerland?
Yes , December is a great time to visit Switzerland. It usually starts snowing, so you can enjoy the winter wonderland with beautiful snowy views and go skiing and snowboarding.
In the first 2 weeks of December , hotels and activities are slightly cheaper than the rest of the winter season.
👉 READ ALSO: Grindelwald In Winter: Complete Guide For Your Visit
Monthly Guide For Visiting Switzerland: Weather In Switzerland, Places To Visit & Things To Do
Now, let’s jump into the details. Below, I’ll give you an overview of what each month in Switzerland looks like , the best places to visit, and which activities you should do.
Note that every season is slightly different . I experienced snow in Grindelwald in September, but it might not happen next year.
So, all these numbers and temperatures are approximate to give you an idea of how Switzerland feels each month.
Switzerland In January
January is the coldest month in Switzerland . Most of the places are covered in snow. It’s the best time to go skiing and snowboarding and enjoy the Swiss winter wonderland .
January is a great time to visit the country as you can enjoy fewer crowds and prices are slightly lower in some places.
The average temperature in January in Switzerland is around 0°C/32°F up to -11°C/12°F . The northern part is warmer, while the Swiss Alps can experience temperatures up to -11°C/12°F.
❄ BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN JANUARY IN SWITZERLAND : Zermatt, Grindelwald, Lucerne, Davos.
❄ BEST THINGS TO DO IN JANUARY IN SWITZERLAND : skiing, snowboarding, mountain excursions, winter hikes, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, visiting chocolate museums, and cruising on Swiss Lakes (only some lakes).
SWITZERLAND IN JANUARY OVERVIEW:
Switzerland in february.
February is similar to January in terms of the weather and temperatures . It’s the coldest month in Switzerland , along with January. Temperatures range between -1°C/30°F and -11°C/12°F .
The only difference between January and February is that February is more crowded , and prices can be slightly higher. It’s winter school holidays for many people, and so many families with kids set off to the mountains for skiing.
❄ BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN FEBRUARY IN SWITZERLAND : Zermatt, Grindelwald, Lucerne, and Davos.
❄ BEST THINGS TO DO IN FEBRUARY IN SWITZERLAND : skiing, snowboarding, mountain excursions, winter hikes, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, visiting chocolate museums, and cruising on Swiss Lakes (only some lakes).
SWITZERLAND IN FEBRUARY OVERVIEW:
👉 READ ALSO: Is Switzerland Expensive? Ultimate Guide To Budget Your Trip
Switzerland In March
In March, it gets warmer , and snow starts melting in some parts. I remember skiing in March in Switzerland when the mountain peaks were not fully covered in snow anymore.
Yet, you can still ski and snowboard . But the conditions , especially for free riders , are slightly worse than in January and February.
Average temperatures in March are between -2°C/28°F and 4°C/39°F in Switzerland. The northern part with cities gets warmer, around 4°C/39°F , and snow melts. The Swiss Alps still have snow.
If you were to hop on a panoramic train , it might not be 100% winter wonderland anymore as the snow starts to melt, so it might be grey and gloomy.
The winter season is fully in operation , and you can still enjoy all winter activities.
❄ BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN MARCH IN SWITZERLAND : Zermatt, Grindelwald, Lucerne, Lugano.
❄ BEST THINGS TO DO IN MARCH IN SWITZERLAND : skiing, snowboarding, mountain excursions, winter hikes, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, visiting chocolate museums, and cruising on Swiss Lakes (only some lakes).
SWITZERLAND IN MARCH OVERVIEW:
Switzerland in april.
April is the shoulder season in Switzerland , and many businesses close to prepare for the summer season at the end of the month.
Some cable cars and trains are in maintenance , so check the status of your activity and place if you plan to visit Switzerland in April if they’re operating.
Temperatures in April range between 6°C/43°F to 13°C/55°F.
Depending on the season, you can still go skiing and snowboarding in the Swiss Alps at the beginning of April ( first 2 weeks ). Mainly in Mt. Titlis, Jungfrau region, and Zermatt, the snow is more and less guaranteed.
But it’s not for free rides , and the snow melts significantly in the mountain towns, so you might have to take a cable car back to town instead of skiing down the slopes.
April is less crowded , and prices are significantly lower . It’s due to the shoulder season and many things being closed.
🔆 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN APRIL IN SWITZERLAND : Zermatt, Grindelwald, Lucerne, Zurich, Lugano, Rhine Falls.
🔆 BEST THINGS TO DO IN APRIL IN SWITZERLAND : skiing, snowboarding, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, and visiting museums.
SWITZERLAND IN APRIL OVERVIEW:
Switzerland in may.
In May, when winter is gone in Switzerland, the summer starts knocking on the door . At the beginning of May ( first 2 weeks ), it’s still shoulder season , so many things might be closed or in maintanance, prepareing for the summer.
Temperatures in Switzerland in May range between 10°C/50°F and 16°C/61°F .
So it’s better to visit Switzerland in the last two weeks of May (if you can choose). It’s when the grass turns lush green, the glacier and snow from the mountain melt, locals bring cows to the meadows, and everything is super beautiful .
May is generally one of the cheapest months with fewer crowds , and you can enjoy most things.
🔆 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN MAY IN SWITZERLAND : Lucerne, Zurich, Lugano, Bern, Rhine Falls, Grindelwald, Geneva, Montreux, Scuol.
🔆 BEST THINGS TO DO IN MAY IN SWITZERLAND : mountain excursions, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, visiting chocolate museums, cruising on Swiss lakes, and hiking.
SWITZERLAND IN MAY OVERVIEW:
👉 READ ALSO: Does Switzerland Use The Euro? All You Need To Know
Switzerland In June
June is overall the best month of the year to visit Switzerland .
The landscape colors are the most beautiful , and Switzerland brings you everything that you picture it to be: lush green meadows with flowers and mowing cows, mountain peaks covered in snow, rivers full of water, and crystal clear lakes.
Everything is open again after the shoulder season. Yet, there are still fewer crowds, and the hotels are slightly cheaper than during the peak summertime.
In June, temperatures in Switzerland range around 16°C/61°F to 24°C/75°F.
🌄 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN JUNE IN SWITZERLAND : Entire Switzerland
🌄 BEST THINGS TO DO IN JUNE IN SWITZERLAND : everything from mountain excursions , hiking, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, visiting museums, cruising on Swiss Lakes, and visiting Swiss cities.
SWITZERLAND IN JUNE OVERVIEW:
Switzerland in july.
July is the hottest and the most crowded month in Switzerland. Many people come for a vacation, whether they want to enjoy Swiss lakes, mountain excursions, beautiful cities, or go hiking in nature.
It’s overall a great time to visit if you don’t mind crowds.
Temperatures in July in Switzerland range between 20°C/68°F and 28°C/82°F .
🌄 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN JULY IN SWITZERLAND : Entire Switzerland
🌄 BEST THINGS TO DO IN JULY IN SWITZERLAND : everything from mountain excursions, hiking, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, visiting chocolate museums, cruising Swiss Lakes museums, and visiting Swiss cities.
SWITZERLAND IN JULY OVERVIEW:
Switzerland in august.
August is a similar month to July . It gets slightly less crowded towards the end of August. But it’s pretty much the same. It’s another hot month in Switzerland ; you can enjoy everything it offers and its full beauty.
Temperatures in August range around 20°C/68°F up to 29°C/84°F .
🌄 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN AUGUST IN SWITZERLAND : Entire Switzerland
🌄 BEST THINGS TO DO IN AUGUST IN SWITZERLAND : everything from mountain excursions, hiking, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, visiting chocolate museums, cruising Swiss Lakes museums, and visiting Swiss cities.
SWITZERLAND IN AUGUST OVERVIEW:
👉 READ ALSO: How Many Days In Switzerland Is Enough? Revealed!
Switzerland In September
September is the second best month to visit Switzerland (right after June). It’s the time of the year when it gets less crowded , and prices for some activities get lower at the end of the month.
The autumn colors start to shine throughout the Swiss landscape, and it is another beautiful time of the year. Everything is still open , so you can get the most out of your time in Switzerland.
It’s specifically amazing for panoramic train rides, hiking , and mountain excursions.
It might snow a bit in the Swiss Alps in September, but it depends on the season. I experienced it when it snowed in Grindelwald and the mountains on the 17th of September. But again, it depends on the season .
Temperatures in September in Switzerland range between 15°C/59°F and 6°C/43°F.
⚜ BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN SEPTEMBER IN SWITZERLAND : Entire Switzerland
⚜ BEST THINGS TO DO IN SEPTEMBER IN SWITZERLAND : everything from mountain excursions, hiking, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, visiting chocolate museums, cruising Swiss Lakes museums, day trips from Interlaken , and visiting Swiss cities.
SWITZERLAND IN SEPTEMBER OVERVIEW:
👉 READ ALSO: Is Swiss Travel Pass Worth It? All You Need To Know
Switzerland In October
October is a beautiful month to visit Switzerland . It’s when summer is gone, and many people are busy working, so it’s much less crowded . Prices are significantly lower .
Most things are still open in October, and the autumn landscape colors are beautiful.
Temperatures in October range between 10°C/50°F and 3°C/37°F.
I loved spending October in Switzerland . When the crowds were gone , I went up to the mountains, and while it was slightly more chilly, I enjoyed hiking and walking around.
It’s a special time of the year and one of the best to visit.
⚜ BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN OCTOBER IN SWITZERLAND : Entire Switzerland
⚜ BEST THINGS TO DO IN OCTOBER IN SWITZERLAND : everything from mountain excursions, hiking, panoramic train rides, eating Fondue, visiting chocolate museums, cruising Swiss Lakes museums, and visiting Swiss cities.
SWITZERLAND IN OCTOBER OVERVIEW:
Switzerland in november.
November is a less popular time to visit Switzerland. While I always say that if you only have a chance to visit Switzerland in November, it shouldn’t put you off. But if you can choose, I recommend to avoid visiting the country at this time of the year .
The weather in November is usually gloomy , and the trees lose leaves , so the landscape is less pretty than in October. Temperatures range between 5°C/41°F and 0°C/32°F.
November is also the shoulder season ( similar to April ), when businesses close and prepare for the winter season. Also, many cable cars and trains are in maintenance .
So check the status of your activity and place before visiting and whether it’s open .
It usually starts snowing at the end of November in Switzerland, especially in the Swiss Alps.
You can already enjoy skiing in some resorts, such as Zermatt, Saas-Fee, Diavolezza, Glacier 3000, and Mt. Titlis.
⚜ BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN NOVEMBER IN SWITZERLAND : Zermatt, Grindelwald, Lugano, Diavolezza, Mt. Titlis, Lucerne, Geneva.
⚜ BEST THINGS TO DO IN NOVEMBER IN SWITZERLAND : visit Swiss cities and museums, eat Fondue, visit chocolate museums, cruise on Swiss Lakes (only some lakes), some mountain excursions, skiing and snowboarding in some resorts.
SWITZERLAND IN NOVEMBER OVERVIEW:
👉 READ ALSO: Switzerland In November – if you’re visiting, see what you can do to get the most of your time
Switzerland In December
December is another great month to visit Switzerland and one of the most magical times . Everything is back in operation after the break, and you can go skiing in all the ski resorts.
It starts snowing in the entire of Switzerland . You can enjoy Christmas markets with a special atmosphere in the Swiss cities or the beautiful mountain towns and their winter wonderland.
December is a great month to visit; even if you’re a nonskier , you can enjoy many activities like panoramic train rides, winter hikes, or adventure activities.
The first two weeks of December are less crowded, and prices are still lower before they skyrocket for the festive season.
Temperatures in December in Switzerland range between 2°C/35°F and -10°C/14°F .
❄ BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN DECEMBER IN SWITZERLAND : Zermatt, Grindelwald, Davos, Mt. Titlis, Lucerne, Geneva, Jungfraujoch .
❄ BEST THINGS TO DO IN DECEMBER IN SWITZERLAND : skiing and snowboarding, visiting Swiss cities for Christmas markets, museums, eating Fondue, cruising on Swiss Lakes (only some lakes), mountain excursions, and winter hiking.
SWITZERLAND IN DECEMBER OVERVIEW
👉 READ ALSO: 11 Cheapest Ways To Travel Switzerland On A Budget
I’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions for you. Check my answers below:
What Is The Best Month To Go To Switzerland?
June is the best month to go to Switzerland. It has mild temperatures, fewer crowds, slightly lower prices, and beautiful landscapes.
What Is The Cheapest Month To Visit Switzerland?
The cheapest month to visit Switzerland is November . It’s shoulder season, so many businesses are closed or are in maintenance, yet some are still open, so you can enjoy activities for less.
The weather is mostly gloomy , and while it’s not the best time to visit the country, it’s certainly the cheapest.
Which Month Is The Most Beautiful In Switzerland?
June is the most beautiful month in Switzerland. The landscape colors are the most beautiful, with melting glaciers, rivers full of water, lakes crystal clear, and meadows lush green with flowers, and everything is so lively and beautiful.
What Is The Rainy Season In Switzerland?
The rainy season in Switzerland is from May until the beginning of November . It usually rains the most in May and October .
The summer months (July and August) also get a lot of rain with thunderstorms , especially in the mountain towns.
WRAP-UP: Best Time To Visit Switzerland
This is how Switzerland feels each month of the year. While some months are better for your visit than others, Switzerland is just beautiful all year round . So check the weather forecast and the status of activities in the region you want to visit, and I’m sure you’ll have a great time all year round.
If you have any questions or need a customized travel itinerary , contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll gladly help you.
Happy Swiss Travels!
More Tips For Switzerland Travel
Looking to get more tips for Switzerland? Check out my related articles:
Best Of Switzerland Itinerary: 8 Days By Train
3 Days In Switzerland: 11 Itineraries For All Travelers & Seasons
22 Amazing Day Trips From Interlaken
23 Incredible Things To Do In Jungfrau Region
Is Jungfraujoch Worth It? Ultimate Guide
5 Best Panoramic Trains In Switzerland
8 Best Mountains In Switzerland To Visit
Jungfrau Travel Pass vs. Swiss Travel Pass
Swiss Travel Pass: Unlimites Travel In Switzerland
Is Switzerland Expensive? All You Need To Know
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About the author: Nicoletta is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.
SWITZERLAND : Interested in more articles for Switzerland? Check out my Switzerland Travel Page .
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When is the best time to visit Switzerland?
- The Swiss Alps
- Month-by-month
The best time to visit Switzerland is between April and October, though winter sports enthusiasts may prefer December to March. The country has four distinct seasons, each with its own attractions.
The spring months of March to May bring Alpine blooms, flowering trees and cows heading out to pasture. In the warmest months of June, July and August summery temperatures prevail, though you’ll rarely get any humidity thanks to the high altitude. This is when locals and visitors alike head to the lake shores, meaning thicker crowds.
The wine and fruit harvests dominate the fall months of September to November and from December to February, you’ll find snow, cold and winter sports.
In the lowlands, rain most often falls in November and May. Because it’s between the busy summer and winter seasons, these months are when many attractions have limited hours and residents often take their own trips.
- Make an inquiry
- Request a brochure
Month-by-month guide for traveling in Switzerland
Visiting Switzerland in December - January
December and January are the coldest, but not the wettest, months of the year. There’s frequently snow, which makes the Christmas markets in Switzerland’s main cities even more festive. Temperatures hang around freezing, but it’s still common to enjoy crisp blue skies and bright sun reflecting off the snow.
Events & Festivals
- Christmas markets (mid-November through early January): Cities feature cute wooden chalets, lots of traditional food, handmade crafts and hot spiced wine.
Visiting Switzerland in February - March
Temperatures begin to rise in February and March, but these months tend to see more rain and snow at altitude. Ski resorts are very busy at this time, since many schools take their mid-term breaks.
Visiting Switzerland in April - May
Spring arrives over April and May, and bright flowers come out on the Alpine mountainsides and in the green, low-lying valleys. Meadows return to life, dairy cows are released to graze and Alpine resorts become void of skiers. April can sometimes see a late flurry of winter weather.
Visiting Switzerland in June - July
In the summer months of June and July, the mountain scenery is at its best. The weather is mild and temperatures are pleasant and rarely too hot. Days are generally dry and sunny, offering clear views across the mountain peaks and rolling countryside.
- Montreux Jazz Festival (July): The biggest music festival in Switzerland with artists from around the world performing for two weeks on the shores of Lake Geneva.
Visiting Switzerland in August - September
As fall approaches in August and September, the lakes, mountains and cities all overflow with harvest beauty. Flowers adorn wooden chalets, the forest scenery takes on a cloak of golden brown and more mountaintops take on snowy caps. Farmers are out in force as fruit trees ripen and grapevines bend under their heavy load.
- Swiss National Day (August 1): A lot of towns and cities celebrate with street festivals and parades, many with elaborate fireworks and live music.
Visiting Switzerland in October - November
October and November mark the late fall, when the last of the wine grapes are harvested, the cows are brought down from the hillside and the weather begins to turn cold. In early October you can be blessed with lovely sunny days, but as the days shorten through November many hotels, restaurants and attractions close their doors for respite and refurbishment before the busy winter arrives.
Switzerland Climate Guide
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Highlights of Switzerland
Best time to visit Switzerland + when to avoid [2023]
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Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and it is easy to see why with its soaring mountains, quaint villages and cities, and all the stunning lakes and rivers. So, when is the best time to visit Switzerland, and when should you avoid it?
Whether you want to visit the Alps or city-hop through the country, there is something for everyone in Switzerland. There are different times that are the best to visit Switzerland depending on what you want to do. From winter sports to hiking trails in summer, and all the beautiful spring and autumn activities in between, there’s no bad time to visit this country.
✅ Check my complete guide to the worst mistakes to avoid in Switzerland
Although Switzerland is expensive to visit, it is easy to get to and even easier to get around, with central hubs and airports located in Basel, Geneva, and Zurich. Public transport is your best friend, making it easy to pick and choose where to go and what to do depending on when you visit Switzerland.
Overall best time to visit Switzerland
If you want a good all-rounder for good weather, fewer crowds, and still having the opportunity to hike or ski at higher elevations, then the months of March or September are the best time to visit the country.
✅ Learn about how to visit Thun Castle
But the best time to visit Switzerland is November to February, if you want to do winter sports (not including the run-up to Christmas and New Year’s which can get busy), or March through to October, if you want to hike through the Alps.
Why visit Switzerland?
Switzerland isn’t just about the snow, it’s also a great year-round destination, where you can enjoy activities from hiking and paragliding or sailing on a boat in a lake to skiing and tobogganing or hopping aboard the Glacier Express train in the cooler weather.
🚙 Read my guide to planning a perfect Switzerland itinerary .
