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The 14 Most Magical Places to Visit in Switzerland This Winter

By Caitlin Morton

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

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

This article has been updated since its original publish date.

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

The Glacier Express

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

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

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

Emily Saladino

Mark Ellwood

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

Jura Vaudois Nature Park

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

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

Glacier 3000

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

Château-d’Oex

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

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

Lake Oeschinen

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

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

The Stoosbahn

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

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

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20 Absolute Best Places to visit in Switzerland in Winter

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

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

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

20 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in Winter

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Preparing for your trip to Switzerland winter getaways

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

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

What are the Winter Months in Switzerland? 

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

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

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

Temperatures:

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

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

Does Switzerland have snow all year?

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

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

Read : When is the best time to visit Switzerland?

Switzerland winter packing list

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

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

20 Best Places to visit in Switzerland in winter

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

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

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

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

Read : One day in Zurich itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read: One day in Bern itinerary

3. Basel: For Christmas Markets in Switzerland and nearby

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read: One day in Basel itinerary

4. Engelberg: For cross country skiing in winter

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

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

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

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

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

5. Rapperswil: Visiting Christmas Markets in Switzerland

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

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

Read : Most beautiful towns in Switzerland

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

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

6. Zermatt: A Fairytale Resort Town

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

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

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

7. Saas – Fee: Winter Sports Adventures

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Grindelwald: For a charming snowy getaway

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

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

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

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

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

10. Wengen: Charming mountain town, and winter activities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Chur in Winter: Oldest city in Switzerland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy : Buy your Swiss Travel Pass here

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. Jungfrau region: Head to the Top of Europe

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read: One day in Lucerne itinerary

18. Locarno: For a warmer winter vacation

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read : Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary

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

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

Murren is in the Bernese Oberland region in Switzerland.

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

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

20. Geneva: Winter outdoor and indoor fun

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is it worth visiting Switzerland in winter?

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

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

Additional Travels Tips for Switzerland Winter Trip

Travel documents and visa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

January is the coldest month in Switzerland.

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

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

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

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

More Switzerland travel guides:

• Where to stay in Switzerland
• 2 day Switzerland itinerary

Pin: Switzerland in winter for non skiers & skiers

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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

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

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

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

Hope this helps!

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Wide slopes, deep snow, cool halfpipes, awesome cross-country ski trails, varied tobogganing runs and fabulous winter hiking trails – all within quick and easy reach. Switzerland is the ultimate winter paradise. Whether on a winter holiday, a weekend away or a day trip, fans of winter will be sure to find all they’re looking for waiting for them in Switzerland. 

Ski and Snowboarding Holidays

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Winter: Excursions & destinations

Tips for winter excursions in nice or bad weather: ice skating, curling, igloo building or ice fishing, exhibitions in museums and spa oases.

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15 Top Things to Do in Winter in Switzerland

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Nov 26, 2021

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

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

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

1. Discover World-Class Skiing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More on Switzerland

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

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 57 mins read
• Post last modified: February 8, 2024
• Post comments: 0 Comments

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

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

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

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Best Time To Visit Switzerland In The Winter

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

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

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

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

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

Switzerland In Winter: Weather Month-By-Month

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

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

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

Switzerland In December

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

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

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

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

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

SWITZERLAND IN DECEMBER OVERVIEW:

Switzerland in january.

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

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

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

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

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

SWITZERLAND IN JANUARY OVERVIEW:

Switzerland in february.

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

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

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

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

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

SWITZERLAND IN FEBRUARY OVERVIEW:

Switzerland in march.

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

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

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

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

SWITZERLAND IN MARCH OVERVIEW:

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

Best Places To Visit In The Wintertime In Switzerland

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

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

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

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

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

13 Best Things To Do In Winter In Switzerland

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

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

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

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

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

1. Enjoy Zermatt & Skiing

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

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

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

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

2. Visit Schilthorn

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

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

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

3. Go Free Ride Skiing In Laax

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

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

4. Enjoy Winter Wonderland In Andermatt

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

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

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

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

5. Enjoy Winter Hikes In The Jungfrau Region

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

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

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

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

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

6. Visit St. Moritz & Go Skiing

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

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

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

Winter In Switzerland For Non Skiers: Best Things To Do

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

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

7. Explore Jungfraujoch

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

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

8. Ride Glacier Express – Swiss Panoramic Train

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

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

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

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

9. Enjoy Lucerne

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

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

10. Make A Day Trip To Mt. Titlis

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

11. Visit Gruyeres

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

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

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

12. Ride Cable Cars

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

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

13. Enjoy Winter Spa

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

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

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

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

Switzerland Winter Itinerary

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

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

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

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

3 Days In Switzerland In Winter

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

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

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

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

Where To Stay In The Wintertime In Switzerland

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

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

Here are my top hotel recommendations for Lucerne in winter:

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

GRINDELWALD

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

I recommend the following hotels in Grindelwald for your stay:

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

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

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

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

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

I recommend these hotels in Andermatt:

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

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

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

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

What To Pack For A Winter Trip To Switzerland

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

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

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

How Much Should You Budget For A Winter Trip In Switzerland

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is Switzerland Safe In Winter?

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

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

Avalanche Risk

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

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

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

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

Mountain Passes In Winter

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

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

Is It Worth Visiting Switzerland In The Wintertime?

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

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

When Is Winter In Switzerland?

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

The coldest and most wintery month in Switzerland is February .

Which Month Will It Snow In Switzerland?

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

Is December A Good Month To Visit Switzerland?

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

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

How Many Days In Switzerland Is Enough?

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

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

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

WRAP-UP: Switzerland In Winter

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

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

Happy Travels!

More Tips For Switzerland Travel

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

Best Of Switzerland Itinerary: 8 Days By Train

Honeymoon In Switzerland: How To Plan Your Romantic Gateway

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

Grindelwald In Winter: Complete Guide For Your Visit

5 Best Panoramic Trains In Switzerland

11 Cheapest Ways To Travel In Switzerland

Swiss Travel Pass: Unlimited Travel In Switzerland

Jungfrau Travel Pass vs. Swiss Travel Pass

8 Best Mountains In Switzerland To Visit

22 Amazing Day Trips From Interlaken

23 Incredible Things To Do In Jungfrau Region

Brienz Switzerland: Best Things To Do & Places To Visit

Where To Stay In Grindelwald: 9 Best Hotels

Is Switzerland Expensive? All You Need To Know

Does Switzerland Use The Euro? All You Need To Know

How Swiss Cheese Is Made: 6 Simple Steps

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

SWITZERLAND : Interested in more articles for Switzerland? Check out my Switzerland Travel Page .

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Is it worth visiting Switzerland in winter?

Holidays and festivals in switzerland in winter.

• Hikes to do in Switzerland in Winter

Activities to do in Switzerland in Winter

Best places to visit in switzerland in winter.

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

Planning Your Trip? Use our favourite travel resources below:

Accommodation: We recommend Booking.com

Rental Car: We recommend Rentalcars.com

Flights: We recommend Kiwi.com

Tours: We recommend Get Your Guide

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

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

Average temperatures across Switzerland in winter:

📍 5 – 10° C / 41 – 50° F in Zurich

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

📍 -1 – 11° C / 30 – 52° F in Geneva

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

Is this peak season or low season?

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

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

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

Switzerland in December

📍 Christmas Markets

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

Switzerland in January

📍 World Snow Festival, Grindelwald

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

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

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

Switzerland in February

📍 White Turf, St Moritz

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

📍 Basel Fasnacht

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

Switzerland in March

📍 Engadin Skimarathon

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

Best Things To Do In Switzerland In Winter

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

  Hikes to do in Switzerland in Winter

📍 Rehberger-Weg, Basel

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

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

📍 Grindelwald First to Bachalpsee, Grindelwald

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

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

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

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

📍 Brunni, Engelberg

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

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

📍 Visit the Swiss Christmas markets

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

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

📍 Eat Fondue

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

📍 Ride The Glacier Express Or The Bernina Express

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

📍 Go Winter Hiking or Snowshoeing

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

  Top Tip:

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

📍 Go Tobogganing

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

📍 Hit The Slopes Skiing Or Snowboarding

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

📍 Hop On Board A River Cruise Or Lake Cruise

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

📍 Basel in winter

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

📍 Gstaad in winter

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

📍 Château-d’Oex in winter

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

📍 St Moritz in winter

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

📍 Engelberg in winter

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

Where should I stay in Switzerland in winter

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

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

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

Switzerland in Winter FAQ’s

How to get to switzerland.

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

How to get around Switzerland

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

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

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

How many days do I need in Switzerland in winter?

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

Is Switzerland expensive to visit in winter?

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

What is Switzerland like in winter?

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

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

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

How cold is Switzerland in December?

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

Where is the warmest place in Switzerland in winter?

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

What are the best winter months to visit Switzerland?

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

Switzerland in Winter Tours

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

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

Is it advisable to visit Switzerland in December?

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

What are the best places to celebrate Christmas in Switzerland?

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

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

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

Is Switzerland a good place to visit in January?

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

Does Switzerland have snow all year?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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• Top 18 Places To Visit In Switzerland In Winter 2024 For A Memorable Vacay

23 Mar 2023

When the air is crisp and the ground is white, Switzerland turns all the more fascinating. Nature’s masterpiece, this small country is blessed with jaw-dropping scenery that turns exotic in winters. No wonder, there are scores of places to visit in Switzerland in winter and snow activities to indulge in. The vacationing charm manifolds when the Alpine air echoes with the clinks of church bells and cowbells.

Whether you enjoy winter sports or simply prefer to relax, you would be bowled over by its charm and fall in love with it over and over again. Thanks to its efficient Swiss transport system, you can easily reach most of the top sites through trains, ferries, and cable cars. So, ready for a holiday but still wondering where to go in Switzerland in winter ? Here are the best places that you should not miss on your Switzerland winter vacation!

18 Best Places To Visit In Switzerland In Winter 2024

If you are planning a winter vacation with your spouse or family, here is a list of top places to visit in Switzerland in winter where you should spend your holidays. The season casts its magical spells on these beautiful destionations turning them into real winter-wonderlands.

• The Jungfrau Region –  For Fresh Mountain Air
• Zermatt –  For The Best Skiing
• St. Moritz –  For The Best Nightlife
• Oberalp Pass Via Glacier Express –  For Beautiful Views
• Mt. Pilatus –  For Adventurers
• St Gallen –  Old World Charm
• Lucerne –  Picture-Perfect Views
• Interlaken –  A Charming Resort Town
• Davos –  Highest Town In The Alps
• Arosa –  Snowy Landscapes
• Lake Geneva –  Jaw-Dropping Views
• Chateau De Chillon –  For Artists
• Swiss Grand Canyon –  For Rafting 
• The Abbey Of St Gall –  For History Lovers 
• The Castles Of Bellinzona –  Magnificence At Its Best
• Lugano – With A Glacial Lake
• Zurich – A Medieval Town
• Swiss National Park – Snow Mountains

1. The Jungfrau Region –   For Fresh Mountain Air

Visiting Switzerland in December? Inhale the fresh mountain air at this breathtaking destination. The best bet to enjoy winter holidays in Switzerland, Jungfrau Region’s splendid scenery will surely leave you spellbound. Peaks of the lofty mountains – the Jungfrau, Monch, and Eiger are coated with milky white snow and present a beautiful contrast to emerald valleys in the Alpine paradise.

In addition to scenic pleasures, your trip to this region brings you some natural wonders. These wonders include The Jungfraujoch – a col between the Jungfrau and the Mönch, which has Europe’s highest railway station, and the Aletsch Glacier – the largest glacier in Europe. It is one of the must-visit places in Switzerland in winter for non-skiers.  

Why Visit: It is home to the highest train station.  Tourist Attractions: Aletsch Glacier, Lauterbrunnen Village Places To Stay:  Club Med Wengen, The Onya resort & spa, Hapimag resort How To Reach: The nearest airport is Zurich international airport

Must Read: Honeymoon Trip In A Fairytale World Of Switzerland

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2. Zermatt – For The Best Skiing

The small town of Zermatt is a special treat for skiers and snowboarders seeking a genuine quiet stay during winter in Switzerland. Cable cars paddle skiers up surrounding mountains, making it among the best winter honeymoon destinations in Europe . You can reach the town via scenic train routes that c onnect it with the outside world. When illuminated, the town transforms into a picture-perfect Christmas postcard that is bound to make your winter holidays in Switzerland extra special.

The most famous peak in the Alps, the Matterhorn, stands here. Mountaineers flock to this town to conquer this technically difficult peak. If you don’t want to indulge in adventurous games, you can delight in the town’s energetic nightlife instead!

Why Visit: It is the highest ski resort Tourist Attractions: Matterhorn, Gornergrat, Klein Matterhorn Places To Stay:  Cervo mountain boutique resort, Hotel Alex, Riffelalp resort How To Reach:  Zurich international airport is the nearest airport

3. St. Moritz – For The Best Nightlife

St. Moritz, Numero Uno Alpine winter holiday destination, spoils you with unique leisure and sports choices as well as shopping opportunities . This well-groomed resort town has been a venue for two winter Olympics. Take the most interesting of Switzerland winter tours to St. Moritz.

A celebrated playground to enjoy winter sports in Switzerland in December, the town presents you opportunities to indulge in skiing, snowboarding, and snow-shoe trekking. St. Moritz’s mineral springs have also contributed to enhancing its popularity among travelers. To add a cherry to the cake, the town is also a hub of happening nightlife .

