switzerland travel october

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• Switzerland In October: See What Makes It A Great Time To Explore This Paradise

22 Dec 2021

There’s no one in the world who hasn’t dreamt of tasting the jaw-dropping beauty of Switzerland in their life. Be it hopeless romantics looking for the perfect honeymoon destination or adventure enthusiasts seeing adrenaline-fueling experiences, the dreamy land of the Swiss welcomes all with open arms. And while most prefer to travel to Switzerland in the blissful Spring and Summer seasons, we would suggest otherwise. They may be a great time to explore this beautiful nation, but they’re also the most crowded. So, when should you go? Let us answer that by mentioning below all the great things in store for those visiting Switzerland in October, the Fall season.

Weather In Switzerland In October

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While the best time to visit Switzerland is between April and June (summer) and between December and March (winter), the autumn season in September and October too provide a rather pleasant climate for exploring this country. It is marked by cool winds and infrequent showers in various cities and towns.

The temperature in Switzerland in October is somewhat unpredictable. While the average temperature in high altitude places like St Moritz can be around 5 degree Celsius, that in low lying areas like Lugano will be about 12 degree Celsius, so pack accordingly.

Why To Visit Switzerland In October 2022

If you travel to Switzerland in the month of October, you’ll be able to enjoy the following perks:

• The weather is sublime
• There is less to no crowd
• Prices of popular hotels are at an all time low
• Mountain hiking begins

How To Reach Switzerland In October From India

The land distance between India and Switzerland is about 6900 km. You can easily take a flight from the major metros of India including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai to the International Airports at Zurich, Basel, and Geneva. All of these Swiss cities are well connected to each other by buses and Eurail. Therefore, getting around in Switzerland will be child’s play!

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Things To Do In Switzerland In October

Find out what all you can do when you’re vacationing in Switzerland in the autumn season with your friends and family.

1. Rhine Falls – Boating

The massive Rhine Falls is one of the best places in Switzerland in October. Located on the Swiss-German border in Schaffhausen, it owes its fame to its breathtaking beauty and an adventurous boat ride that takes you in the waterfall for a split moment and drenches you from head to foot. There is also an elevator for a top view of the waterfall other than various viewing platforms. The gushing water of the waterfall provides a great backdrop for some romantic moments with your better half if you’re on your honeymoon in Switzerland in October.

Location: Rheinfallquai, 8212 Neuhausen am Rheinfall Southern Banks entry fee: INR 330 per person

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2. Lugano – Autumn Festival

The Autumn Festival in Switzerland takes place in the month of October and is distinguished by colors, music, and food. It is essentially the Swiss way of welcoming the Autumn season and everyone in the country celebrates it joyously with their close friends and family members with a grand feast and wine. This three-day-long celebration makes up for one of the most exciting festivals in Switzerland in October where locals and travelers get to taste the best of the local cuisine as well as various awesome wines from Ticino. The streets are lined with grottos and an autumn market is set up to sell local food products and handicrafts.

Location: Piazza Della Riforma, 6900 Lugano, Schweiz Event dates: 1-3 October, 2022

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3. Grindelwald – Skiing

Travelers wait every year to go skiing in Switzerland in October since this is the time that this activity commences in the Alps. The BodmiARENA set in the heart of Grindelwald is a famous winter sports hotspot that allows people to indulge in snow sports like skiing and sledding in the confines of an absolutely safe environment. If you’re traveling to Switzerland at this time, you cannot miss this exciting feat in the snow in Switzerland in October. Skiing in BodmiARENA is one of the most popular things to do in Switzerland .

Location: Terrassenweg 104, 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland

8 Enticing Festivals In Switzerland For Mirth And Merriment In 2022!

4. Matterhorn – Cable Car Ride

Want some eye-catching panoramic views of the snow-capped Swiss Alps? Well, you should definitely try riding in the delightful cable car that will take you to the heights of the stunning Matterhorn peak. Ideal for both honeymooners and families with kids, this activity will give you gorgeous views of Switzerland from the top that will be etched in your memory forever! Other than the splendid views, you can also bask in the peace and serenity of this place or go skiing on one of the longest ski runs in Europe.

Location: Zermatt Timings: 8:30 AM – 5 PM Starting price: INR 750/-

Hiking In Switzerland: A Guide For Embarking On A Journey With Splendid Views In 2022!

5. Zermatt – Hiking

Looking for more adventure? You can go hiking in Switzerland in October. The autumn season is a great time to go hiking and trekking in the hills and mountains of Switzerland. You can choose to take the Matterhorn hike where you will essentially be hiking downhill from Sunnegga to Findeln and Zermatt in the massive Matterhorn mountain. Hikers and trekkers particularly love this hike for all the picture-perfect views this mountain offers in the Swiss Alps.

Location: Sunnegga

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6. St. Gallen – Thermal Spa

The temperature starts to drop in Switzerland in October end since the winter season is around the corner. It’s a great time to indulge in some relaxing and enlivening thermal baths and spa. The tiny villages of Valens and Vasön in St. Gallen has just recently turned into a thriving holiday and health resort with various spa hotels and clinics that have thermal pools. The water that feeds these pools comes from the Tamina Gorge and usually has a soothing temperature of about 36.5°C. These pools are equipped with bubble beds, solarium, sauna, and massage jets to elevate the spa experience for visitors! Other than this, you can also choose to stay at the Thermalbad & Spa Zürich whose Irish-Roman spa with steam baths and shallow pools is simply out of this world!

Location: Pfäfers, St. Galle, Switzerland Starting price: CHF 34-78

10 Magnificent Castles Of Switzerland That Will Make You Feel Like A Time Traveler

Why wait? Get down to packing for Switzerland in October right away if you wish to grab great deals and discounts on your vacation in Switzerland via TravelTriangle. And once you’re back from your holiday, don’t forget to tell us all about your fabulous experience!

Disclaimer:  TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Switzerland In October

Is October a good time to visit Switzerland?

Yes, October is a great time to visit Switzerland. The weather is pleasant during this month and there aren’t a lot of tourists, thus not too crowded during this month.

Is it cold in Switzerland in October?

The average temperatures lie between 5° C to 16° C during the month of October. Higher elevations have even lower temperatures, so one should plan and pack accordingly.

What should I buy in Switzerland?

If you are planning on shopping in Switzerland, then here are a few items to shop for: 1. Cuckoo Clock 2. Swiss watches 3. Swiss chocolate 4. Wine & Cheese

Is Switzerland worth visiting?

The beautiful landscape from the Alpine range to the lush green valleys, and the rustic towns with urban facilities, make Switzerland an amazing travel destination. In fact it is one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world.

What clothes should one wear in Switzerland in October?

As it is the fall in October in Switzerland, one should pack full sleeved clothes and a light jacket for early mornings and late evenings.

Which is the most beautiful city in Switzerland?

Bern, the capital city of Switzerland, known for its old world charm and architecture, is one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland.

Is Switzerland expensive to visit?

Yes, Switzerland is an expensive country to visit and its cities Geneva and Zurich are in the list of the world’s 10 most expensive cities.

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Home » Destinations

October in Switzerland – 10 Best Destinations for Fall

• Switzerland

• Last Updated: 23 Aug 2022
• By Tanya, Founder of Swiss Family Fun

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

October can be a wonderful time to visit Switzerland, with smaller crowds and beautiful fall colors. In many areas, the hills turn a bright orange, the golden larch trees turn bright yellow, and the blueberry bushes turn red. Hiking during this time can be absolutely spectacular if you time it right and get lucky on the weather. Below are the best destinations for an October holiday in Switzerland.

What to expect in October in Switzerland

1. engadin st moritz in october, 2. zermatt in october, 3. lucerne in october, 4. jungfrau region in october, 5. interlaken & bernese oberland in october, 6. valais in october, 7. zürich & eastern switzerland in october, 8. northwest – aargau & jura in october, 9. lugano & locarno in october, 10. montreux in october.

Need more help choosing fall hikes? Buy our premium fall guide with interactive map, 100+ things to do & itineraries.

Mountain resorts typically take a break between summer and winter season, usually from late October to mid December, some as early as late September. So it’s important to check opening times of cable cars, restaurants and amusements before planning your itinerary. 

Weather is October is unpredictable. Sometimes we have beautiful sunny skies for several days. Other times, we have weeks of rainy, grey days. We suggest checking the weather forecast on Meteo Swiss and Search.ch . Always have a plan B for poor weather. 

Switzerland often has snowstorms in early October, but the snow usually melts after a couple days and you can continue hiking for a few more weeks. But even with clear weather, you should always check the trail status, webcams, weather to verify that the trail is not covered in snow, under construction, or otherwise not a good idea.

My top choice for fall in Switzerland would be the Engadin region near St Moritz. If you get lucky on the weather and time it just right, this place will knock your socks off! Last year, we spent a long weekend there in mid October and fell in love the golden larches. I loved it so much, I convinced a friend to go back a couple days later and hike more.

Top autumn hike suggestions for Engadin:

• Lake Staz walk
• Lake Cavloc
• Morteratsch glacier
• Val da Camp

Engadin mountain railway closing dates :

• Corvatsch & Diavolezza: 21 Oct 2022
• Furtschellas, Corviglia – Piz Nair, Muota Muragls: 23 Oct 2022

If you stay at a participating hotel, you get the Mountain Railways Included pass, which includes all mountain railways in the region. At some hotels, you’ll a upgraded pass that also include public transportation.

Zermatt is absolutely gorgeous in fall, with pretty orange grass and many hillsides filled with golden larch trees.  At the lower elevations, you’ll see a beautiful mix of colors, with red blueberry bushes adding in red.  Late September and early October can be a good time to visit Zermatt, if the weather cooperates. 

Some Zermatt mountain railways, restaurants, and attractions start to close as early as the first week of October. Since the Gornergrat cogwheel train is open year round, this area is your best option for October in Zermatt. We suggest these trails for autumn hiking in Zermatt:

• Gornergrat – Riffelsee – Riffelalp  
• Three lake hike: Riffelalp to Sunegga : This is an adaptation of the 5 Lake Hike, removing the need to use the Rothorn cable car. 
• Zermatt – Gorner Gorge – Furi hike : Starts in Zermatt village and doesn’t require a cable car. Many beautiful golden larch trees on this one. On the way, walk through the Gorner gorge which is open through 16 Oct 2022.
• Glacier garden trail  

Zermatt mountain railways closing dates :

• open year round – Gornergrat Railway & Zermatt – Füri – Trockenersteg – Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
• 8 Oct 2023 – Füri-Schwarzsee and Sunnegga-Blauherd-Rothorn
• 15 Oct 2023 – Zermatt-Sunnegga funicular

Note that Zermatt ski season starts beginning of December.