It also isn’t just for those who are adrenalin fuelled or after adventure but is also a wonderful country to get to know the locals and visit beautiful historic cities, towns and villages with all their weird and wonderful traditions and festivals. If that isn’t enough to convince you to visit Switzerland, how about all the incredible gastronomy, from one of the 138 Michelin-starred restaurants to homemade fondue, chocolates, and cheeses?
Best time to visit Switzerland by months
Switzerland in january.
January is one of the coldest months in Switzerland and the peak of the winter, so perfect for snow sports in the mountains. It also brings light and ice festivals across the country, such as in Geneva, Lucerne, Murten , or Gstaad . If you are lucky, you can even glimpse the Festival de Ballons a well-known hot-air balloon festival in the alps, which is a sight to be seen.
- The average temperature across Switzerland in January is 2°C or 35.6°F
- Pros – Fewer tourists in the cities, with more people going to the mountains.
- Cons – The coldest month to visit Switzerland, so you might limited in terms of what you can do outside.
Switzerland in February
February is still a little cold, and the festivities long behind the darker days can be less inviting. However, there are still annual festivals and celebrations, if you head to some of the larger cities and towns across Switzerland. Basel is one such city with the famous Fasnacht carnival taking place at the end of February to scare off the winter and invite in the spring.
- The average temperature across Switzerland in February is 6°C or 42.8°F
- Pros – Fewer tourists in the cities because of the colder weather, but the ski season is still in full swing.
- Cons – Can be cold overnight, down to -2°C or 25.4°F in the cities and even colder in the Alps.
Switzerland in March
With the temperatures beginning to rise and the snow starting to recede, low-level ski resorts start to shut down, and towns and cities start preparing for the spring. You can get the best of both worlds in March with snow still at most resorts in the mountains, so snow sports are still available, but the cities and towns are starting to get warmer weather.
- The average temperature across Switzerland in March is 11°C or 51.8°F
- Pros – Best of both the winter snow and the warm spring weather. You can ski in the mountains and visit the lower-level towns without needing snow gear.
- Cons – Outside the main tourist seasons, some attractions could be closed.
Switzerland in April
Easter markets pop up across the country, and the snow is now only found in the higher elevations making April a month for a trip to Switzerland. Cities are beginning to wake up from the winter with festivals galore, including a tulip festival in Morges and various Jazz festivals across the country.
- The average temperature across Switzerland in April is 15°C or 59°F
- Pros – Fewer tourists means cheaper accommodations
- Cons – Some attractions and businesses may close for Easter.
Switzerland in May
May is the peak of the albeit short but beautiful spring in Switzerland. Blossom coats the trees; wildflowers fill alpine pastures, and the hiking trails and railways that have been shut over the winter reopen, such as the cogwheel railway up to Mount Pilatus. It is a great time to do higher-elevation hikes before the summer crowds arrive.
👉 May is a perfect time to visit Ticino , the Italian canton of Switzerland, which boasts a warm Mediterranean climate.
- The average temperature across Switzerland in May is 20°C or 68°F
- Pros – Attractions and locations closed over the winter begin to reopen this month.
- Cons – Although the weather is getting warmer, there is also a greater chance of rain.
Switzerland in June
June is one of the rainiest months in Switzerland, but don’t let that stop you from visiting. The temperatures are rising, and when it isn’t raining, the weather is perfect for a hike in the mountains or to sit out along one of the local rivers or lakes in one of the larger cities. It is also the perfect month to visit while it is warm before it gets more crowded in the later summer months.
- The average temperature across Switzerland in June is 21°C or 69.8°F
- Pros – Fewer crowds than in the later summer
- Cons – One of the rainiest months to visit Switzerland
Switzerland in July
Temperatures are often at or near their peak for Switzerland in July, while it averages around 24°C or 75.2°F, you will often have a hot spell hitting the mid to late 30°C or 86°F in the main cities Basel, Zurich , and Bern. The float down the local river through the city or take a dip in one of the nearby lakes to cool off.
- The average temperature across Switzerland in July is 24°C or 75.2°F
- Pros – One of the warmest months to visit Switzerland.
- Cons – July is one of the hottest months to visit Switzerland. Yes, it is an advantage and disadvantage at the same time, as it can make being out the in the middle of the day unbearable in Switzerland if they are having a hot spell, which is not what you want if you plan on hiking.
Switzerland in August
With temperatures, high August is still a great time to visit Switzerland for a camping trip or hiking. It can get a little busy at the beginning of the month with various school and public holidays, but with the wonderful weather, you get throughout the month that doesn’t keep anyone away. It’s also the month that music and dance festivals occur in many locations like Locarno, Lucerne, Zurich, and Basel.
- The average temperature across Switzerland in August is 23°C or 73.4°F
- Pros – The weather is warm, and any rainfall that does occur is short, plus lots of music festivals happening across the country.
- Cons – August is the peak of the school summer holidays in Europe so accommodation prices may be higher, and more touristy locations will be much busier than other times in the year. August 1 is also Swiss National Day, which is celebrated across the country, so expect the first week of August to be somewhat busy.
Switzerland in September
September is the season to visit Switzerland if you want to experience Switzerland when most tourists have gone home and you like your wine, as fruit and grape harvests happen during this time ( Lavaux Terrace Vineyards are beautiful in September).
The temperature begins to drop, but it is still warm enough for spending time outside or experience the last of the summer warmth sitting in a café along a lake. Alpine villages celebrate the cows coming home off the mountains with festivals filled with yodeling, music, and flower crown-wearing cows.
- The average temperature across Switzerland in September is 20°C or 68°F
- Pros – Most tourists will have left by mid-September leaving top attractions much quieter and uncrowded.
- Cons – If you visit in the first half of the month, it may still be a little busy, but there aren’t many disadvantages to visiting Switzerland in September.
Switzerland in October
As the temperatures start to dip and the leaves begin to turn, Switzerland in October is the perfect time for a lake cruise to take in the surrounding views or a train ride through the Alps. The higher mountain passes by road start to shut in October as the winter weather begins to set in at the higher elevations, so traveling by car can become a little trickier in these locations, but the bright yellow larches make up for that.
- The average temperature across Switzerland in October is 14°C or 57.2°F
- Pros – Much quieter than the previous months and the best time for seeing the fall colors in the mountains.
- Cons – Some attractions are starting to shut down for the winter months.
Switzerland in November
November in Switzerland means the arrival of the snow, with mountain locations often getting the first snowfall at the beginning of the month kicking off the winter ski season. As the peak ski season doesn’t arrive until December, you can also find some great accommodations and experience mountain attractions while it is relatively quiet still. If you want to hop on board the famous Glacier Express train, November is the only month it doesn’t run.
- The average temperature across Switzerland in November is 7°C or 44.6°F
- Pros – If the snow falls earlier, some of the ski slopes open up in November, and you can still do some hiking
- Cons – If you are coming to Switzerland to hike, this is not the month for you. As of the first week in November, most of the mountains close their hiking trails to make way for the inevitable snowfall.
Switzerland in December
December is time for the famous Christmas markets that fill the towns and cities across Switzerland. It is also the perfect time to head to the mountains with a good amount of snowfall having happened in November. If you are lucky, you may even have some snow in the cities further from the alps, which is perfect to explore the Christmas markets with a mug of Gluhwein in.
- The average temperature across Switzerland in December is 4°C or 39.2°F
- Pros – It is Christmas market month across the country.
- Cons – Because of the Christmas markets, city destinations tend to be busier than usual, and accommodation prices also go up. The mountains tend to be busy around the run-up and following Christmas too.
When is the high season in Switzerland?
Switzerland has two high seasons, one over the summer and one over the winter. Mid-June through to mid-September is the peak of the Swiss summer and many people flock to the mountains for hiking, the school summer holidays, and the bigger cities for a city break.
✔️ Read my complete guide to Bern , one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in summer.
Mid-December through to early February is the winter high season, with snow sports dominating the mountains, (especially around Valais and St Moritz) and Christmas markets filling the towns and cities.
When is summer in Switzerland?
Summer in Switzerland is from June to September, and if visiting during these months, be prepared to expect more crowds and some warm weather in some of the larger cities. It will often hit 40°C or 104°F for multiple days in a row in August. That weather will allow you to either get in the lakes for a dip or float down a river through one of the cities.
When is the low season in Switzerland?
Low season in Switzerland is generally from mid to late October through to mid-December and then again from mid to late March through to mid-April. It’s the best time to visit Switzerland if you don’t want to deal with the crowds, but it can also be unpredictable weather. If you visit Switzerland in the low season, you can enjoy perfect weather for a spring or autumn hike.
When is the worst time to visit Switzerland?
The worst time to visit Switzerland depends on what you want to get out of your trip. For example, if you want to visit Switzerland to ski or take part in snow sports, then don’t come in the summer. If you want to hike mountain trails, don’t visit in the peak of winter. Overall, the time of the year with the more unsettled weather and when some locations and attractions start to close down on the run-up to the winter, (mountain huts and campsites), in October.
When is the least busy time to visit Switzerland?
The least busy time to visit Switzerland is either in one of the shoulder seasons, so from mid-April to mid-June, or in the low season. However, depending on local festivals and events that may be happening throughout the year, certain areas will still be busy during these months. Mid-September through to mid-October can be crowded in the Bernese Oberland and Lauterbrunnen due to the annual festive processions for the cows descending from their alpine pastures for the winter.
Tips for visiting Switzerland
Buy a swiss travel pass.
Depending on your length of stay in Switzerland, one way to reduce the cost of your trip is to buy a Swiss Travel Pass, (not to be confused with a SwissPass which is a pass for Swiss residents only).
The pass gives you unlimited travel by train, bus, or boat, plus other public transport in select locations, on 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 consecutive days, with prices starting at CHF 232.00 for 3 days in 2nd class and up to CHF 429.00 for 15 days in 2nd class. You can easily buy this online via Switzerland Travel Centre, where you can see the full extent of Switzerland that the Swiss Travel Pass covers, and get free entrance for many museums.
Budget your trip
Another way to save money on your trip to Switzerland is to purchase a day pass or multiple saver day passes, from Swiss Railways, (SBB CFF FFS). They will allow you to travel on most public transport throughout Switzerland for an entire day at a highly reduced rate, sometimes as little as CHF 29.00.
It’s a great option if you would rather not spend more on the Swiss Travel Pass, or only want to travel on certain days, as the earlier, you book the pass the cheaper the ticket. You can also book these reduced-price tickets for children under 16, bicycles, (should you want to get out on two wheels), and dogs.
Get a city pass
Getting city passes is also a fantastic option to budget your trip when visiting Switzerland. Quite a few cities around the country will give tourists a free day pass to explore the city or at least have the option for you to buy one, giving you cheaper prices for a tram, bus, and boat travel.
Basel gives each visitor a free BaselCard for the entire length of their stay in the city with any stay at a hotel, hostel, B&B, or apartment. It provides free use of all public transport, half-price entry into certain museums and attractions, and a discounted rate on e-bike rental.
Cook your meals
The most expensive thing you will find when visiting Switzerland is that eating out at restaurants three times a day can get expensive quickly, even more so if you are visiting during a high season. So, take full advantage of local supermarkets and grocery stores such as Migros, Lidl, Co-op, or Denner to make your food if you have the facilities too.
Why not even pack yourself a lunch to have in the mountains?
If you want more flexibility when traveling around Switzerland, consider renting a car. While you will pay more for a car than for a train, you will be able to visit many hidden spots, hike cool trails and enjoy Alpine villages that many travelers don’t get to see.
✅ I always rent my car with DiscoverCars , one of the best car rental platforms that allows you to find vehicles at competitive rates and has no hidden fees, unlike some other car rental websites.
Best time to visit Switzerland: FAQs
What is the cheapest month to visit switzerland.
The cheapest time to visit Switzerland is generally between mid-January to the beginning of April, as it is the spring shoulder season with fewer tourists visiting the country. It can be a great time of year to visit Switzerland though.
What is the rainiest month in Switzerland?
Surprisingly although June is technically one of the summer months in Switzerland, it is also the rainiest month in Switzerland, and it can get quite humid depending on where in the country you are.
What are the warmest months to visit Switzerland
The best time to visit Switzerland for some of its warmest months is between July and early September. Unfortunately, because of this, these months are also some of the busiest and priciest across Switzerland. These months are some of the best for hiking in the alps.
What is the best time to visit Switzerland for hiking?
Spring or autumn are ideal times to visit Switzerland for hiking, with warmer days, short rain showers, and clear views. Summer is another great time for hiking in Switzerland, but it is also slightly rainier and can get busy at the more well-known destinations due to the various holidays.
What is the best time to visit Switzerland for skiing?
November through to March is great for skiing, but if you want to skip expensive hotel prices, avoid Christmas and New Year. The snow begins to fall at the highest elevations in mid-November right through to mid-March, with most of the country getting a good blanket of snow in December and January.
Is it better to visit Switzerland in April or May?
April and May are great times to visit Switzerland as they are in the spring shoulder season, but the weather can be a little more unpredictable than in the rest of the year. It’s more obvious in May when there is more rainfall on average than in April, but the days are beginning to warm up nicely.
The best time to visit Switzerland: final words
So, when is the best time to visit Switzerland? It depends on what you want to do on your trip be it hiking, (best in March through to October), snow sports, (November to February), or taking in the autumnal or spring views. I suggest that either early spring or autumn, so March or September are good all-rounders for the best time to visit Switzerland.
The weather is warm enough, so you don’t need as many layers as over the peak of the winter, either the spring flowers are blooming, or the larch and beech trees are turning bright yellows and orange with the arrival of autumn, and there may be snow at higher elevations. So, it is the perfect time to visit a city or hike in the mountains.
This article was contributed by Gemma from The Traveling Tedaldi
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The Best Time to Visit Switzerland
Weather in Switzerland
Crowds in switzerland, tourist attraction availability, key holidays, festivals, and events.
Dominated by the Alps and dotted with large, clear, and clean lakes, the visually stunning country of Switzerland has plenty to offer year-round. It's an outdoor playground in all seasons, and its cities range from exciting and modern to historic and charming to a little bit of both. Becuase Swiss cities don't draw the same number of tourists as other popular European cities they're unlikely to feel overcrowded.
The best time to visit Switzerland depends on what you want to see and do. If you want to enjoy winter sports in the Swiss Alps, January and February are the best months to visit. Those same mountains are a hiker’s paradise in summer, and Switzerland's many lakes are at their warmest in July and August. If you want to avoid the crowds, autumn and spring are traditionally the country’s shoulder seasons, so you might find more affordable accommodation and fewer crowds.
Broadly speaking, Switzerland enjoys a moderate climate, with low humidity and four seasons. However, the mountainous terrain of the country means the weather can change quickly, especially as you ascend to higher altitudes. In summer, temperatures hover around 65 to 82 degrees F (18 to 28 degrees C) but it can get much hotter at lower elevations. Summer is the rainiest season in Switzerland, but it's rare to find a day without at least a few hours of sunshine.
Winters are cold and snowy (though snow is not guaranteed), especially at low altitudes. There's always a high chance of finding a winter wonderland in higher-altitude areas like Zermatt and Saas-Fee, especially during the months of January and February. However, some of the country’s ski resorts will boost their base layer at the start of the season with snow cannons. Winter temperatures generally range between 28 to 45 degrees F (-2 to 7 degrees C), but it gets much colder as you venture higher into the mountains.
Spring and autumn see mostly dry weather and cool temperatures, usually between 46 to 59 degrees F (8 to 15 degrees C). These are the best months to beat the crowds and are also excellent seasons for hiking and other outdoor pursuits. However, both spring and fall are too cold for lake swimming and too warm for snowfall and skiing.
Switzerland is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world, meaning that its ski slopes, hiking trails, and city centers can get pretty crowded in the peak summer months (June to August). Summer tends to bring in plenty of hikers, bikers, and tourists who want to explore the lakes and walking trails of the country. It helps to make reservations well in advance, especially for popular attractions like the scenic Jungfrau Railway .
In the winter, especially around the Christmas holidays, Alpine towns and resorts fill up with skiers and those who just want to enjoy the snowy landscapes. If you want a winter visit to a popular ski village like Verbier, Zermatt, St. Moritz , or Davos, book your stay way in advance.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds, the shoulder seasons of spring and fall are your best bet, as you’ll enjoy mild weather, cheaper flights, and greater accommodation availability. Just keep in mind that some hotels and restaurants, particularly family-owned ones, may shut down for a few weeks twice a year. They’ll take some time to switch gears from summer to winter (or vice-versa) and frequently close their doors for a much-needed break in November and April or May.
Most visitors to Switzerland plan their vacation dates around the activities they want to enjoy. In the warmer months (May to September), Switzerland’s sunshine and mild climate are ideal for al-fresco dining, boating on Lake Geneva or Lake Constance, and outdoor sports. Of course, the big draw of the summertime is hiking through Switzerland ’s incredible Alpine regions, such as the Bernese Oberland, Appenzell, and Engadine.
In the winter, many of these same areas become winter wonderlands, attracting not only skiers, snowboarders, ice climbers, and families who want to play in the snow.
Weather is the biggest determining factor for some activities and attractions. Outdoor dining and pop-up bars appear in the summer months but are rarer when it's cold outside. Tour boats on Swiss lakes still run in the winter, but far less frequently.
There are lots of great events in Switzerland that occur throughout the year, so you might want to time your visit to coincide with one or more of them:
- Art Basel : One of the world’s most prestigious international art fairs, a visit to Art Basel is an incredible way to see art, new and old, and to rub shoulders with famous artists and celebrities.
- Christmas Markets : From November through December, many Swiss towns and cities host outdoor Christmas markets with plenty of merriment, food, and entertainment. Sample Swiss delicacies, enjoy the twinkle of the holiday lights, ice skate, visit Samichlaus (or Saint-Nicolas in French-speaking Switzerland), and shop for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Ski World Cup Wengen : Winter sports fans shouldn’t miss the international Lauberhorn ski races, held in mid-January. The courses are some of the toughest slaloms in the world and are a delight for spectators.
- Lucerne Festival : Held on the shores of Lake Lucerne, the Lucerne Festival is a delight for classical music fans, attracting some of the most talented classical musicians from around the world.
After the Christmas and New Year’s rush thins out, usually by Jan. 6, this can be a slightly quieter month in Switzerland, especially away from the ski resorts. You'll still find plenty of fun on the slopes or you can spend some time ice skating. If you’re feeling the chill, pop into one of the country’s cozy fondue chalets to sample one of the world’s best winter comfort foods—fresh bread dipped in melted cheese.
Temperatures in January are reliably cold, averaging between 25 and 37 degrees F (-4 and 3 degrees C)— and dropping the higher into the mountains you climb. Lower elevations may see more rain than snow, depending on annual weather patterns. Cold temperatures translate to great indoor events, including an annual roster of engaging art museum exhibits around the country.