Why Visit: Witness the best Alpines here  Tourist Attractions: Lake Saint Moritz, Corviglia, Piz Nair Places To Stay:  Grand Hotel Des Bains, Badrutt’s Palace hotel, Kulm hotel How To Reach: Take the famous Glacier Express

Suggested Read: 15 Best Places To Visit In Canada

4. Oberalp Pass Via Glacier Express – For Beautiful Views

This is one of the best places for a vacation in S witzerland in February. Visiting Switzerland and missing out on the special trip to Oberalp Pass is a no-no. You can ride the Furka-Oberalp railway that operates throughout the year and provides limited access through the reservation.

Or you can simply ditch the hassles and relish its view while riding the Glacier Express – a direct train that takes you from Zermatt to St. Moritz. En route, the train ride presents you with incredible views of the Alps while squeezing its way through tight curves, 291 bridges, narrow valleys, and 91 tunnels. Riding this train for incredible scenery is among the best things to do in Switzerland in winter. The special touch is imparted by amounts of snow on the Oberalp Pass and snowy valleys.

Why Visit: The most adventurous train ride Tourist Attractions: Gemsstock, Gotthard Tunnel How To Reach: The nearest airport is in Lucerne

5. Mt. Pilatus – For Adventurers

Perched adjacent to the city of Lucerne, Mt. Pilatus is a 2,120 meter tall mountain that magnetizes tourists to delight in the marvelous scenery of the Swiss Alps. You can easily reach here via a cable car while enjoying the exhilarating views.

At this spectacular venue, you not only delight in the charismatic views around but can also take up several trails for remarkable winter walks . You must add this destination to your list of places to visit in Switzerland in the winter for an enhanced Swiss vacationing experience.

Why Visit: For picturesque views of Lucerne Tourist Attractions: Tomlishorn Peak Places To Stay:  Hotel Bellevue, Seehotel Pilatus How To Reach: The nearest  airport is in Lucerne. 

Suggested Read: Honeymoon In Switzerland

6. St. Gallen – Old World Charm

St Gallen is a sprightly addition to any list of Switzerland attractions in winter that one must visit. But visit it during Christmas time for maximum holiday spree. The old town presents beautiful scenery with its centuries’ old houses, car-free and snow-covered streets, and a lively atmosphere oozing festive fervor!

The place is home to the tallest Christmas tree in Switzerland, which is illuminated by 5,000+ lights during the Christmas season. Get bewitched by the sight of a dazzling Christmas tree in front of the impressive Abbey of St Gallen & manifold your Christmas charisma humming carols and savoring free glühwein (mulled wine)! This is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in winter. 

Why Visit: It is home to a UNESCO World Heritage site Tourist Attractions: Abbey Library of Saint Gall, St. Gallen Cathedral Places To Stay:  Einstein St Gallen, Hotel Walhalla, Hotel Dom How To Reach:  Euroairport is the nearest airport. From there you can go by road. 

7. Lucerne – Picture-Perfect Views

Sitting picture-perfect on Lake Lucerne with the backdrop of a lovely panorama of the Alps, Lake Lucerne Region dons a spectacular blanket of fluffy snow in winter. Listed among the unmissable Switzerland attractions in winter, the region is a wonderland that attracts snow-savvy skiers and snowboarders. This is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in Decemberwhere couples as well as families can enjoy. 

The beauty of the region captivates both the heart and the soul as you take up splendid winter walks and snowshoe treks here.

Why Visit: It is home to Chapel bridge Tourist Attractions: Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument, Swiss Museum Of Transport Places To Stay:  Radisson Blu Hotel, Renaissance Hotel, Ameron hotel How To Reach: The nearest airport is Zurich. From the airport, you can take a train or go by road. 

Suggested Read: Christmas In Europe 

8. Interlaken – A Charming Resort Town

A traditional resort town, Interlaken is nestled on a tapered stretch of valley. Presided over by the three mighty mountains: the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, the town is distinguished for its extraordinary mountain scenery. If you are planning to visit Switzerland in winter, do add this destination to your list of places to visit.

Owing to its over 45 mountain railways, cable cars, alpine meadows and glaciers, skiing and hiking trails, Interlaken is considered the adventure capital of this beautiful country. This is where you get to indulge in most exhilarating things to do in Switzerland in December.

Why Visit: It is home to a very beautiful Interlaken lake.  Tourist Attractions: Harder Kulm, Interlaken Ost, Hoheweg Places To Stay:  Hotel Interlaken, Hotel Bellevue, India village How To Reach: The nearest airport is Zurich. 

9. Davos – Highest Town In The Alps

A destination of superlatives, Davos is the highest town in the Alps as well as a high-altitude health resort. The town is also known for offering myriad opportunities to enjoy winter sports in Switzerland.

At the heart of this town, tourists can entertain themselves with a broad array of shopping choices, options for redefined dining, and cozy accommodation. In addition to that, the town has a plethora of options for after-sunset partiers with its range of casinos, bars, and discotheques.

Why Visit: A beautiful resort village Tourist Attractions: Parsenn, Landwasser Viaduct, Fluela Park Places To Stay: Parsenn resort, Hotel schatzalp, Intercontinental Davos How To Reach: You can reach here via road or rent a taxi

Suggested Read: 12 Gorgeous Honeymoon Places In Switzerland

10. Arosa – Snowy Landscapes

Still, looking for places to see in Switzerland in winter? Standing at the end of the dreamy Schanfigg Valley, Arosa is among the coolest places to visit in Switzerland in January or any winter month. Its fascinating mountain peaks and snowy landscapes draw adventure enthusiasts for extended hiking tours. In addition, the town offers a wonderful variety of snow sports and activities to help you indulge in snow play. It is one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland in winter where you should stay for a while. The place is home to the best ski resorts in Switzerland !

Why Visit: For a rich culture and tradition Tourist Attractions: Landwasser Viaduct, Parpanor Rothorn Places To Stay:  Priva Alpine Lodge, Soleval, Arosa ski resort How To Reach:  Once you reach Zurich international airport, you can either take a train or go by road. 

11. Lake Geneva – Jaw-Dropping Views

Lake Geneva, the largest Alpine lake is one of the most popular places to visit in Switzerland. Surrounded by stunning snow-capped peaks, Lake Geneva offers panoramic views of the Swiss Alps! The lake is surrounded by numerous Promenades, gardens, and parks, giving you a chance to have peaceful family time amidst the serene ambiance. This is amongst the best places to visit in Switzerland in January.

Why Visit: Sightseeing tours, peaceful ambiance, and the place is home to Montreux Jazz Festival which is organized in the month of June or July.  Tourist Attractions: Big Foot Beach State Park, Tristan Christ Magic Theatre, Geneva Lake Museum Places To Stay: Hotel Villa Toscane, Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic How To Reach: The best way to reach is by bus

Suggested Read: 6 Marvelous Places To Visit In Switzerland In June

12. Chateau De Chillon – For Artists

Are you visiting Switzerland in January ? Chateau de Chillon is located on the shores of Lake Geneva and has been an inspiration for artists and writers for centuries. It was constructed in the 12th century and comprises nearly 25 buildings. The prime attractions of Chateau de Chillon are the Great Halls, the Gothic underground rooms, the Chapel, paintings of the 14th century, the Camera Domini. This is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in winter . 

Why Visit: To witness the magnificent masterpiece that was constructed in the 12th century and still stands speaking the stories of the past centuries.  Tourist Attractions: Golden Pass Railway, Rochers de Naye Places To Stay: Le Coucou, Hotel Residence Bristol How To Reach: The best way to reach is by boat. You can take a boat from Vevey or Montreux.

13. Swiss Grand Canyon – For Rafting 

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That one place that offers everything from beautiful views to adventurous activities is the Swiss Grand Canyon. It is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in winter . While the gorge looks amazingly charming with its meadows and lush greenery, it is a treat to the eyes during the winter season. In the later months like October and November, you can go rafting and even kayaking there.

Why visit: It offers recreational activities like rafting and kayaking Tourist Attractions: Rhine River Places To Stay:  Hotel Cresta,  The Hide Hotel Flims, Ruinaulta How to reach: You can reach there by train from Zurich. The train takes 1h50m to reach Flims Waldhaus. From there you can trek to the canyon which is located 3.5 km away.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Restaurants In Zurich

14. The Abbey Of St Gall – For History Lovers 

A UNESCO World Heritage site, The Abbey Of St Gall should not be missed out on while visiting Switzerland in winter. The site contains a very old library that will fascinate the traveler in you. The structure of the Abbey is a sight to behold and has been standing there since the 8th century. It is one of the top places to visit in Switzerland in winter.

Why visit: It is a world heritage site Tourist Attractions: Abbey Library of Saint Gall, St. Gallen Cathedral, Wildlife Park Peter and Paul Places to stay: Touched city apartments, Hotel Vadian, Hotel Dom How to reach: You can either take a bus or train from Lucerne to the abbey.

15. The Castles Of Bellinzona – Magnificence At Its Best

If you are fond of castles, then you must visit the three castles of Bellinzona during winter in Switzerland . The castles, namely, The Castelgrande, Castello Montebello and Castello Sasso Corbaro, stand proudly and offer a majestic view. The castles are the emblems of royalty and grandeur of the city. You will be taking several steps back in time while visiting the castles. Do not forget to bring your camera along.

Why visit: These castles are some of the oldest ones in Switzerland Tourist Attractions: Bellinzona Market Town, 3 castles – Castelgrande, Montebello and Sasso Corbaro Places to stay: Hotel Unione, Ostillo Bellinzona, Villa Del Gusto How to reach: The best way to reach here is by train. Take a train to Bellinzona. Once you reach there, you can either walk to the castles or take a bus till there.

Suggested Read: 7 Best Spots For Canyoning In Switzerland

16. Lugano – Home To A Glacial Lake

Lugano is one of the most interesting places to experience winter in Switzerland. Located in the Ticino region of Southern Switzerland, this charming town settlement encircles a glacial lake, Laguna Lake. This place has a mix of Swiss-Mediterranean cultures which can be experienced through its cuisine and architecture. Lugano city sits amidst mountains that accentuate the landscape. Piazza Della Riforma and Lugano Lake are some of the best places to visit.

Why visit: To experience the beauty of mixed-culture Tourist Attractions: Lake Laguno, Villa Del Balbianello, Monte San Salvatore Places to stay: Hotel Splendid Royal Lugano, Hotel Villa Principe Leopoldo & Spa How to reach: Lugano has a regional airport with flights connecting to other major cities including Geneva, Zurich, Cagliari, Sion, and Olbia.

17. Zurich – A Medieval Town

Zurich is one of the most popular cities for Switzerland holidays. It is located in the Northern region of the country, occupying the north end of Lake Zurich. This city is a beautiful fusion of old and new existing together in harmony. It is a financial center of Switzerland but also has several locations dating back to the medieval era. Limmatquai and 17th-century Town Hall – Rathaus are some of the major attractions in Zurich. If you are spending 3 days in Switzerland in winter ,  make sure to witness the best of Zurich. 

Why visit: To explore the historical Waterfront promenades and Old Town established along Limmat River. There are also some beautiful castles in Zurich Tourist Attractions: Grossmunster, Fraumunster Church, Banhhofstrasse Places to stay: Zurich Marriott Hotel, Crown Plaza Zurich How to reach: Zurich Airport is one of the major aiports in Switzerland

Suggested Read: Hang Gliding In Switzerland

18. Swiss National Park – Snow Mountains

Located in Eastern Switzerland, the gorgeous Swiss National Park spans the Western Rhaetian Alps. The park has been recognized as a Word UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Swizz National Park is one of the best places to experience the S witzerland winter. The verdant mountains get covered in a thick carpet of snow during the cold season. 

Why visit: Explore the wildlife and witness the beauty of the snow-laden surroundings. Tourist Attractions: Engadin, Soul Places to stay: Hotel Park Naziunal II Fuorn, Hotel Crusch Alba How to reach: The best way to reach Swiss National Park is by boarding a train from Zurich to Zernez. 

Further Read: 3 Days In Switzerland

Switzerland, without a doubt, is among those places on earth that are unparalleled. So, are you prepared for a classic holiday to this winter wonderland? If yes, then book your Switzerland tour packages right away and experience pure magic whether you’re thinking of a honeymoon in Switzerland or a trip with family! And if you know of any more places to visit in Switzerland in winters, put them in the comments below. 

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit In Switzerland

What is there to do in Switzerland in the winter?

There are numerous activities you can indulge in when visiting Switzerland. Some of these include: 1. Try ice skating and skiing at St. Moritz 2. Enjoy dog sledging 3. Indulge in shopping experiences at Christmas markets 4. Witness the beauty of Swiss National Park

Which are the best places to stay in Switzerland in winter?

Some of the best places you can visit in Switzerland to witness the best of it include Zermatt, staad, Bern, Grindelwald, Zermatt, Montreux, Davos, and Villars.

Which are the places to visit in Switzerland in winter with family?

If you're wondering where to go in Switzerland in Winter with your family then, Zurich, Nendaz, Grachen, and Engelberg are among the top places to consider. These places are kid-friendly and have plenty of options in terms of accommodation, activities, and sightseeing which interests both adults and kids alike.

What are the best places to celebrate Christmas in Switzerland?

Berne, Zurich, St. Mortiz, and Zermatt are among the best places in Switzerland in winter where you can celebrate Christmas. These places are adorned with Christmas lights, and the Christmas markets make for a fun-filled extravaganza.

How many days do you need in Switzerland?

You will need at least 3 full to explore Rome, 2 days each for Florence, Siena/San Gimignano/Pisa, driving around Tuscany, Venice, and 1 day for Milan. On the whole, you need at least 6-7 days to visit the best of Switzerlamd.

How cold is Switzerland in December?