Lucerne is probably your safest option during October. If you want fantastic views without hiking, all the big destination peaks are open all of October, including Mt Rigi , Mt Pilatus , Titlis , and Stanserhorn . The Lake Lucerne region has also many lower elevation hikes that are often open through mid November. It’s also a good area for families, with lots of activities for children including theme trails, mountain scooters, mountain coasters, and climbing parks.

Some of our favorite autumn hikes near Lucerne:

• Rigi Panorama Trail
• Engelberg Trübsee & Mt Titlis
• Stoos Ridge Trail
• Niederrickenbach to Stockhütte
• Wild hay trail
• Sattel Engelstock Panorama Trail

See also my 20 Most beautiful hikes near Lucerne

While the mountain trains to the popular tourist destination Jungfraujoch runs year round, the rest of the region is winding down in October. The fall colors can be very beautiful here, especially contrasted against the snowy peaks. So early October can still be a nice time to visit if you pick the right activities. 

Top autumn hiking suggestions for Jungfrau Region:

• Mürren Mountain View Trail (through 9 Oct 2022)
• Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg
• Schynige Platte

Here are the Jungfrau Region closing dates:

• 9 Oct 2022 – Lauterbrunnen-Grütschalp
• 16 Oct 2022 – Mürren-Allmendhübel funicular
• 23 Oct 2022 – Grindelwald First, Pfingstegg, Grindelwald-Männlichen, Schynige Platte 
• 13 Nov 2022 – Mürren-Schlithorn

The Bernese Oberland region, with Interlaken at the center, has many mountains to explore during October. The popular Oeschinensee is a bit quieter in fall and is one of the few places with golden larch trees on this side of the alps. Peaks like Niesen and Niederhorn keep their mountain transport and panorama restaurants open well into November. As long as it doesn’t snow, you can also hike on these mountains, with amazing views across lakes and valleys. 

Top autumn hiking suggestions near Interlaken:

• Oeschinensee – if the panorama trail isn’t open, you can still visit the lake
• Hasliberg storybook and marble run trails
• Niederhorn ridge trail

See more great hikes near Interlaken

The Valais/Wallis valley in southern Switzerland is known as the sunniest part of this country. So even if temperatures are cold, you should get gorgeous views. The top choice for fall in this area is the golden larch forests near Aletsch Arena and the Löschental valley. Some mountain areas in the Valais close quite early in the season, some even in mid September. So choose your home base carefully. 

Autumn hikes in the Valais:

• Aletsch forest trail (with suspension bridge)
• Lötschberg panorama trail + Fafleralp
• Leukerbad valley walk
• Saas Fee autumn hikes
• Nendaz autumn hikes

There are so many great day trips from Zürich for fall colors! You won’t find golden larch trees in eastern Switzerland, but you will find maple trees that turn bright red. It can be a little tricky to catch the colors at their brightest, so check the webcams before heading out. Usually the third week of October is peak season. 

Autumn hikes near Zürich:

• Atzmännig panorama trail
• Braunwald panaorama trail
• Seealpsee alpine lake
• Zugerberg kids theme trail
• Rhine valley vineyards

See more autumn hikes near Zürich

The lower elevations of the “pre-Alps” regions in northern Switzerland make it ideal for autumn hiking. You can access many trails without cable cars, so you don’t have to worry about closing times. One of my favorite fall hikes is at Wasserfallen, shown above. The trail hikes along the forested ridge, with spectacular colors if you catch it right.Autumn hikes in northwest Switzerland:

• Wasserfallen
• Creux du Van
• Areuse Gorge
• Weissenstein

Autumn can be a bit milder in the Ticino region of southern Switzerland than in other regions. The lower elevation mountain near the lakes tend to stay open all of October and even into November. Temperatures can still be icy cold, especially in the shadows, so bundle up. 

Autumn hikes near Locarno and Lugano (all open to end of Oct, weather dependant):

• San Salvatore  
• Monte Generoso
• Monte Tamaro

During the fall harvest season, the terraced vineyards above Lake Geneva turn a golden yellow, a beautiful contrast to the blue water below. This can be a wonderful time to wander through the vineyards and do some wine tasting. You can visit the highest peak in the area, Rochers de Naye, year round. If it hasn’t snowed yet, there are lots of hikes with lake views that don’t rely on mountain railways.

Autumn activities near Montreux

• Lavaux Terrace Hike
• Rochers de Naye
• TAGS: Autumn , Fall Destinations , October

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

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Switzerland in October: Everything You Need to Know

If you’ve been thinking about a trip to Switzerland in October, you’ve come to the right place. We made this guide chock full of everything you need to know to have the perfect time.

October in Switzerland is the middle of fall and one of the most beautiful months for vacation. The weather is beautiful, with lows and highs around 40˚F to 60˚F (4.5˚C to 15.5˚C) in most towns. The countryside is covered in Autumn colors and the mountain peaks are topped with snow. October is a fantastic month for the outdoors and sightseeing. There are also a few resorts you could visit for early-season skiing.

No matter what you kind of Swiss trip you’re planning, the full splendor of Fall has come to Switzerland in the month of October and you’re in for a treat.

Switzerland Weather  in October

October is a beautiful month for visiting Switzerland as most of the country is beginning to cool off and make way for glittering snow on the mountain peaks and high altitude countryside – though it won’t be snowing just yet. Fall is a gorgeous season for vacationing in Switzerland as most of the country will be colored with changing leaves and browning vegetation.

Temperatures will be comfortably cool this month but can vary drastically depending on the region you’ll be visiting – and if you happen to be traveling through many different climates and areas, it’s best to pack for both warm and cold weather.

Generally, you can expect October to be mild and breezy. Be prepared by looking into the altitude of the cities you’re visiting, since this will often dictate the expected temperature and weather. Low altitude cities like Zurich will see lows and highs of around 43˚F to 57˚F (6˚C to 14˚C), while high altitude places such as Zermatt, will see averages of around 33˚F to 50˚F (1˚C to 10˚C).

Average October Temperature in Switzerland (By City)

Switzerland snow & skiing  in october.

Snow is often seen on the mountain peaks and is frequently coating higher altitude areas of the country. The snow quality is pretty light and fluffy and won’t come to the lower altitude regions until next month, but a rare flurry may not be out of the ordinary. The glaciers are always snowy, but they’ll increase in stability and allow for more pistes to open over the course of October. 

Many people aren’t traveling or skiing during this time of the year, which means ski slopes won’t be crowded at all. However, since snowfall hasn’t quite hit the country in full force, there are only a few places where you can have a great ski vacation this month. These include the glaciers at Zermatt, Saas-Fee, Titlis of Engelberg, and Diavolezza near St. Moritz.

Don’t worry, we cover everything you need to know about which places make the best October ski destinations in the next few sections.

Average October Snowfall in Switzerland (By Ski Resort)

Switzerland affordability & crowds in october.

October is great for a trip to Switzerland since it’s part of the low season after the rush of Summer visitors and before the flood of ski travelers. This means that airfare and lodging will be at a low this month, making a trip to Switzerland on a budget much more doable.

However, it’s always worth noting that Switzerland is not known for being a “cheap” vacation at any point in the year, so prices on food, tours and accommodations will often still be higher than other European countries.

With this in mind, October is best for the traveler who wants to experience the outdoor activities and beauty of Fall while saving a little money. Switzerland is beautiful most of the year, but the true magic comes when you get to experience the changing seasons on a lower budget.

Best Switzerland Ski Resorts in October 

The best places to ski in Switzerland in October are the glacier areas around the alps. These glaciers are the only places you can count on for year-round snow. We’ll take a look at what each has to offer and share a brief description of the villages and accommodations.

Zermatt is the best all-around ski resort that’s open 365 days a year. It’s got a charming, car-free village nestled at the base of the Matterhorn. The town has friendly residents and is relatively quiet in October. It still offers various outdoor activities like hiking, while accommodating guests with relaxing pools and spas, shopping and delicious dining options.

The slopes at Zermatt are great for all level of skiers. The top of the Klein Matterhorn run, which is the primary starting point for skiing in October, has excellent views of the Matterhorn and surrounding alps, with easy sloping runs that lead back to the village.

Saas-Fee may not have the altitude that Zermatt has, but it offers more in the way of expert and intermediate skiing than Zermatt does. This is a perfect place for brushing up on your skills before the start of the ski season, since there are very few people on the slopes and the multiple ski parks with jumps and bowls. 

The village is a great homebase for an early Fall ski trip, and will be much quieter this time of year. It will most likely be warm in comparison to the mountain temperatures. In addition to skiing, a trip to Saas-Fee could include hiking on beautiful trails, floating on the water, relaxing at the spa and or dining at one of multiple great restaurants.

Mount Titlis

The Titlis glacier is located atop Engleberg and is a very popular mountain for hiking during the warmer months. But the snowy peak will be available for skiing starting toward the end of October, when the conditions are better. This is a great option for visitors who are staying in or near Lucerne or in the Jungfrau region this month. 

The slopes here offer a variety of levels from beginner to expert. Kids can even feel comfortable, provided they stick to the less intense paths. Engelberg town is built around a medieval monastery which serves as the town center and main structure. The town is primarily focused on snow sports, but has a few fun attractions like community spas and a cheese factory.

St. Moritz is one of the most well-known Swiss ski resorts in the world, twice hosting the Winter Olympics. The Corvatsch ski area, in particular, is the best part of St. Moritz for very early season skiing. Winter sports are a popular pastime in St. Moritz and you’ll find tourists and locals participating in ice skating, sledding, Nordic skiing and even kite skiing. 

St. Moritz is good for all ski levels with plenty of varied terrain to accommodate beginners to experts. Thrill-seekers will love the Corviglia Snow Park which features 30 different obstacles, among other parks and ski areas in St. Moritz.

Diavolezza 

Diavolezza is a more advanced portion accessible from St. Moritz that is not for the faint of heart. It opens in early October and gives skiers the opportunity to spread their wings on adventurous off-piste runs with excellent snow quality. Powder hounds can get their fill of uncrowded backcountry skiing relatively close to the main Diavolezza ski area. 

The summit offers several delicious dining options though this is somewhat of an isolated ski destination. There is not much in the way of long-term accommodations, but it’s a great choice for adding onto your ski trip from St. Moritz. You can get to Diavolezza via train, car or bus.

Best Things to Do in Switzerland in October

October is the best time of year to experience the fullness of fall in Switzerland. There are lots of things to do, places to go and sights to see this month. We’ll highlight the best Switzerland has to offer for an October vacation, from touring the city streets to enjoying a wine or chocolate tasting.

Marvel at Medieval Basel

Basel is well known as an art and cultural hub, which conveniently sits on the Swiss border near France and Germany. It’s loaded with unique museums, art galleries and Medieval structures that should be even more beautiful in the sparkling Autumn sunlight. October is a great time to visit Basel since this otherwise busy city has a little lull in the Fall. 