February temperatures are about the same, or often colder, as in January. This is also the driest month of the year, making it a great period for skiing and winter sports. Be sure to reserve early for a hotel room in the ski areas, and expect a long line for the cable cars up to the pistes.
For other indoor activities, you might want to visit some of the country’s amazing museums, like the Swiss National Museum in Zurich or The Olympic Museum in Lausanne.
March might be the start of spring, but the weather can still be unpredictable. It’s not uncommon to get warm, sunny days, followed by snow. Most ski resorts will still be fully operational in March. Cities may have a bit of gray pall over them, it is typically overcast in much of the country during this month, with temperatures hovering between about 36 and 50 degrees F (2 and 10 degrees C).
If you’re lucky enough to catch a warm spring day, do as the Swiss do and get out and enjoy it — maybe by way of a lakeside walk.
As the country glides into spring, the beautiful wildflowers and blooms brighten up the country after a long winter. April in Switzerland is a glorious time for getting outside and enjoying lake tours, outdoor dining, and mountain hikes. But it's not time to pack your summer wardrobe just yet, as temperatures rarely creep above 55 degrees F (13 degrees C) in most of the country this month.
With the weather getting warmer and the snow melted away, May is the traditional start of the summer tourism season. It can be a beautiful time to visit and enjoy the outdoors before peak season gets underway. Keep in mind that though temperatures can reach into the 70s F, weather is still unpredictable. Pack layers, and don't expect to do any lake swimming—unless you're in the mood for a very chilly dip. While May tends to be rainy, you’re still likely to get plenty of sunshine.
June brings temperatures well into the 70s F, making for a wonderfully pleasant time outside. Plenty of people have the same idea, but thanks to Switzerland's abundance of wide-open spaces, it's possible to have plenty of room to yourself, especially if an Alpine hike is calling your name. Lakes start to warm up ever so slightly and are inviting for a bracing swim, kayaking, or a lake tour aboard a tourist boat. If you'd prefer to stay on land, there are also options for a lakeside bike ride or walk.
June is the rainiest month in Switzerland, but there are still plenty to hours of sunshine, especially in the southern Ticino canton . Just be sure to pack an umbrella and expect a daily thunderstorm.
July is the start of the high season, as summer vacations bring plenty of people to the country. Temperatures can get into the 80s F, so July is great for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Many lakes offer outdoor pools, with public facilities for swimming and changing. You'll find a wide range of temperatures between day and night, as daytime temps can top 80 degrees F and evening temps can dip below 50 degrees F (10 degrees C), especially at higher elevations.
To avoid missing out, book your accommodation and excursions well in advance.
August weather is fairly similar to that of July, as are the crowds. There’s always a chance of a summer thunderstorm, but you’ll still have plenty of hot and sunny days to enjoy. This is peak time for hiking and lake activities—be sure not to leave the country without hitting a trail or taking a dip in one of Switzerland's pristine lakes.
Swiss National Day is held on Aug. 1 each year in celebration of the founding of the Swiss Confederation. Throughout the country, expect fireworks and festivities similar to the 4th of July in the U.S.
Moving into September, temperatures start to drop a little, especially in the evenings. Temperatures top out in the 70s F and can drop to the 50s F at night. There are still plenty of warm days for outdoor activities and fewer crowds, which is why we consider September a top month for a visit to Switzerland.
If you're in a rural area, especially the villages of the Appenzell canton, you may catch a delightful tradition. During the "Alpine descent," cattle farmers bring their herds down from their summer grazing grounds. The cows are decorated with flower garlands and bells, and the noisy, colorful procession is a celebrated sight as it passes through town. This is also a good time to look for wine festivals, especially in the Vaud region around Lake Geneva.
Although the weather becomes noticeably cooler in October, it’s also one of the driest months of the year, so Swiss residents and visitors take advantage and do some autumn hiking before the snowfall arrives. The clear days can be ideal for taking the gondola up to see the Matterhorn, Switzerland's most famous peak. Daytime highs may reach into the 60s F, with nighttime temperatures dipping into the 40s F.
Look for gastronomic festivals this month; there are events celebrating truffles, chestnuts, cheese, and other delicacies.
November definitely feels like winter, with cold temperatures and a high possibility of snowfall. Temperatures seldom top 50 degrees F (10 degrees C) and may dip below freezing, especially at night. Snow conditions permitting, some ski resorts will open towards the end of the month. In cities, cold temperatures mean you might want to plan plenty of indoor activities, like visiting art galleries, shopping, or attending a show—the Zurich Opera season is in full swing. Christmas markets open up toward the end of the month as the festive period kicks in.
December in Switzerland is cold with snow or rain coming, depending on the temperature which can be single-digit freezing or stretch into the low 40s F. Despite the cold and often grey conditions, December is one of the most festive months of the year. Cities and towns are decorated with Christmas trees and twinkling lights, and traditional Christmas markets pop up throughout the country. The dreamy, snow-covered chalets are also popular for Swiss and international families who want to celebrate a white Christmas, so book your accommodations months in advance. As elsewhere, New Year's Eve is a big celebration here.
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- Oct 12, 2021
The best time to visit Switzerland - when to go month by month
Updated: Oct 21, 2023
Often question on forums and social media group is: when is the best time to visit Switzerland. And a simple answer to that is to visit Switzerland in late July . But not only then...
Depending on what you are interested in there are better or worse months to visit Switzerland. This guide is organised mainly around hiking and photography since these two things work the best together. But still, this guide will be useful to you, even if you set your holiday plans around MTB or maybe open water swimming.
Table of content
Best time to visit switzerland for hiking.
Best time for skiing in Switzerland
Best time for MTB
Switzerland - seasons and months
January, february and march - winter in the swiss alps, april - early spring in switzerland, may and june - spring in switzerland, july - early summer in the swiss alps, august - the holiday peak in switzerland, september - end of summer and early autumn, october - best of autumn, november and december - early winter in switzerland.
Best time to visit Switzerland for landscape photography
Long story short...
The best time to visit Switzerland is late July
Snow in the lower part of mountains melted, meadows are green and full of flowers and hiking trails are opened. Also water in the lakes is warm enough for swimming. On average, the weather is sunny, days are long and you don't have to wear warm clothes even higher up.
Hiking season starts around May when you can expect just a little snow on lower mountains like Rigi Kulm (1798 meters) or in Ticino (southern part of Switzerland). But be warned, May is the month, when there is still a lot of snow in the higher mountains and avalanches are not rare. To reach higher parts safely and with dry shoes you need to wait till mid-July.
And in fact, July is the best month to visit Switzerland for hiking. Snow should be gone from places like Gornergrat (3000m) and south-facing slopes. While above 2500m grass maybe still be brown after winter, lower, in the valleys all meadows are covered with flowers.
Unfortunately, because this is the best month for Switzerland, you will not be here alone. Since entire Europe has summer holidays then. This means higher prices, booked hotels and traffic jams on both sides of Gotthard Tunnel.
The hiking season continues till the end of September . In the middle of October, mountain huts are going into winter hibernation and the first snow appears. Early September is best for long, multiday hikes - nights are not so cold and mountain huts are not so occupied. Also, higher passes (2500m+) are snow-free.
While you can be still lucky even in November (like we were with Zermatt) and be able to do some amazing hikes above 2500m without crampons or snowshoes do not count on warm weather. Temperatures below zero at this altitude are common even in September.
Note also the fact, that October and November are the months when the majority of cable cars are under maintenance and examination . That means no services for at least two weeks.
From December your options for hiking are limited. Snow is everywhere in the mountains and the best hiking trails are closed due to the risk of avalanches. However, you are not hopeless - Switzerland has still some easy, maintained winter hiking routes. You do not need even crampons there.
Best time for skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing in Switzerland
In resorts located high in the mountains, like Saas-Fee, Zermatt or St. Moritz ski season starts usually in mid-November and continues till April. In towns and centres located lower, like Engelberg, Flumserberg, Crans Montana start is in December and pistles are closed around March.
The peak season for skiing and snowboarding in Switzerland is between mid-January and mid-March.
There are places where you can enjoy skiing all year round: Saas-Fee and Zermatt have pistles on glaciers open more than 300 days a year.
Somewhere around January a new season for snowshoeing starts . In every town that has a sport-centre, you can rent a pair of snowshoes for around 30-50 CHF a day. Snowshoe trails are always signposted with yellow polls with pink labels.
Best time for mountain biking
Depending on how high you want to go, the MTB season can start in late March for valleys and lower mountains (1200m) and Ticino or early June for places around 2000m (Flumserberg) to early July if you want to enjoy fully the highest trails in Zermatt (Schwarzsee, Gornergratt).
June is also the month when mountain passes open, but please note, that this is mainly for road bikes. MTB trails in Sustenpass, Oberalppass (the highest parts of Alpine Bike route 1) will for sure be covered with deep snow. For such trails, you need to wait till August.
The peak season for MTB, enduro and trail bikes is between July and October.
MTB season mainly ends in late October when cable cars go to maintenance and service period. Though, you can still enjoy trails in the valleys till late November or even longer if you decide to visit Ticino or Vaud.
So you landed in Switzerland in a wired month and you do not know what to do and where to go? Here is a guide for you (and your camera) to get the answer for: When to go to Switzerland?
This is the winter sports season. Resorts are full, cable cars are running like crazy. Even if you are not an alpine-pro when it comes to snowboard or skiing there are awesome things to do here. Winter hiking trails are prepared (those are more for family walks than all day long trips) and snowshoeing routes are opened (you can rent a pair in any sports centre). You can also try sledging, but bear in mind, that the pistles for that in Switzerland are nothing you remember from your childhood. A helmet is mandatory, insurance - highly recommended.
Swiss Instagramers take photos of slopes, white mountains and glasses of Aperol-Spritz in snow or fondue. For landscape photography January is the best moment to capture pink colours on mountains and shoot during the blue hour - ski lifts operate after sunset, so you can easily come back from high altitudes (Zermatt, Sass-Fee, Engadin).
If you still have no idea what to do: Winter is a good time to visit St. Moritz for the world-famous Polo on Snow (January) or horse race White Turf (February). It is also carnival season, and parades in Luzern or Basel are spectacular (February).
While winter is gone for the biggest cities. Around Lake Lucerne grass is green and appletrees are blossom. This is the best time for easy bicycle rides and hikes, around big lakes like Zugersee, Lac Leman or Zurichsee.
Photographers can look for flowers, fresh green colours of hills and cloud inversions. April is also the best season for capturing dramatic storms that pass through central and western Switzerland.
While May is still not the best month for hiking in higher parts of mountains (2000m), in valleys you can enjoy beautiful green colours with warm, sunny weather. Tourist season is opened everywhere and old steamboats are back on the lakes.
June is the month when alpine passes are opened, so you can enjoy splendid rides in snow tunnels and access higher parts of the Swiss Alps with ease.
While above 2500m you can still expect a lot of snow (this is the mountaineering season), you can go for some of the most spectacular hikes. Though, if you want to go higher, take crampons and warm clothes with you.
Take your camera for a ride to Grimselpass or Sustenpass or hunt for Crocuses on meadows where snow has just melted. Also, this is a good time for astrophotography in the Alps, because Milky Way in Spring is in its best position quite early.
In my opinion, July is the best month to visit Switzerland . Meadows above valleys are covered with carpets of flowers, weather and temperature encourage picnics and hiking.
Days are long and nights are warm. Also, this is the holiday period, so expect more tourists and kids in the most popular areas.
In July you want to take photos in Lauterbrunnen, Engadin or in Valais. A fairy-tale landscape awaits you.
Also, you can stop by for Jazz Festival in Montreaux.
Above all, do not miss fireworks on the 1st of August - The Swiss National Day. You want to be in Zurich, Zug, or Lausanne to admire the show from a lakeshore. In general, August is a month of festivals and parades. And there is a variety to choose: Street Parade in Zurich or local, folk festivals in villages in mountains.
This is also a splendid time for hiking and swimming in lakes or rivers. The temperature of lake Zugersee should be around 24°C and Aree river in Bern in August is on average 18°C.
While the weather in the central and northern parts of Switzerland is suffering from showers and fogs, you can still enjoy summer in Ticino (Lugano, Locarno, Ascona). This is the time to visit Maggia or Verzasca.
Less warm area than Ticino is Vaud, but here is the grape harvesting period and you can experience nice wine festivals in Lavaux, Laussane or Montreaux.
Higher in the mountains hiking season slowly ends, while the first snow hits 3k peaks. Cold nights are common and it is raining more often.
September is the most optimal month to save on your travel and still get most of Switzerland. Check our tips for Switzerland on a budget .
Long days are gone, same as good weather. Expect more rain and snow in the mountains. The last two weeks of October are spectacular if you are looking for golden colours of leaves. Especially Engadin is a place to go on those dates.
This is a month when cable cars go under two-three weeks of maintenance and service. Mountain hotels and huts are in hibernation. Especially places like Zermatt, St. Moritz or Crans Montana are nearly closed (check what is open before you buy a plane ticket).
Before the end of the month, most of the mountain passes will be closed.
This is the month when Swiss people seek sun on their holidays.
Photography-wise you want to shoot morning fogs and mists. Also yellow, orange and brown colours. Again, don't miss golden larches in Engadin.
This is a period with rather poor weather in Zurich, Lucern and Bern. That's why the Swiss try to go for holidays in this season to some warmer parts of the world. It's grey, trees lost their leaves and grass turned brown. In the mountains, snow is still rare, but temperatures are below freezing. Most of the hotels are closed and resorts wait for skiing season (mid-December).
You can enjoy nice weather in Ticino (Lugano, Ascona).
Photography-wise November in Switzerland is a good time to capture the highest peaks that are not fully covered by snow. You get nice shapes and textures of rocks. Also, this is the best month for cloud inversions in Zurich and Lucern area.
December is for Swiss people a meeting time, that's why Christmas markets are so full and spectacular. Do not miss the one in Zurich and the day when Christmas illumination is turned on!
Best time to visit Switzerland for landscape and mountain photography
We are spending nearly every weekend in the mountains, so it is hard to say for us that there are bad months. But for sure you aim to maximise the chances of capturing the Swiss Alps at their best. For landscape photography, we recommend two periods:
For summer shooting go between July and September
For the winter photography go to Switzerland in November and December (low level of snow) and February for a full experience of winter.
If you need some help in planning and organising your photography trip, don't forget to check our guidebooks and social media for more inspiration and detail: Facebook and Instagram .
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Best Time to Visit Switzerland: By season & festivals
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Wondering when is the best time to visit Switzerland? Switzerland is gorgeous at all times of the year and depending on what you wish to explore, and where you want to go – one particular season might work out better for you, than the other.
In this detailed guide, we will go over the 4 distinct seasons (with a month-by-month overview) highlighting popular festivals, events, and destinations. Along the way, we will share our favorites, and travel tips based on our experience!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Post Contents
When is the Best Time to Visit Switzerland
The short answer is autumn, and maybe because we are biased and we love wandering the old town lanes in Switzerland with fewer summer crowds, better accommodation deals, and pleasant weather!
But you might have skiing and other winter activities on your list, or may be a music festival that only takes place in the middle of summer? Well, let us help you!
- Best time to visit: September – mid-October, April – June
- Peak Season: July – August
- Off-Season : October – November, and some regions in the winter, February, March
Average temperatures + Weather in Switzerland
Switzerland experiences four distinct seasons, and it varies a lot by region, and altitudes. In the image below, you can see the warmer and colder months in the country.
Typically, the seasons are as follows, and there are overlaps at the transition months in Switzerland.
- Winter: mid-December to mid-March
- Spring: mid-March to mid-June
- Summer: mid-June to mid-September
- Autumn/Fall : mid-September to mid-December
Note that in the detailed guide below, each season is grouped by months (as a whole without the overlaps).
Fact: The hottest and the wettest month in Switzerland is in July.
Winter in Switzerland
- Months: December, January, February
- Highlight : It is a low season in many parts of the country including cities. It is great for visiting Christmas Markets, indulging in winter activities. The ski season is in full swing in January. Ski resorts are crowded during this time, particularly in late January and February.
- Visit: Cities like Zurich, Geneva, Bern for Christmas celebrations (December), Ski towns St Moritz, Zermatt (mid December – February)
The winter months in Switzerland are from December to February. It is considered as the low season, as compared to the busy summer months. During this time, you can expect snow in all high altitude resort towns, and a variety of winter activities including world-class skiing opportunities are open.
For ski resorts, this is a peak season, especially in late January and February. Cities are quieter after the Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.
Many scenic train routes like – the Bernina Express and the Glacier Express – although operational, have a limited timetable. In the winter, mandatory seat reservation costs are lower as compared to peak summer months. Many of the panoramic lifts and cable cars are closed during this season.
- Zurich: 2 C/35.6 F
- Geneva : 4 C/39.2 F
- Lucerne : 4 C/39.2 F
- St Moritz : – 2 C/28.4 F
- Zermatt : 2 C/35.6 F
- Zurich: 4 C/39.2 F
- Geneva : 5 C/41 F
- St Moritz : -2 C/28.4 F
- Zermatt : 1 C/33.8 F
- Zurich: 6 C/42.8 F
- Lucerne : 5 C/41 F
- St Moritz : 0 C/32 F
December
Popular cities like Zurich , Geneva, and Lucerne do get some snow in the winter, but it is not as COLD as Canada. Temperatures hover around 2 to 4°C/ 35.6 to 39.2°F, so winters are mild (as compared to Canadian standards).
These cities are decked up for Christmas celebrations – with markets, decorations, and stores! It is a lovely time to visit Switzerland for slow travel and to soak in the festive spirit.
Note that around Christmas and New Year’s hotel rooms will be expensive, and with January the prices drop again.
Mountain towns/resorts are open during this time, and it has a stable flow of tourists. However, the actual ski season starts in late December or January (weather-dependent).
January & February
With January kicking in, the temperatures are colder. In the mountains, you can expect snowfall. Although cold, January is actually a good time to find amazing flight deals, shop for discounts on designer items (after Christmas) and go skiing!
Same goes for the month of February. It is a popular time to visit for ski activities, and exploring mountain towns.
In January and February, cities experience cold and wet climates, and so it may not be a good idea for sightseeing cruises or going on walking tours.
Spring in Switzerland
- Months: March, April, May
- Highlight : Crossover month. Off-season. Good for city sightseeing in late spring in terms of weather, and better accommodation rates. Spring skiing is possible. By late April/May, outdoorsy activities open up.
- Visit : City and lakeside destinations – Lake Lugano, Lake Geneva (late March-May), ski resorts (March), Lucerne & Thun for outdoorsy activities (mid-April – May), Scenic train rides (low reservation costs, enjoy amazing views from the comfort of your seats)
With the beginning of the spring season, the weather gets better, and warmer. The cities come alive with patio dining, flowers, and tourist activities, particularly in late spring months.