December is a festive month and despite the biting cold temperature, there is so much fun guests can have while on holiday in Zurich. December is winter in Zurich with an average temperature of 2°C (35 ̊F). The highest temperature for December is 4°C (39 ̊F) while the lowest temperature is -1°C (30 ̊F).

Where can I spend Christmas in Switzerland?

Here are a few places where you can bring in the festive season and celebrate Christmas in Switzerland: 1. St Gallen 2. Stein am Rhein 3. Einsiedeln 4. St Moritz 5. Locarno 6. Lugano

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Spending time in Switzerland is one of the most magical things you can do during winter. Switzerland is an incredibly beautiful country year round, however, during winter in Switzerland and particularly after snowfall, its small hillside medieval towns look like something out of a fairytale. Switzerland is an incredibly popular country for skiing during winter for Europeans and for those from further afield. It has 358 spectacular ski resorts allowing you to race down the slopes, practice your snowboarding techniques, or enjoy the thrill of snow tubing.

If you are looking for a more relaxed winter escape in Switzerland, choose to stay in one of its pretty medieval towns or the big cities. Winter is a huge part of the culture here, with many towns and cities embracing the season with Christmas markets and colourful lights. Despite Switzerland being a popular skiing destination, its towns are often quieter during winter as most tourists are on the slopes.

Exploring at a slower pace will allow you to see these beautiful destinations in their true light. Whether braving the slopes or enjoying strolls in the snow, Switzerland is the perfect destination for a winter getaway. Here are 20 places you cannot miss seeing in winter in Switzerland.

4- St Moritz

5- interlaken, 6- jura vaudois nature park, 7- château-d’oex, 9- lake oeschinen, 13- mount pilatus, 14- st gallen, 17- jungfrau region, 18- glacier express, 19- bellinzona.

• Lucerne: Mt. Pilatus Cable Car, Cogwheel Train and Lake Cruise – an experience you won’t want to miss!
• Zermatt: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car Ticket – a Swiss icon you’ll be talking about for years. 
• Jungfraujoch: Roundtrip to the Top of Europe by Train – an incredible journey to the top of the world. 

Save time and money by booking the Swiss Travel Pass: Swiss All-in-One Pass on Train, Bus, Boat

20 Places To Enjoy Switzerland In Winter

Basel is a beautiful city that, with a dusting of snow, instantly becomes a must-visit destination in winter.

If you are visiting Basel before Christmas, be sure to check out its annual Christmas market for traditional, Christmas delicacies, beautiful handmade ornaments and of course plenty of gifts in a pretty setting.

Spend some time wandering the cobblestone streets of Grossnasel, the city’s old town and immerse yourself in the beautiful architecture before enjoying a warm cup of coffee and a pastry in a cosy cafe.

Dine in traditional style at Walliserkanne, a restaurant specialising in fish and chicken dishes, as well as winter favourites fondue and raclette.

Recommended tour: Walking Tour through Basel Old Town

Lucerne and its mountainous surroundings are the perfect Swiss winter escape.

The city is at its most picturesque after a snowfall as the snow covers the mountains overlooking the city, and the lake starts to freeze.

Thanks to its mountainous location, Lucerne is a great base for those looking to combine both skiing and sightseeing in their winter break.

Enjoy a stroll along the shores of Lake Lucerne or the banks of the River Reuss before meandering through the charming streets of the medieval old town.

For some of the best winter views climb one of the nine towers dotted along the Musegg Wall, a fortified 13th century wall surrounding the old town.

Recommended tours:

• Lucerne: Mt. Pilatus Cable Car, Cogwheel Train & Lake Cruise
• From Lucerne: Titlis Half-Day Tour – Eternal Snow & Glacier
• Lucerne: Guided Walking Tour

Zermatt is one of the most beautiful, and most popular, Swiss destinations in winter.

Standing high above the town is the Matterhorn, known around the world for its presence on the Toblerone bar.

Many visitors to Zermatt flock to its ski resorts which are considered among the best in Europe.

Uniquely, it is possible to ski across the border into Italy from its resort.

Zermatt is a car-free city so enjoy taking in the sights without any traffic to compromise your views.

For the ultimate relaxing experience in Zermatt, head to Hotel Somme Zermatt and book into their spa.

Alongside a range of excellent treatments, the spa offers outdoor jacuzzis that can be enjoyed even when surrounded by heavy snowfall, creating a very magical experience.

• Zermatt: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car Ticket
• Zermatt: Gornergrat Bahn Cogwheel Train Ticket

Enjoy winter in luxury by spending some time in St Moritz.

Famous for being the playground of the rich and famous, particularly during skiing season, St Moritz is the ultimate luxurious winter destination.

Expect to see many luxury cars, enjoy browsing high designer shops and dine at exquisite restaurants.

If you are seeking the slopes, the ski resorts around St Moritz offer everything from skiing and snowboarding to paragliding.

One of the best things to do in St Moritz in winter is to experience the White Turf Horse Race held each February, a race where the animals welfare is top priority.

Uniquely, the race is held on the frozen surface of the lake.

Recommended tour: From Milan: Lake Como Cruise, St. Moritz & Bernina Red Train

Interlaken is another beautiful winter destination in Switzerland.

Interlaken has been a popular holiday destination since Victorian times, with many today making the most of its spectacular scenery and ski resorts.

Interlaken lies between lakes Thun and Brienz, both of which are popular for winter kayaking.

Take a scenic jet boat across Lake Brienz and admire the snow covered fairytale castle of Seeburg, which is believed by locals to be haunted.

Warm up and enjoy an afternoon at Funky Chocolate club, first learning about the chocolate making process, before indulging in a delicious chocolate fondue.

• From Interlaken: Day Trip to Jungfraujoch Mountain
• Interlaken: Funicular Ticket to Harder Kulm

Stretching from the heights of La Dôle to the medieval town of Romainmôtier, and with views overlooking Lake Geneva is the magical Jura Vaudois Nature Park.

While the park is perfect to visit at any time of year, it’s snow covered trees and winter wonderland vibes make it a must visit winter destination.

Take to the trails in a sturdy pair of snowshoes and enjoy a challenging yet beautiful and rewarding journey through the woodlands.

While exploring the forest keep your eyes peeled for native winter wildlife such as hares and chamois.

The park sets up small huts during winter serving local speciality cheese dishes allowing you to warm up in spectacular surroundings.

• 20 Famous Switzerland Landmarks
• 20 Fairytale Castles In Switzerland
• When Is The Best Time To Visit Switzerland?
• The Amazing Jungfrau Railway Train
• 20 Swiss Cities
• 15 Things To Do In Lucerne
• 25 Things to Do In Zurich
• 5 Day Trips From Bern
• 10 Swiss Alps Bucket List Experiences
• Swiss Alps Witches Festival
• 15 Things Switzerland Is Famous For

Château-d’Oex is a popular skiing destination only a short drive from Berne.

If you are heading to Switzerland to hit the slopes, Château-d’Oex is the perfect destination for you.

The La Braye ski resort is one of the most popular in the region, with 20 kilometres (12.43 miles) of snowy slopes.

This destination is also ideal for other outdoor winter activities such as snowboarding, and snowshoeing through its 35 kilometres (21.75 miles) of forest and field pathways.

If you are travelling with children, be sure to take advantage of the toboggan runs.

Gstaad is another beautiful Swiss destination to spend your winter break exploring.

With snowcapped mountains, snowy forests and a chill in the air, Gstaad offers everything you need to make your winter vacation cosy and exciting.

While in Gstaad be sure to enjoy a tasty fondue surrounded by snowy mountains.

Some of the best fondu can be found at Iglu-Dorf, a unique igloo experience offering guests the opportunity to dine inside an igloo on traditional fondu created using locally sourced mountain cheeses.

If you are seeking another unforgettable winter dining experience, take a cable car to Eggli, a restaurant ran by Michelin-starred chef Marcus G. Linder, for seasonal dishes with the stunning panoramas of the surrounding mountains.

Lake Oeschinen is the perfect winter destination in Switzerland if you are looking for a range of unique activities to make your trip memorable.

As the temperature drops, the lake freezes over to a thickness of between 30 and 50 centimetres, making it ideal for ice hole fishing.

The lake is also a popular for ice skating during winter across its 1.5 kilometre squared (0.57 miles squared) frozen surface.

The best way to arrive at the shores of the lake during winter are following a short 1 hour hike through the surrounding forests, or by descending down a gentle incline in a traditional toboggan.

Recommended tour: Interlaken: Private Hiking Tour Oeschinen Lake & Blue Lake

The chocolate-box village of Arosa is a cosy destination to call into during your winter vacation in Switzerland.

As with many villages, Arosa is surrounded by spectacular mountains making sledging and snow tubing great options for those travelling with families.

Warm up after a day exploring the snowy landscape at Tschuggen Bergoase Spa set inside the 5-star Tschuggen Grand Hotel.

Mario Botta, a Swiss architect, designed the spa over 4 floors offering steam rooms, massage treatment rooms and a mountain sauna with snow terrace offering a unique and magical relaxation experience.

For those looking for an unusual winter activity, wake up early and head out to Lake Untersee with a tour guide to experience early morning ice bathing as the sun rises over the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Stoos is a Swiss winter destination that has something for everyone.

Enjoy the spectacular natural surroundings and head out on the Stoos funicular, the steepest funicular railway in the world.

Once you arrive at the top station take in the views across the mountains of the Muota Valley.

From here make the most of the varied ski runs leading down the mountain, take a hike through the forest on snowshoes, or relax as you are taken through a winter wonderland on a horse-drawn sleigh.

While exploring Switzerland in winter be sure to head to the highest town in Europe.

At 1560m (5118.11ft) above sea level, Davos offers visitors some of the best views in the country over the mountains, and is a destination that has long been a favourite for winter activities.

For a truly memorable experience, descend the slopes on an air board, an inflatable sledge that is steered by moving your weight from side to side.

Aside from winter sports, Davos has a lot to offer tourists looking to learn a little more about the local culture.

Book onto a behind the scenes tour of a beer or cheese factory to learn how these tasty local foods and drinks are produced.

BierVision Monstein is the highest brewery in the country and it offers guided tours of its facilities and even the opportunity for visitors to create their own beer, followed by a tasting experience.

Recommended tour: Davos: Ski Paragliding Experience

Spend some time on the slopes of Mount Pilatus, a towering 2128m (6981.63ft) mountain overlooking Lucerne.

The mountain has multiple peaks all offering spectacular views.

If you don’t fancy hiking to the summit, take the worlds steepest cog railway on its leisurely journey to the top while taking in the snow covered surroundings.

At the top of Mount Pilatus are seven restaurants to choose from, all offering everything from tasty local dishes to pastries and warm drinks.

To make your way back down the mountain, either board the cog railway again, or enjoy a toboggan ride down the slopes, or a more gentle winter hike through the trees.

The city of St Gallen is spectacular whatever the season, however when it snows, the ancient city takes on a whole new fairytale light.

St Gallen is the perfect destination for history lovers as it was founded in the 8th century.

Its ancient history means city is filled with spectacular and varied architecture including the Stiftskirche Cathedral and the baroque monastery.

The town is picturesque and filled with beautiful timber framed buildings, cobbled streets and plenty of cosy cafes to curl up with a cup of coffee as you watch the snow fall.

Like many towns and cities in Europe, St Gallen has an excellent Christmas market with stalls selling gifts, delicious sweet treats and warm local dishes to enjoy as you peruse.

Recommended tour: Old Town walking tour in St.Gallen

The city of Lugano is far quieter in winter than summer, making it the ideal destination if you want to escape the crowds while still making the most of the local culture.

The city has milder weather than others in Switzerland thanks to its close location to the Italian border.

This Italian influence extends beyond warmer temperatures and into its food, architecture and overall vibe.

Lugano is only a short drive from Lake Como and the Italian city of Milan, and is, even in winter, a perfect destination to enjoy an ice cream on the shores of the lake.

Explore the old town on foot and make the most of shopping locally at its excellent shops selling delicacies such as cheeses and salamis.

Recommended tour:

• Lugano: 3-Hour Monte San Salvatore Tour with Funicular Ride
• From Como: Lugano & Bellagio Day Trip with Lake Como Cruise

Zurich is the ideal base for both a winter city break, and for those looking to combine a snow-covered metropolis with time on the slopes.

If you are visiting Zurich in the run up to Christmas be sure to explore its spectacular Christmas markets.

Here you will find a string-light filled cosy selection of markets selling local delicacies, traditional Christmas decorations and plenty of souvenirs or gifts to take home for loved ones.

Enjoy a glass of mulled wine as you peruse the stands before pausing for a bite to eat at one of the many raclette and fondue stalls.

A must for those visiting with children is a ride on the glistening and light-covered Märlitram, a streetcar driven by Santa while the children aboard are told Christmas stories by angels.

• Zurich: City Tour, Cruise, and Lindt Home of Chocolate Visit
• From Zurich: Day Trip to Grindelwald & Interlaken
• From Zurich: 6-Day Tour of Switzerland with Accommodation

Switzerland’s Jungfrau Region is one of the best bases for the perfect winter vacation.

Set in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Jungfrau Region is home to many ski resorts, winter hiking trails, dedicated setting runs and opportunities to try sports like curling.

Jungfrau Region covers the small Swiss towns of Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, Mürren, Grindelwald and Haslital, all of which are filled with quaint Swiss architecture, cosy restaurants and friendly locals.

The region is easily accessibly by both car and train, however those who do enjoy taking to the rails will want to visit the highest train station in Europe at Jungfraujoch to experience this unique destination and the breathtaking views across the snow-covered Alps.