Some of the best sites to put on your list should include Vitra Design Museum , Kunstmuseum , and the Spalentor Medieval Gate (which has free entry). The art-nouveau St. Paul’s Church, along with the gothic Basel Minster are incredibly relaxing and beautiful for touring. A stroll through the old town is a must, along with a peaceful walk down the Rhine River. You also won’t want to miss the popular Paper Mill which gives a history on the art of papermaking, writing and printing. 

Sip Wine at Lavaux Vineyard 

October is the peak of grape harvesting season in Switzerland. Though the country is not as famous for their wine as France or Italy, the local wines here are still divine in their own rite. There are several villages that specialize in wine production that also make great touring destinations, such as La Cote, Neuchatel and Praz. 

The best place to go, however, is Lavaux Vineyards on Lake Geneva . It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for the steep gradation vineyard which is only possible to harvest by hand. The vineyard hires temporary harvesters each year, so anyone planning to stay in the city for an extended time can call ahead for employment and lodging.

Visit Geneva 

While in the area, consider staying in Geneva, the home of Europe’s United Nations. This French-influenced city is rich in history and culture and offers a plethora of great activities for an October tourist. Geneva has many art, history and science museums to explore, including CERN which is the largest and highly esteemed scientific research center in the world. 

There are also some great day trips in the area like Chamonix, Montreux, Glacier 3000 and Chateau de Chillon , all a short boat or train ride away. Boat cruises are one of the number one suggested tours to participate in, where you can sail the waters of Lake Geneva while dining and learning about the city’s history. Chocolate tasting is another great pastime, which is offered at various factories and small businesses. 

Explore Bern 

Bern is the capital city of Switzerland and therefore very busy at peak season. However, October in Bern features beautiful autumn foliage and significantly quieter streets and restaurants. If you are planning to use Bern as a base for your Fall Switzerland trip, October is a great month to do it. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that some hotels and restaurants may take a short break this month before the high Winter season. 

This old world city offers lots of different activities, no matter what kind of fun you’re looking for. Lots of people will enjoy touring the Old Town, where you’ll find an abundance of original architecture dating back to the Medieval time period. Bern Minster and its Minster Terrace should be on your list of things to do in this area. 

The Einstein Museum is another great place to spend your time , and a tour through the Clock Tower or the “Zytglogge” is highly recommended. You can also get a comprehensive tour and learning experience with a short boat cruise along the Aare River, which flows through the city.

Boat Lake Thun & Lake Brienz 

Boat cruises in Switzerland are one of the top recommended activities in the country, since the Swiss lakes are pristine, calm and beautiful at almost any point in the year. October will be one of the last months to go before intense cold sets into the Southern regions of the country, and Lake Thun and Lake Brienz are great options to consider. 

Lake Thun was formed from a melted glacier after the Little Ice Age and has remained a significant lake in Switzerland ever since. The experience on Lake Thun will include a delicious meal with relaxing entertainment while sailing around romantic villages and giant mountains in the background.

Lake Brienz is a neighboring waterway that feeds into Lake Thun, featuring brilliantly turquoise water. It’s markedly unique color draws thousands of visitors each year. The paddle steamer runs regularly throughout the month and guests can choose their tour time based on the cuisine they would like for the journey.

Tour Oberhofen Castle

Oberhofen Castle is a gorgeous 13th century structure on the shoreline of Lake Thun. This romantic castle in the Bern canton is quite the beauty, appealing mainly to couples who want a unique old world experience. Tours take you through the renovated castle halls and should end with traditional Swiss fare at the castle restaurant that overlooks the water. There’s also a fun hidden photo spot located in the top tower smoking lounge.

October is the last month for visiting the castle before it closes. The season runs from May to October every year. If you plan to spend the day in Oberhofen, take a boat cruise to neighboring Thun on the Aare River. Thun has many scenic walks through the old town, down the historic covered bridges and over to Balliz Island where you can shop at the market and dine at several local cafes.  

Visit Lucerne 

Autumnal colored trees and the glistening waters of Lake Lucerne are two excellent reasons to visit Lucerne in October; but there’s also so much more! First, the old town, like most in Switzerland, has decorated painted architecture and several structures from the Medieval Ages that still stand. The Chapel Bridge, unique to Lucerne, is another relic from this era. And to get a really great view of the city, climbing one of the nine towers at Musegg Wall is the way to go.

Lucerne also has no shortage of great restaurants, museums, chocolate makers and watch stores. In addition to this, you won’t want to pass on a visit to the Glacier Garden with artifacts from the Ice Age . You can also find the Lion Monument attraction near the Garden, which is impeccably beautiful with the surrounding Fall foliage. 

Travel through Ticino 

Ticino is near Lucerne, but has a vastly different atmosphere. This Italian-speaking region of Southern Switzerland is home to Lake Lugano and sits on the Italian border. The city of Lugano is the Ticino region’s top recommended destination to visit. This is due in part to their Falconeria Locarno aviary, Galleria Baumgartner model train station and Monte San Giorgio fossil site, along with gorgeous churches and cathedrals.

In October, chestnut picking is one of the main attractions that visitors are invited to participate in. The tradition of chestnut picking was once a necessity for the peasants in Ticino, but now a celebrated point in the year for remembering the past. The “Chestnut Trail” in Malcantone is one option , while multiple chestnut picking tours from places like Ascano and Monte Caslano pair hiking with chestnut picking fun. 

Via Ferrata in Murren

October sends chilly winds and possible snow through the valley of Murren, making a risky via ferrata hike only possible for the experts and the most brave of heart. While the adventure is still possible, we recommend looking into a guided tour and choosing the sunniest day of your trip to go. Via ferrata is a fun experience anywhere, but nothing compares to via ferrata in the Swiss Alps . 

October is the very last month of the climbing season for this heart-pounding trek nearly 2000ft above the valley floor of the small town Murren. The 2.2km course is complete with tight ropes, suspension bridges and steep ladders which help you to traverse steep, rocky terrain from the valley floor to Gimmelwald on the other side of the mountain.

Visit Grindelwald 

Grindelwald is one of Switzerland’s Winter playgrounds that offers fun outdoor activities all year long. In October, the ski season will kick off, even if the entire area hasn’t yet been doused in snow. This is made possible at the Bodmi Arena, which is one of Switzerland’s largest beginner ski areas with lots of fun things for adults and children. Night skiing will even be available if the weather permits. 

Other great adventures include family fun like tobogganing, cliff walking, zip lining, and hiking. The quaint village of Grindelwald is also filled to the brim with iconic Swiss architecture, Germanic design, stony storefronts and rolling hills, giving you a gorgeous homebase for your travels through the Bernese mountains. From Grindelwald, you also gain access to the Jungfrau region and Lauterbrunnen via train.

Hike Swiss National Park

The Swiss National Park is Switzerland’s largest nature preserve, boasting 21 different walking trails. The hikes range from easy and short to long and difficult, with some trails closing in October due to weather. In addition to the hiking paths and the natural photo ops, the park also has outdoor sports facilities, mini-golf course and a wellness treatment spa for relaxation.

The highlight of visiting Swiss National Park in early October is the deer rutting season. Red deer come from all over the park to rut. The sounds of the red deer roaring along with the beautiful autumnal colors on the mountain make a trip in October truly special. You may also see the first snow and other critters scurrying around the trees and trails.

October Events in Switzerland

Foire du Valais

Foire du Valais is a huge trade market held in Martigny, Western Switzerland. Hundreds of thousands of visitors are in attendance for this enormous market, clamoring to see new products revealed and tested at the expo. The event has a different theme each year which highlights a particular industry of interest.

Festa d’Autunno

Festa d’Autunno is a festive food and wine celebration hosted in the lovely Southern city of Lugano. Traditional specialties are always offered to guests of this event, along with a delicious glass of local wine freshly pressed. However, there are always new things to try each year among the colorful stalls, shimmering lights and softly sunlit streets of this beautiful city.

Whether you head out onto the ski slopes for the first bit of the season or cruise the lakes of Brienz, Thun or Geneva, October is one of the most versatile months for a Swiss vacation. You’ll save some money on travel expenses this month, since it’s part of the shoulder season, plus you’ll get to have some fun doing both outdoor and indoor activities.

October in Switzerland is a truly spectacular time of year, so we would highly recommend taking advantage of the lower crowds and beautiful weather for your next vacation!

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

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

Switzerland in May: Everything You Need to Know

Switzerland in December: Everything You Need to Know

© 2024 by Roundtript

Is October a good time to visit Switzerland? 06 Best Places To Visit In Switzerland In October: A Picturesque Autumn Escape

Is October a good time to visit Switzerland? October is an incredible time to travel to Switzerland. This month the weather is good and there aren’t many visitors, so not too busy this month.

Are you planning to visit Switzerland in October for your upcoming vacation? If you have no idea about what are the best places to visit in Switzerland in October? Then this article will really help you.

It is a dream of almost all people in the world to experience the beauty and charm of Switzerland in their lives. Switzerland offers you everything that you are expecting.

Whether it’s desperate romantics seeking the ideal honeymoon spot or adventure lovers to see excitement-fueling activities, the Swiss dreamy land greets everybody with welcoming hands.

And though most choose the blissful Spring and Summer seasons to fly to Switzerland, we would recommend it differently.

They might have a wonderful time visiting this magnificent country, but they are the most crowded as well. So, when are you due to go? Let us respond by listing below all the great things in store for those who visit Switzerland in October .

What Is The Weather In Switzerland In October?

Although the great season to visit Switzerland is between April and June (summer) and between December and March (winter), the September and October autumn season also offers a wonderful climate for exploring this country.

It’s characterized by cool winds and rare showers in various towns and cities.

The temperature in Switzerland in October is somewhat unpredictable. While the average Switzerland temperature in October can be around 5 degrees Celsius in high-altitude places like St Moritz, it will be about 12 degrees Celsius in low-lying areas like Lugano, so pack accordingly.

Why Explore Switzerland In October 2023?

In October, if you travel to Switzerland , you will be able to enjoy the following benefits:

• Magnificent weather
• Less crowding and no crowd
• Popular hotel prices are all-time low
• Continues mountaineering

What Are the Things To Do In Switzerland In October?

Find out what you can do when you’re holidaying with your friends and family in the autumn season in Switzerland.

• Rhine Falls-Boat
• Lugano Festival of Autumn
• Grindelwald Skiing
• Matterhorn-Ride By Cable Car
• Zermatt-Walking
• St. Gallen-Hot Springs

1. Rhine Falls-Boat

One of the best destinations in Switzerland in October is the huge Rhine Falls .