Switzerland’s resorts are open to spring skiing, and April is the last month to enjoy the mountain slopes.
- Zurich: 11 C/51.8 F
- Geneva : 11 C/51.8 F
- Lucerne : 11 C/51.8 F
- St Moritz : 3 C/37.4 F
- Zurich: 15 C/59 F
- Geneva : 15 C/59 F
- Lucerne : 16 C/60.8 F
- St Moritz : 7 C/44.6 F
- Zermatt : 6 C/42.8 F
- Zurich: 19 C/66.2 F
- Geneva : 19 C/66.2 F
- Lucerne : 19 C/66.2 F
- St Moritz : 12 C/53.6 F
- Zermatt : 11 C/51.8 F
March
March is a crossover month in Switzerland, where days are slowly becoming longer, and temperatures are moving towards double digits.
In cities like Zurich, Geneva and Lucerne the weather is warmer, but occasionally you will also encounter showers. With pleasant temperatures during the day, you can venture outside on walking tours, or spend time outdoors.
Don’t leave your warm clothes at home yet, because it gets chilly in the evenings (and temperatures drop).
If you want to ski, there is still time to go skiing in March, in fact there are fewer crowds in the mountains during this time.
April & May
In April and May, you can really enjoy the amazing weather, attractions and go sightseeing in various cities in Switzerland . The average maximum temperatures in the major cities hover around 19 degrees Celsius (66 F).
There are a lot of festive events taking place in the country, especially Easter celebrations.
For outdoor lovers, in late spring hiking trails are open, and winter activities will be closed by mid April. In May, you can expect cable cars to be operational again.
April, May and June are a great time to visit Switzerland. April and May are an off-season, in terms of low visitors to the country so you can expect amazing deals on flights and accommodation, and fewer crowds.
Summer in Switzerland
- Months: June, July, August
- Highlight : Warmer weather, considered a peak season in July and August. Hotel prices skyrocket (sometimes over 50% increase), cable car rides are operational, hiking trails are open, most tourist attractions will be crowded.
- Visit: All attractions (except winter activities) are open, and there are tons of things to do all across the country
Summer is a high tourist season in Switzerland. Starting from June, through August, the temperatures are warmer, days are longer, and a variety of outdoor activity opportunities open up for visitors.
Although warm, summers also tend to be rainy. July is the warmest and the wettest month of the year!
- Zurich: 23 C/73.4 F
- Geneva : 23 C/73.4 F
- Lucerne : 23 C/73.4 F
- St Moritz : 16 C/60.8 F
- Zermatt : 19 C/66.2 F
- Zurich: 25 C/77 F
- Geneva : 26 C/78.8 F
- Lucerne : 25 C/77 F
- St Moritz : 19 C/66.2 F
- Zermatt : 21 C/69.8 F
- Zurich: 24 C/75.2 F
- Lucerne : 24 C/75.2 F
- St Moritz : 18 C/64.4 F
- Zermatt : 20 C/68 F
In mid June you can experience nice weather, with fewer crowds. The average maximum temperature in cities like Zurich soars to about 23 degrees Celsius (73 Fahrenheit) in June, and further into the summer months the sun doesn’t set until late into the evening. So expect lots of daylight (for amazing outdoor shots).
Hiking and biking trails open up in late May, so by June you can explore them all minus the summer crowds. This includes popular hiking trails around Lake Lucerne and Canton Valais.
It is also a good time to join guided tours or cable car rides to mountain tops!
July & August
July and August are the busiest months in Switzerland in terms of tourism. Schools are closed for the summer, and there are domestic and international travelers visiting Switzerland enjoying the lovely weather and outdoorsy activities.
Summer is popular for a reason. Weather is one of the factors, then there are festivals (particularly the Montreux Jazz Festival held on the Lake Geneva shoreline), and availability of bucket list attractions and tours!
Switzerland celebrates Swiss National Day on 1 August. On this day, you can enjoy festivities and fireworks all across the country.
July and August brings out the best side of the cities and the Swiss Alps. It is the optimum time to get your cameras out, and get clicking. To capture images of Switzerland without crowds of people in it, wake up early and get to the attractions before 9:00 am.
You can also explore small towns, and lesser visited lakes and mountain spots, they are usually less crowded in these months.
Summer is also great to enjoy picnics, swim at Lake Lucerne, paragliding at Interlaken, and boat cruises.
If you are planning to visit Switzerland in the summer, we recommend booking accommodation, flights, guided tours including day tours to Jungfraujoch, Mt. Titlis, and sightseeing cruises ahead of time.
Accommodation, generally, is expensive in the summer, with hotel prices increasing to up 50% than normal. This increase also has a ripple effect on packaged tours, which also becomes slightly pricier in this season.
A note about scenic/premium train routes for summer travel.
- Glacier Express seats can be booked about 3 months in advance. In the summer months, the reservation fee is relatively higher, as compared to winter months – about 49 CHF vs 29 CHF in low season.
- Bernina Express also requires seat reservations, which is 16 CHF (vs 10 CHF in winter)
Autumn in Switzerland
- Months: September, October, November
- Highlight : Early fall months are great for the city explorers, outdoorsy activities (no skiing), expect fewer crowds, better deals on hotels, and Switzerland tours
- Visit: Cities (September – October), Jungfrau, Mount Rigi other cable car rides (Sept to mid-October)
Autumn or fall months are gorgeous in Switzerland. It is a great time to explore cities minus the crowds and soak in pretty fall colors on trails, and mountain areas. You can also find the best wine in the country during this time.
For the most part, the days are warm, but it starts to get shorter and chillier towards the end of the season. The positive part is that you get better seats on trains, and on cable cars!
- Zurich: 20 C/68 F
- Geneva : 21 C/69.8 F
- Lucerne : 20 C/68 F
- St Moritz : 14 C/57.2 F
- Zermatt : 16 C/60.8 F
- Geneva : 15 C/59 F
- Lucerne : 14 C/57.2 F
- St Moritz : 10 C/50 F
- Zermatt : 12 C/53.6 F
- Zurich: 9 C/48.2 F
- Geneva : 9 C/48.2 F
- Lucerne : 8 C/46.4 F
September
If you wish to explore cities, go on scenic train rides, and cover touristy attractions, then look no further than planning a trip to Switzerland in September. You can wander old towns, book tours with ease, find relatively cheaper accommodation – all with nice weather and without crowds.
There won’t be a lot of snow on the slopes though, and you can’t indulge in winter sports, for that you have to visit in the winter.
However this is a good time to soak in the views of the Jungfrau, or to visit Interlaken, and lakes like Lake Geneva, Zurich, Lugano and Lucerne. These are usually very busy in the summer months.
There are a lot of colorful festivals in September from wine fests, air shows to harvest festivals. We have detailed all the popular festivals by month below.
One notable festival that we would like to highlight is the harvest fest in Bern, called the “Sichlete”. On this day, Bernese farmers bring their cows, sheep, horses, and other cattle to the square in front of the federal building in Bern. At the end of the festival, one cow is crowned Miss Sichlete 🙂
Mid October & November
October is a good time to capture fall foliage, plus you will find lots of opportunities to hike, and enjoy lake views.
Mid October onwards, it gets trickier with the weather, as the temperatures cross over to winter season. Cable cars, funiculars and cogwheel trains may either be closed, or not operational for a week or two because of maintenance. The high altitude pass roads will start closing by October too.
But the good news is that – all the indoor activities, museums, shops are open, and less crowded. In November, you can also score good flight tickets and accommodation deals.
However, keep in mind, weatherwise November may not have the brightest of days in Switzerland, and outdoor activities will be limited – no skiing and no swimming, or boating.
Although winter doesn’t set in October and November, we recommend bringing in a warm jacket and a scarf when visiting in late fall months.
Festivals in Switzerland by Month
Additional tips: best time to go to switzerland.
To experience the popular tourist attractions June and September are the best months to visit Switzerland. During this time the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities, and cable cars, funiculars, etc. are all open.
We recommend 7 days in Switzerland at the very least. In a week’s time, you can explore a variety of destinations. Spend a couple of days visiting 1-2 major cities, walk old towns, museums, and enjoy culinary delights (options: Zurich – Lucerne, Zurich – Bern, Geneva – Lausanne). Set aside 2-3 days for Interlaken (go on boat tours on Lake Thun or Brienz, paragliding, cogwheel trains, Jungfrau/Top of Europe). Add a day for scenic train – Glacier Express or Golden Pass, depending on your return trip.
July is the warmest month in Switzerland, with temperatures hovering around 28 °C/ 82° F, maximum.
Mid-December onwards is the official winter season in Switzerland. You can experience snow in January through February at high altitudes. Most cities experience very little snow or no extreme cold temperatures.
June, and August – September are perfect to explore Switzerland from India. During these months you can experience excellent weather, and all of the touristy attractions will be open. You can check off all the Swiss bucket list items, with relatively cheaper flight tickets, accommodation, and guided tours.
Offseason is a good time to visit Switzerland for a honeymoon. With fewer crowds in June, and August – September, it makes sightseeing comfortable, and romantic. Winter months are also great to enjoy slow travel, soak in snowy mountain views and wander Christmas Markets hand in hand!
September and early October are the best months to visit Jungfrau. During this time, the summer madness has exited the tourist scene (for next year), and Switzerland slowly enters into a low season mode.
So that’s a wrap! We hope you found our tips useful in deciding when to visit Switzerland. Whichever month you plan on visiting, we are sure you will have an amazing time – there is so much to see and do in this marvelous country!
Just research, plan and book in advance!
Read our Switzerland Guides & Travel Blog
- Switzerland itinerary: What to do in Switzerland in 2 days or 5 days
- Switzerland Packing List: Find what to pack for Switzerland (for all seasons)
Source: NOAA – All weather/ temperatures details
Pin: When is the best time to go to Switzerland travel guide
Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond.
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Hi Mayuri, nice share. This post is a useful guide for me. I have a plan to visit Switzerland after everything becomes normal from the Covid 19 crap pandemic. The information shared here will certainly helpful for me to plan an amazing Switzerland tour.
Thank you! Glad you found this useful!
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The best time to travel Switzerland (month by month)
by sara far away | May 22, 2022 | Europe , Switzerland , Travel Guides | 0 comments
Have you been thinking about visiting Switzerland, but are not sure when to go? Let me tell you the good news first: Switzerland is an all-year-round destination and there is no bad time for a trip.
The best time to travel Switzerland really depends on what you want to experience!
With an abundance of jaw-dropping landscapes and historic cities, Switzerland is an epic outdoor destination . Whether you’re looking for a fun ski trip or a unique city getaway, endless hiking trails, or a leisurely wine tasting at a local winery, there’s a best month to visit Switzerland for everything .
Having spent most of my life in Switzerland, I will tell you exactly what to expect each month, along with suggestions of the best places to visit, and epic things to do. In addition, I am going to include some hidden gems and lesser visited places, as well as unique Swiss traditions worth experiencing.
Table of Contents
The best time to travel to Switzerland
As I said earlier, Switzerland is a great destination to visit all year round. Switzerland has four distinctive seasons, each with its own special charm and attractions. There isn’t really one main peak season, but more of a shift between regions throughout the year.
Winter in Switzerland
December, January, and February are the coldest months. You can expect sub-zero temperatures, and often snow, especially if you’re staying in the mountains. Winter is the perfect time to visit Switzerland for snow activities and for Christmas markets (if you plan your trip for December).
Spring in Switzerland
March, April, and May are ideal months to visit Switzerland if you’re looking for fewer crowds and cheaper prices. The days are slowly getting longer again, the snow starts melting and the landscapes are in full bloom . While the beginning of spring is also still a good time for snow sports, more and more hiking trails become accessible as the season progresses.
Summer in Switzerland
June, July, and August are the hottest months in Switzerland. July to mid-August is also the main holiday season, so expect bigger crowds and higher prices. In my opinion, summer is still the best time to travel Switzerland, if you want to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes to the fullest.
Autumn in Switzerland
September, October, and November are quieter, but extremely stunning months in Switzerland. The leaves turn into stunning shades of golden yellow, orange, and red. Especially in early Autumn, the weather is usually quite stable, making for perfect hiking conditions . The wine harvest peaks in October, making it the best month to visit Switzerland if you want to explore one of the wine regions.
Switzerland in January
January is one of the best months to visit Switzerland for snow activities like skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing. It’s a busy month, especially in the mountain regions, but it gets a bit quieter from around mid-January.
You can also find an overview of all ski areas in Switzerland here .
Even if you don’t intend on skiing, the best places to visit in January are the Alps. You can find charming mountain villages and large ski areas in the canton of Wallis and Grisons, or in the Bernese Oberland.
- popular destinations in Wallis: Zermatt, Verbier, Saas-Fee, Crans-Montana, Portes du Soleil
- popular destinations in the Grisons: Lenzerheide, Arosa, Davos, Flims-Laax, Engadin St. Moritz
- popular destination in the Bernese Oberland: Adelboden, Gstaad, Wengen, Jungfrau region
If you’re planning to go skiing, try to hit the slopes mid-week to escape the big crowds.
January is the coldest month of the year in Switzerland. Especially in the mountain regions, you can expect snow, sub-zero temperatures, and frozen lakes.
Warm clothes, scarves and gloves, and warm sturdy shoes are a must if you’re planning a trip to Switzerland at this time of the year.
Switzerland in February
In terms of temperatures and the weather, February is very similar to January. There is usually still a lot of snow in the mountain regions, making it another great month for snow activities . Many schools are off for a week or two in February, which is why it can get quite busy. Try to tailor your trip around it.
While there is still snow in the mountains, you can feel spring slowly approaching in Ticino, Switzerland’s southernmost region. Thanks to the Mediterranean climate, winter is a lot shorter here, and the magnolias, camellias, and azaleas start blooming as early as February.
Carnival in Switzerland
The best thing about visiting Switzerland in February is Carnival. A fun and colorful festival, Carnival is also an old, and for many people very important, Swiss tradition . Carnival is celebrated all over the country at different times, but mostly throughout February.
Some places have very specific Carnival customs, but they all have some things in common: fun costumes, Guggenmusik (typical carnival brass band music), and a lot of paper confetti.
The biggest Carnival in Switzerland takes place in Basel and is really part of the city’s identity. For 3 days, starting at 4 AM on day one, the city is turned upside down in the best way possible! If you’re in Switzerland during Basel Carnival, I 100% recommend planning a trip to Basel.
If you want to experience a really fun and exciting part of Swiss culture, February is definitely the best month to visit Switzerland!
Switzerland in March
March marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring in Switzerland. But don’t let this fool you – you might still need some warm clothes in March. The weather can be very unpredictable . You might be sitting outside in a t-shirt one day, and wear a coat and beanie tomorrow.
Especially in the Alps, winter lingers for a bit longer. March is actually another good month for ski holidays, at least in high altitudes like Zermatt or Samnaun-Ischgl. It’s not a very popular travel month in Switzerland, so you can expect lower prices and smaller crowds than in January or February.
Switzerland in April
There’s a saying in Switzerland “April, April does what he wants”, referring to the unpredictable weather in April. In April, you can have anything, from beautiful, almost summer-like days, to rain or even snowstorms. Layering is your best friend in April.
But it is also the best month to visit Switzerland if you want to see the landscape in full bloom.
3 stunning places to visit in april.
- Zürich , where you can see the cherry trees along the streets with beautiful pink or white blossoms. You can get live updates on the flowering status from Zürich Tourism here .
- the Bodensee region , where the fruit orchards and apple trees turn into a sea of blossoms from mid-April onwards.
- Morges at Lake Geneva, where the roughly 150.000 tulips in Independence park start blooming as early as April, and all the way to mid-May.
If you visit Switzerland in April, you can even still add a few days of skiing to your itinerary.
A lot of ski areas in Switzerland close down for summer around mid-April, but some even keep going until May. If you do plan on skiing in April, just make sure you hit the slopes early in the morning, before the snow gets too soggy. You can find an overview of different season-end dates here .
Switzerland in May
May is a beautiful middle thing between spring and summer. In May, the days start getting longer, the mornings and evenings start getting warmer, and you’ll get a first taste of what summer in Switzerland will be like.
All things considered, May is probably one of the best months to visit Switzerland.
May is a pretty quiet month in Switzerland , with some hotels in rural areas even closing for a few weeks. The big summer holidays mostly only start at the beginning of July, which means that in May, you’ll benefit from lower prices and pretty small crowds, especially mid-week.
If you have some popular tourist destinations like Luzern or Lauterbrunnen on your Switzerland bucket list, May is a great time to plan your visit, especially during weekdays.
Day temperatures in May often rise to 20°C or more. As the snow melts in the mountains, more and more hiking trails become accessible. And a lot of the mountain huts also start opening up for summer in late May or early June.
Switzerland in June
Besides September, June is the best month to visit Switzerland to experience summer without the large crowds . And just like May, June is another excellent month to plan your trip!
Temperatures in June are often in the 20°C range, and you will see a lot of people spending as much time outside as possible. Especially from late afternoon, people flock to the lakes and rivers, or sit on restaurant terraces for an after-work drink and/or swim.
If you decide to visit Switzerland in June, pack mostly for a summer holiday, but bring some warmer clothes and a rain coat too.
Unfortunately, June is also the wettest month of the year. But don’t worry, there is still a lot to do in Switzerland, even on rainy days, especially if you don’t mind getting a bit wet.
4 day trip ideas for rainy days
Tamina Gorge | Follow the secured path along the roaring river into the gorge, all the way to the 36.5-degree thermal spring. Combine it with a trip to the Tamina thermal spa to soak in the thermal water.
Beatus Caves | Explore the cave system on a 1 km track into the mountain, past stalagmites, and stalactites, through grottoes, and over deep gorges. Entry is CHF 19.- for adults.
Aare Gorge | It takes about 45 minutes to walk through to gorge, and the trail is a mix of tunnels and secured wooden walkways. The gorge is most impressive and mystical on rainy days. Entry is CHF 10.-.
St. Léonard Lac Souterrain | Visit Europe’s larges navigable underground lake. You can explore the crystal clear water of this 300-meter-long lake on a 30-minute boat tour. Tickets are CHF 12.- for adults.
Not all of these places are open all-year-round. Make sure to check the opening times if you plan on visiting outside the summer months!
Switzerland in July
Switzerland’s hottest month is also one of the busiest. If you plan on visiting Switzerland in July, be prepared for big crowds and high accommodation rates, especially in popular tourist destinations.
July is also one of the main holiday months for Swiss people, and many like to spend their holidays in the country. But if you don’t mind the crowds and high prices, or if you are happy to visit some less popular places, July is an amazing month to travel Switzerland.