Recommended tour: Jungfraujoch: Roundtrip to the Top of Europe by Train

Due to heavy snowfall, some parts of Switzerland are inaccessible by car during the winter.

Taking a trip on the magical Glacier Express however opens up these areas for you to see while sitting in warmth and comfort.

This unique experience journeys across the country over 8 hours through vast canyons, into mountains, and over famous sights such as the Oberalp Pass, a twisting and winding mountain road that shuts during winter.

The train has large and curved windows for travellers to make the most of the spectacular scenery, and stops at some of Switzerland’s most popular winter destinations including St Moritz and Zermatt. 

• Glacier Express Train Roundtrip Private Tour from Luzern
• From Basel: Private Full-Day Glacier Express Train Tour

Experience a true winter wonderland in Bellinzona.

This Swiss city is home to three castles; Castelgrande, Castello Montebello and Castello Lasso Corbaro.

Each castle offers something a little different, through their architecture, views from their highest points, and their royal history.

With a dusting of powder soft white snow, these castles are straight out of a fairytale.

After exploring the castles, enjoy a stroll through the city in search of a bite to eat.

The city’s restaurants are heavily influenced by both Swiss and Italian cuisine offering something delicious for everyone to enjoy.

Recommended tour: Bellinzona Pass: 3-Castle Ticket

Geneva is in the southwest of Switzerland and is a popular city to visit year round.

In winter its famous lake, Lake Geneva, does not fully freeze over which allows its fountain Jet d’Eau to continually flow.

There are many pleasant walks around the lake to enjoy during winter as you take in the frozen surroundings.

Chocolate lovers should book onto a chocolate-themed walking tour of the city to take in many of the city’s excellent chocolate shops and chocolatiers.

See how these sweet treats are made and of course enjoy a variety of tasty samples including filled chocolates and hot chocolate to warm you from the cold outside.

Take a relaxing dip in an outdoor thermal bath fed by hot springs surrounded by snow for a contrasting experience, while reaping the rewards of the baths natural restorative properties. 

Recommended tour: Chocolate Flavors Walking Tour of Geneva

For more winter wanderings, read:

• Japan in Winter
• Canada in Winter
• Spain in Winter
• Italy in Winter
• Inner Mongolia in Winter
• London in Winter
• Paris in Winter
• Greece in Winter
• Switzerland in Winter
• Yellowstone in Winter
• Yosemite in Winter
• Maine in Winter
• Chicago in Winter
• Korea in Winter
• Montreal In Winter
• Quebec In Winter
• Quebec Winter Carnival
• Whistler in Winter
• Tuktoyaktuk Winter Road
• Jackson Hole in Winter
• Sun Valley in Winter
• Hakuba in Winter
• Iceland in Winter
• Venice in Winter
• Prague in Winter
• New York in Winter
• Hawaii in Winter
• China in Winter

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Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in Winter

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

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

Table of Contents

Switzerland in Winter Complete Guide

Weather in switzerland in winter.

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

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

What to pack for Switzerland winter weather?

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

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

8 Beautiful Places to Visit in Switzerland in Winter

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

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

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

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

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

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

Glacier Express

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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5 winter wonderland escapes in Switzerland to visit now

After traveling to more than 68 countries in search of the most inspiring and empowering places to visit, Switzerland is at the top of my list when I'm looking for a magical winter destination with jaw-dropping scenery, top hotels, resorts, and restaurants, and unparalleled winter activities.

I first fell in love with Switzerland when I was in college and spent the summer backpacking across Europe. I vowed someday I would return to the Swiss Alps in the winter to ski at some of the phenomenal resorts and once I did, I was hooked.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

If you're ready to hit the slopes, Switzerland says it's ready to welcome visitors . Earlier this month it was the first European country to ease its COVID-19 travel restrictions post-omicron, while still taking steps to try and make things as safe as possible for its visitors and residents. See our news about Switzerland reopening for what you need to know to plan your trip.

Related: Switzerland ends some travel restrictions to save its ski season

Here are five of my favorite destinations to visit in Switzerland in winter.

Growing up my favorite ride at Disneyland was the Matterhorn and I couldn't wait to visit Zermatt, the quaint, romantic village at the base of the real-life 14,692-foot majestic beauty the Swiss say is the most photographed mountain in the world. There are no cars allowed in Zermatt and the vibe is laid-back luxury where you'll find unique, boutique places to stay and authentic culinary experiences. For the best views of the Matterhorn, I picked the five-star historic Riffelalp Resort with just 65-rooms for a peaceful escape.

Zermatt is a true skier's and snowboarder's paradise where you're guaranteed snow 365 days a year. If you want to take things at a slower pace there are dozens of hiking trails where you can enjoy the spectacular scenery. One of my favorite photo ops of the Matterhorn is at Zermatt's famous restaurant Chez Verony that's right on the ski hill. It's the perfect place to order fondue and a glass of Gluehwein, a delicious hot mulled wine that's Christmas in a cup.

Don't Miss: Take a quick half-hour train trip up to Gornergrat for one of the best panoramic views of the Swiss Alps.

Insider Tip: Zermatt books up quickly during the holidays so be sure to reserve your room well in advance.

How to get to Zermatt: Zermatt is car-free but you can fly into Zurich (ZRH ) and take a three and a half-hour train ride or it's a four-hour train from Geneva (GVA). You can also take a taxi or helicopter (Air Zermatt) and the famous Glacier Express from St. Moritz. If you have your own vehicle there's a parking garage in nearby Tasch.

St. Moritz is Switzerland's dazzling darling. A favorite hot spot for international jet-setters and celebrities, this world-class destination is legendary for offering up the poshest resorts, spas, restaurants, and winter sports activities. When I skied here I stayed at the idyllic Carlton Hotel that makes you feel like a VIP from the moment you arrive.

Related: How to ski Switzerland by yourself

One of my favorite all-time travel experiences started in St. Moritz when I took the famous Glacier Express train between St. Moritz and Zermatt. This is the slowest express train in the world and on this 7-1/2 hour trip, it's all about the journey and appreciating the breathtaking scenery. Be sure to have your camera ready!

Don't Miss: Checking out the ice skating in St. Moritz. You can enjoy a traditional rink like the one in front of the Kulm Country Club where the Winter Olympic Games were held in 1928 and 1948 or hit the magical Madulain Ice Path that meanders through the countryside and along the river and is known as one of the most beautiful skating tracks in the world.

Insider Tip: Before St. Moritz was recognized as a luxurious ski resort it was known as a place of healing with its mineral springs and spas so be sure to schedule some spa time to pamper yourself.

How to get to St. Moritz: Zurich (ZRH) is the nearest international airport where you can take the SBB train right from the airport into St. Mortiz, or it's about three hours by car if you want to drive.

Another celebrity favorite ski resort Gstaad has been a playground for the rich and famous for decades. When I arrived the five-star Le Grand Bellevue hotel picked me up in a 1963 classic Bentley once owned by Roger Moore when he lived here and filmed James Bond movies in Switzerland. Royalty also visits Gstaad and if you want to feel like you are part of the royal experience another favorite place to stay is the impressive Gstaad Palace.

While known for its luxury, Gstaad also has an authentic alpine charm with a fairytale village and cobblestone streets. It's car-free so you can peacefully enjoy the many boutiques and restaurants. Beyond hitting the ski slopes, I found the best way to explore the area is by hiking. I had a once-in-a-lifetime experience hiking to Fondue Land and eating Fondue in a giant Fondue pot surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery in the Swiss Alps.

Don't Miss: Gstaad has some amazing Swiss cheese markets that are perfect for planning your own alpine picnic.

Insider Tip: Another wonderful way to see Gstaad is to take a horse-drawn carriage tour around the picture-perfect Lake Lauenen.

How to get to Gstaad: From both Bern-Belp Airport (BRN) and Geneva (GVA) it will take you about two and a half hours by train to get to Gstaad. To drive from Bern's airport it's about an hour and a half, and from Geneva, it's about two hours. If you fly into Zurich (ZRH) plan on three and a half hours by train or a three-hour drive.

Lake Geneva Region

I could happily spend an entire winter in The Lake Geneva Region (Vaud) of Switzerland because there are so many unique things to do and experience. My only problem with my first trip to the Montreux Riviera including Lake Geneva, the Lavaux UNESCO vineyards, nearby summits, mountain villages, and small cities like Montreux and Vevey was that I didn't schedule enough time here.

For a home base, I chose the award-winning, historic, Grand Hotel du Lac, Vevey, a five-star 50 room luxurious property right on the shores of Lake Geneva where the rooms have spectacular views of the French Alps.

For more inspiring scenery you can take a scenic train up to Rochers-de-Naye, a local favorite, where you can ski, hike, and have a traditional Swiss fondue soaking up the scenery.

Don't Miss: The Goldenpass Cheese Train runs from January to April and is where you can sample different Swiss cheeses and wines in first-class compartments on a Belle Epoque train car.

Insider Tip: The Swiss are famous for their chocolates and cheese but their wine is equally delicious. However, since Swiss wine is rarely imported into the U.S. if you want to sample some be sure to make a trip to the beautiful terraced vineyards of Lavaux overlooking Lake Geneva for some of Switzerland's finest wines.

How to get to the Lake Geneva Region: The closest international airport to the Lake Geneva Region is Geneva (GVA) located just outside of Geneva on the Swiss-French border. As of December 13, 2021, you can now again fly Swiss nonstop from New York's JFK to Geneva with four weekly flights.

Related: How Swiss business class manages to remain excellent — even during a pandemic

A multi-cultural contemporary city, Zurich never disappoints. With its non-stop schedule of diverse activities, great nightlife, award-winning cuisine, and places to stay, it's no wonder Zurich is constantly ranked one of the world's best cities when it comes to quality of life.

One of my favorite places is in the heart of the city, Zurich's charming medieval Old Town (Altstadt). Be sure to do the Zurich Old Time Walking Tour, it's a fascinating way to start exploring the city.

When you're ready to relax I stayed at the celebrated 5-star Dolder Grand hotel that's perched high on the hill overlooking the city, the lake, and the Alps. It has one of my favorite spas in Switzerland that is a vacation in itself. The Dolder's impressive 43,000 square foot spa has a palatial pool with panoramic views and indoor and outdoor whirlpools where you can sip your favorite beverage and toast the sunset.

Don't Miss: Taking a boat trip down the Limmat River. This leisurely ride is a wonderful way to see the historic buildings of Old Town and take some great pictures.

Insider Tip: To save time and money I always get the Zurich Card to explore the city. You can get a 24-hour card for 27 CHF or a 72-hour card for 53 CHF and it includes unlimited second class travel by tram, train, boat, cable car and bus, in the city and surrounding area. It also includes some boat trips in addition to giving free or reduced admission to 43 museums and lots of other great discounts.

Related: Swiss unveils new premium economy product

How to get to Zurich: To fly into Zurich (ZRH ) you'll find the most nonstop options on the country's national airline Swiss Air. You can also find several nonstop flights from the U.S. to Zurich on United, Delta, and American.

Related: Switzerland is reopening, and you can fly there with wide-open business-class award space

Final tip for visiting Switzerland

The Swiss have one of the best train systems in the world and taking a train is one of the most efficient, affordable, and enjoyable ways to see the country. For extra savings be sure to get the Swiss Travel Pass that includes unlimited travel throughout the country on trains, boats, and buses, and children travel for free. No tickets are required just board and enjoy the ride!

Essential Information for Visiting Switzerland in Winter

Have you dreamed of visiting Switzerland in winter but are unsure just how practical it is to visit at this time of year?

With shorter daylight hours, colder temperatures and concerns about what transport and attractions will be operating, it’s only natural that many travellers are hesitant to travel to Switzerland from November to March.

We can confirm, though, that a winter vacation in Switzerland is a wonderful experience.

In this guide, we provide the essential information you need to know to plan your Swiss winter vacation.  

We cover the weather in Switzerland, transport options, winter closures and the best things to do in winter in Switzerland.

You’ll also learn about New Year and Christmas in Switzerland as well as other winter festivals and events, and, importantly, what to wear in Switzerland in winter.

Read on for practical tips for visiting Switzerland in winter.

The information in this guide is also covered in episode 55 of our podcast. > Listen here.

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

What's in this Article

Weather in Switzerland in winter

One of the first things you’ll probably want to consider before planning your Switzerland winter vacation is the weather.  Temperatures, weather forecasts and the number of daylight hours can all have an impact on your trip so it’s good to have an idea of what to expect.

Although the Northern Hemisphere winter is officially from December to February (inclusive), we will include the months of November and March in this guide.  

All five months – from November through to March – generally have fairly cool temperatures and are regarded as ‘off season’ for visitors (except in the ski resorts).

With changes to the climate all around the world, it can be hard to predict exactly what the weather will be like, regardless of the time of year you travel.  

Based on previous years you can expect temperatures of around zero degrees Celcius overnight in cities like Zürich and Basel and as low as minus 15 degrees Celcius overnight in the mountains.

Average winter temperatures in Switzerland

The table below shows average winter temperatures in Zurich, Lugano and Davos.

Weather conditions in the cities and lowlands tend to include fog and rain with little sunshine and very little snow.

In the Alps, weather conditions (if not, temperatures) are often much better with more sunshine and clearer days.

We recommend using the MeteoSwiss app or meteoswiss.ch website for the most accurate weather forecasts.  

If you are planning a visit to a mountain resort, it is wise to check the live weather conditions before you head up the mountain. 

Almost all mountains have webcams installed which beam live images to their website so you can quickly check the current weather conditions.