Situated on the Swiss-German border in Schaffhausen, it wants to give its fame to its beautiful scenery and also an exciting boat ride that takes you for a short second into the waterfall as well as drains you from head to toe.

Other than different viewing points, there is also a lift for a peak shot of the waterfall. The waterfall’s flowing water offers a great backdrop for some romantic moments with your loved ones when you’re on your Swiss honeymoon in October.

Location: Neuhausen am Rheinfallquai, 8212 Entrance charge for Southern Banks: INR 330 per individual

Also Read : Best 7 Places To Visit In Italy In December

2. Lugano Festival of Autumn

Switzerland’s Autumn Festival takes place in the month of October and is also identified by food,  music as well as colors.

It’s basically Switzerland’s way of inviting the autumn season and everybody in the country cherishes it with a great feast and wine with their close friends and family.

This three-day calculation period is one of the most thrilling festivals in Switzerland in October , where residents and tourists get to experience the best of local food as well as numerous amazing Ticino wines.

The streets are also filled with grottos and a market is set up in the autumn to offer local food and handicraft goods.

Location: Piazza Della Riforma, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland Dates of the event: 29 September – 01 October 2023

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3. Grindelwald Skiing

Every year tourists wait to go skiing in Switzerland in October because this is the period this sport starts in the Alps.

Built-in the heart of Grindelwald, the BodmiARENA is a popular winter sports hotspot that allows individuals to engage in snow sports such as skiing and sledding inside the boundaries of an entirely secure setting.

If you are flying to Switzerland at this moment, in October in Switzerland you can not skip this thrilling feat in the air. Skiing at BodmiARENA is also among Switzerland’s most common activities to do.

Location: 104, 3818 Grindelwald Terrassenweg, Switzerland

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4. Matterhorn-Ride By Cable Car

Would you also like some eye-catching spectacular views of the snowy Swiss Alps? You certainly can try riding in the beautiful cable car that will carry you to the heights of the beautiful Matterhorn mountain.

Ideal for both honeymooners and families with children, this activity will give you amazing views of Switzerland from the top that will be carved forever in your memory!

Aside from the magnificent views, you can also relax in this place’s peace and serenity, or go skiing on one of Europe’s longest ski runs.

Standort: Zermatt Schedules: 8:30 AM-5 PM Starting price: CHF 90.50 per person.

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5. Zermatt-Walking

Want more adventure? You will go hiking in Switzerland in October . In the Swiss hills and mountains, the autumn season is also a great time to go hiking and trekking .

You may opt to go on the Matterhorn trek, where you can basically go downhill from Sunnegga to Findeln and Zermatt in the huge mountains of the Matterhorn.

Hikers and trekkers love this hike, especially for all the picture-perfect views this mountain provides in the Swiss Alps.

Location: Sunnegga

6. St. Gallen-Hot Springs

The temperature begins to drop in Switzerland in October end since the winter season is around the corner. It is also a wonderful time to engage in some soothing and invigorating spas and thermal pools.

Just recently, the tiny villages of Valens, as well as Vasön in St. Gallen, have become a thriving holiday and health resorts with various spa hotels and clinics that have thermal pools.

The water that fills these pools comes from the Tamina Gorge and is also normally around 36.5 ° C at a calming temperature.

However, some pools are equipped with bubble beds, saunas, solariums as well as relaxation jets to improve visitors’ spa experience!

Other than that, you can also choose to live at the Zürich Thermalbad as well as Spa, whose Irish-Roman spa with steam baths and shallow pools is absolutely out of this dimension!

Location: Pfäfers, St. Galle, Switzerland Starting Price: CHF 34-78

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How to Travel to Switzerland From the US?

• Get a U.S. passport
• Choose your point of departure. Switzerland is only reachable via direct flight from a select few cities, including New York and Washington, D.C., but you can get there from any international airport with one or two stops.
• Select an airline. Airlines from the United States, such as American, United, Delta, and U.S. Airways, fly to cities in Switzerland.
• Select the Swiss city where you will be arriving. The two airports in Switzerland that receive the majority of flights from the United States are Zurich International and Geneva International. Flights are also offered to Basel’s international airport. You can move from a big airport to the smaller ones in Lucerne, Bern, and Lugano.
• Purchase your ticket and make any further travel arrangements required. Ahead of time, book a hotel room or make plans to stay with family or friends.

How To Reach Switzerland In October From India? 

The land gap from India to Switzerland is some 6900 km. Quickly book a flight from India’s main metros, including Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, and Hyderabad, to Zurich, Basel, and Geneva International Airports. These Swiss cities are all well connected by bus and Eurail. Therefore, it will be like child’s play to get around in Switzerland!

Switzerland In October: Travel Tips

For an enriching experience in Switzerland, consider these LSI-optimized “Switzerland travel tips for October”:

• Book Accommodations Early: October is a popular travel season, so ensure you secure your accommodations well in advance.
• Pack Accordingly: Bring comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing, and rain gear for outdoor explorations.
• Swiss Travel Pass: Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats, along with free admission to numerous museums.
• Language Diversity: Switzerland has multiple official languages, so knowing a few basic phrases in German, French, and Italian can enhance your interactions with locals.
• Respect Nature and Culture: Be mindful of the environment and cultural norms during your stay to preserve the pristine beauty of Switzerland.

Packing Tips for October Travel In Switzerland

To make the most of your visit to Switzerland in October, pack smartly and be prepared for varying weather conditions.

• Layered Clothing: Layering clothes is the key to comfort. While afternoons might be pleasantly cozy, mornings and evenings can be chilly. Wearing layers allows you to change your outfit as the day goes on.
• Waterproof Gear : Carrying waterproof clothing, such as a rain jacket or umbrella , is necessary when there is irregular rain so that you can enjoy your outside activities without getting wet.
• Comfortable Footwear : It’s important to wear comfy shoes when exploring the Swiss countryside. Wear supportive and comfy shoes whether you intend to climb, explore towns, or travel to the mountains.

Top Destinations to Visit in Switzerland in October

Switzerland is a country of captivating beauty, and in October, its charm is even more pronounced. Here are some must-visit destinations:

• Zurich : Zurich, is the largest city in Switzerland, with a thriving arts community and a charming old town. Discover museums, art galleries, and charming cafes as you take in the vibrant energy of the city.
• Lucerne : The picturesque city of Lucerne, located in the Swiss Alps, is a delight for those who enjoy history and architecture. Don’t forget to visit the Lion Monument and the famous Chapel Bridge.
• Interlaken : Interlaken is the ultimate playground for thrill-seekers. This town, which is surrounded by lakes and mountains, provides adventurous sports like bungee jumping, paragliding, and skydiving.
• Geneva : Geneva, which is renowned for its cosmopolitan vibe, has a mix of multinational institutions, luxury shopping, and stunning lakeside vistas.
• Zermatt : Zermatt, which is home to the famous Matterhorn, is a hiking and mountaineering lover’s dream. The stunning scenery and lovely chalets combine to provide an absolutely perfect location.
• Jungfrau Region : With its snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and calm lakes, the Jungfrau Region is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Take a beautiful train ride to the top of Europe, Jungfraujoch.

Outdoor Activities In Switzerland in October

October presents an excellent opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to indulge in various activities amidst Switzerland’s stunning landscapes.

• Hiking : Switzerland offers an extensive network of hiking trails suitable for all levels of hikers. From leisurely walks to challenging treks, explore the country’s diverse terrain on foot.
• Mountain Biking : Mountain biking enthusiasts will find exhilarating trails with breathtaking views. Rent a bike and explore the numerous routes available in different regions.
• Paragliding : Get a bird’s-eye view of Switzerland’s beauty by taking a tandem paragliding flight. Experience the thrill of soaring above the picturesque landscapes.
• Boat Cruises : Enjoy the tranquility of Switzerland’s lakes with a leisurely boat cruise. Take in the surrounding mountains and charming villages while relaxing on the water.

FAQs About Switzerland In October

There are a lot of questions that come to our mind while planning to visit Switzerland in October, Below we tried to answer some of the commonly asked questions.

Q. Does It Snow In Switzerland In October?

A. While it’s possible to experience early snowfall in higher altitudes during October, it is not common in most regions.

Q. Is Switzerland Expensive To Visit?

A. Yes, Switzerland is known for its high cost of living, and travel expenses can be relatively expensive.

Q. What Should I Buy In Switzerland?

1. Cuckoo Clock 2. Swiss watches 3. Swiss chocolate 4. Wine & Cheese

Q. What Clothes To Wear In Switzerland In October?

– One pair of jeans – Pair of hiking pants (long) – One pair of washable linen-blend slacks – A fleece pullover – 2 short sleeve wicking tees for hiking – A couple of nice tee shirts for the non-hiking time – A cardigan to layer over the tees – Rain-resistant jacket with hood – Lightweight gloves because you never know. – Hiking boots and comfortable black Mary Janes for in town

Q. Can I Speak English In Switzerland?

A. Many Swiss citizens understand English. Also, Swiss people may be self-conscious of their Hochdeutsch fluency (often unnecessarily, at least to my ear)

Q. Is October rainy in Switzerland?

A. In October, the sliding 31-day average rainfall in Zürich steadily decreases, from 3.3 inches at the beginning of the month to 2.8 inches at the end of the month (rarely exceeding 4.9 inches or falling below 0.9 inches).

Q. Is Switzerland expensive for tourists?

A. Yes, Switzerland can be expensive for tourists due to its premium services and quality of life.

Q. What is the weather like in Switzerland in October?

A. October in Switzerland experiences mild temperatures in lower regions and cooler temperatures in higher altitudes. It’s a transitional month, so you may encounter varying weather conditions.

Q. Are there any festivals in Switzerland during October?

A. Yes, October is a festive season in Switzerland. The Alpabfahrt, Geneva International Film Festival, Zurich Film Festival, and Lugano Jazz Festival are some of the exciting events you can enjoy.

Q. What are the must-visit places in Switzerland in October?

A. The Swiss Alps, Lake Geneva, Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, and the Swiss National Park are some of the must-visit places during October for an unforgettable experience.

Q. What traditional Swiss dishes should I try in October?

A. Treat yourself to fondue, raclette, rösti, and Swiss chocolates for a delightful culinary journey in Switzerland.

Q. Is October a good time for outdoor activities in Switzerland?

A. Absolutely! October is a great time for outdoor activities like hiking, paragliding, and boat rides, as the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are enchanting.

Q. How do I travel within Switzerland during October?

A. Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass, offering unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats, along with free admission to numerous museums.

Q. What are the best hiking trails in Switzerland in October?

A. Switzerland offers a plethora of hiking trails, and some of the best ones include the Eiger Trail, The Five Lakes Walk, and The Lauterbrunnen Valley.

Q. Is Switzerland expensive to visit in October?

A. Switzerland is known for its high cost of living, but with smart planning and budget choices, you can manage a memorable trip without overspending.