Why not visit some less popular, but equally stunning alternatives instead of the tourist hot spots?
Certain places in Switzerland, like Seealpsee or Lauterbrunnen, have become very popular (amongst locals and tourists). But the good news is that you can find many other turquoise mountain lakes and charming alpine villages in many other parts of the country too:
- for amazing hiking opportunities and charming villages you could visit Val Müstair or Val d’Hérens
- some off-beat mountain lake alternatives are Lake Cauma, Lago di Cama, or Lake Fälen
Just like in June, it does also rain quite a bit in July. If you’re unlucky, you can get days with a lot of rain , or even a bit of snow in higher regions, and temperatures of 10 degrees or less. But again, there is plenty to do in Switzerland, no matter the weather.
Use Booking.com to find the best places to stay during your trip to Switzerland!
Switzerland in August
August is pretty much the same as July, with high temperatures, high accommodation prices, and big crowds, especially in the first half of the month. But it starts quieting down a bit towards the end of August.
Celebrating the Swiss National Day
On the first of August, we celebrate the Swiss National Day, to celebrate the founding of the Swiss Confederacy. The first of August is a public holiday, with celebrations all over the country .
Many places are decorated with Swiss or regional flags, and paper lanterns, and shops sell pastries with little Swiss paper flags. The main part of the festivities happens at night when a lot of people and towns organize fireworks and large bonfires.
Switzerland in September
Together with June, September is the best month to visit Switzerland if you want to experience the Swiss summer with fewer crowds . The days in September are still mostly warm, but fall starts hinting its arrival in the crisp mornings, cool nights, and first trees changing color.
The weather in September is a bit more stable, with fewer rainy days on average than in June, July, and August. It’s an amazing month to visit Switzerland for outdoor activities like hiking or mountain biking.
If you’re planning to visit some Swiss cities, September is a good month for you too. The temperatures are slightly lower, making city trips more pleasant. Many of them are built by a lake or river, where you can still take a refreshing dip in September.
Alpabzug – alpine cattle descent
Many farmers take their cattle to the alpine pastures at the beginning of summer. And the return of the cattle , usually in September or early October is a special occasion in many regions in Switzerland.
The farmers dress in clothes typical of the region, and the cows wear large bells and a colorful bouquet of flowers on their heads. Some regions combine alpine descents with traditional Swiss music, market stalls selling regional products, and other festivities:
- the cattle descent in Schüpfheim in Entlebuch, with over 200 beautifully decorated cattle, various market stands, yodeling clubs, and people in traditional garments
- the cattle descent in St-Cergue in the Jura Vaudois, where you can watch the herds of adorned animals pass to the sounds of Alphorn, and try some local treats at the nearby market
- the descent of 120 black Eringer cows, marching through the charming Valaisian village of Grimentz in the Anniviers valley
Switzerland in October
October is the best time to travel to Switzerland for fall foliage and wine hikes. Fall is in full swing , with forests and vineyards turning into beautiful shades of yellows, oranges, and reds.
The wine harvest peaks in October and it’s the best time to explore some wine regions.
Although October belongs to autumn, the weather is often still pleasantly mild during the day. Especially in lower regions, you can often still be out and about in a T-shirt. But there are also rainy and stormy autumn days in October and the first snow can fall in the higher regions.
Wine regions in Switzerland
As I said, October is the best month to visit Switzerland’s wine regions. In many of these wine regions, you can combine hikes or walks with wine tastings, or even get a glimpse of the ongoing wine production. Some wine regions to add to your itinerary are:
- Ottenberg Wine Region , where you can find the best wine hike I’ve discovered in Switzerland so far
- Bündner Herrschaft in the Rhine valley, known for its delicious Pinot Noir
- Lavaux Wine Region , set above the shores of Lake Geneva
- Lake Biel Wine Region , with a 15 km long wine trail zigzagging along the shores of Lake Biel
- Wallis , where 1/3 of the Swiss wine is produced and where Europe’s highest vineyard is located
Switzerland in November
November is probably the best time to travel Switzerland if you’re looking for small crowds and low prices. November is the last month of fall, but you can feel winter fast approaching in the low temperatures and snow in higher altitudes.
November is off-season for tourism in Switzerland. The hiking season is over for the most part, and the ski season hasn’t begun yet. Some hotels in the mountain regions even close down for a few weeks.
But don’t worry, there is still plenty to do in Switzerland in November.
November is a good time to explore some of Switzerland’s cities , visit museums and art galleries, soak in a thermal bath, and enjoy a traditional Fondue.
And November is also not only cold and grey. You can still get some cool, but sunny days, especially in the Alps. Luckily, the mountains are never really far away in Switzerland. Base yourself in a city, and venture out into the Alps for a day trip on sunny November days:
- Lucerne , where you can visit the nearby Mount Rigi or Pilatus on a sunny autumn day
- Bern , Switzerland’s capital, is located conveniently close to gems like Interlaken or Grindelwald
- Lausanne , where you can head into the mountains at Rocher-de-Naye or Les Diablerets
Switzerland in December
December is one of the coldest months in Switzerland. Unfortunately, it snows very rarely in the lower regions, and especially in the cities due to global warming. But in the mountain regions, you’re pretty much guaranteed to see snow-covered villages and forests .
December is the start of the ski season in Switzerland, and especially after Christmas, it gets very busy. If you’re planning to visit Switzerland for a ski trip during the holidays, make sure you book well in advance .
Visiting Christmas Markets in Switzerland
If you want to experience some european christmas markets, december is the month for you.
In most Swiss cities, the Christmas decorations, fairy lights, and Christmas markets start as early as late November. You can find awesome Christmas markets in all the big cities, but I want to highlight a few lesser-known places for you to consider:
- the Christmas villages in Baden , a famous spa town near Zürich
- the Christmas market in Biel , the Swiss capital of watchmaking
- the “Christkindli” market in Chur , Switzerland’s oldest town
- the Montreux Marché de Noel, deemed one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe
Like I said at the beginning of this post, the best time to travel Switzerland really depends on what you want to experience!
Each month has its own charm, and you’ll never run out of things to do. If you have any other questions about the best month to visit Switzerland, or would like more suggestions of awesome things to do or places to visit, let me know in the comments!
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Best Time to Visit Switzerland 2024/2025
Discover the best time to visit Switzerland and make the most of your trip. Learn about the seasons, climate, and popular activities in Switzerland and plan the perfect vacation.
- Summer (June - August): Ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.
- Winter (December - February): Perfect for skiing and snowy landscapes.
- Shoulder Seasons: (Spring and Autumn): Mild weather with fewer crowds.
- Festivals: Montreux Jazz Festival, Fasnacht, Christmas markets.
- Personal Choice: Consider interests for the best experience.
When is the Best Time to Visit Switzerland this Year 2024?
The best time to visit Switzerland this year in 2024 is September. The weather is still warm and sunny, but the crowds have thinned out. This is a great time to enjoy the outdoors and see the beautiful fall foliage.
Here are some of the reasons why I recommend September:
- The weather is pleasant. The average temperature in September is 18°C (64°F), with highs of up to 23°C (73°F) and lows of 13°C (55°F) . This is perfect weather for enjoying the outdoors.
- The crowds are smaller. September is after the peak tourist season, so you'll have fewer people to share the trails and attractions with .
- The fall foliage is beautiful. The leaves start to change color in September, and the country is transformed into a colorful wonderland .
- There are plenty of activities to enjoy. Whether you're interested in hiking, biking, skiing, or visiting the Swiss Alps , you'll find plenty to do in Switzerland in September.
If you're planning a trip to Switzerland in 2024, I highly recommend visiting in September. You'll enjoy the pleasant weather, smaller crowds, and beautiful fall foliage.
Best Time to Visit Switzerland in Spring: Embrace the Blossoming Beauty
When the winter chill fades away and nature awakens, Switzerland transforms into a stunning paradise during the spring months. The best time to visit Switzerland in Spring is From March to May , the country comes alive with vibrant colors, blooming flowers, and a sense of renewal. Spring in Switzerland offers a unique and enchanting experience for visitors, with a range of activities that showcase the country's natural beauty and cultural richness.
As the snow begins to melt, the Swiss Alps reveal their majestic landscapes, making it an ideal time for hiking enthusiasts. Lace-up your boots and explore the countless trails that wind through breathtaking valleys, lush meadows, and picturesque villages. The Swiss National Park, located in the Engadine region, offers fantastic opportunities to witness the awakening of nature, spot wildlife, and capture mesmerizing photographs.
Spring is also a wonderful time to explore Switzerland's charming towns and cities. Lucerne, with its iconic Chapel Bridge and stunning lakeside setting, is particularly captivating during this season. Take a leisurely stroll along the cobblestone streets, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Lucerne, and soak in the picturesque views of snow-capped mountains reflected in the crystal-clear water.
Another highlight of spring in Switzerland is the blooming of alpine flowers. The meadows and hillsides burst with vibrant hues, creating a tapestry of colors that is a treat for the eyes. Embark on a scenic train journey, such as the GoldenPass Line or the Bernina Express, and marvel at the breathtaking landscapes adorned with the delicate beauty of spring blooms.
Springtime in Switzerland also marks the beginning of various cultural events and local festivals. One of the most famous is the Sechseläuten in Zurich, held on the third Monday in April. This traditional celebration includes a parade, music, and the burning of a snowman effigy symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of spring.
For those seeking relaxation, Switzerland's thermal baths and wellness centers offer rejuvenating experiences. Take a dip in the warm, mineral-rich waters and indulge in soothing spa treatments that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized. The thermal baths in towns like Baden, Leukerbad, and Scuol provide a serene oasis amidst the blossoming beauty of spring.
Visiting Switzerland in Summer: A Season of Sunlit Adventures
One of the biggest draws of a Swiss summer is the opportunity for outdoor adventures. Hiking enthusiasts can traverse a network of well-marked trails that crisscross the country, offering breathtaking views of alpine peaks, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque valleys. The Eiger Trail, the Matterhorn Glacier Trail, and the Five Lakes Walk near Zermatt are just a few examples of the awe-inspiring hikes awaiting visitors.
For those seeking a unique and memorable experience, exploring Switzerland's pristine lakes is a must. Take a boat cruise on Lake Geneva, Lake Lucerne, or Lake Thun, and revel in the stunning panoramas of surrounding mountains and charming lakeside towns. Adventurers can also engage in water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, or windsurfing to fully immerse themselves in the refreshing alpine waters.
Switzerland's summer is an opportune time to experience the country's vibrant cultural scene and attend a variety of festivals and events. The Montreux Jazz Festival, held on the shores of Lake Geneva, attracts music enthusiasts from around the world with its star-studded lineup and eclectic performances. Other cultural highlights include the Locarno Film Festival, the Lucerne Festival, and numerous open-air concerts in scenic settings.
A visit to Switzerland in summer wouldn't be complete without exploring its charming cities. Zurich, Switzerland's largest city, comes alive with summer street festivals, bustling markets, and outdoor dining along the Limmat River. Geneva, known for its international flair, offers a captivating blend of cultural attractions, stunning parks, and Lake Geneva's waterfront charm.
If you're a wildlife enthusiast, head to the Swiss National Park in the eastern part of the country. As the only national park in Switzerland, it provides a unique opportunity to observe diverse alpine fauna and flora in their natural habitat.
As the summer sun sets, don't miss the chance to witness Switzerland's enchanting alpenglow. Take a cogwheel train to Gornergrat, a mountain ridge near Zermatt, and witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Matterhorn glowing in warm hues as the day comes to a close.
Visiting Switzerland in Autumn: A Tapestry of Colors and Tranquil Charms
As summer bids farewell and the air turns crisp, Switzerland reveals its enchanting autumn palette. From September to November, the country's landscapes transform into a mesmerizing tapestry of vibrant colors, making it a perfect time to visit for those seeking tranquility, breathtaking scenery, and a more serene experience.
One of the highlights of autumn in Switzerland is witnessing the stunning foliage as the leaves change color. The mountains, forests, and vineyards come alive with hues of gold, red, and orange, creating a picturesque setting that is a delight for photographers and nature lovers. Explore regions like the Lavaux vineyards, Lake Geneva, or the Engadine Valley, where you can immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the season.
Autumn in Switzerland also offers opportunities for leisurely hikes through peaceful landscapes. The crowds of summer disperse, and the trails become more serene, allowing you to fully appreciate the tranquility and solitude. Wander along the shores of lakes like Lucerne or Thun, or venture into the Swiss Alps for invigorating walks amidst the breathtaking scenery.
For wine enthusiasts, autumn is the ideal time to explore Switzerland's vineyards and indulge in wine-tasting experiences. Discover the renowned wine regions such as Valais, Ticino, or the Vaud region, where you can savor local vintages amidst terraced vineyards adorned with the rich colors of autumn.
Autumn is also a season of harvest festivals and cultural celebrations. Experience the traditions of rural Switzerland by attending Alpabfahrt, the ceremonial descent of cows from alpine pastures, or the Chästeilet, a cheese-sharing festival. In cities like Zurich or Geneva, cultural events, exhibitions, and music festivals fill the calendar, providing a glimpse into Switzerland's vibrant arts scene.
To fully embrace the peaceful ambiance of autumn, take a scenic train ride through Switzerland's countryside. The Glacier Express, Bernina Express, or GoldenPass Line offer unforgettable journeys, allowing you to marvel at the changing landscapes from the comfort of a panoramic train carriage.
Autumn is also a time to indulge in culinary delights. Enjoy hearty Swiss cuisine featuring seasonal ingredients such as mushrooms, game meat, and pumpkin dishes. Visit local markets to discover an array of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and delectable pastries.
Visiting Switzerland in Winter: Embrace the Magic of Snow-Covered Splendor
Skiing and snowboarding are undoubtedly the main attractions during a Swiss winter. With its world-class ski resorts, Switzerland offers a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts of all levels. From the iconic slopes of Zermatt and Verbier to the glamorous resorts of St. Moritz and Gstaad, there are endless options for hitting the slopes and enjoying the thrill of gliding down powdery runs. Even if you're not a skier, you can still soak up the alpine ambiance by indulging in cozy chalets, snowshoeing, or taking scenic cable car rides to witness the majestic beauty of the Swiss Alps.
Winter in Switzerland also brings the enchantment of Christmas markets and festive traditions. Experience the magic of the season by strolling through charming market stalls adorned with twinkling lights and adorned with holiday decorations. The Christmas markets in Zurich, Basel, and Lucerne offer a sensory delight with their aromatic food, traditional handicrafts, and cheerful atmosphere. Don't miss the opportunity to sample Swiss specialties like raclette, fondue, and gingerbread cookies while sipping on warm mulled wine.
For those seeking relaxation, Switzerland's thermal baths are the perfect retreat during the winter months. Immerse yourself in warm mineral-rich waters, surrounded by snow-covered landscapes, and let the soothing properties of the thermal baths rejuvenate your body and soul. Popular destinations include the Bains de Lavey, Leukerbad, and the historic town of Baden.
Winter in Switzerland also invites you to witness captivating winter events and festivals. The International Balloon Festival in Château-d'Oex features a stunning display of hot air balloons against the snow-capped peaks, while the Fête de l'Escalade in Geneva commemorates the city's history with reenactments, parades, and delicious chocolate pots. Experience the magic of the annual White Turf horse races on the frozen Lake St. Moritz, or join in the colorful carnival celebrations of Basel's Fasnacht.
Beyond the festivities, winter in Switzerland offers unparalleled opportunities for photography. Capture postcard-perfect scenes of frozen lakes, snow-capped mountains, and charming alpine villages that exude fairytale charm. From iconic landmarks like the Matterhorn to frozen waterfalls and picturesque Swiss chalets, the winter landscape is a photographer's dream.
Reasons to Visit Switzerland During 2024
- Breathtaking Natural Beauty: Switzerland is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including the majestic Swiss Alps, pristine lakes, picturesque valleys, and charming villages. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking breathtaking views, Switzerland's natural beauty will leave you awe-inspired.
- Outdoor Adventures: Switzerland offers a wide range of outdoor activities throughout the year. From skiing and snowboarding in winter to hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding in summer, there's no shortage of thrilling adventures for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Switzerland is a melting pot of diverse cultures and languages, with influences from German, French, Italian, and Romansh traditions. Explore the charming old towns, visit historical landmarks, and indulge in Swiss cuisine and traditions to immerse yourself in the country's unique cultural heritage.
- Year-Round Festivals and Events: Switzerland hosts a variety of exciting festivals and events throughout the year. From colorful carnival celebrations to music festivals, art exhibitions, and Christmas markets, there's always something happening that showcases the country's vibrant culture and traditions.
- Winter Sports Paradise: If you're a fan of winter sports, Switzerland is a dream destination. With world-class ski resorts, well-groomed slopes, and state-of-the-art facilities, you can enjoy thrilling skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and more in the Swiss Alps.
- Delicious Swiss Cuisine: Switzerland is famous for its delectable cuisine, from Swiss cheese and chocolate to fondue and raclette. Indulge in a variety of mouthwatering dishes, savor fine wines, and treat yourself to Swiss chocolate and pastries that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Picturesque Swiss Villages: Switzerland is dotted with picturesque villages that seem straight out of a fairytale. Explore charming towns like Zermatt, Lucerne, and Gruyères, where you can wander through narrow cobblestone streets, admire the traditional architecture, and experience the warm hospitality of the locals.
- Sustainable Tourism: Switzerland is committed to sustainable tourism practices, making it an ideal destination for eco-conscious travelers. You can explore nature reserves, participate in eco-friendly activities, and support local initiatives that prioritize environmental conservation.
Whether you're seeking adventure, cultural experiences, natural beauty, or simply a peaceful escape, Switzerland offers a wealth of reasons to make it your destination of choice in 2023.
Expected Temperatures in Switzerland Throughout the Year
Understanding Switzerland's climate throughout the year is essential for planning your visit and making the most of your time in this stunning country.
Please note that these temperature ranges are average values and can vary from year to year. Additionally, the temperatures can vary depending on the specific region and altitude within Switzerland. It's advisable to check the weather forecast closer to your travel dates for more accurate and up-to-date information.
Best Time to Visit Switzerland 2025
My recommendation for the best time to visit Switzerland in 2025 is June. The weather is starting to warm up, but it's not too hot yet. The flowers are in bloom, and the crowds haven't arrived yet. This is a great time to hike in the mountains, go skiing or snowboarding, or visit the Swiss Alps.
Here are some of the reasons why I recommend June:
- The weather is pleasant. The average temperature in June is 20°C (68°F), with highs of up to 25°C (77°F) and lows of 15°C (59°F) . This is perfect weather for enjoying the outdoors.
- The crowds are smaller. June is before the peak tourist season , so you'll have fewer people to share the trails and attractions with.