Where to expect snow in Switzerland

We mentioned above that it rarely snows in cities like Zurich and Basel so you may be wondering where are the best places to visit in Switzerland in winter to see snow?

Your best option is to head to the Swiss Alps. Winter is beautiful in the Alps – wooden chalets line the streets of charming alpine villages and with the addition of dustings of snow on their rooftops, it’s like stepping into a postcard.

Thanks to their height, many of Switzerland’s most famous mountains are snow-capped all year round but during winter they take on an even more magical appearance.

If you want to wake up each morning and gaze out at snowy winter wonderland, then staying in the Swiss Alps is the answer.

If time restraints don’t allow you to spend a night in the Alps, you can always take a day trip to a one of the popular Swiss mountain peaks. > See the options here.

Number of daylight hours in Switzerland in winter

As you would expect, the number of hours of daylight in Switzerland during winter is much less than in the summer. 

In December, you can expect around 8.5 hours of daylight in Bern, increasing to 10.5 in January and almost 12 hours in February.

Travelling around Switzerland in winter

Before you finalise your Switzerland winter itinerary, you’ll need to decide how you are going to travel around.  There are a number of options which we’ll cover below.

Travelling around Switzerland by train during winter is very easy and very convenient.  In fact, it’s how most of the Swiss get around.

The Swiss public transport network – which includes trains, buses, boats and trams – offers at least hourly services on most routes right throughout the year.

Services are rarely affected due to rain or snow except in the case of major weather events.  The Swiss Federal Railways app SBB Mobile (or their website SBB.ch ) will display any delays on the relevant timetables.

As well as covering almost the entire country, the Swiss public transport network is clean, safe and reliable.  It is also very cost effective when you purchase a Swiss Travel Pass , a hop on hop off ticket for the entire network. 

You simply purchase a pass for the number of days’ travel that you require and show the ticket inspector on board when requested.  

If you’d prefer to have a Swiss travel specialist book your rail tickets (and accommodation) on your behalf, booking a Switzerland rail package is a fantastic solution.

Most stations have lifts and ramps to access each platform so there’s no need to carry your luggage up flights of stairs that may be slippery.  

We do recommend you allow extra time to get to the platform, though, as wheeling a suitcase along a platform that is wet and slippery or covered in melting snow, can be challenging.

Read more about travelling by train in Switzerland > here .

Renting a car and driving in Switzerland is another option but unless you are used to driving in snowy conditions it’s not an option we recommend.

Whilst the roads are cleared of snow fairly regularly, they can still be very icy and slippery, making it more difficult to control your car.  In the mountain areas, roads are also steep, twisty and narrow, adding to the difficulty factor.

Winter Tyres and Snow Chains

In most cases, winter tyres are required to be fitted to your vehicle. If you are renting a car, the rental company usually charges a ‘winterisation’ fee which includes fitting the appropriate tyres.

Depending on where you are driving to, you may also require snow chains on your vehicle. 

There are some smaller mountains which have no tunnel and therefore you have to drive on high altitude roads that are exposed to the elements. Snow chains would need to be fitted in these circumstances.

Unless you are familiar with driving on snowy roads, we recommend you use the public transport system if you are visiting Switzerland in winter.

If you are driving on Swiss motorways you will also require a road tax sticker (Vignette) to be affixed to your windshield. 

Read about the Swiss Vignette and other useful information in our Driving in Switzerland Guide .

If you’d rather leave the planning and navigation to someone else, joining an organised group tour of Switzerland is a great option.

There are numerous tour companies who offer a wide range of itineraries over various durations from one day to a couple of weeks.

Winter tour itineraries include half and full day city sightseeing and mountain trips, multi-day tours that visit much of the country, and everything in between.

Both coach and rail tours are available, and with your accommodation included on multi-day tours, budgeting for your trip can be easier, too.

An added bonus is your tour guide who is on hand to provide useful information about the destinations you visit. 

Private tour

Another excellent option for those who are looking for a more personalised experience, or have specific destinations or sites they would like to visit, is a private tour of Switzerland .

Itineraries can be designed to suit your individual interests and the time you have available.

One day or multi-day tours can be tailor made especially for you.

Travelling with your own private driver/guide in a smaller vehicle means you are able to access more off-the-beaten-track places.

You’ll enjoy the convenience of being driven ‘door to door’ in most cases – a real luxury during winter when outside temperatures can be low.

> Find out more about tailor made private tours of Switzerland here.

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

Winter closures of services and attractions in Switzerland

One thing to be aware of if you are planning to visit Switzerland in winter is that there are periods when some services and attractions will be closed. 

These closures are usually only for a short period of time but if you don’t plan for them in advance, they can result in you being disappointed because you can’t do something you had planned to do.

If you are visiting Switzerland in November, it’s important to be aware that many cable cars and funiculars are closed for their regular maintenance during November (and sometimes even in October or December) before the busy winter season starts.  

This is also the time when many of the mountain railways, such as the Brienz Rothorn and Schynige Platte trains, close for the winter period, although they mostly don’t resume operating again until April or May.

A couple of exceptions to the closure rule are the train to Jungfraujoch and the cogwheel train from Vitznau to Mt. Rigi, both of which operate 365 days a year.

You can check the closure dates for Switzerland’s most popular cable cars and funiculars in > this article .

Just as some cable cars and funiculars are closed, some hotels and restaurants also close for a short period in November. 

This is particularly the case for smaller, family owned businesses but can apply to larger hotels and restaurants as well.

In most cases, if there are two hotels in a small village, they will alternate their closing dates so that there is always somewhere for visitors to stay.

> Click here to search hotels in Switzerland

Best things to do in winter in Switzerland 

When considering things to do in Switzerland in winter, the first thing that’s likely to come to mind is skiing. 

Many Swiss children in fact start skiing at a very early age, in some cases when they’re only been walking for a year or two. 

Due to the (usual) abundant snow, many local people also get into snowboarding, sledging and cross-country skiing.

Ice skating is also a popular pick among winter activities in Switzerland. In some mountainous areas, the flat ice is right out there, ready and waiting in the forest.

This means you can skate over ice through the trees, which is pretty cool and makes for a memorable winter vacation memory.

So what about Switzerland in winter for non-skiers? If you want to find things to do in Zermatt in winter, for instance, then another option is to go snowshoeing. This is very similar to hiking in some ways. 

If you have a warm, sturdy pair of boots, you can also go hiking or walking in many other places in Switzerland. Routes through the valleys are good for those who don’t want to tackle steep slopes.

In Grison (Graubünden), for example, there are scenic valleys where you can hike and feed the birds. The birds and squirrels there wait for walkers to feed them, which is really cute, especially for younger visitors. 

For people that aren’t really into snow sports, what are the best things to do in Switzerland in December, January or February, you might be wondering. There are other activities to do and attractions to visit during winter. 

Taking a walk around a picturesque Swiss village can be, for example, very satisfying. These places look like something from a postcard or chocolate box when all the buildings and trees are covered in pure white snow. 

There is plenty to do around Christmas time, too. Various places in Switzerland are illuminated with twinkling festive lights during this season, creating a magical atmosphere.  

Many larger towns and cities also have Christmas markets to discover.

Sampling local foodie delights is also something to do during any time of year. A must-do is to try an authentic Swiss fondue, or sample some raclette.

This cheese speciality is usually served with potatoes, and is often made using fresh local cheese from the mountains.

Wellness centres and thermal spas are also popular during snowy weather. 

Or you could take a scenic train trip such as the Glacier Express or the Bernina Express , head to some museums or enjoy city life. 

If the weather is bad and you don’t want to spend time outdoors, you can still find plenty of things to do such as these rainy day activities for Interlaken .

There is always something to do in Switzerland, whatever the season and whatever the weather. You’ll find lots more suggestions in our 10 Must-do Switzerland winter activities guide .

Renting ski and snow gear

When planning a skiing holiday in Switzerland, another question that might come to mind concerns winter sports equipment. Even if you have your own, you may not want to bring it all the way across the continent or even the world with you. 

If you are wondering if it is simple to rent all your ski gear and snow gear once you arrive in Switzerland, the answer is yes.

The truth is that even many Swiss people don’t have all their own skiing, snowboarding and cross-country skiing equipment. It’s not really worth buying or storing it if you’ll only use it once or twice per season.

Read more: The Jungfrau Region, Switzerland. A fabulous winter holiday destination.

Most Swiss villages will have at least one sports store that rents out all the equipment to both locals and international visitors.

They usually have quite a large supply but it doesn’t hurt to contact them in advance to check that they will have what you need and the correct size in stock.

This is particularly relevant if you are heading to a very touristy area such as the Jungfrau region or Zermatt during high season.

Christmas in Switzerland

Many folks that visit Switzerland in December will be there for Christmas so an often-asked question is which are the best places to visit in Switzerland at Christmas? 

The truth is, there’s no one single ‘best’ place, it depends on your interests.

If you want to be sure of a white Christmas and are wondering does it snow in Switzerland in December, you really need to plan your Christmas stay in the mountains.  

As we discussed in the Weather section above, snow is not common in Switzerland’s cities so a mountain stay is your best chance of enjoying a white Christmas in Switzerland.

From late November until around Christmas Eve, the Swiss Christmas markets are a great place to wander. 

Here you’ll find gifts and Christmas decorations for sale as well as food and drink, and there is often entertainment, too.  

The Christmas Markets are usually open from around midday until 10pm but do check in advance so you’re not disappointed.

If you will be spending the festive season in Switzerland, then do expect the shops to be closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Stores usually close their doors on Christmas Eve, and reopen on 27 December. 

When supplies are required during this time of closure, you should be able to get what you need from the shops at major Swiss train stations.  At Zurich’s train station or airport, for instance, the stores are open every day. 

In smaller villages, though, shops will be closed from the evening of 24 December and won’t reopen until December 27.

As in other parts of the world, Swiss people tend to spend Christmas at home with their families. The typical Christmas meal in Switzerland varies by region.

LISTEN: Festive Fun at Switzerland’s Christmas Markets

In French-speaking areas they tend to tuck into a Christmas goose, while in the German-speaking regions meat fondue is the usual dish. 

The meat fondue is known as Fondue Chinoise, and is probably the top traditional Swiss Christmas dish to share on Christmas Eve.

If you’re coming from a country such as the United States, Australia or the UK at Christmas time, then you may want to know if you can have a traditional Christmas meal on Christmas day itself. 

In more touristy areas, some restaurants will be open. If they know that tourists will want to eat, then they may choose to open to cater to this need. 

In the biggest city, Zurich, some restaurants are likely to be open, too.

If you do want to sit down to a festive meal on Christmas Day, then it’s best to check with the hotel or restaurant ahead of time. Not least because if they are open they could also be fully booked! 

Many eateries will display a clear message on their website regarding Christmas opening hours. 

As for the traditional turkey meal that you may be used to at home – or whatever you usually enjoy where you come from – you may need to be a bit more flexible and instead eat meat or cheese Fondue or Raclette.

In any case, if you’re going to spend Christmas in Switzerland, then surely you may as well enjoy a traditional Swiss Christmas meal.

Celebrating New Year in Switzerland

If you’re visiting at the end of December, then you may be wondering about things to do in Zurich in winter that involve New Year celebrations. 

As with many locations across the globe, New Year in Switzerland can often be a time for fireworks and celebrations, especially in the bigger towns and cities. 

Though some Zurich attractions in winter have been halted in recent years due to the Covid pandemic, all being well, you can expect fireworks displays to resume. 

These also take place in the Italian-speaking cities of Lugano and Locarno in the southern canton of Ticino. The fireworks reflected in the lakes are a spectacular sight. 

January 1 is a public holiday in Switzerland , and in some cantons the 2nd is too. So do check in advance: make sure you know what’s going to be open and what’s going to be closed while you’re there. 

Festivals and Events in Switzerland

If you’re looking for things to do in Switzerland in January, December or February, then it’s also worth finding out about major events or festivals taking place during the winter months. 

So what’s going on in Switzerland between November and March?

The Christmas markets are obviously one of the things to do in Switzerland in November and December, and there are lovely ones in places like Montreux, Lucerne, Bern and Zurich.  

As the end of winter approaches, several mountainous Swiss regions follow a tradition to scare away the ghost of winter. 

In Engadine, for example, this involves huge cow bells. Everyone walks through the village wearing the bells plus traditional clothing, and making lots of noise. 

In Wallis (Valais), people wear masks instead to scare the winter away. Seeing or even taking part in one of these practices can really make visitors feel like they’re part of the local community. 

Things to do in Bern in winter include the onion market in late November, when you can enjoy mulled wine and delicious, freshly baked onion tarts. 

In January, things to do in Lucerne, Switzerland in winter include the Lilu Light Festival , while in Wengen there’s the Lauberhorn Run. There’s also an international balloon festival in Chateau d’Oex in late January.

For those seeking things to do in Switzerland in February, consider timing your visit to coincide with Fasnacht, also known as the Carnival of Basel.

Meanwhile in St Moritz, the frozen lake becomes a race course for horses and jockeys during the White Turf event.

What to wear in Switzerland in winter

How should you dress for Switzerland in the winter? A visit during the snowy season is about bringing the right clothing to make sure you’re warm and comfortable wherever you go. 

Layering is key when visiting Switzerland, and this applies to all seasons. Higher elevations can be much colder, so you’ll need warmer clothing at the top of the mountain than down in town. 

Waterproof boots are also recommended for winter. They don’t need to be incredibly warm, but they really do need to be waterproof. 

When it rains in Switzerland the snow starts melting, and it’s just wet everywhere. Cold, wet feet will soon feel like ice blocks when it rains. 

If you plan to visit the mountain peaks, do bring a really warm jacket with you. Not only is it very cold up there, it’s also windy.