Q. Can I see the Northern Lights in Switzerland during October?

A. No, the Northern Lights are typically visible in countries closer to the North Pole. Switzerland does not experience this natural phenomenon.

Q. Are shops and attractions open during public holidays in October?

A. While some shops and attractions may close or have limited hours on public holidays, major tourist destinations generally remain open.

Q. What are the transportation options in Switzerland for travelers in October?

A. Switzerland has an efficient and extensive transportation system, including trains, buses, boats, and cable cars, making it easy to explore the country.

Without any doubt, Switzerland is one of the dream places to visit for most people. Make sure you budget enough money for the trip because eating out and shopping are often considered to be costly in Switzerland.

A compelling spot, Switzerland in October blends natural beauty, cultural activities, and festive festivals.

For tourists with a variety of interests, the country offers an enchanting vacation with its vibrant Swiss Alps, peaceful lakes, and charming cities.

Enjoy the splendor of the autumn season, indulge in delectable Swiss fare, and familiarize yourself with the fascinating culture and customs of this European treasure.

Switzerland in October provides a wonderful vacation through a magnificent wonderland, whether you’re looking for adventure or peace of mind.

Tell us in the comments about one of your favorite places to visit in Switzerland In October

Also, don’t forget to book your personalized holiday package with  Fiery Trippers . Let us make your vacation a romantic as well as a dreamy getaway.

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Rahul Siddharth

He is a dedicated travel writer with a wealth of 10 Years + experience that enriches his narratives. He holds a degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from IHM Dehradun, which he couples with hands-on expertise in the field. Drawing from his diverse experiences, Rahul's writings offer readers a captivating glimpse into the world of travel. Embark on a journey of exploration and inspiration with Rahul as your guide. Read More

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Switzerland in October: Travel Tips for the Fall

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Known for its ski resorts, stunning natural vistas, lakes and rivers, Switzerland is a great holiday destination for all seasons. October is a fall month in Switzerland, so the ski season is still a month or two away. But there are still many holiday destinations to see and activities to do if you visit Switzerland in October. This is the perfect time to explore the country’s many hiking trails, picturesque villages and lakes rendered even more beautiful under the autumnal charm.

Switzerland Weather in October

Switzerland’s weather in October is characterized by cool winds and occasional rain showers. The average temperature in Switzerland this month is 14°C during the day.

Mountainous areas tend to be colder though. In the alpine resort town of Saint Moritz, for instance, the mercury can dip as low as -3°C. You might also catch the first snowfall of the season, which signals the upcoming winter. Weather conditions in low-lying areas like Lugano are comparatively more agreeable, with the average temperature hovering around 10°C.

Check out our seasonal overview to find out the best time to go to Switzerland .

Weather in Switzerland in October - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit switzerland in october.

October is not quite the summer season nor winter proper in Switzerland. It is a low season from the country’s tourism point of view. But that does not mean this is not a good time to visit Switzerland. On the contrary, in fact, there are several perks and advantages to traveling to Switzerland in October . Here are some good reasons why you should visit the country during this month.

• Great weather conditions: October is the last month of the fall season in Switzerland. Days are still long and sunny during this period for you to enjoy outdoor activities and explore this beautiful country.
• Grape-harvesting season: October is the grape harvesting season in Switzerland. Wine lovers should take this opportunity to visit the country's beautiful vineyards and sample delectable wine. Some of the country's most popular wine-producing regions include Geneva, Three Lakes, Ticino, and Valais.
• Lesser crowds: The ski season in Switzerland does not start until December. So take advantage of fewer tourist crowds at popular Swiss holiday destinations such as Saint Pierre Cathedral in Geneva and the Swiss National Museum in Zurich.
• Low prices: Since few visitors travel to Switzerland in October, you will find several discounted flights, accommodations and holiday activities. If you want to save money on your holiday, October is a great month to do so. Check out our Switzerland tours with the best deals .
• Beautiful vistas: Fall evokes a special charm in Switzerland. Fogs start to set in, there is very little rain and leaves change to beautiful autumn shades, making October a wonderful time to explore outdoors or hike in the mountains.

Where to Go and What to Do

Switzerland in the fall is absolutely stunning and one of the best things to do during this time is to explore its mountain towns and villages. There are plenty of scenic hiking and biking trails in the mountains on your trip to Zermatt , popular for its breathtaking views.

You might also want to go on a camping trip while in the country during this month, as the fall season brings out nature's prettiest colors. Home to the highest campsites in Europe, the picturesque village of Arolla offers some of the best camping experiences and it could be a great addition to your itinerary if you plan on spending a week in Switzerland . Wild camping is allowed in some regions of the country, except in Swiss national parks and nature reserves.

The majestic Rhine Falls is also a wonderful place to explore during this time of year. Here you can enjoy an exciting boat ride while being surrounded by stunning scenery. It is a must for couples longing for a romantic escape.

October is a great time to visit Switzerland. The weather is great, tourist footfall is low and travel and accommodation prices are comparatively cheaper. This is a wonderful time to hike the country’s mountainsides and be enthralled by their unrivaled autumnal beauty. If you love the outdoors and enjoy hiking or camping, you should visit Switzerland in October.

Plan a customized trip to Switzerland with the help of our local travel experts. Reach out to them right now if you are interested in a personalized itinerary.

Related articles: Switzerland in September Switzerland in November

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Switzerland in October: Weather, Events and What Else to Expect on Your Trip

Switzerland, with its majestic Alps, pristine lakes, and charming cities, is a dream destination for many travelers.

While summer and winter months often steal the spotlight, October offers its own unique allure. In this guide, we’ll delve into what to expect when visiting Switzerland in October, from weather patterns to festivals and must-see attractions.

Chapter Trail

Switzerland weather in october.

October marks the transition from autumn to winter in Switzerland. The weather varies across regions, but generally, you can expect cool temperatures with crisp mornings and evenings. Daytime temperatures hover around 10-15°C (50-59°F) in the lowlands and drop as you ascend into the mountains. While rain is possible, particularly in the early part of the month, it tends to give way to snow at higher elevations towards the end of October.

Switzerland in October: Advantages

Less Crowds

Unlike the peak summer months, October sees a decrease in tourist numbers, allowing for a more peaceful and authentic Swiss experience.

With fewer tourists, you may find better deals on accommodation and activities during this shoulder season.

Switzerland in October: Highlights and Activities

October offers fantastic hiking opportunities with fewer crowds and breathtaking autumnal landscapes. Explore trails like the Grindelwald First Cliff Walk or the Five Lakes Walk in Zermatt.

Scenic Train Journeys

Embark on iconic train journeys such as the Glacier Express or the Bernina Express to witness the stunning fall colors.

Wine Tasting

Visit vineyards in regions like Lavaux or Valais for wine tasting amidst the picturesque autumn vineyards.

Switzerland in October: Festivals

Zurich Film Festival

Catch screenings of international and Swiss films, along with glamorous red carpet events.

Autumn Festival

The Autumn Festival in Ascona, set against the backdrop of Lake Maggiore, is a vibrant celebration of harvest and culture, offering a diverse array of events, culinary delights, and community spirit. With traditional folk performances, artisanal markets, and scenic beauty, it’s a must-visit for those seeking an authentic Swiss experience in the fall.

Grape Festival

The Grape Harvest Festival in Ligerz is a lively celebration of wine, culture, and community nestled in the heart of Switzerland’s wine country. With grape-picking competitions, wine tastings, and traditional music, it’s a delightful event that showcases the region’s viticultural heritage in a picturesque lakeside setting.

Cheese Festival

The Cheese Festival in Lucerne is a mouthwatering celebration of Switzerland’s rich dairy tradition, featuring an array of artisanal cheeses from the region. Visitors can sample a variety of cheeses, attend cheese-making demonstrations, and indulge in delicious cheese-based dishes, all while enjoying the charming ambiance of Lucerne’s historic Old Town.

Switzerland in October: Where to Go

Nestled amidst stunning mountain scenery, Lucerne is a picturesque city boasting a blend of historic charm and natural beauty. Begin your exploration in the compact Old Town, where you’ll discover well-preserved medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and colorful frescoed buildings. 

Don’t miss the iconic Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), one of Switzerland’s most photographed landmarks, adorned with beautiful 17th-century paintings depicting Lucerne’s history. Adjacent to the bridge lies the Water Tower (Wasserturm), a medieval fortification dating back to the 14th century.

For panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, take a leisurely stroll along the lakeside promenade or hop on a scenic boat cruise on Lake Lucerne. Adventure enthusiasts can ride the world’s steepest cogwheel railway to the summit of Mount Pilatus for breathtaking vistas and exhilarating outdoor activities.

Switzerland’s capital city, Bern, is a treasure trove of cultural heritage and architectural marvels. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, a well-preserved medieval quarter with sandstone buildings, quaint squares, and charming arcades known as “Lauben.” Marvel at the towering Zytglogge clock tower, an iconic symbol of Bern, dating back to the 13th century.

History buffs can explore Bern’s plethora of museums, including the Zentrum Paul Klee, dedicated to the works of the renowned Swiss painter, and the Bern Historical Museum, showcasing artifacts tracing the city’s history. For a taste of Bernese culinary delights, head to the bustling markets to sample traditional Swiss specialties like Berner Platte (a hearty meat dish) and Emmental cheese.

Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, Montreux exudes a sense of timeless elegance and artistic allure. Renowned for its annual Montreux Jazz Festival , held in July, the city offers a vibrant cultural scene year-round. Stroll along the scenic lakeside promenade, lined with palm trees and flower-filled gardens, and admire the stunning views of the Swiss Riviera and the snow-capped Alps.

History enthusiasts shouldn’t miss a visit to the Chillon Castle, a medieval fortress set against the backdrop of Lake Geneva. 

Explore the castle’s labyrinthine corridors, ancient dungeons, and grand halls, and immerse yourself in centuries of history and legend. Afterward, indulge in the region’s culinary delights at one of Montreux’s gourmet restaurants, specializing in fresh seafood and fine Swiss wines.

As Switzerland’s largest city, Zurich offers a dynamic mix of urban sophistication and natural beauty. 

Start your exploration in the vibrant Altstadt (Old Town), where medieval lanes intertwine with modern boutiques, cafes, and galleries. Admire landmarks such as the Grossmünster, a majestic Romanesque church with panoramic views from its twin towers, and the Fraumünster Church, renowned for its stunning stained glass windows designed by Marc Chagall.

Art enthusiasts will delight in Zurich’s thriving cultural scene, with world-class museums like the Kunsthaus Zurich, home to an impressive collection of European art spanning from the Middle Ages to contemporary works. For a tranquil escape, wander along the shores of Lake Zurich or take a leisurely boat cruise to enjoy the picturesque scenery.

Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies alike. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, including the iconic Jungfrau, Eiger, and Mönch, Interlaken serves as a gateway to the Swiss Alps . 

Embark on exhilarating adventures such as paragliding over the shimmering lakes, hiking through pristine mountain trails, or taking a scenic train ride to Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe,” for awe-inspiring views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

After a day of adventure, unwind in Interlaken’s charming town center, dotted with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. Don’t miss the opportunity to try traditional Swiss dishes like fondue or raclette, accompanied by local wines or refreshing alpine brews.

Known as the “Capital of Peace,” Geneva is a cosmopolitan city brimming with cultural diversity, international organizations, and scenic beauty. Explore the historic Old Town, home to landmarks such as St. Peter’s Cathedral, where you can climb the tower for panoramic views of the city and Lake Geneva.

Delve into Geneva’s rich history and heritage at institutions like the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum or the United Nations Office at Geneva. 

Take a leisurely stroll along the Geneva Lakefront Promenade, lined with parks, gardens, and iconic landmarks like the Jet d’Eau, a majestic fountain shooting water 140 meters into the air. With its exquisite cuisine, upscale shopping districts, and vibrant nightlife, Geneva offers a perfect blend of culture and sophistication.

FAqs About Switzerland In October

Is October a good time to visit Switzerland?

Yes, October offers fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and beautiful autumn scenery, making it a great time to visit.

Is it cold in Switzerland in October?

Temperatures can be cool, especially in the mornings and evenings, but it varies depending on the region and altitude.

Is Switzerland worth visiting?

Absolutely! Switzerland’s stunning landscapes, rich culture, and outdoor activities make it a must-visit destination.

What clothes should one wear in Switzerland in October?

Dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing, as well as warmer layers for mountainous regions.

Is Switzerland expensive to visit?

Switzerland can be pricey, but with careful planning, you can find affordable options for accommodation, dining, and activities.

Packages For Your Trip to Switzerland

From Switzerland to Italy in 17 Days

This trip will take you from the amazing mountains, lakes and beautiful villages of Switzerland to the stunning Italian Lake Como. From Lake Como to ”the City of Canals” Venice which is one of the most picturesque and recognisable cities in the world.

Discover the Beauty of Switzerland

The amazing natural beauty of the majestic Alps, the placid lakes, quaint villages, cosmopolitan cities and towering castles – that’s just some of what Switzerland has to offer.

Get the Highlights of Switzerland

Golden round trip to Switzerland comprises best highlights of Switzerland. This trip is entirely based on 1st class trains, local guided tours and remarkable spots with breath-taking views. Definitely a trip to remember forever.

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When is the best time to visit Switzerland?

• The Swiss Alps
• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Switzerland is between April and October, though winter sports enthusiasts may prefer December to March. The country has four distinct seasons, each with its own attractions.

The spring months of March to May bring Alpine blooms, flowering trees and cows heading out to pasture. In the warmest months of June, July and August summery temperatures prevail, though you’ll rarely get any humidity thanks to the high altitude. This is when locals and visitors alike head to the lake shores, meaning thicker crowds.

The wine and fruit harvests dominate the fall months of September to November and from December to February, you’ll find snow, cold and winter sports.

In the lowlands, rain most often falls in November and May. Because it’s between the busy summer and winter seasons, these months are when many attractions have limited hours and residents often take their own trips.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Switzerland

Visiting Switzerland in December - January

December and January are the coldest, but not the wettest, months of the year. There’s frequently snow, which makes the Christmas markets in Switzerland’s main cities even more festive. Temperatures hang around freezing, but it’s still common to enjoy crisp blue skies and bright sun reflecting off the snow.

Events & Festivals

• Christmas markets (mid-November through early January): Cities feature cute wooden chalets, lots of traditional food, handmade crafts and hot spiced wine.

Visiting Switzerland in February - March

Temperatures begin to rise in February and March, but these months tend to see more rain and snow at altitude. Ski resorts are very busy at this time, since many schools take their mid-term breaks.

Visiting Switzerland in April - May

Spring arrives over April and May, and bright flowers come out on the Alpine mountainsides and in the green, low-lying valleys. Meadows return to life, dairy cows are released to graze and Alpine resorts become void of skiers. April can sometimes see a late flurry of winter weather.

Visiting Switzerland in June - July

In the summer months of June and July, the mountain scenery is at its best. The weather is mild and temperatures are pleasant and rarely too hot. Days are generally dry and sunny, offering clear views across the mountain peaks and rolling countryside.

• Montreux Jazz Festival (July): The biggest music festival in Switzerland with artists from around the world performing for two weeks on the shores of Lake Geneva.

Visiting Switzerland in August - September

As fall approaches in August and September, the lakes, mountains and cities all overflow with harvest beauty. Flowers adorn wooden chalets, the forest scenery takes on a cloak of golden brown and more mountaintops take on snowy caps. Farmers are out in force as fruit trees ripen and grapevines bend under their heavy load.

• Swiss National Day (August 1): A lot of towns and cities celebrate with street festivals and parades, many with elaborate fireworks and live music.

Visiting Switzerland in October - November

October and November mark the late fall, when the last of the wine grapes are harvested, the cows are brought down from the hillside and the weather begins to turn cold. In early October you can be blessed with lovely sunny days, but as the days shorten through November many hotels, restaurants and attractions close their doors for respite and refurbishment before the busy winter arrives.

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Practical tips for traveling to Switzerland, from social protocols to guidance on money matters, with a link to the latest US State Department travel advice.

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Highlights of Switzerland

Switzerland in October: Embracing Autumn’s Beauty

Switzerland is the most popular choice for anyone looking for a romantic honeymoon amidst the snowy mountains and picturesque scenery. Autumn(October) is the best time to visit this paradise. Be it romantics looking for an ideal honeymoon vacation or adventure junkies seeing adrenaline-fueling experiences, the snowy land of the Swiss welcomes all with open arms. While most of them prefer travelling to Switzerland during the blissful Spring and Summer seasons, we suggest otherwise. Let’s find out why and what amazing things are in store during your visit to Switzerland in October, the Fall season.

Switzerland Tour Package Starting @ ₹89,412

Snow capped mountains. Cozy stays. Adventure rides. Fun itineraries

How To Reach Switzerland In October From India

The distance between India to Switzerland is about 6900 km. The best way to cover this distance is by air. Three International Airports, one at Zurich, one at Basel and one in Geneva are the major airports connecting Switzerland with the rest of the world. Some of the prominent Airlines that operate from India to Switzerland, are Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, Etihad Airways, Turkish Airlines and many more. You have daily direct flights from Mumbai and Delhi to Zurich by Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS).

Flights from India to Switzerland fly out from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai. Ideal travel time is around 8-14 hours depending on the layover time and cities you are flying from. Finally, the ticket prices start around INR 50,000 depending on the cities you fly out and the class of travel. Given, Switzerland in October is slightly an offseason, you might be lucky to get cheaper deals well in advance.

Weather in Switzerland in October

While the ideal time to visit Swiss is between April and July (summer) and between December and March (winter), the autumn season in September and October is also a great time to explore this country. The weather is very pleasant accompanied by cold winds and infrequent showers in various towns and cities.

The weather might be unpredictable sometimes and the average temperature is between 5-15 degrees celsius. You should ideally pack a plastic raincoat, a jacket, a fleecy sweatshirt, a thin jumper and a pair of warm trousers for your trip to Switzerland in October.

Top Things to Do in Switzerland in October

1. rhine falls and dinner cruise.

The gigantic Rhine Falls is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in October. Located on the German-Swiss border in Schaffhausen, its breathtaking beauty and majestic waterfalls provides an ideal backdrop for some romantic moments with your loved ones. You can also book an exclusive dinner cruise, dining on the Rhine river with stunning sunsets. In addition, there is also an adventurous boat ride that takes you to the waterfall for a split second, drenching you from head to toe.

2. Matterhorn- Cable car experience

Want to experience some stunning panoramic views of the snow-capped Swiss Alps? Well, you should definitely experience the cable car ride to the Matterhorn glacier paradise on your trip to Switzerland in October. It is hosts the world’s highest 3S cableway, The Matterhorn glacier ride at 3883 metres. It’s an ideal experience for both honeymooners and families with kids. This cable car ride will give you some of the most mesmerizing views of Swiss that will be etched in your memory forever!

3. Grindelwald– Land of Gorges

Grindelwald, a small village in Switzerland’s Bernese Alps is very popular for skiing in winter and hiking in summer. It is also the base for the mountain-climbing experience to the iconic Eiger Mountain. If you are looking for an offbeat gem to stay for a couple of days and truly experience Swiss, Grindelwald is your answer. The BodmiARENA set in the heart of Grindelwald, is a famous winter sports Hubspot. Skiing in BodmiARENA is a must-do thing in Grindelwald , Switzerland.

4. Lugano – Autumn Festival

The vibrant Lugano Festival in Switzerland is celebrated in the month of October and is known for its colours, live music, and food. It is the Swiss way of welcoming the autumn season and the whole country celebrates it joyously. During this three-day-long celebration, the streets are filled with grottos and an autumn market opens to sell local food products and handicrafts. In short, being a part of this festival is a must if you are visiting Switzerland in October.

5. Zermatt – Hiking

If you are up for more adventure, go hiking in Switzerland in October. Autumn is the best time to go hiking and trekking in the snowy peaks in Switzerland. Zermatt is another one of those fairytale towns in Swiss where you can get picture-perfect views from the mountains.

FAQ’s about Switzerland In October

Yes, October is a great time to visit given there is the Autumn season and also the country is less crowded with tourists around this time with pleasant weather.

One should ideally pack a plastic raincoat, a jacket, a fleecy sweatshirt, a thin jumper and a pair of warm trousers for your Swiss trip in October.

The whole of Swiss will blow your mind off with its stunning landscapes and natural beauty. Our top picks would be Lucerne, Zermatt, Bern, and Grindelwald.

Swiss is definitely not a cheap place to visit. It isn’t the most expensive place to visit as well. You can do a value for money trip but it all comes down to what you want to do in which cities.

All-time classics- Swiss chocolates, Cuckoo Clock, Swiss fine wine and cheese and some souvenirs are something you should consider buying.

Switzerland Honeymoon Package @ ₹82,287*

Visiting Jungafrau - Top of Europe. Swiss Chocolate Tasting tour. Exploring Stunning Chillon Castle. Visiting Beautiful Chapel Bridge. Boating at Rhine Falls.

Can’t wait to strike the famous DDLJ poses with your loved ones on your holiday in Switzerland in October or relive the 007 James Bond movie at Schilthorn peak? Plan your Switzerland tour package with the experts at Pickyourtrail. You can also make this trip to Switzerland in October with your beloved by booking the mosr romantic Switzerland honeymoon packages at Pickyourtrail!