- The flowers are in bloom. June is one of the best times to see the wildflowers in Switzerland . The meadows are a colorful carpet of blooms, including Edelweiss, crocuses, and forget-me-nots.
- There are plenty of activities to enjoy. Whether you're interested in hiking, skiing, snowboarding, or visiting the Swiss Alps , you'll find plenty to do in Switzerland in June.
If you're planning a trip to Switzerland in 2025, I highly recommend visiting in June. You'll enjoy the pleasant weather, smaller crowds, and beautiful flowers.
10 Travel Tips When Visiting Switzerland in 2024
When planning your visit to Switzerland in 2024, here are 10 travel tips to help you make the most of your trip:
- Plan and book in advance: Switzerland is a popular tourist destination, so it's advisable to plan and book your accommodations, flights, and activities well in advance to secure the best options and prices.
- Pack for the weather: Switzerland's weather can vary greatly depending on the season and region. Pack layers, including warm clothing, waterproof gear, and sturdy footwear, especially if you plan to engage in outdoor activities or visit higher altitudes.
- Get a Swiss Travel Pass: Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass, which offers unlimited travel on public transportation, including trains, buses, and boats. It can provide convenience and cost savings if you plan to explore multiple regions in Switzerland.
- Explore beyond the major cities: While Zurich, Geneva, and Lucerne are popular destinations, don't miss the opportunity to explore smaller towns and rural areas. Switzerland's countryside is filled with charming villages, stunning landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences.
- Try local cuisine: Switzerland is renowned for its cheese, chocolate, and fondue. Embrace the culinary delights by trying local specialties such as raclette, rösti, Swiss chocolate, and traditional Alpine dishes. Don't forget to sample regional wines and cheeses as well.
- Stay hydrated: Whether you're visiting in summer or winter, staying hydrated is important, especially at higher altitudes. Carry a reusable water bottle and drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent altitude sickness and maintain your well-being.
- Learn basic German, French, or Italian phrases: Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. While many Swiss residents speak English, it's helpful to learn a few basic phrases in the local language to enhance your interactions and show respect for the local culture.
- Respect local customs and etiquette: Swiss people value politeness, punctuality, and cleanliness. Follow local customs, such as greeting with a handshake, being punctual for appointments, and disposing of trash properly. It's also customary to say " grüezi " when entering a shop or restaurant.
- Embrace sustainable travel: Switzerland is known for its commitment to sustainability. Be mindful of your environmental impact by using public transportation, recycling, and respecting nature. Support local businesses and purchase souvenirs that are locally made or eco-friendly.
- Embrace the local transportation system: Switzerland boasts an efficient and well-connected public transportation system. Instead of relying solely on taxis or rental cars, take advantage of trains, trams, and buses to explore the country. Not only is it an eco-friendly option, but it also offers stunning scenic routes and convenient access to both popular tourist destinations and off-the-beaten-path gems.
By keeping these travel tips in mind, you'll be well-prepared to have an enjoyable and memorable visit to Switzerland in 2024.
In conclusion, Switzerland is a year-round destination with each season offering its own unique charms. Whether you prefer winter sports, spring blooms, summer adventures, or autumn foliage, there's a perfect time to visit. No matter where you go, Switzerland's stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality will create lasting memories.
Source of this video: Switzerland Insider Youtube
Best Time to Visit Switzerland
As a country with four beautiful and distinct seasons, the best time to visit Switzerland would depend on what you are looking to do in the stunning country. In essence, any time is a good time to visit Switzerland. There are several factors to consider before you pack your bags and decide when to head over to the scenic European country.
For some people, the best time to explore Switzerland may depend on the weather. Maybe you want to visit during the warm sunny months of the summer, when the days are pleasantly warm but never too hot, thanks to the high altitude.
For some, it may be when the flights are the cheapest. And for others, it may all just come down to the simple fact of getting time off of work. For many people, going at a time when they will be able to ski, for instance, is also a big aspect when planning their trip to Switzerland.
In this guide, we will dive into the best time you can visit Switzerland, depending on your specific choice. With each season coming with its own pros and cons, you just have to decide what works best for your situation and requirements.
Spring in Switzerland
You will be hard-pressed to find a place on this earth more mesmerizing than Switzerland when the wildflowers are in full bloom. Spring is an exciting time to be here.
What makes springtime an even better travel choice is that it is the country’s off-season. That means you will likely find great deals on travel and accommodation.
Furthermore, it is also a time of year when you will have fewer crowds in your favorite places, helping you savor the surrounding beauty much less chaotically. We are sure the introvert amongst you is rejoicing in silence!
- Official dates: 21 March to 20 June
- Months: March, April, May
March: Early Spring
The south of Switzerland is where the warmth settles in the earliest, out of anywhere else in the country. In these regions, early signs of spring begin emerging in March.
It is, however, still largely wintery and chilly in most parts of the country, with highs of around 6 degrees Celsius and a fair bit of downpour.
In fact, the mountains are still quite snow-capped by this time, with lots of sunshine reflecting off of the remarkable slopes. Since the temperatures are relatively cooler but the daylight hours longer, early springtime serves as the perfect time to get the best of both worlds.
This would be a great time to grab your ski boots on and go on a nice skiing trip. The Swiss Alps are still covered in snow, yet there are fewer tourists as it isn’t full-blown winter.
One thing to note here is that cable cars are usually closed until the end of May. Therefore, if you want to experience the scenic mountain top views holed up in a cable car, you may want to go a little later in the year.
April to May: Spring Low Season
In April, you can expect the country to start to warm up. By this time, it is too warm to ski and resorts will begin to close, specifically in the lowlands.
If you are on a budget, April is the perfect time to visit Switzerland. More and more summer tourist attractions and hiking trails start to open up. Most trails are rid of snow, but can still feel muddy.
Of course, weather often tends to have a mood of its own and does not follow a definite pattern. Some years, you may find snow in April as well. As a ballpark, though, the average temperatures in May hover between 15 and 19 degrees Celsius .
Similar to March, the months of April and May are pretty hushed, with thin crowds dispersed throughout the tourist spots. While the crowds may be few and far between during spring in Switzerland, you would need to check and book beforehand to see what’s available and open when you do reach there.
For train enthusiasts, Switzerland is a great place all year round, but given the blooming Swiss meadows coupled with the last reminders of snowy winters, a train ride in the springtime is hard to beat.
Summer in Switzerland
Switzerland’s peak summer lasts from June till August. The weather is mild, with plenty of gorgeous sun to laze around in and gentle summer winds running through the grassy greens.
Serving as the perfect canvas for hiking hobbyists, trails start to open up, and the lakes get ready for swimmers and boaters. Contrary to the spring months, the prices in the summer are high, with popular tourist locations highly frequented.
- Official dates: 21 June to 20 September
- Months: June, July, August
June: Early Summer
June is when the peak hiking season begins. All the eagerly-awaited cable cars finally re-open. If you want to enjoy scenic hikes without the interruption of frequent crowds, June is a great month to explore.
If you are a stickler for avoiding crowds, another thing that you can do is visit places that are a bit more under the radar. Think: Mt. Stockhorn and Mt. Niesen.
You may still need to dress a little heavy as some trails at higher altitudes may have snow in June. However, hiking areas, such as Canton Valais, experience perfect temperatures of around 20 degrees Celsius along with plenty of daylight hours.
July and August
The weather in July begins to touch a pleasant high of 24 to 25 degrees during the daytime, making it the perfect time to go for a nice dip in Lake Sils or the Aare River.
Also serving as the peak season for coach car tours, summers in Switzerland are a romantic’s dream. Mt. Titlis and Jungfraujoch are favorites amongst fellow visitors. Switzerland in summers is a festive affair with festivals and celebrations cropping up in every corner of the country. You will never find a dull moment while visiting Switzerland during the summer months.
Because it is the high season just count on the summer crowds that it will have a little more people everywhere.
A major event to look out for is the Montreux Jazz Festival, lasting from late June to the mid of July.
Another highlight to space out on your travel itinerary is the Ascona Music Festival. You will witness renowned music artists from around the world taking part in this beautiful celebration of the art of music.
If you are traveling with family, the festival Gauklerfest Interlaken is one to watch out for. The streets are brought to life by a plethora of activities surrounding you, such as juggling, musicals, acrobatics, and much more.
Since summers are the peak holiday season and often serve as the best time to explore Switzerland, you may not be able to score the discounts that you would during the spring. Thus, assess your options and see what works best for you.
Autumn/Fall in Switzerland
Anyone who has been to Switzerland during the fall or autumn period knows the kind of magic this time of the year brings. For many, it is the best season to give Switzerland a visit and enjoy reasonable prices while taking in the breathtaking scenery of the country.
Even if you already have to expect somewhat cooler temperatures again, in recent years in autumn was often the best weather with lots of sun and little rainfall.
- Official dates: 21 September to 20 December
- Months: September, October, November
During September, summers are gradually leaving with slight fog beginning to settle in. The weather is still warm enough to enjoy most summer activities but not too hot to resort to air conditioning and other heat-combatting tactics that you would otherwise have to during peak summer months.
Very little rain occurs during this period. But the best part is the colorful trees adorning shades of reds and yellows, perfect for the fairy tale lovers amongst you.
The days are relatively shorter. But they are still long enough for you to make the best of your time in the country. For instance, you can still effectively do some trekking without experiencing the extreme end of the weather. Just make sure you do it before October starts, as that is when the temperatures begin to drop down.
September in Switzerland is most notable for its descent of the magnificent cows from the mountains as they head back to the valleys of Alpabfahrt. You would witness villagers gathering to celebrate and welcome the flower-crowned cows with joy and fanfare. The whole festival is an embodiment of warmth and gratification.
In October, the weather starts to get hints of chilliness and the leaves begin to alter. Daylight hours start to decrease significantly and the mountaintops are once again beginning to turn white as snow makes its way onto the slopes.
Although it is the shoulder season, hiking enthusiasts still get their money’s worth. Most hiking trails are still open and snow-free. However, one must check the operating hours of the mountain railroads, because many cease operation during the month.
October is also a great month for a city break.
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Zurich in October
As mentioned earlier, any time is a great time to see Switzerland. Similarly, October is the best time to visit Switzerland for those of you who love wine.
This is when you will encounter the Basel Wine Fair at the end of the month. Not only that, but the entire month of October is the grape-harvesting season.
For those of you who don’t care much for the outdoors and would rather go with indoor spots, November is the perfect time to visit Switzerland.
You would find a wide array of different museums and other indoor historical sites, bringing to life the country’s rich past.
November is also one of the cheapest times to get your hands on a nice accommodation and flight deal. Remember to check the weather reports before you book your tickets.
Winter in Switzerland
December through February are the official winter months in Switzerland. For many people around the world, these months signify the best time to visit Switzerland and take advantage of the prime ski season.
- Official dates: 21 December to 20 March
- Months: December, January, February
In December, Switzerland is cold and dreary. But that does not take away from its magic, as the winters in Switzerland can only lead to two things: enthralling skiing on the outdoor slopes or hearty food and hot drinks by the indoor fire.
Visiting Switzerland during December is a competitive sport in itself. If you want to enjoy the best of these colder months with plenty of snow surrounding you, you would need to book well in advance.
Make sure you are high up in the Alps when choosing accommodation. And did we mention the charming Christmas markets of Switzerland? Christmas in Switzerland is as dreamy as can be.
For the romantic in you, the Zurich Christmas Market will serve as the prime spot. While for those of you with children – or with a sense of fantasy yourself – it cannot get any better than the Montreux Christmas Market, where Santa and his reindeer can be seen making their way through the sky.
Snow has unfortunately become less and less in Switzerland in recent years, but at higher altitudes you can still experience a white Christmas.
January and February
While the first taste of winter starts in December, the most popular months for skiing are January and February. These are also some of the most densely crowded months on the Swiss slopes, with numerous people flocking from around the world to enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains.
During busy periods, many ski resorts will require you to book a stay of at least a week. Besides the crowds, these are also the coldest and the busiest months, which means reservations should be done months prior if you want to stay near the slopes.
St. Moritz, a tiny resort town, is the most popular destination during these months. There are plenty of trails to go around and the lakes freeze to make way for popular winter sports activities, such as ice-skating and ice polo.
Being a train lover’s dream, Switzerland’s Bernina Express is not to be missed in the winters as it makes its way from St. Moritz and travels through Alpine valleys, astounding glaciers, and some of Europe’s highest altitudes, providing views that seem too stunning to be real.
Undoubtedly, the winter months are the best time to visit Switzerland for adventure lovers. However, the remarkable cities of this country do not take a backseat with their beauty either. Places like Zurich , Bern , and Zermatt are a delight to explore even in winters.
Best Month to Visit Switzerland?
The best months to visit Switzerland vary depending on your particular choice. If you are on the lookout for outdoor activities that don’t involve a lot of snow, September and October are great choices.
These months are not too cold nor too hot at lower altitudes, and many great trails are still open to the public. You also get to see nature taking its course as the trees change colors, giving a certain aesthetic to Switzerland’s streets.
If, however, you are a thrill-seeker and enjoy any kind of snow sport, nothing beats a trip to Switzerland during the winter season.
Best Time to Ski in Switzerland?
In Switzerland, skiing lasts about six months, starting in November. The best months to ski during that time period are January and February.
Witnessing the highest density of crowds, these months are also the most expensive in terms of travel affordability. Even with the high airfares and accommodation costs, hopeful tourists need to make reservations well in advance to enjoy the best of winters in Switzerland.
Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in Winter?
Switzerland is widely known as a snow sports lover’s dream. But you don’t have to be a proficient skier to enjoy the snow-capped beauty of this remarkable country.
Many indoor activities often don’t make it into mainstream travel discussions. But if you want the best of both worlds, a train ride in St. Moritz’s Bernina Express offers stunning views from the cozy warmth of the steadily-moving vehicle while you look out onto the mighty slopes.
Cities like Bern and Zurich are also great places to explore on foot during the winter months. Not to mention the Christmas markets in these cities that offer memorable activities for families to enjoy.
Best Time to Visit the Swiss Alps?
The Swiss Alps are what many people associate Switzerland with. When you think about the Swiss Alps, a snowy, dreary winter image might conjure up in your mind. However, you’d be surprised to know that the best time to visit the Swiss Alps is from June until October.
During these months, the weather is balmy. Not a lot of rain occurs, and you are surrounded by flourishing nature wherever you set foot.
These amazing weather conditions serve as the perfect time to hike and trek along the many trails across the country while avoiding the rush of the crowds.
As you can see, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing the best time to visit Switzerland.
I'm an outdoor enthusiast and freelance writer for Switzerlandical. Let's go on this adventure together as we explore Switzerland. We'll conquer epic trails, soak in jaw-dropping vistas, or stroll down a cobbled street in one of the many beautiful cities. I'll do my best to curate an unforgettable travel experience that leaves you with memories you'll cherish forever.
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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Switzerland in May: Everything You Need to Know
Traveling to Switzerland in May and need to know about the weather, places to visit, things to do, events, skiing, and everything else? We’ve got you covered!
May is truly the official start of Spring in the beautiful sweeping hills of Switzerland. The mountaintops still have their white peaks, but the valleys are receiving that glorious warmth of sunshine with refreshing breezes.
May is also solidly in the “shoulder season” for Swiss travel, meaning that crowds can be smaller and better deals may be found on accommodations, transit, etc.
Some of the best things to do this month include visiting major cities like Basel and Geneva before the Summer crowds roll in, hiking the first open trails at Mount Rigi or along the Swiss Grand Canyon, or witnessing events like the traditional Cattle Ascent into the Swiss Alps.
No matter what you choose, May is a great time for visiting this gorgeous country. We’ve built this big guide to equip you with everything you need to have the perfect Swiss vacation.
Switzerland Weather in May
May brings much warmer weather to Switzerland. While the lower elevation regions were already losing their snow in April, the higher elevation areas are now beginning to melt in May.
As far as weather and temperatures goes, one of the best things to keep in mind is the altitude of your destination. Higher altitude towns in the Alps are likely to have cooler weather and some snow, while lower altitude areas will be mild and dry.
Zurich, for example, has an elevation of 1,339ft (408m). The average temperature lows and highs in Zurich during May will be about 45˚F to 65˚F (7˚C to 8˚C) from day to day.
Compare this to an area with higher elevation, like Zermatt. May temperatures in Zermatt are far cooler, averaging 34˚F to 53˚F (1˚C to 12˚C) during the day.
Rainfall can vary throughout the month of May, with the majority of the month having clear skies and dry ground – except where snow melt is occurring.
These estimates are yearly and monthly averages based on prior years, so it’s always important to check the weather leading up to your trip to have the most accurate information about the kind of clothing you should pack.
Average May Temperature in Switzerland (By City)
Switzerland affordability & crowds in may.
May is a great time to jump on Spring and Summer activities before the influx of visitors swarm the country starting in June. Pricing is low to moderate as far as travel expenses goes and most hotels will be open again this month in preparation for the Summer guests.
Ski season is over at this point and while some Summer tourists may begin to trickle in toward the end of the month, May is still considered a low point or shoulder season in Switzerland. This will grant you some good deals on hotel rates and airfare if you plan ahead. You might also be able to get good rates on tours and attractions during low season.
Trains, planes, buses and boats will be operating and less crowded, so travel within the country will be nice and not overwhelming. Renting vehicles should be fairly easy and the roadways will mostly be filled with locals.
Switzerland Snow & Skiing in May
Most of the ski resorts are shuttered for Summer at this point, with the exception of the highest elevation resorts, like Zermatt, Saas-Fee and Engelberg. These areas have glacier peaks which provide snow all year, while all the rest of the resorts have melted snow.
If skiing is your priority this month, we recommend looking into the glaciers. If hiking is more of your concern, the lower altitude mountains and areas are your best bet for avoiding snow and snow melt. At this point in the year, most hiking areas are opening back up, giving you multiple options to choose from.
The country as a whole will have precious little snow this month. For the most part it has melted, though you’ll still see some at the mountain peaks and on the glaciers.
Average May Snowfall in Switzerland (By Ski Resort)
Best switzerland ski resorts in may.
The snow melt is nearly completed in all parts of the country by this month, which means that most of the ski resorts have closed by the time May rolls around. The only exceptions are the backcountry and glacier areas that keep their snow all year round.
Zermatt
Zermatt may be a little alpine town, but it’s got a huge international draw. Home of the Matterhorn, this ski area is excellent in late season . The lower parts of the ski resort will be closed by late April, but the high altitude glacier areas remain open. You’ll want to stick to the Klein Matterhorn portion of the resort, which undoubtedly gives you the best views of the Matterhorn, as well as epic ski trails.