For temperatures of zero or below you need to wear a good warm jacket and a scarf, hat and gloves, even in the cities. 

As with anywhere you visit, layering really is the best approach. Even if you’re exploring the city then enter a museum or shop, it can often be so warm inside that you’ll soon feel too hot. 

Wearing layers allows you to easily adapt your clothing to suit the temperature both inside and out. 

Appropriate clothing is equally important if you plan to visit a Christmas market. Many people underestimate how much time they’ll be spending outside.

For an hour you may feel completely fine, but after two or three hours, you really will feel the cold. 

Packing and wearing lots of layers is therefore so important in Switzerland!

Final Thoughts about Visiting Switzerland in Winter

Don’t be deterred by colder temperatures or shorter days – with the right clothing and planning, a visit to Switzerland in winter is a magical experience.

The Swiss Christmas markets have a fairytale appeal with the aromas of mulled wine, gingerbread and roasting chestnuts in the air. 

Snowy alpine villages with their cosy chalets are postcard-perfect destinations for both skiers and non-skiers, and the cities offer a plethora of museums to visit and events to enjoy.

Armed with our tips, you can plan your Swiss winter vacation with confidence.

🇨🇭 For more practical trip planning tips, read our Planning a Trip to Switzerland guide .

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Carolyn Schönafinger

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

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Switzerland Winter Packing List: Essential Items for Your Trip

• November 30, 2023 November 30, 2023
• General Information

Last Updated on November 30, 2023 by Darla Uhl

A trip to Switzerland in winter is a dream for many, offering skiing, snowy landscapes, and stunning Alpine views. But figuring out what to pack can be a challenge, especially if you’re coming from a warmer climate. That’s where a Switzerland winter packing list comes in handy—it ensures you’re all set to stay cozy and enjoy the trip.

The Swiss winter is a mix of sunny days and snowy spells, and the weather can be quite unpredictable. Packing layers is key—you’ll want to be able to add or shed clothes as needed. Also, having warm, waterproof gear is a must to shield yourself from the cold and potentially wet conditions. This Switzerland winter packing list covers clothing, accessories, and other essentials, making sure you’re well-prepared for any kind of weather. Ready? Let’s go.

Switzerland Winter Packing List

When getting ready for a winter adventure in Switzerland, it’s crucial to gear up for the cold and maybe even some snow. Here’s what you should pack in terms of clothing:

Switzerland Winter Travel Packing List:

• Down Jacket or Waterproof Coat
• Waterproof Grip Sole Boots
• Warm Layers
• Hat, Scarf, Gloves
• Thermal Underwear

1. Down Jacket or Waterproof Coat

A cozy, down jacket or wool coat is essential for your winter journey in Switzerland. Look for one that’s waterproof or water-resistant to shield you from snow and sleet. It doesn’t need to be too bulky since you’ll layer up underneath.

2. Waterproof Grip Sole Boots

Sturdy waterproof boots are essential for walking snowy streets and trails. Opt for a pair with a solid sole that offers good traction on slippery surfaces. Remember, when surfaces get wet, they can turn icy, so a strong grip on the soles is crucial.

3. Warm Layers

Stay warm in chilly weather by layering up! Pack various tops and bottoms that you can pile on for extra warmth. Consider wearing long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, turtlenecks, cardigans, fleece-lined clothes, and thick jeans. Fabrics like merino wool, fleece, down, and thermal materials are great choices to keep you cozy.

4. Hat, Scarf, and Gloves

You’ll need a cozy hat, scarf, or snood, along with gloves to shield your head, neck, and hands from the cold. Opt for items made from warm, moisture-wicking fabrics for extra comfort. A scarf is super versatile—keeps your neck and face cozy while adding a splash of color to your winter look. Opt for wool or cashmere scarves for that extra warmth. Waterproof, insulated gloves are a must for your winter adventure in Switzerland. Consider bringing a spare pair in case your gloves get wet or lost.

5. Wool Socks

Merino wool socks are fantastic for keeping your feet warm and dry. They’re soft and comfy against your skin, making them an excellent choice.

6. Thermal Underwear

I suggest opting for thermal underwear, especially if you’re heading to the Swiss Alps. In the city, regular underwear might suffice, but as you ascend higher, you’ll appreciate the warmth and comfort that thermal underwear offers.

Footwear for Snow and Ice

When prepping for a winter adventure in Switzerland, having the right footwear is key. This country boasts snow-covered mountains and sometimes icy pathways, so your shoes need to handle these conditions.

Your top pick should be waterproof boots with solid traction . They’ll keep your feet dry and help you stay steady on icy surfaces. Make sure they’re insulated for warmth in the chilly weather.

When you’re planning to hit the snow for sports activities like skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing, it might be a good idea to rent specialized footwear from a sports shop . They’re designed to offer the right support and flexibility for these activities.

Alongside boots, consider slip-resistant ice grips that you can attach to your shoes. They’re handy for icy sidewalks or trails. They’re lightweight and easy to take on and off. I’d steer clear of flat-soled or heeled boots with no traction for safety, unless you’re using them indoors, like in a hotel.

Understanding Switzerland’s Winter Climate

The winter season in Switzerland typically spans from December to February, but occasionally, cold snaps in November or chilly spells extending into March can occur. The weather’s variability varies by region and time of year.

In the higher regions of the Swiss Alps, the coldest temperatures and heaviest snowfall occur during winter. Higher elevations experience frosty conditions, often well below freezing, with strong winds making it feel even colder. This results in places like Engadine and Zermatt being notably colder than lower areas like Lucerne, Zurich, and Geneva in winter.

Temperatures in lower areas are generally milder, although still chilly, with occasional snowfall.

When compiling your Switzerland winter packing list for a trip, be prepared for the cold. Layering is key to adapting to changing conditions. Indoors, fewer layers are needed due to most buildings being heated. Essential items like a warm coat, hat, gloves, and scarf are crucial to staying cozy outdoors.

Winter Sports Gear

When it comes to winter sports in Switzerland, having the right gear is essential. Whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding, or ice skating, the proper equipment ensures warmth, comfort, and safety. Renting from a shop is usually the easiest, especially if you’re flying in. But if you’re driving or prefer your gear, here’s what to include in your Switzerland winter packing list :

• Ski Jacket, Pants, and Socks : Choose waterproof and breathable options when choosing your ski jacket and ski pants. Also, bring proper ski socks.
• Waterproof Gloves : Your hands will be exposed to the elements, so it’s important to have a good pair of gloves. You may also use mittens if you prefer. Make sure these are waterproof and insulated.
• Goggles or Sunglasses : Your eyes will need shielding from the sun, wind, and snow (or all). I recommend proper ski goggles but sunglasses will work too.
• Hand and Toe Warmers* : Hand and toe warmers are handy on chilly days. They’re small packets that produce heat and can be placed in your gloves or boots. While not essential, many people, especially when skiing, find them useful. It’s something to consider for added warmth if you’re out in the cold for extended periods.

If you’re hitting the slopes, don’t forget your skis or snowboard, boots, bindings, poles, and helmets. If you don’t have your gear, ski resorts typically provide rentals. Otherwise, nearby SportX or Ochsner Sport shops offer rental services. It’s advisable to book these 5 to 10 days in advance to secure your equipment.

Toiletries and Personal Care

• Bring a quality moisturizer designed for dry skin with ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid to combat the cold, dry air that can cause skin to crack.
• Pack lip balm containing natural elements like beeswax or coconut oil to prevent chapped lips.
• Essential toiletries include toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, and any required medications.
• A small first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers is also advisable.

Electronics and Travel Documents

• Phone: Don’t forget your smartphone! It’s essential for staying connected and accessing important info. Download offline maps and translation apps before arriving. I have listed the most useful travel apps on this page: 9 Most Useful Travel Apps to Use in Switzerland .
• Adapter: Switzerland uses type C (2-pin) and Type J (3-pin) plugs. The standard continental-type plug with two round pins also works for many devices.
• Passport: Make sure your passport is valid. Check the expiration date and renew if needed before traveling to Switzerland.
• Visa: Depending on your home country, you might need a visa for entry. Contact the Swiss embassy in your country for details.
• Travel Insurance: Get travel insurance! It covers unexpected events like flight cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies. Keep a copy of your policy and emergency contacts.
• Travel Itinerary: Keep a copy of your itinerary and hotel bookings handy in case of any travel hiccups or delays.

Switzerland Winter Packing List: What NOT To Pack

Here’s a list of things you can leave out of your Switzerland trip packing list

• Heavy Winter Coats : Go for a down jacket or fleece with a waterproof shell. It keeps you warm without feeling heavy, unlike a big bulky jacket.
• Ski Gear: There is no need to bring your ski gear. Renting directly from a sports shop at the ski resort is the best option. Alternatively, SportX or Ochsner Sport also provide rental services. However, it’s crucial to book in advance to secure your equipment from SportX or Ochsner Sport.
• Multiple Ski Jackets and Ski Pants : One pair is enough. You can simply hang them to dry after the end of the day.

Final Thoughts: Switzerland Winter Packing List

For a comfortable Switzerland winter trip, make sure your travel packing list includes practical, weather-resistant clothes and comfy, traction-friendly shoes over fancy but less useful options. Layer up with warm materials and consider renting ski gear for convenience. A handy crossbody bag or backpack keeps essentials close.

Remember: thermal layers, wool socks, a down jacket, and waterproof boots are key. For outdoor fun, grab helmets, goggles, and a backpack for extra layers and snacks. Smart packing equals a cozy trip! Have fun!

Related Posts

• What Is Winter Like In Switzerland? Here’s What You Need To Know
• 9 Most Useful Travel Apps to Use in Switzerland

Darla Uhl is the owner of TouringSwitzerland.com. Her home is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Having lived almost 20 years in Switzerland, she's traveled extensively all over the country.

Darla's favorite regions to visit in Switzerland include Engadin, Lake Geneva, Bernese Oberland, Ticino, and Valais. She loves spending time with her family, hiking, visiting museums, and reading books.

• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ The Historical Town of Werdenberg, Switzerland
• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ Andermatt or Grindelwald: Which is Better?
• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ Cherry Trail in Frick, Switzerland
• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ 7 Best Things to Do in Seelisberg, Switzerland

Arzo Travels

Solo Female Travel – Switzerland, Europe and Beyond

THINGS TO DO IN SWITZERLAND IN WINTER + TRAVEL TIPS

WINTER IN SWITZERLAND – WHAT TO DO & SEE & TRAVEL TIPS

Table of Contents

Are you planning a trip to Switzerland in winter? First of all, this is an amazing choice. Switzerland in the winter months is a real winter wonderland.

Switzerland, a small country in central Europe, is a beautiful place to visit at any time of the year. Whether you visit in the spring , fall , or summer , the options for activities are endless. Of course, Switzerland in the winter is also perfect for visiting.

Switzerland in the winter months is a snow-covered paradise, where the majestic Swiss Alps rise majestically, offering a playground for skiing, snowboarding, and scenic hikes.

Picturesque villages with cozy chalets and warm firesides beckon, promising a blend of relaxation and adventure. The crisp air and sparkling landscapes create an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for exploring winter markets, indulging in rich chocolate, and embracing the serene beauty of this magical season.

As a Switzerland fan, I love exploring the country at any time, but I have to admit that I am not a winter sports fan.  Actually, I have never skied in my life . I recently went on my first ski trip. Of course, it was in Switzerland – in Verbier  to be more precise. What should I say? The scenery was amazing, everything was organized perfectly and professionally. Switzerland in winter was just stunning! 

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

SWITZERLAND IN WINTER TRAVEL TIPS

So, this post should help you find out about things to do in winter in Switzerland, but you will also find many travel tips for your Switzerland winter trip.

Best Places to Stay

When you visit Switzerland in the winter months, here are my tips on where to stay:

Jungfraujoch Region (including Interlaken) is a great place to stay – it is one of the best winter destinations, and you can reach places like Lucerne easily. Interlaken would be my top tip here.

LUXURY: VICTORIA JUNGFRAU GRAND HOTEL & SPA – The most luxurious hotel in Interlaken is the Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa. I have not stayed there myself, so I can only repeat what I heard: This hotel is amazing. If you are looking for a fancy place in Interlaken, this is probably the best pick.

➡️ Book your stay at Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa here

MID-RANGE: HOTEL DU NORD  – For your stay in Interlaken, I recommend this hotel – Hotel du Nord – which is centrally located and is quite nice. It is one of my favorite accommodations for your 5-day Swiss itinerary.

➡️ Book your stay at Hotel du Nord here

BUDGET: BACKPACKERS VILLA SONNENHOF  –  If you are on a budget, I recommend staying in Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof next to the Höhenmatte. It is not the cheapest hostel but definitely worth the money and one of my all-time favorite hostels.

➡️ Book your stay at Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof here

Zurich : If you are more into Christmas Markets, then I suggest staying in Zurich so that you can visit Basel and Lucerne easily – and have the nice Zurich Christmas Markets, too.

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

➡️ Book your stay at Baur au Lac here .

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

➡️ Book your stay at The Glärnischhof by TRINITY here .

BUDGET: HOSTEL OTTER There are not many budget hotels in Zurich. This is a good-rated hostel in Zurich. I stayed here once and for a hostel, it actually was quite good for a hostel – especially because of its great location.

➡️ Book your stay at Oldtown Hostel Otter here .

Zermatt: Zermatt is an amazing place to stay in Switzerland in the winter. It is located a bit remotely and getting there is not as easy, but you have a beautiful town that offers plenty of winter sports and activities.