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Simple Luxe Living

Welcome to Simple Luxe Living. Here you can find topics related to travel and luxury lifestyle. Enjoy!

Switzerland in October 2023: Things To Do, Weather & Temperature

From the heights of the majestic Swiss Alps to its world-famous chocolate, exquisite watches, its impressive history of neutrality and strength, and its range of useful tools like the Swiss Army Knife – there’s a lot that makes Switzerland stand out.

On this tour around Switzerland, we’ll get to know what lies beneath the beautiful yet ‘neutral’ colors found on their flag, and take in all other aspects which have come to define Switzerland around the world. Join us as we explore this beautiful and enchanting country!

Autumn in Switzerland is a captivating sight to behold with its stunning sweeping landscapes, vibrant harvest festivals, and diverse outdoor activities.

As the leaves crunch beneath your feet while you wander among the rolling hills of idyllic villages, you can take this time to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

October is the perfect time to visit Switzerland for those seeking a one-of-a-kind experience fit for anyone’s adventurous spirit.

In this Fall Travel Guide, we take an in-depth look at why traveling to Switzerland in October is worth it – from details about exciting fall festivals and outdoor activities that are sure to please every type of traveler, insider tips on all the best places to explore and things to see, up until our final thought: why Switzerland is truly a remarkable place visit at any given time but especially during autumn!

Table of Contents

Introduction: Traveling to Switzerland in October

The first signs of autumn in Switzerland are truly magical.

The crisp air and the changing colors of the leaves make for an unforgettable sight, and October is the perfect time to experience it all.

From vibrant harvest festivals to outdoor activities that will make your heart race, Switzerland in October offers something special for everyone – no matter if you are looking only for a relaxing escape from reality or a more adventurous getaway.

Fall festivals in Switzerland are a great way to experience the culture, music, and food of this beautiful country.

The annual Cheese Festival is one of the biggest highlights of October.

Held in Zug near Zurich each year, it celebrates all things cheese with tasting sessions and cooking classes.

Wine lovers should make sure to attend wine tastings hosted by local wineries – many offer special discounts during the fall season for tourists visiting Switzerland.

For those seeking adventure outdoors in Switzerland, autumn brings plenty of opportunities!

Hiking trails wind through valleys while crystal-clear lakes provide perfect spots for swimming during the summertime or sailing among the stunning mountain backdrop.

Cycling around Lake Geneva is also popular – take your time exploring the lake’s numerous coves and villages along its shoreline before ending up at the stunning Montreux castle on the top of a hill overlooking the lake below.

Don’t forget about skiing either – some ski resorts open their doors as early as September offering skiers breathtaking views from high-altitude slopes down into lush forests below them.

For those looking to explore Switzerland’s culture, a visit to one of its many historical cities is a must.

Head to Bern – the country’s capital and home of the famous Zytglogge clock tower – or take in the breathtaking views at Interlaken, where you can also try some thrilling activities like skydiving.

Zurich and Geneva are two other popular destinations with plenty of museums, art galleries, and cultural attractions such as churches and cathedrals.

When it comes to natural wonders, Switzerland has an abundance of them – from glaciers in the Alps down to picturesque lakes throughout the countryside.

Take a boat ride on Lake Lucerne for stunning views or go hiking up Mount Rigi – Europe’s first mountain railway!

For something truly unique, head over to Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen for waterfalls!

With so much beauty here there will never be a dull moment during your stay in Switzerland this fall.

A Visual Treat: See Swiss Lakes in All Their Glory this October

For dear readers who are in need of a romantic escape this October? Why not take a trip to Switzerland and experience the lakes in all their glory?

With so many stunning views, the Lakes of Switzerland offer something unique to travelers.

And with October being the perfect time of year to visit, you won’t regret giving Switzerland a chance this month!

If you’re looking for a romantic escape this October, then you should see the stunning Swiss lakes in all their glory!

With crystal clear waters and breathtaking views of the Alps, these tranquil lakes are the perfect spot to enjoy some quality time with your special someone.

Plus, October is an ideal time to visit as there’s often still pleasant weather and plenty of activities like hiking, sailing, and more.

So pack up your bags and get ready for a visual treat – Switzerland awaits!

And if it’s the scenery you crave then head down to Lake Lucerne where lush green hills provide an idyllic backdrop or take a stroll along Lake Geneva’s waterfront promenade.

But no matter which lake you choose, make sure not to miss out on this delightful visual feast before winter arrives!

Lake Lucerne is one of the most stunning lakes in Switzerland and a must-see for anyone visiting the country.

The lake, also known as Vierwaldstättersee, is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and its crystal clear waters provide some of the best views in all of Europe.

Visitors can take part in activities such as sailing, kayaking, fishing or simply enjoying nature with a relaxing stroll around the lake.

For those looking to explore further, there are plenty of boat trips available that will take you to nearby villages including Weggis and Brunnen.

If you’re looking for some stunning Swiss lakes to explore during your summer getaway, then look no further than the beautiful Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

Located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, these two breathtaking bodies of water are surrounded by rolling hills and snow-capped mountains.

Whether you’re taking a relaxing boat ride or paddling along its shores in a kayak, both these lakes offer plenty of activities that will leave you feeling refreshed and energized.

From fishing to swimming or just admiring the majestic views from afar, this is one experience that should not be missed!

For those seeking something a bit more adventurous during their trip to Switzerland, then why not head over to Lake Constance?

This lake is located on the border between Germany and Switzerland and it offers visitors plenty of exciting activities such as sailing, windsurfing, and even kite surfing.

With its crystal clear waters reflecting off the majestic alpine backdrop, this is an experience like no other – so don’t forget your camera!

Basel: The city of Basel is home to some of the best festivals in Switzerland, including the world-famous Basel Tattoo

This event is held each year in the city’s historic Old Town and features performances by military bands from around the world.

During the festival, you’ll have a chance to enjoy traditional Swiss music and culture, as well as sample some of Basel’s delicious regional cuisine.

If that wasn’t enough, there are also plenty of art galleries, museums, and historical sights to explore during your visit!

Basel is an amazing place to visit any time of year but it comes alive during October when its many festivals take over the city.

One of these is worth checking out: The Basel Tattoo.

This renowned event has been running since 1950 and sees military bands from across Europe come together for incredible performances.

As well as live music there are also food stalls serving up local specialties so you can get stuck into Swiss culture while you’re here!

And with tons more things going on in this vibrant city – like art galleries, museums, and historical sites – there’s always something interesting happening in Basel.

Besides festivals, this charming Swiss city is the perfect destination for a Halloween adventure.

With its centuries-old architecture and cobblestone streets, Basel has an atmosphere of mystery that will have you looking over your shoulder at every turn.

Plus, there are plenty of events going on throughout October like Halloween parades and haunted house experiences that will give you goosebumps in all the right ways.

And if that wasn’t enough to entice you, the city also has lots of great bars and restaurants where you can enjoy some delicious food while taking in all the sights.

So why not make Basel your next holiday destination this October?

Zurich: Zurich is known for its many cultural events, and October is no exception, with the Zurich Film Festival and the Zurich Jazz Fest

Zurich is an exciting place to visit in October!

With the Zurich Film Festival and the Zurich Jazz Fest taking place, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Both events offer a great opportunity to experience some of Switzerland’s best culture.

At the film festival you can catch a range of international movies while at the Jazz Fest, you’ll be able to hear performances from top jazz musicians from all over the world.

There are also plenty of other activities going on in Zurich during October such as markets, art exhibitions, and tours around historical sites – so whatever your interests, there will be something for everyone here!

If you’re planning a trip to Zurich this October, there are some things you should know before your arrival.

For starters, the city is known for its efficient public transportation network with buses, trams, and trains running throughout the day – so be sure to plan and purchase tickets in advance!

Secondly, accommodation can book up quickly during peak times of year (especially if it’s around Oktoberfest!) so it’s always best to book early and get the best deals.

And finally, don’t forget about exploring all that Zurich has to offer: from historical sites like Old Town or Uetliberg Mountain to trendy cafes and restaurants serving up delicious local food.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready for an amazing time when visiting Zurich this October!

Geneva: Geneva is a great place to be in October, with the Geneva International Motor Show and the Geneva International Music Festival both taking place

Whether you’re a petrolhead or a music lover, there’s something for everyone!

The Motor Show features some of the most impressive cars from all over the world and is one of the biggest shows in Europe.

Meanwhile, the Music Festival hosts performances from top international acts – so whether you prefer classical or contemporary music, there’s sure to be something for your taste.

And if that wasn’t enough, Geneva also boasts some great restaurants and bars to explore – as well as plenty of shopping opportunities at its many boutiques and stores!

So why not make October a time to visit this vibrant city?

To make the most of your time in this beautiful city, here are my top tips for sightseeing in Geneva.

First off, make sure to check out St. Pierre Cathedral – not only will you be able to take in stunning views from the bell tower, but also explore its magnificent façade and intricate carvings. It’s an experience that can’t be missed!

Secondly, don’t forget to immerse yourself in the lively cafe culture of Old Town – take the time to wander around cobblestone streets and indulge in delicious local treats like fondue or raclette while people-watching.

Finally, if you want even more picturesque scenery then head over to Lake Geneva where you’ll find plenty of opportunities for sailing or taking a romantic stroll along its shoreline.

With all these activities on offer it’s no surprise that Geneva is one of Europe’s favorite cities – so get ready for some truly unforgettable experiences!

In Geneva visiting the United Nations Headquarters should be at the top of your list!

Here, you’ll get to check out where all the important decisions are made and learn more about how this global organization works.

Take a guided tour around its iconic buildings and discover some fascinating facts along the way – it’s guaranteed to be an eye-opening adventure that will stay with you long after your visit!

And afterward, don’t forget to explore Palais des Nations – built in 1936, this building is filled with beautiful sculptures and gardens so it’s worth spending some time here as well.

With such interesting sites to explore no doubt visiting UN headquarters will make for an unforgettable day trip during your time in Geneva!

Bern: The Swiss capital of Bern is the place to be for foodies this October, with the Bernese sausage festival and the Bernese Wine Festival both happening

At the sausage festival, you’ll get to sample some of Switzerland’s finest sausages and other delicious local dishes.

The wine festival offers a great opportunity for you to try out some of Bern’s best wines, as well as other regional specialties like cheese and chocolates.

There are also plenty of activities going on during these events – including cooking classes where you can learn how to make your sausage!

And if that wasn’t enough, there are also lots of cultural attractions in Bern such as the Bear Pits Park and the Swiss Museum of Transport which feature exhibitions about Swiss history and culture.

So why not visit Bern this October – it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!

Exploring the old city of Bern is an absolute must when visiting this beautiful Swiss city.