In town, you’ll feel the warmth of Spring and enjoy the fresh air through the car-free village. Delicious and eclectic restaurants serve everything from seafood to classic European fare and friendly hospitality is given to every visitor. Other activities like hiking on the mountain to see the alpine wildflowers or riding the Gornergrat train to the Matterhorn viewing area are a must.
Engelberg is significantly smaller than Zermatt, but it’s season lasts until late May. Skiers will enjoy the variety of the terrain here, though you’ll be sticking to a few of the same runs this late in the season. Powder hounds will revel in these Spring conditions, as Engelberg is best known for it’s fluffy snow even in Spring.
The village of Engelberg is quite nice for visiting this time of year and has several main attractions off the slopes. The Engelberg Abbey is a beautiful sight to behold which dates back to 1120 AD. The famous Mount Titlis towers above the town and provides great photo ops for your trip. You can also see it up close by braving the Titlis Cliffwalk on the mountainside, or touring the glacier caves which remain ice cold all year.
Best Things to Do in Switzerland in May
Here’s a quick list of some of our favorite places to visit and things to do in April in Switzerland. The locations and activities listed here are a great starting point for figuring out which region of Switzerland works best for your trip.
Visit Basel
Basel is a charming town in Northern Switzerland, located on the borders of France and Germany. It’s a popular place to go if you’re looking to explore all three countries, as you can easily travel by train to the historic towns of Colmar, France and Freibug, Germany from Basel. As a matter of fact, there are several tour companies that specialize in this particular trip.
While in Basel, we suggest visiting the old town and seeing Basel Minster for some truly remarkable architecture and Gothic masonry dating back to the 12th century. It’s also got beautiful views of the Rhine River. To see the city by boat, catch the ferry on the Rhine which has four different docking points throughout the city.
Basel has no shortage of cultural entertainment; museums you won’t find anywhere in the country dominate this little town. Everything from the intriguing Paper Mill , dedicated to the history of writing and printing, down to the Antikenmuseum , which gathers artifacts from ancient civilizations, is worth multiple days of exploration.
See Rhine Falls
The Rhine River is such a remarkable natural attraction that it brings in millions of visitors each year, but visiting in May will help you avoid the bustle. Rhine Falls is the largest waterfall in Europe and there are many ways to see it, no matter your capabilities. Whether you arrive by boat, train or car, we have several options for optimal viewing.
You can get the most immersive experience via boat cruise where they’ll take you right to the base of the falls. Second to that is the bridge walkway and viewing platforms that were built right over the falls. You can get here by vehicle if you park on either side of the river or opt to arrive by train . Train passengers can walk to the viewing area right from the Rhine Falls Train Station.
Ride the GoldenPass to Gruyere
The Golden Pass train is one of several famous Switzerland panoramic trains that gives passengers stunning views of snow capped mountains, wildflower covered valleys and little alpine towns dotting the countryside. The route runs from Interlaken to Lake Geneva. We suggest taking the Interlaken leg to the Montbovon stop, then hopping aboard the train to Gruyere for a little detour.
If you’re already familiar with the Gruyere cheese, you’re in for a spectacular experience in the town of Gruyere. May is a great time to visit to beat the summer crowds. The town of Gruyere has preserved medieval shops and homes that still operate today, as well as decadent cheese and chocolate tours that lead visitors along the cobblestone streets.
Visit Geneva
Lake Geneva is rich in history and culture, with thriving villages and towns all along it’s shoreline. Geneva itself (which is home to Europe’s United Nations) is a popular tourist destination all year, but has fewer crowds in the month of May. Geneva is diverse in culture, but has a strong French influence. It serves as the jumping off point for destinations such as Chamonix, Montreux, and Chateau de Chillon, which make great day trips during your week at Geneva.
One of the first things you’ll notice when you come to Geneva is the striking Jet d’Eau – an impressive man made geyser that propels water 140 meters into the sky. With so much international focus in Geneva, there are many numerous art, history and science museums to explore, as well as city gardens and pristine historic districts to stroll through.
See Jungfraujoch
Jungfraujoch has been appropriately named “Top of Europe” due to it’s high elevation on the Bernese Alps. It’s famous for having the highest railway station in Europe and hosts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. In order to score a ticket onto this train before the crowds come, take a chance in May when the weather is great and the tourists are few.
You’ll get impeccable panoramic views of the mountain tops on the Jungfrau Railway and have delicious food served along the way. When you reach your destination, there are many ways to experience the Top of Europe. The Sphinx Terrace viewing station is the main attraction, in addition to glacier tours, a walk through the Ice Palace sculptures, or take the most modern tricable gondola in the world.
Sightsee in Lausanne
Lausanne is the home of the International Olympic Committee and the Olympic Museum , which is the biggest tourist attraction in the town. However, once you arrive in Lausanne, you’ll be drawn to the beauty of the old town, where medieval architecture and historic buildings still stand. You’ll find the Cathedrale de Lausanne here, which is known as Switzerland’s Notre Dame and is just as intricately detailed.
Outside of the old town, visitors can see Collection De l’Art Brut or the Hermitage Foundation which rotates artwork from internationally recognized creators. We also recommend you take a boat excursion on nearby Lake Geneva, climb the Sauvabelin Tower for the panoramic views and stroll Le Port d’Ouchy at twilight.
Walk through Lucerne
Yet another lakefront city, Lucerne is all about medieval architecture and tight-knit community. This little town has ramparts on the Northern end that remain from the 14th century and a chapel bridge built in 1333. In addition to it’s old heritage, Lucerne’s boat cruises are the number one attraction.
Getting in touch with the great outdoors should be at the top of your list when visiting Lucerne. You can see beautiful cobblestone streets and red brick homes of the Alstadt from a cruise, take the cogwheel train to hike Mount Pilatus or Mount Rigi, or walk the historic pathways on the covered bridges and rampart towers.
Hike Mount Rigi
Switzerland is slowly becoming a hiking haven as the weather warms and tourists begin to flock back to the country. As the snow has mostly melted, one of the best places to see first is Mount Rigi . The slopes here have a lower altitude and they receive lots of sunshine, making it enjoyable for all levels of hikers.
The entire trail is well-care for and easily accessible for small kids and families. The hike will last approximately 3 hours and we suggest bringing a snack or small meal to enjoy on the mountainside when you reach the viewing point. Mount Rigi has boat tours from Lucerne, making it a great day trip from that area.
Play at Mount Pilatus
Mount Pilatus is a popular hiking destination that looks over Lake Lucerne. It offers incredible views of the town and the lake and Summer visitors come in droves from Zurich and Lucerne. You’re likely to beat the crowd by making this trek in May. Pilatus is made up of several peaks; the tallest of which is Tomlishorn, which is the best for hiking.
If you prefer not to hike but want to see the fascinating panoramic views, take the cogwheel train or the cable car up the mountain to the observation deck. There you’ll have access to stunning views and several restaurants, along with ropes courses and adventure parks for some family fun.
Travel through Ticino
Ticino is located in Southern Switzerland on the Italian border and receives the warmest weather quickest out of most Swiss cities. This beautiful region is home to Lake Lugano and the city of Lugano, which has some of Ticino’s best tourist attractions.
The Falconeria Locarno aviary , the Galleria Baumgartner model train station and Monte San Giorgio fossil site are among some of the must-see attractions here, while others may enjoy the sights at Lugano’s historic churches and cathedrals. No doubt, a boat cruise on Lake Lugano is just what the doctor ordered if you’re looking for that warm Spring breeze and delightful views on the water.
Hike the Swiss Grand Canyon
The Rhine Gorge, otherwise known as the “Swiss Grand Canyon”, is one of the most spectacular and unassuming sights in all of Switzerland. Those who travel to Switzerland specifically to hike the Alps will not want to miss this unique feature. The Rhine Gorge has multiple hiking trails and viewpoints varying in difficulty. The family hiking trails are great for young kids.
Rhine Gorge will see the most visitors later in the Summer, so hikers will love the tranquility and warmer weather in May. If the day is warm enough, you can even cool off after a long hike by swimming in the Caumasee alpine lake.
Visit Bern
The capital of Switzerland is often one of the busiest places in the country, but early to late Spring is the best time to avoid the crowds. May is the last portion of the slow season before the summer guests begin to pack the streets again. Though some restaurants and hotels may have taken a break this month, there is still plenty to do when you visit Bern in May.
Some of the best things you can do in Bern during Spring involve taking in the beauty of nature. For instance, kids will love Gurten Park which is a miniature train on operating tracks, jungle gyms and ropes courses. Adults might prefer to pass the time at Minster Terrace off of Bern Minster, which has more refined outdoor games. Tours of Bern Minster’s Bell Tower are also available this month.
For more scenic views, walk along the Rose Garden, or step inside the Botanic Gardens which you can walk to in 10 minutes from the Bern train station. A scenic stroll along the Aare river is also relaxing when you have a moment to spare.
Tour Oberhofen Castle
Oberhofen Castle is a gorgeous 13th century relic located in the Bern canton of Switzerland. It sits on Lake Thun and is considered a romantic getaway. Couples will love the journey through the renovated castle halls, dining on traditional Swiss fare at the castle restaurant and stealing a kiss inside the picturesque top tower smoking lounge.
Arriving in mid-May will guarantee that you’re one of the first guests in the castle for the season. If you plan to spend the day in Oberhofen, take a boat cruise to neighboring Thun on the Aare River. Thun has many scenic walks through the old town, down the historic covered bridges and over to Balliz Island where you can shop at the market and dine at several local cafes.
May Events in Switzerland
Alpine Cattle Ascent
Alpine regions in Europe have long kept the tradition of cattle farming and herding alive and still follow the proper guidelines set by generations past. Part of this tradition includes the annual cattle ascent and fall descent between valley and mountain top. This tradition takes place in towns all over Switzerland, so be sure to look at the schedule for your city of choice if you want to see the cattle ascent.
The procession begins with a prayer over the cattle and herdsmen who are dressed in traditional garb. The cows are led through the city up to the mountain pastures to graze for the summer and their herdsmen and families will typically leave their city dwellings behind to stay in the mountains with their cattle for the summer months.
Ascension Day is a public holiday all over Switzerland that celebrates what they believe to be the ascension of Jesus into heaven after his resurrection. It’s important to note when this day will happen over your trip (usually the last week in May) as most businesses, schools and government facilities will be completely shut down on this day.
Tulip Festival
The Morges region of Switzerland, located on Lake Geneva, has an annual Tulip Festival in May which commemorates the blooming of the tulips on the mountains and in the valleys. Residents and visitors are invited to participate in seeing the real tulip decorations all over the old town in Morges, while also purchasing flowers for themselves and loved ones.
International Jazz Festival
Bern’s International Jazz Festival takes place this month and hosts world-class performers at two different venues. Over 30,000 visitors come over the course of two months and get to enjoy talented musicians and singers at the hotel jazzroom and inside the jazz tent at Hotel Inner Enge.
Appenzell a Cappella Festival
This little Swiss village hosts a large festival each Spring, which lasts for two months. A Cappella groups from around Europe come to perform shows for locals and visitors, dressed in coordinating outfits and singing familiar tunes. The festivities also include some delicious food and drink for guests.
As you can see, Switzerland has much to offer in the shoulder season, especially in the month of May. If you prefer mild temperatures, slight breezes and warm sunshine, May should be considered for a vacation in Switzerland.
Not only can you still get access to great skiing in places like Zermatt and Engelberg, but you can also venture out onto the hiking trails before the start of the Summer tourist season and take a few tours through typically busy cities that are experiencing a little down time.
This article is part of Roundtript’s series of expert Switzerland travel guides for every month of the year.
For a summary of each Switzerland month & season all in one place, check out our big guide to the Best Times of the Year to Visit Switzerland .
Switzerland in March: Everything You Need to Know
Switzerland in October: Everything You Need to Know
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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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- 24 Things That Make Visiting Switzerland In May An Awesome Experience In 2023
28 Oct 2021
Switzerland! People swear by its jaw-dropping views, vibrant cities, and thrilling adventure. Bejeweled by snow clad mountains, alpine forests, meadows, serene lakes, and waterfalls, Switzerland attracts tourists of all kinds. Of all the months which are suitable for Switzerland vacation, May is the prominent one, which is popular for treks, boat, hiking, train rides, cruises, and sightseeing. Read on, to find out what Switzerland in May has in store for you.
Switzerland iis full of surprises. It is a paradise for foodies, adventure enthusiasts, and nature lovers. From Swiss cheese to Swiss Alps, the country will keep you busy with surprises and unique experiences.
Weather In Switzerland In May 2024
Switzerland is a year-round destination. But the best time to visit Switzerland is between April to June and September to October. Switzerland weather in May 2024 is moderate, neither too hot, nor too cold. If we talk about the weather in Switzerland in May, 2024 in Celsius, it ranges between 25-30 degree Celsius. And Zurich weather in May ranges between 10-19 degree Celsius. The temperature in Zurich in May is more pleasant as compared to other cities of Switzerland. It is probably the best time to explore the capital of this wonderful country. The meadows look luxuriant and refreshing and most of the hiking tours are open during this season. Switzerland temperature in June is also pleasant if you are planning to go here in summer.
24 Experiences You Must Have In Switzerland In May
Wondering what to do in this charming country in the month of May? Here is the list of experiences and some of the best places to visit in Switzerland in May . Take a look!
- Matterhorn In Zermatt – Enjoy Thrilling Cable Car Ride
- Rhine Falls – Take A Boat Cruise
- Geneva Lake – Enjoy Paddle Boarding
- Mount Pilatus – Visit The Summit In A Cogwheel Railway
- Jungfraujoch – Play In The Snow
- French Alps In Interlaken – Go For Paragliding
- Swiss National Park – Trek Along
- Lake Lucerne – Taste Local Wine
- Swiss Museum Of Transport – Relish Swiss Chocolate
- Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich – Shop Till You Drop
- Mount Titlis – Take A Ride In Rotair Revolving Cable Car
- Swiss Chuchi – Indulge In Delicious Fondue
- Chur – Discover The Oldest Swiss Town
- Vevay – Visit UNESCO Vineyards
- Trummelbach – Get Drenched
- Olympic Museum – Hold The Torch
- Jail Hotel – Unique Staying Experience In Lucerne
- Piz Gloria – Dine At The James Bond Restaurant
- Montreux – Get The Jazz Blues
- Basel – Explore 3 Countries In 1 City
- Interlaken – Go Skydiving
- Zurich – Ride A Bicycle Around
- Mount Rigi – Ride An Old Cog Railway
- The Funky Chocolate Club – Learn The Art Of Chocolate-Making
1. Matterhorn In Zermatt – Enjoy Thrilling Cable Car Ride
One of the major tourist attractions of Switzerland is Matterhorn in Zermatt- the mountainous region popular for trekking, mountaineering, and glacier hiking. And among many things to do in Switzerland in May, the breathtaking view of glaciers, peaks and mountain ranges can leave you speechless. Keep your cameras ready, as the cable car takes you over Gornergrat, Rothorn and Matterhorn glacier paradise. This ride takes place throughout the year and definitely one of the unmissable things to try.
Charges: INR 3860/person How to reach: It takes 3 hours via train from Zurich to Matterhorn.
Must Read: Trip To Switzerland: A Short Stint Worth A Lifetime
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2. Rhine Falls – Take A Boat Cruise
Among many exciting and thrilling things to do on Switzerland holidays in May , going on a boat cruise ride amid Rhine Falls is a must. Located on the border of Schaffhausen and Zürich, Rhine Falls is the highest waterfall in entire Europe and attracts tourists of all kinds. Though there are viewing galleries for the waterfall, boating up to the rock, located in the middle of the falls is undeniably an experience of a lifetime. Switzerland cruises and boat tours operate from April to October, but entry through both the northern and southern bank is open throughout the year.
Charges: Entry to the southern bank will cost INR 342/person whereas entry to the northern bank is free. How to reach: Neuhausen Rheinfall and Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall are the train stations located on either side of the falls.
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3. Geneva Lake – Enjoy Paddle Boarding!
One of most scenic and peaceful places to visit in Switzerland in May include, Lake Geneva . It is a picturesque crescent-shaped lake, overlooking the Alps. While some of the lake areas fall in France, the other half is in Switzerland. If you are looking for an amazing experience to try in Switzerland in May, go for paddle boarding in Lake Geneva. It’s absolutely fun and thrilling to stand up on a long surfboard and paddle while maneuvering the same through the water. To top it up, try windsurfing and wakeboarding along with paddle boarding and satiate your adventure loving soul in the month of May in Switzerland. This place is also surrounded by some of the best places to visit in Switzerland .
Charges: INR 1400-4500/person How to reach: Public transport is the best way to get around in Geneva.
Suggested Read: Switzerland In June: For A Blissful Trip Experience Amid The Serene Swiss Alps
4. Mount Pilatus – Visit The Summit In A Cogwheel Railway
Overlooking Lake Lucerne, Pilatus is a beautiful mountain massif in Switzerland. Endowed with snow-clad peaks and meadows, this is definitely one of the most attractive tourist places in Switzerland. One can reach the summit of Mount Pilatus in a cable car but if you want to have an exhilarating experience, take the cogwheel train ride to reach the top. Considered as the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, this train ride is operational between May and November and the thrilling journey to the top is as beautiful as the destination and its surrounding. If you’re planning on hiking and want to enjoy snow in Switzerland in May , you can do that here.
Charges: INR 3940/person
Suggested Read: Guide To Switzerland In March Tailor Made For You
5. Jungfraujoch – Play In The Snow
Imagine yourself as Raj or Simran and hum your favorite song while you take the astounding train ride up to Jungfraujoch. The train starts from Kleine Scheidegg and travels up to Jungfraujoch in Interlaken through alpine forests, snow meadows, and lakes. Sit back, relax, admire the view, take photographs and create memories of a lifetime in one of the most beautiful places in Interlaken . You must have taken numerous train rides in your life, but this is an exclusive and unique one. Once you reach the top, you can explore this observatory, dine, shop, and play outside in the snow for as long as you like to best experience Switzerland in May 2024.
Charges: INR 14362 /person
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6. French Alps In Interlaken – Go For Paragliding
If you’re planning to visit Switzerland in May and you love adventure, there is no way you can miss paragliding in Interlaken. Go for paragliding in Switzerland over the French Alps and enjoy the stunning beauty and tranquillity of nature. This thrilling experience of enjoying the panoramic view of peaks, mountains, glaciers, and lakes is absolutely safe and under the strict guidance of professional pilots. The activity lasts for about 15-20 minutes, so live every moment.
Charges: Starting from INR 10250/person How to reach: Bern Airport is the nearest airport to Interlaken.