LXURY: HOTEL MONT CERVIN PALACE – Here is a hotel that defines luxury: Hotel Mont Cervin Palace. If you are looking for a 5-star hotel in Zermatt, this might be perfect for you because it has everything you could be asking for from luxury accommodation.

➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Mont Cervin Palace

MID-RANGE: MATTERHORN LODGE HOTEL & APPARTMENTS   – Hotel Matterhorn Lodge Hotel & Appartments, which opened in December 2012, is located in the heart of Zermatt’s historic center. Decorated in a classic Alpine style, it boasts a wellness area with three different saunas. The hotel is conveniently situated just a two-minute walk from a ski bus stop.

➡️ Book your stay at Matterhorn Lodge Hotel & Appartments

Click here to find my accommodation guide for Zermatt.

Weather & Climate in Winter 

Winters used to be consistently extremely cold and snowy, but in recent times, freezing temperatures and snowfall are no longer a given, particularly in lower-elevation areas.

Swiss winters are generally cold, but the average temperature varies depending on altitude and regional location. In the mountainous regions, temperatures often drop to a frosty -10°C (14°F).

On the northern plains, the average temperature ranges between -1 and -4°C (30-25°F) , while in the central areas, it hovers around 0°C (32°F) . The southern regions, known for being the warmest, typically experience average temperatures of about 4°C (39°F).

What to Pack for Switzerland in Winter

As it gets cold in Switzerland – and Switzerland is expensive – you might want to pack properly, so you do not have to go shopping in Switzerland. 

Especially if you head to the mountain peaks, it can get really cold. Dressing in layers is essential. But if you are well prepared and pack – and dress – accordingly, you will not mind the cold because it is the special Swiss winter trip you were expecting.

These are just a few items to pack.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SWISS TRAVEL PASS FOR A SWISS WINTER TRIP

TIP: If you travel by public transportation, you might want to check out a Swiss Travel Pass . I have bought several passes myself over the years and I LOVE it. You can use unlimited public transportation, do boat cruises on almost all lakes in the country, get free access to most museums and attractions, and get a discount on many mountain excursions (a few mountain excursions are even included in the Swiss Travel Pass). Check out prices here – most likely it will help you save a lot of money.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN WINTER IN SWITZERLAND

Okay, now it is time to talk about what to do in winter in Switzerland.

Helicopter Flight

Recommended by  MSC Gerber

A helicopter flight in the Swiss Alps – even better, in the incredible Jungfrau Region – is one of the best things to do in Switzerland during winter! And it will even bring you to a remote glacier that you can’t reach otherwise.

It’s always an unbelievable feeling once you are up in the air with a helicopter! Yet, it’s even better when you fly around some of the most stunning peaks of the Alps. With the “Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau,” Mountains, the Jungfrau Region is simply a perfect spot for a helicopter adventure.

The prices of these flights are probably the only drawback. A 30-minute flight with a landing on a glacier costs around CHF 300 to 400 per person, which is quite pricey, but absolutely worth it.

Tip: If you are on a budget but would love to do a helicopter ride nevertheless, there are also more affordable tours available (they are much shorter, though).

Christmas Market in Basel

So, if you are in Switzerland in December, visiting a  Christmas Market in Switzerland is a must! The markets in Basel are probably some of the best ones to visit.

You have three main lovely Christmas Markets: one at Münsterplatz , one at Barfüsserplatz, and the Adventsgass in Glaibasel . Each has its own charm – but you will always have mulled wine and some great snacks.

Get in the festive mood with all the lights and Christmas atmosphere – and does not the town hall look even more beautiful with the giant Christmas tree in front of it? Kids can also enjoy their time at the Fairy Takke Forest – or hop on the Christmas Tram or the Christmas Ferry. Here is my detailed Basel winter itinerary .

• The Christmas Markets are open for about 4 weeks, often starting at the end of November and open until Christmas.

Ride a Velogemmel

Recommended by  The World Pursuit

Dozens of ski resorts and villages worldwide all try to come up with interesting winter activities for the less ski/snowboard enthusiasts.

A mountain village in Switzerland is home to something unique. That’s where you find the Velogemmel in Grindelwald and where you probably will fall in love with the wooden bike.

The Velogemmel was made in the small town of  Grindelwald for the postman to deliver mail in the winter. It’s been around for over a hundred years, and the best way to describe it is a wooden bike with two small sled edges instead of tires.

You can try it any time of day, but for a real blast, take it to the sled trails at night after an evening fondue in a small mountain hut nearby.

The course they have set up can get quite intense and steep at times, but it quickly mellows out for a reliever. It is a great way for families to get away from skiing and snowboarding and try something just slightly different while in the Swiss Alps!

• You can rent the wooden bikes for around 15 CHF from the train station in Grindelwald, which gives you access to hours of fun on the mountain if you want it. Check out the Grindelwald in winter guide for more travel tips.

Winter Kayaking in Lake Brienz

Recommended by  Awara Diaries

Whether you’re on a romantic holiday or a family vacation, a perfect bonding activity for you can be Winter Kayakin g. It is one of those off-beat experiences you can also enjoy in Switzerland during the winter period.

The snow-capped Swiss Alps look extremely beautiful in the winter, especially when you see their reflection fall on the clear waters of Lake Brienz . Winter Kayaking is an excellent group activity that gives you a chance to bond, have fun, and enjoy the Swiss Alps’ serene beauty.

You can take up Winter Kayaking by booking a High Tide Kayaking School tour in Boningen, about 30 minutes from Interlaken. On this tour, you can go kayaking in small groups across the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz .

In case you’re worried about freezing in the cold, the high-quality dry suits are extremely effective in keeping you warm and dry in the course of this activity.

Typically, the tour lasts for 3 hours, although it is advisable to dedicate half a day to this activity, including the travel and preparation time from Interlaken. 

• Winter Kayaking in Lake Brienz is a highly rejuvenating activity with value for money!
• Check out tours and prices here.
• Here are more tips for Interlaken in the winter.

Ski from Zermatt to Italy

Recommended by  A Pair of Passports

Not only is Zermatt a great winter destination on its own, but it is connected to Breuil-Cervinia. This means that people can ski from Switzerland into Italy for the day. Buying an international ski pass in Zermatt allows skiers to use all lifts on both the mountain’s Swiss and Italian sides.  

Go to the top of the mountain, ski down into Italy, enjoy an Italian lunch, and then ski back to Switzerland at the end of the day.

There is more than one way to get to Italy , but the recommended way is to take the gondola from Zermatt up to Trockener Steg. From there, switch to the lift that goes up to Klein Matterhorn. Klein Matterhorn is at the very top, and there is a café there for any skiers that need a refreshment or a break before starting the journey to Italy! Exit Klein Matterhorn station and just start skiing, following the signs to the Italian side.

Once on the Breuil-Cervinia side of the mountain, it’s essential to stop and eat Italian food. Chalet Etoile is a very popular and picturesque spot with delicious pasta. Cervinia offers some stunning, wide pistes, which make for a great day out of skiing.

You can spend the day skiing on the Cervinia side, but keep an eye on the time not to miss the last lift back to Zermatt! After a long day of skiing in Cervinia and back to Zermatt, Zermatt offers a range of great après ski spots – Cervo, Hennu Stall, and Papperla are some of the best rated.

There are no passport stamps involved, but spending a ski day in two countries is a fun, unique thing to do in Switzerland in the winter!

• Click here to read my tips on the best places to stay in Zermatt , or check out my Zermatt winter guide .

Visiting the Jungfraujoch

Recommended by Arzo Travels

The Jungfraujoch, a saddle in the Alps connecting two four-thousander, is one of Switzerland’s main attractions. 

The Jungfraujoch, standing at 3,454 meters above sea level, is a UNESCO World Heritage site . It is fun for people of all ages. While there is snow at any time of the year (yes, even in the summer), winter is the perfect time to visit.

Hop on a cogwheel train to visit the highest train station in Europe (thus it is also known as the Top of Europe ), and spend a full day up in the mountains – enjoy the views of the stunning Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains at the Sphinx Observation Desk , stroll the Ice Palace , learn about the history of Jungfraujoch in Alpine Sensation , or just play in the snow high in the mountains.

This place is full of activities and attractions, so it’s no surprise that it is such a popular place to visit. Of course, it is also one of the most popular areas to go skiing in the Grindelwald area and actually all of Switzerland.

You can book tickets from different train stations (hiking up there is almost impossible, regardless of the season) and access all of the mentioned places, like the Ice Palace.

While tickets aren’t cheap, it is an activity that keeps you busy the entire day and is such a unique experience. Read my post that includes much more details on Jungfraujoch.

READ MORE: More things to do in Jungfrau/Interlaken

Winter Hikes at Aletsch Glacier

The Aletsch Glacier, nestled in the Swiss Alps, is the largest glacier in the Alps. Stretching over 23 kilometers, it’s a majestic river of ice, constantly flowing and reshaping the landscape. Its massive size, estimated at about 11 billion tons of ice, makes it a spectacular sight.

This glacier is not only a natural wonder but also a crucial indicator of climate change , as its gradual retreat over the years signals environmental shifts.

There are several vantage points to see this spectacular glacier – from Jungfraujoch you have great views but also from Eggishorn.

At the Eggishorn viewpoint in the Aletsch Arena, you’re treated to a panoramic spectacle: the entire 20-kilometer expanse of the Great Aletsch Glacier unfolds before you, along with the Konkordiaplatz and the iconic peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. You can even see the majestic Matterhorn Mountain from here.

Perched at the highest of the four viewpoints, 2,869 meters above sea level, this location also hosts the “Grand Tour of Switzerland” sign by Switzerland Tourism,

Once you get up to Eggishorn viewpoint via cable car, you can do some – more or less – easy winter hikes and enjoy the panoramas. And while it is also possible to do it during the summer months, the winter season makes the area even more amazing.

TIP: On my visit, the snow was quite deep (as is normal in the winter), and when I strayed from the path, I found myself sinking knee-deep into the snow. It’s important to be cautious and mindful of where you step in such conditions.

Visit the Arosa Gay Ski Week

Recommended by 2BT Travel

Each January, the Swiss Alps hosts one of the largest LGBT winter events in Europe. Arosa Gay Ski Week is now in its 15th year, and it offers a welcoming atmosphere for all LGBT people and allies in the gay-friendly village of Arosa .  

Skiing and snowboarding might be the main draw for most attendees, but the amazing lineup of events and activities throughout the week makes for an unforgettable experience.

Besides the daily group skiing available, attendees can enjoy activities like classical concerts, ice skating, nighttime fondue, and sledding, plus the infamous drag ski race, where the fastest pair in the race wins an amazing all-expenses-paid trip.  

The event attracts guests from more than 30 countries, with 500+ people attending the all-inclusive event. Arosa is accessible by both car or train, with direct connections from all major Swiss cities, by making a quick transfer to the town of Chur.  

Visit Mount Pilatus

Recommended by The Invisible Tourist  

Mount Pilatus in winter is the perfect place for those who want to experience this iconic mountain towering over Lucerne – a place that takes away the breath! So, you must go during your winter visit, too!

Get up via a gondola – the gondola ride itself is amazing – this alone is worth the trip.

If you are lucky, you will even see the sun peeking out from behind the clouds. Striking snow-capped mountaintops are visible all the way to the horizon and their icy blankets are glistening in the sunlight.  

It might also be surprising to see icicles taller than people suspended from the roof! During winter at the summit, it’s possible to rug up and admire the view from Pilatus Kulm Hotel, dine at the Bellevue Restaurant, and see various ice sculptures (if the weather permits). It’s just another reason to visit Switzerland in the winter months!

• With a Swiss Travel Pass, you can use public transportation for free and get a 50% discount on the Mount Pilatus gondola ride. Check out prices for the Swiss Travel Pass here.

Here are great tips on where to stay in Lucerne

Head Up Mount Titlis

By Wanderer Hubs

Of all the things to do in Switzerland in winter, indulging in snow activities at the popular Mount Titlis would be the best.

You can enjoy pure winter fun and all sorts of snow activities whilst gawking at the panoramic valley views. The sturdy cableways will bring you in comfort to altitudes up to 3,020 meters above sea level. You can then uncover the snowcapped landscapes and a whole lot of winter activities such as snowboarding, skiing, toboggan run, and scootering around the Titlis adventure park.

The excursion starts with you sitting in Europe’s first-ever rotating cable car , which is an experience. It rotates 360 degrees within a short span of a 5-minute journey. Just make sure you stand next to the window, so you do not miss out on scenic pictures.

Further on your glacier excursion, you can enter a glacier cave. Or try out the Ice Flyer chair lift or walk the cliff walk.

When you are done exploring the cave, simply hit the slopes. If skiing and snowboarding aren’t something that entices you much, sledding surely will.

Sleds can be used free of charge, so it is no wonder tourists are flocking here as it is one of the best places to visit in the winter.

• Click here to find tickets for this great activity in winter.
• With a Swiss Travel Pass, you can use public transportation for free and get a 50% discount on the Mount Titlis cable car. Check out prices for the Swiss Travel Pass here.

Go Snowboarding in Portes du Soleil

Recommended by A World to Travel 

Portes du Soleil’s ski domain – which includes twelve resorts between Mont Blanc in France and Lake Geneva in Switzerland – is one of the best in that mountain range and the perfect one to enjoy the Swiss landscapes the country is famous for.

It is also especially good for snowboarding, where crowds (unless on public holidays) are non-existent and the runs are quite enough for a week of fun.

In fact, it has more than 650 km of marked pistes for all levels , 30 snowparks, 286 ski slopes, and 196 lifts in total, which make Portes du Soleil one of the largest ski areas in the world. Champéry, Champoussin, Morgins, Les Crosets, and Torgon, some of them with amazing views of the famous Dents du Midi (3257 meters) and Dents Blanches (2756 meters) are in the Swiss part.