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7. Swiss National Park – Trek Along
Hiking in Swiss National Park is one of the hot favorite activities amongst trekkers, adventure enthusiasts, and backpackers. If you’re hiking in Switzerland in May, this is the kind of place you will not see anywhere else. Most of the trekking trails of this sprawling national park open from April and with 21 plus routes, Swiss National Park is considered as a hiker’s paradise.
Surrounded by the Alps, this national park is mountainous and the undulating terrain, lush greenery and chances of wildlife spotting, make the experience even more enthralling. Apart from hiking, there are plenty of adventure sports in Switzerland that you can try.
Time: 9 am to 12 noon and 2 pm to 5 pm. The national park is closed on Saturdays and Sundays. How to reach: The park is accessible via Rätische Bahn, a type of public transport in Switzerland.
Suggested Read: 10 Best Day Trips From Zurich For An Exhilarating Experience In The Swiss Alps!
8. Lake Lucerne – Taste Local Wine
If you are in Switzerland in May, do plan for a Swish winery tour. Spread across lush green meadows, these wineries around Lake Lucerne are a refreshing treat to the mind and soul. When exploring around, you can even stop at any of the wineries and enjoy a guided wine tasting session. Many of the wineries even offer Swiss cheese for tasting along with local wine.
How to reach: If you are coming from Zurich, then taking a train to Lucerne is the best option.
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9. Swiss Museum Of Transport – Relish Swiss Chocolate
Are you a chocoholic? If so, a fascinating Swiss chocolate adventure at the Swiss Museum of Transport is what you should plan this May. This is a whirlwind ride in a chocolate cube shape car. The ride lasts for 30 minutes and offers an animated and sensory experience of learning about the origin of chocolates, how it is made, its different types and tastes. The fun ride ends with sample Swiss chocolates, given to every visitor. If you are traveling with your family, especially with kids, this is one of the unmissable things to do in Switzerland in May. This museum is also surrounded by some of the best places for shopping in Switzerland .
Time: 10 am to 5 pm Charges: INR 1094/adult and INR 820/child How to reach: Taking a train from Zurich Airport to Lucerne is your best option.
Suggested Read: Top 20 Things To Do In Switzerland On Your Europe Holiday
10. Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich – Shop Till You Drop
Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich is a globally renowned shopping boulevard. Home to classiest boutique stores of fashion, jewelry, and lifestyle, Bahnhofstrasse is among the liveliest places to visit in Switzerland in May. From trendy outfits to dazzling accessories, beautiful home décor to best of Swiss watches, Bahnhofstrasse has everything that your shopaholic heart desires.
How to reach: You can easily get around in Zurich on foot or by taxi.
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11. Mount Titlis – Take A Ride In Rotair Revolving Cable Car
Do you dream about experiencing snow in May? Head to Mount Titlis as it is the perfect destination for you. Covered in snow throughout summers, Mount Titlis will make your trip more exciting as it is one of the most fascinating places to see in Switzerland in May. Take a ride in rotair revolving cable car and soak in the beautiful view surrounding it.
How to reach: Take a train from Zurich to Engelberg. Then, take a bus to the 8-seater Titlis Xpress gondola cable car.
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12. Swiss Chuchi – Indulge In Delicious Fondue
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One of the mandatory things to do in Switzerland in May is tasting Swiss cheese fondue. Switzerland is famous for its exquisite cheeses, therefore, you will find plenty of places where you can indulge in gluttony. However, there are some special fondue places that attract tourists and visitors in huge numbers. Swiss Chuchi in Rathaus is one of these famous places where you will have a classical fondue experience. You can also explore some of the best restaurants in Switzerland , wherein you can savour the delectable Swiss food and have a gala time.
Charges: INR 2,200- INR 3,000 How to reach: You can take Tram 4 or 15 to reach Rathaus
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13. Chur – Discover The Oldest Swiss Town
Located in the canton of Graubünden, Chur is considered to be the oldest town in Switzerland. It is believed to be as old as 5,000 years. So, you will find numerous fascinating things that you would like to capture in your camera. Not only is it picturesque, the town is also 100% car-free. Even though it is Swiss, people of this town speak German. It is indeed one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in May .
Charges: INR 1,320 for train ticket How to reach: There are regular trains between Chur and Zurich. The travel time is 1 hour and 30 minutes
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14. Vevay – Visit UNESCO Vineyards
If you are visiting Switzerland in May , then you must make a point to visit the vineyards or Vevay. The small town vineyard is regarded as a UNESCO site. The vineyard dates back to 1,000 years ago whenItalians brought the first grapes here and started producing wine. The town is full of interesting anecdotes and stories that you must take note of. Another reason why you should visit this town is that Charlie Chaplin hailed from this town.
How to reach: Get down at this station from the train heading from Lausanne to Montreux.
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15. Trummelbach – Get Drenched
If you are wondering what to do in Switzerland in May , then board the train to Lauterbrunnen and hike all the way to Trummelbach – one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Switzerland . Switzerland weather in May is perfect for getting drenched in the waterfall. So, you won’t mind soaking wet. The region is famous for bounty of waterfalls but what makes this one the most famous is that it breaks from the snow melting through the cracks. It is worth the hassle.
How to reach: Take a train to Lauterbrunnen and hike all the way to the waterfall
Suggested Read: 9 Stunning Places To Visit Near Germany For A Dreamy Europe Vacation
16. Olympic Museum
The Olympic Museum is one of the most interesting things to see in Switzerland in may . After all, you ought to know where it all started and who started the great sports revolution. The Olympic Museum is located in Lausanne, the home of the founder of the modern-day Olympics. Get your eyes on the sports memorabilia and enjoy the opportunity of holding the torch from Rio. If you wish, you could also try your athletic abilities by participating in games and events at the Olympic City.
Charges: INR 1,320 How to reach: There is a train from Geneva Airport to Lausanne every 20 minutes.
Suggested Read: 10 Top Things To Do In Europe For A Once-In-A-Lifetime Experience
17. Jail Hotel – Unique Staying Experience In Lucerne
Why book a hotel in Switzerland in May 2024 when you can book your stay in a jail? There is a hotel in Lucerne built inside a prison dating back to 1862. If you ever want to experience how offenders or captives live inside a jail cell, then you can make your reservations here. You don’t even have to be an offender to be a guest at this hotel. Don’t worry! The jail experience comes with all the luxuries and amenities.
Charges: INR 5,547 on avg. How to reach: IR70 is the only direct train that runs from Zurich Airport to Lucerne every 30 minutes.
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18. Piz Gloria – Dine At The James Bond Restaurant
Located atop Schilthorn is the James Bond restaurant where the 1969 movie On Her Majesty’s Secret Service was set. However, that’s not the onlyUSP of the place. The revolving restaurant offers breathtaking panoramas of the Alps along with delicious food. You can also order a Martini – shaken, not stirred.
Location: Schilthorn – Piz Gloria, 3825, Switzerland Charges: INR 8,650 How to reach: You will have to take a cable car from Schiltron to reach the restaurant.
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19. Montreux – Get The Jazz Blues
Located on the shore of Lake Geneva, the small town of Montreux is famous for its annual Jazz Festival. In fact, it is the second largest Jazz Fest in the world that is attended by Jazz maestros. The festival is 50 years old and invites over a quarter of million people every year. Swing along the rhythm of blue and have the best time on your trip to Switzerland in July. Even if you are visiting in May, you can explore the beautiful town at your leisure. There are other vibrant festivals in Switzerland for you to experience on your vacation.
When: 1-16 July 2022 Charges: NA How to reach: There are a number of trains between Geneva and Montreux.
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20. Basel – Explore 3 Countries In 1 City
How? Basel is a city that is located on the borders of three countries. A part of it is located in France, another in Germany, and third part in Switzerland. So, when you are in Basel, you can actually visit 3 countries at once. Also, its enchanting beauty makes it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland in May. Take a tour around the places to visit in Basel that are no less than a paradise for art lovers.
Charges: INR 900 for single-journey train ticket How to reach: Catch a train from Zurich Airport to Basel. The travel time is 1 hour 30 minutes.
Suggested Read: 7 Best Spots For Canyoning In Switzerland For All Adventurous Souls
21. Interlaken – Go Skydiving
While New Zealand may be considered the best place for a skydiving gig in the world, Switzerland isn’t far behind in that list. Interlaken is a great place to go skydiving in Switzerland and fly high up in the sky over Switzerland’s enchanting landscapes of rolling pastures and fields. In fact, adrenaline junkies say that Interlaken is the new adventure capital of the world! The temperature in Switzerland in May is perfect for you to engage in activities like skydiving, bungee jumping, paragliding, mountain biking, and off-roading, in Interlaken.
Charges: Starting at INR 25,000/- How to reach: Take a flight to Bern Airport and then take a train or bus to Interlaken which is just 45 minutes from the airport.
Suggested Read: 3 Days In Switzerland: The Only Ultimate Budget Travel Guide You Need
22. Zurich – Ride A Bicycle Around
If you’re wondering what to do in Switzerland in May and don’t wish to get involved in something too adventurous, then you can simply choose to explore the capital city of Zurich on a bicycle with your friends. Zurich has very bicycle-friendly lanes and alleys so it’s super easy to get around the city on a bicycle or scooty. With various majestic places to visit in Zurich , you’ll love to travel around this beautiful city on a bike or scooty and explore the various museums, churches, and other tourist attractions.
How to reach: Take a direct flight to Zurich Airport from cities like Delhi or Mumbai.
Suggested Read: 7 Glorious Places To Visit Near Switzerland For A Thrilling Getaway
23. Mount Rigi – Ride An Old Cog Railway
Image Source Mount Rigi is one of the most enchanting places in Switzerland that you can only reach via an adorable Old Cog train that looks pretty much like the Darjeeling toy train! Imagine riding in a cute train through heavenly landscapes of Switzerland all the way up to a beautiful mountain top! Yes, that is exactly what this experience offers, not just in May in Switzerland, but in all other seasons and months as well. It’s one of the most beautiful train journeys in Switzerland . And once you reach the top, there’s a lot to explore like cafes, restaurants, local attractions, and of course, the spectacular views!
Charges: Starting at INR 1,300/- How to reach: Take a bus or boat to Vitznau where the train station is located.
Suggested Read: Hiking In Switzerland: A Guide For Embarking On A Journey With Splendid Views
24. The Funky Chocolate Club – Learn The Art Of Chocolate-Making
Image Source Where to go in Switzerland in May to make and eat delicious chocolates? A lot of people put forth such questions when they visit Switzerland in the hopes of tasting its finest chocolates. And The Funky Chocolate Club in Interlaken has the perfect answer for all chocolate lovers out there. It’s exclusive and popular chocolate-making workshop allows visitors to learn the process of melting, mixing, and then serving their handmade chocolate under the supervision and guidance of experienced experts. There’s also a cafe right here where you can relax and eat after your chocolate-making class and connect with other people attending the session.
Location: Jungfraustrasse 35, 3800 Interlaken, Switzerland Charges: INR 5,000/- per person (adults) How to reach: Take a flight to Bern Airport and then take a train or bus to Interlaken which is just 45 minutes from the airport. You can take a taxi or bus from anywhere in Interlaken to reach this studio.
Further Read: 10 Extraordinary Things To Do During Your Summer Holidays In Europe
If you’re planning a vacation to Switzerland in May, make sure you quickly scan through the list to get an idea of what you can expect in the country in May. So, get packed and book your trip to Switzerland with TravelTriangle right away!
Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.
Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Switzerland In May
What to wear in switzerland in may.
One can pack summer wear and light cotton clothes for Switzerland in May.
Is May a good time to visit Switzerland?
Even though you can visit Switzerland all year round, May is the best time to plan a vacation as the temperature ranges between 10-19 degrees Celsius.
Is there snow in Switzerland in May?
Yes, some places in Switzerland will be covered in snow in May. For a snowy experience, you can see plenty of places to visit in Switzerland in winter.
Is it rainy in Switzerland in May?
Yes, Switzerland receives heavy rainfall from May to August. But despite the weather, it makes for a great destination during the time to observe a different season.
What are the activities to enjoy in Switzerland in May?
Here you can enjoy some popular and adventurous activities like cogwheel railway ride, paragliding, trekking, shopping and pedal boarding in May.
Which are some of the most popular national parks in Switzerland?
The parks or nature parks of Switzerland are commonly divided into three categories – National Parks, Regional Nature Parks, and Nature Experience Parks. Some of the popular among them are Swiss National Park, Aargau JuraPark, and Wildnispark Zürich Sihlwald.
Where can I go trekking in Switzerland?
Places like Wildhaus, Oeschinensee Lake, Verzasca Valley, and Aletsch Glacier Trail generally offer enthusiastic trekking in Switzerland.
Where can I enjoy pedal boarding in Switzerland?
Geneva Lake is the most scenic and peaceful place where you can get an experience of paddleboarding.
Why should I take the experience of a train ride in Switzerland?
A train ride in Switzerland during the summer season can be a memorable journey of your life. The popular alpine forests, snowy meadows, and lakes would appear like heaven when you see through a train.
What to buy in Switzerland?
If you are a shopping lover, the main train station in Switzerland is the best spot. Here you can buy some of the popular swiss things like a cuckoo clock, cheese fondue set, swiss chocolate, and Victorinox swiss army knife.
What is the temperature of Switzerland in May?
In May, the average temperature of Switzerland is 14 degrees Celsius, the highest is 20 degrees Celsius and the lowest is 7 degrees Celsius.
How much does it cost to take a ride on the Cogwheel railway in Switzerland?
Through this ride, you can spot the true beauty of Switzerland. The cost of this ride in Switzerland is 3940 rupees per person.
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COMMENTS
As we work through the calendar, here's what we'll highlight for each month using data for Interlaken, Switzerland since that's the hub of the region (and may be one of the best places to visit in Switzerland): Average high temperature Average # of days with sunshine Average # of days with precipitation (rain or snow)
February 8, 2024 Are you thinking about exploring Switzerland and want to enjoy the best possible time? Choosing the right season (month) for your visit is one of the most important factors. I lived in Switzerland for 3 years and experienced every month and season in the country, cities, and the mountains.
The best time to visit Switzerland is between April and October, though winter sports enthusiasts may prefer December to March. The country has four distinct seasons, each with its own attractions. The spring months of March to May bring Alpine blooms, flowering trees and cows heading out to pasture.
Cons - Can be cold overnight, down to -2°C or 25.4°F in the cities and even colder in the Alps. Switzerland in March With the temperatures beginning to rise and the snow starting to recede, low-level ski resorts start to shut down, and towns and cities start preparing for the spring.
1 Weather 2 Average April Temperature in Switzerland (By City) 3 Snow & Skiing 4 Affordability & Crowds 5 Best Switzerland Ski Resorts in April 6 Best Things to Do in Switzerland in April 7 April Events in Switzerland 8 Conclusion Weather April weather in Switzerland tends to be much more unpredictable than other months.
Lower elevations may see more rain than snow, depending on annual weather patterns. Cold temperatures translate to great indoor events, including an annual roster of engaging art museum exhibits around the country. ... April in Switzerland is a glorious time for getting outside and enjoying lake tours, outdoor dining, and mountain hikes. But it ...
Cheapest Month to Visit Switzerland. There is not one single cheapest month for visiting Switzerland, there are 3. November, March, and April are the most affordable times to visit Switzerland. This is when the weather isn't so great at high or low altitudes, making the demand low and the prices too. Best Time to Visit the Alps
Best time for MTB Switzerland - seasons and months January, February and March - Winter in the Swiss Alps April - early Spring in Switzerland May and June - Spring in Switzerland July - early Summer in the Swiss Alps August - the holiday peak in Switzerland September - end of Summer and early Autumn October - best of Autumn
Weather April is spring in Switzerland, a short season between the freezing winter and hot summer. Snow remains in the highest mountain regions, but most places below 6,500 feet (2,000 m) should generally be free of snow by April. Flowers bloom at lower altitudes as well as in Alpine meadows.
April, May and June are a great time to visit Switzerland. April and May are an off-season, in terms of low visitors to the country so you can expect amazing deals on flights and accommodation, and fewer crowds. Summer in Switzerland. Months: June, July, August; Highlight: Warmer weather, considered a peak season in July and August. Hotel ...
March, April, and May are ideal months to visit Switzerland if you're looking for fewer crowds and cheaper prices. The days are slowly getting longer again, the snow starts melting and the landscapes are in full bloom.While the beginning of spring is also still a good time for snow sports, more and more hiking trails become accessible as the season progresses.
By Rick Steves Switzerland's summer "tourist season" runs roughly from May through September, though in mountainous areas, it doesn't start until sometime in June. High summer (July-August) has its advantages: the best weather, snow-free alpine trails, very long days (light until after 21:00), and the busiest schedule of tourist fun.
The best time to visit Switzerland is during the peak summer season from June to August. This period offers beautiful weather, a wide range of activities, and unique festivals. June is particularly ideal with warm yet comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds compared to July and August.
The best time to visit Switzerland in Spring is From March to May, the country comes alive with vibrant colors, blooming flowers, and a sense of renewal. Spring in Switzerland offers a unique and enchanting experience for visitors, with a range of activities that showcase the country's natural beauty and cultural richness.
April to May: Spring Low Season. In April, you can expect the country to start to warm up. By this time, it is too warm to ski and resorts will begin to close, specifically in the lowlands. If you are on a budget, April is the perfect time to visit Switzerland. More and more summer tourist attractions and hiking trails start to open up.
Weather Spring in Glarus, Switzerland 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.
4 January 2018 at 10:27:14 #873572. Hi Chandan and welcome to MySwissAlps! As far as weather in the cities and lower altitudes it should be fairly pleasant in late April and early May. If you have no desire to go hiking than the higher altitude weather (snow) won't affect you.
May will definitely be Spring in the lower areas, such as the main cities and the farmlands.Late April will have gos signs of Spring , along with generous rain fall on some days, and bright sun on others. May will be the tail end of Winter in the Alps.
May is spring in Switzerland and the climate is generally warm and pleasant, with variation between lowland and high-altitude areas. Snow will remain in the highest mountain regions but most places below about 6,500 feet (2,000 meters) should generally be free of snow by May, and hiking trails thawed.
While the lower elevation regions were already losing their snow in April, the higher elevation areas are now beginning to melt in May. As far as weather and temperatures goes, one of the best things to keep in mind is the altitude of your destination.
Skiing & Snow Sports In April, some places in Switzerland will still have plenty of snow. The elevated areas will still have snow in April, and you can go for skiing and snow sports, especially in the first and second weeks of April. When it comes to such sports, you will have to go to high elevation areas because they will have adequate snow.
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.
Of all the months which are suitable for Switzerland vacation, May is the prominent one, which is popular for treks, boat, hiking, train rides, cruises, and sightseeing. Read on, to find out what Switzerland in May has in store for you. Switzerland iis full of surprises. It is a paradise for foodies, adventure enthusiasts, and nature lovers.