It usually opens around mid-December until April. Getting there isn’t difficult if you fly to Geneva or via Zurich.

• Prices can get significantly higher if you book a hotel room and choose busy dates like Christmas or Easter.

Explore St.Moritz – Where Winter Sports Started

The gorgeous Engadine Valley and its famous daughter St.Moritz is where it all started: Where the winter sports and tourism started.

Winter tourism traces its origins back to 1865, with St. Moritz as its cradle. It all started with winter sports like ice skating, curling, and sledding before skiing made its way to the Engadine.

The Chantarella cable car, connecting St. Moritz to the mountain, was inaugurated in 1913. Fast forward to 1928, St. Moritz hosted the first Winter Olympic Games , coinciding with the launch of the Corvigliabahn – a pioneering ski-exclusive lift of its era.

This innovation was soon followed by the establishment of the first Swiss Ski School Association in the village. Today, the Engadine Valley stands as a premier ski destination. From cross-country skiing, snowboarding, ice-skating in Lake Sils, and more – here you can enjoy fantastic panoramic views, White Christmas, and all kinds of outdoor activities.

So, if you miss out on St.Moritz in the winter, you truly miss out on one of the most beautiful Swiss winter destinations. Check out my guide on St.Moritz in the winter to find out why it is one of my all-time favorite winter holidays and why you should add it to your bucket list as well.

Visit Montreux Noel Christmas Market

Recommended by  Simpler and Smarter

Montreux Noel should be top of your list if you visit at the end of November to Christmas and love some Christmas spirit.

This festival takes part in Montreux and its surroundings in the month leading up to Christmas. It’s easy to get to the center of Montreux via train, and you can walk to many of the attractions from there. The main event is the Christmas market ! It spreads out along Lake Geneva, and there are tons of stalls, food, and drink. The best time to visit is in the evening when Santa also rides across the lake regularly – it makes for quite a sight!

There are also many other attractions and events, like celebrating a medieval Christmas at the UNESCO-listed Chillon Castle , learning some new crafts (like candle making) at the Elves Village, eating a lot, or having a hot drink at the Lumberjack Village. There is also a light show in the evenings at Fairmont le Montreux Palace.

One of our favorite parts of this festival was visiting Santa Claus’ house up Rochers-de-Naye. At 2,042 meters above sea level, his house is located in a grotto reached by train.

It’s a very scenic ride up and down, and there are some activities and food at the top. There is also a very good chance of snow at the top, so this is a fun occasion to get some snow play in if there isn’t snow further down.

• With a Swiss Travel Pass, you can use public transportation and boats without any extra costs, and you get a 50% discount for the train ticket up to Rochers de Naye. The entrance ticket for Chillon Castle is also already included. Check out prices for the Swiss Travel Pass here.
• Find out about the best things to do in Montreux – besides visiting the Christmas market.

Ski – at Rocher de Naye

Recommended by The  Crowded Planet

Talking about Montreux! If you’re visiting in winter and like skiing, you shouldn’t miss heading to Rocher de Naye for a day on the slopes.

Getting there is half the fun. The comfortable train heads straight to the ski resort from Montreux station.

It’s fun to sit on the little train as it heads further and further up, with stunning views the whole way and Lake Geneva getting smaller behind you until it reaches the Rocher de Naye station.   Once you get there, just strap your skis on and… go! The slopes start right next to the train station, so you can spend the day skiing at will and then just head back down to Montreux by train when you’re tired.  

There are only a few slopes at Rocher de Naye, with two of them ideal for beginners, and there’s a chalet attached to the train station where it’s possible to get lunch or snacks, including lots of veggie options.

• Free travel with the Swiss Travel Pass (Flex) from Montreux to Haut-de-Caux, 50% discount from Haut-de-Caux to Rochers-de-Naye. Check out prices for the Swiss Travel Pass here.

Have Fun (Night) Sledding 

During winter, one favorite activity for many, even those who don’t ski is: sledding. While daytime sledding offers its own charm, night sledding elevates the experience to extraordinary heights.

Switzerland boasts several spots for this thrilling activity, but the Eiger Run stands out as a premier sledding route. This track stretches 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) from Alpiglen to Brandegg, featuring a steep section with gradients reaching 36 percent.

Weather and snow conditions permitting, you can enjoy a more relaxed descent all the way to Grindelwald. Plus, the nighttime views of Grindelwald Village add to its allure.

This spot isn’t just ideal for sledding; it’s also perfect for a Velo Gemel ride. 

But of course, there are many more places to go sledding in Switzerland – especially the Preda-Bergün has become extremely popular by locals and visitors alike.

Embark on a legendary journey along the world-renowned railway tracks (part of the Bernina Express and Glacier Express train ride), leading to an exhilarating toboggan adventure.

It begins in Preda, where the pace starts off gently, then quickly transforms into a thrilling, winding descent. You’ll glide under viaducts and along the Alvra, eventually arriving smoothly in Bergün.

The toboggan ride, commencing at an altitude of 1,800 meters in Preda, takes you on a 400-meter vertical drop to Bergün. It’s an unforgettable tobogganing experience that etches itself into your memory.

INFO: For some of the sledding experiences, you have to buy extra tickets.

Enjoy an Epic Train Ride – Bernina Express

By Arzo Travels

I do not even try to hide my love for train riding in Switzerland. There are some epic train routes – and in Switzerland, the journey is indeed the reward if you take one of the “express train rides.”

My favorite train ride in the winter – without question – is the Bernina Express train ride. It is pretty epic in summer…but in winter, it is even more mind-blowing.

The scenery is like a dream come true (while you stay warm), and the window views could not be any better.

The train ride takes quite long but the scenery is (almost) always stunning. My most favorite window views in winter are from Poschiavo to Ospizio Bernina. ..oh wait, I actually cannot really say what I liked the most because I was constantly overwhelmed.

• With a Swiss Travel Pass, you can use public transportation for free. This includes the “ Bernina Express . There is a reservation fee, though. However, if you use the local trains (that are exactly the same but have no panoramic windows which are a bit larger) you do not have to pay anything on top.  Check out prices for the Swiss Travel Pass here.

Get Up Mount Rigi

Compared to the other popular mountain in Lucerne, Mount Pilatus, Mount Rigi is much quieter, and there are fewer activities. You could still do a few winter sports activities (like sledding or snowshoe hiking) and if you are in Lucerne and do not visit Mount Rigi, you are missing out! 

TIP: Do a scenic boat cruise from Lucerne to Vitznau and then take the cogwheel up to Mount Rigi. The ride itself is impressive – it is one of the most beautiful landscapes in all of Switzerland. 

• In 2023, you can use the cogwheel up to Mount Rigi without any extra costs if you are a Swiss Travel Pass holder. Even the boat cruise is included in the Swiss Travel Pass.
• Check out my post with the most beautiful mountain views in Switzerland

Here are more travel tips for your trip to Switzerland:

• Best things to do in Switzerland (in spring, summer, and fall).
• Wondering about the most beautiful places in Switzerland ? Here are my picks.

Cozy Spa Time 

Explore the hidden treasures of Switzerland with its luxurious spas and thermal baths, nestled in locations ranging from quaint villages to vibrant cities. For a rejuvenating experience, the Zurich Thermal Baths & Spa is a must-visit.

Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting this spa. Although photography was not permitted, the views from the outdoor thermal pool were stunning, and the indoor pools provided the perfect respite from a chilly December day.

The vistas are truly breathtaking, a beauty I only discovered after years of missing out. Surprisingly, the entry fee is quite reasonable, starting at around CHF 36, less than I had anticipated. You can find more information about their pricing online .

For those seeking an even more luxurious experience, consider the Tamina Therme in Bad Ragaz. This spa combines traditional spa culture with a modern sauna landscape, offering an upscale and serene environment. 

AMAZING SWISS WINTER ACTIVITIES – FINAL THOUGHTS

Switzerland is perfect to visit at any time of the year – in summer, you can do gorgeous hikes that offer breathtaking views and picnics at one of the lakes and many more fun things, but winter in Switzerland is also an amazing time to visit. Whether you are into winter sports or not – there are tons to do in winter.

Switzerland’s winter landscape offers an enchanting mix of frosty mountain peaks, cozy alpine villages, and exhilarating winter sports. From the majestic Alps to the charming lowlands, each region presents its unique charm, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

It is a perfect winter destination for basically anyone who wants to experience snowy Europe at its best!  We hope these tips have helped you find the perfect activities for your Switzerland winter trip! 

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Why this Austrian Alpine town makes the ultimate summer weekend break

When it comes to legendary winter destinations, the Austrian resort of Kitzbühel is a firm fixture on most lists. But summer sees this historic town and its surrounding peaks blossom into an Alpine adventure playground, primed for a short three-day getaway.

In skiing circles, there are few destinations more famous than Kitzbühel, best known for the hair-raising Hahnenkamm downhill ski race — a test of speed and courage that draws crowds of around 50,000 each January. But once the snow melts, this picturesque mountain town is arguably more alluring, with a medieval town centre that provides character and culture in spades. Speckled with wildflowers, cloaked in summer greens and punctuated with turquoise lakes, the surrounding slopes also offer plenty to explore, whether you’re a hiker, biker or swimmer. And it's all easy to reach too — the town is served by Innsbruck, Salzburg and Munich airports, making it an ideal short break option for visitors from the UK. Here’s how to make the best of a three-day stay.

Day 1: a gentle start

Morning As soon as you set foot on the cobbled Vorderstadt, you’ll realise this is no ordinary mountain resort. Kitzbühel has a long and storied history, most evident in the medieval architecture that dominates its pedestrianised core. The towering, 14th-century church of Katharinenkirche is the most obvious example, but peek around to the handsome white hotel behind it and you’ll find the Goldener Greif , which dates back to 1270. This sophisticated hotel was once a stable, in the days when Kitzbühel was a staging post on the road to Venice. After a cup of coffee, it’s time to browse Kitzbühel’s most eye-catching shops. Frauenschuh is the town’s very own deluxe fashion brand, while Gössl is the place for lederhosen and dirndls. Nearby, you’ll also find several bakeries and delis in which to stock up on lunch.

Afternoon Kitzbühel’s favourite swimming lake is the Schwarzsee , one-and-a-half miles from the heart of the town. Thankfully, this is no normal glacial Alpine dip — the waters here average 21 degrees in summer and have been known to reach up to 27. Head to the Alpenhotel Kitzbühel , which has its own diving platforms on the lake and is easily reached by train or bus from town. Or for a real sense of serenity, take a picnic to the meadows to the north and make the most of the invigorating Alpine air.  

Evening It won’t surprise you to learn that Kitzbühel’s summer nightlife is relatively relaxed, particularly compared to its apres-ski scene. But wander the town’s historic core and you’ll soon find a bar to suit your mood. Try the Reisch Bar for cocktails, or the Leo Hillinger wine bar for a cool, crisp glass of Austrian white.

Day 2: hit the heights

Morning Kitzbühel is home to over 600 miles of hiking trails, many of which make use of the resort’s off-duty ski lifts. A highlight is the six-mile Weisskopfkogel ascent, which rises steadily through fresh summer pastures, before sharpening into a breathtaking ridge walk on the final approach to the summit. If you don’t know where to start, join one of the free guided hikes organised throughout the week by both KitzSki and Kitzbühel Tourismus , or hire a private guide for a more bespoke experience.

Afternoon Kitzbühel offers plenty of opportunities to continue the outdoor adventures after lunch, but this time on two wheels. For road cyclists, the area offers around 750 miles of well-maintained routes, from the Kitzbüheler Horn — Austria’s steepest bike route — to gentler lakeside options. Mountain bikers will be in their element, too, with countless MTB tours and singletracks for all abilities. And summer provides the prime opportunity to tackle the iconic Hahnenkamm on two wheels rather than two skis. The four-and-a-half-mile Hahnenkamm Bike Trail is a local favourite, thanks to its natural terrain features and playful passages. Legs tired from all the activity? Hire an e-bike instead and take on one of the area’s many waymarked circuits, such as the 17-mile Rettenberg Runde , which runs through lush farmland and into neighbouring Reith, where picturesque cafes provide welcome refreshment.

Evening   Kitzbühel’s culinary scene has few rivals in the Austrian Alps and there’s no better time to put it to the test than after a day’s Alpine activity. Berggericht — right in the middle of town — is the prime pick for gastronomes, named one of Austria’s ‘Newcomers of the Year’ in the 2023 edition of the Gault & Millau guide.

Day 3: rest and relax

Morning On Sundays, forgo the lie-in for a one-hour class at Naturlich Yoga , which takes place on a large wooden platform at the Bio Yoga Hof, just outside Kitzbühel. Then, head for a well-earned pampering at one of the town’s many luxurious hotel spas, such as Spa-Rosa at the A-Rosa hotel. A World Spa Award winner among Austrian resorts for 2023, this stunning spot is home to five saunas and a magnificent two-level pool room.

Afternoon There’s no better way to end your stay in Kitzbühel than with a meal on the terrace of a mountain restaurant, with hearty Austrian food on your plate and unparalleled Alpine views rolling out from the edge of your table. If time is short, squeeze in a meal at Hochkitzbühel on the Hahnenkamm — a quick gondola ride from town. Here, dishes such as goulash soup, wiener schnitzel and apple strudel come with an eyeful of the Kitzbüheler Horn or the Grossglockner — Austria’s highest mountain.

Related Topics

• SHORT TRIPS
• CITY GUIDES

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