From its cobbled streets lined with medieval buildings to unique markets and shops where you can sample local dishes like raclette and fondue, there’s so much to see here!

Plus, it’s a great place for some photo ops – don’t forget to snap some shots of the stunning clocktower or one of the many bridges crossing over the Aar River.

All in all, taking a stroll through the old city is a great way to experience everything that makes Bern special.

Bern has to offer a wide variety of cultural attractions ranging from science centers to art installations, this city is full of interesting sights and activities for everyone.

The Zentrum Paul Klee is one such popular spot, showcasing works from world-renowned artists like Monet and Picasso in its permanent collection.

Or if history’s more your thing, then there’s plenty here too – from ancient artifacts at the Natural History Museum or military memorabilia at the Swiss Army Museum – no matter what kind of museum experience you’re after, Bern won’t disappoint!

October in Switzerland is an amazing time to visit, with so many incredible festivals and events taking place all over the country!

If you’re into music there’s the Zurich Jazz Fest or if you want something a bit more low key then there are plenty of other options like the Basel Tattoo or Bern’s Sausage Festival.

For those looking for culture, Geneva has its Motor Show and Music Festival as well as art galleries, museums, and historical sites to explore.

And finally – let’s not forget about food – because Switzerland certainly has that covered too!

So whatever your interests maybe – I’m sure you’ll find something happening this October in Switzerland that will be perfect for you!

Swiss Chocolate: More Than Just a Sweet Treat

Swiss chocolate is more than just a sweet treat – it’s an experience that celebrates the nation’s rich cultural heritage.

From its origins in 19th-century Switzerland, to its modern day specialties like truffles and fondue, Swiss chocolate embodies the unique flavors of this beautiful country.

The secret ingredient that sets Swiss chocolates apart from the rest is their high quality milk, which gives them a creamy texture and delightful taste.

Not only does Switzerland produce some of the best tasting chocolates around but they also offer a range of luxurious boxes, gift baskets and other treats for those looking to share these delectable delights with friends or family.

In 1819, the first Swiss chocolatier opened his shop in Vevey, Switzerland and began hand-crafting delicious treats.

It wasn’t until 1905 that milk chocolate was invented by Nestle’s Daniel Peter – making it possible for us to enjoy creamy Swiss chocolates today!

From then on, more and more people started appreciating the unique flavor of Swiss chocolate, leading to an increase in production and popularity throughout Europe.

Today, Swiss chocolate is one of the most sought after confections across the globe due its rich taste profile which includes notes of honeycomb, hazelnuts and other nuts.

Truly a treat worth indulging in!

And why not explore some of Switzerland’s traditional recipes?

Try your hand at making homemade nougat topped off with a generous helping of crushed hazelnuts – it makes for a truly mouth-watering treat!

Or if you prefer something simpler yet equally tasty then try dipping fresh fruit into melted Swiss chocolate fondue – arguably one of the most popular ways to enjoy this delicious confectionary.

Whatever your preference may be, when it comes to Swiss chocolate specialities you can guarantee that each bite will be bursting with flavourful goodness!

The Top Pro Tips for Traveling to Switzerland in October

The first pro tip for traveling to Switzerland in October is to pack layers.

The temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day, so it’s important to be prepared with clothes that you can easily add or remove as needed.

A soft knit sweater or scarf will keep you warm during cooler evenings, while breathable cotton shirts and trousers are perfect for days spent exploring the sights.

Don’t forget comfortable shoes too – sneakers are ideal if you plan on doing lots of walking around town, but waterproof boots would be better suited to more active adventures.

Accessorize with hats and sunglasses to protect against the autumn sun, plus an extra layer like a parka or windbreaker jacket that looks great but still provides warmth when needed.

And don’t forget all your other essentials!

Make sure your passport is up-to-date and pack any adapters or chargers you may need as well as a power bank so your devices never run out of juice.

Pack some Swiss snacks like chocolate bars or cheese fondue for those hunger pangs throughout the day – after all, it’s not every day that you get to experience Switzerland in October!

Generally speaking, it’s mild with temperatures ranging from the low 50s F (10°C) during the day and dropping into the 40s F (4°C) at night.

You may also experience some rain or snow depending on your location, so make sure you pack accordingly!

However, if you head out for a hike in the Swiss Alps or higher elevation regions like Interlaken and Grindelwald, be prepared for colder temperatures as well as windy conditions.

Overall, Switzerland’s weather in October can be unpredictable and slightly cold, so make sure to bring enough warm clothing.

Despite that, it is still a wonderful time to experience the beauty of this amazing country and all its autumnal activities.

Don’t let the temperamental Swiss weather keep you from having an amazing adventure in Switzerland!

We wish you a safe and enjoyable journey to Switzerland!

From the moment you step off the plane, you’ll be immersed in this breathtaking country.

So pack your bags and let us take you on an adventure through one of Europe’s most beautiful countries—we can’t wait for you to experience all that Switzerland has to offer!

Bon, voyage!

More destinations to discover:

• Switzerland In April
• What to Wear In Vienna?

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Places in Switzerland to visit in October

For many outdoor photographers October is the best month of the year, with its autumn colours, warm light or moody foggy mornings. The first snow-topped mountains add to the sceneries.

Scroll down for some outstanding photos featured on  Instagram Visit Switzerland , all taken in October. 

Autumn photo shoot in Glarus

Klöntaler See is a must if you love autumn colours, and if you happen to be near Zürich. This mountain lake in the canton Glarus is about an hour drive from Zürich. (1056)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Switzerland🇨🇭 (@visitswitzerland)

Golden Autumn in Engadine

The “Indian summer” of alpine Engadine is highly prized by Instagram photographers. Many say it’s the most beautiful season in the Engadine when the pinewood forests start to change colours. The best time is between mid September and mid November.(469, 121, 487, 788) 

More October inspiration

Autumn is everywhere in Switzerland. But Autumn photography is also about being at the right place at the right time. Here is some more inspiration. Click on the map to find the exact photo spots and get directions. (793, 797, 483, 779, 52, 473)

Did you enjoy this little selection? Check out our other selections.

In this area you can display your biographic info. Just visit Users > Your Profile > Biographic info

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When is the best time to go to Switzerland?

Jan 29, 2024 • 5 min read

Choose the best time for your visit to Switzerland with this seasonal guide © SAHACHAT / Getty Images

Spend any length of time in Switzerland and you’ll come to realise just how distinct the seasons are here and how well the country wears them.

Winter, with its snow-laden peaks, groomed pistes and bluebird days, is peak time for skiers and winter walkers, while summer draws visitors for its scorching temperatures, high alpine hiking trails and lake life.

But spring and autumn have their own appeal: cheaper flights, milder temperatures, quirky festivals and the chance to catch the countryside in flux, from the new bloom of alpine flowers in May and June to the fiery orange blaze of larch trees and vineyards in the fall.

Plan your trip around your preferred activities and your budget and you’ll find your own best time to experience this ever-changing country.

December to April is best for snow seekers and carnival-goers

Snowsports dominate winter. Skiers and snowboarders love the long groomed slopes and off-piste terrain of big-name resorts such as  Zermatt , Verbier and Laax, but with a lift in almost every mountain village, Switzerland has something for all levels and budgets. Meanwhile, dedicated trails for winter walking, cross-country skiing and tobogganing mean winter isn’t just for powder hounds.

In February/March, carnival season brings traditional guggenmusik bands (brass bands playing oompah-style music) to many towns and cities. The best-known carnival is Basel’s three-day street party,  Fasnacht . Darker traditions abound, too: visit the  Lötschental for its parade of fearsome, mask-wearing Tschäggätta , and the Valais village of  Evolène for a carnival dominated by fur-clad monsters and giant straw-people.

May and September offer Swiss charm for less

Visiting Switzerland in shoulder season brings its own advantages. Not only is it cheaper (deals can be found on flights and hotels) but the heat is less intense than in high summer and each shoulder has a certain appeal. Come in May for blossoming trees, the start of the swimming season (many outdoor pools open in mid-May) and the very enjoyable  caves ouvertes/cantine aperte (open cellars) weekends in the vineyards of  Geneva ,  Vaud ,  Valais ,  Neuchâtel and  Ticino .

With many of the mountain lifts still open and the weather remaining balmy well into the month, September is perfect for hiking or biking. Be sure to catch a désalpe/alpabzug , when the dairy cows, having spent their summers on the alpine pastures, parade down to the valley farms passing through villages en route – an excuse for the locals to eat Alpkäse (alpine cheese), drink wine and make merry. The best known is held in  Charmey , near Gruyères.

Another September party is the  grape harvest festival in Lutry, which celebrates the end of the wine-growing year in The Lavaux , the centuries-old vineyards between Lausanne and  Montreux . The area also makes for pretty autumnal hiking, with wine-tasting spots en route.

July to August is the time to visit for hiking (and partying)

Peak summer in Switzerland is tip-top , to borrow the Swiss German phrase. Barring the odd storm, it’s nearly always hot and sunny – oppressively so, sometimes, meaning the best place to be is in the cooler air of the high mountains. Switzerland’s vast number of hiking trails , whether in the Alpes Vaudoises, the  Bernese Oberland or  Graubünden , offer cow-strewn meadows, vertiginous views and glimpses of ibex, marmots and eagles.

Book ahead for a dorm bed in a Swiss Alpine Club cabin – simple hostels strung across the Alps in glorious locations – or stay in one of the grandes dames of the Swiss mountains, such as the  Rigi-Kulm Hotel above  Lake Lucerne or the  Berghotel Schynige Platte overlooking  Interlaken , two of the country’s longstanding mountain hotels.

Road cyclists are also spoiled for choice, with the gruelling switchbacks of mountain passes including the  Furka , Gotthard and  Grimsel presenting the biggest challenges, while mountain bikers hitch their wheels to a ski lift in Verbier to tackle its downhill trails.

Summer is also party time. Check out big names in music at the  Montreux Jazz Festival , the  Gurten Festival near the Swiss capital,  Bern , and the huge techno festival  Street Parade in  Zürich . And don’t miss Swiss National Day, August 1, a national holiday in Switzerland. Join in the celebrations by having  brunch on a farm (booking ahead is essential), watching a city fireworks display or enjoying the wine, raclette and entertainment in any town or small mountain village.

June to September is ideal for sampling lake life in Switzerland

Hanging out by a lake or river is another typically Swiss summer experience. Hardcore wild swimmers take to the lakes at any time of year, but you’ll find warmer water and more atmosphere in summer, when the lakeshores throng with people sunbathing and barbecuing. Relax next to  Lake Geneva as part of Vevey’s summer-long  Dolce Riviera festival, swim around Bern in the fast-flowing River Aare, paddleboard on Lake Lucerne, dip in the River Rhine in  Basel or hang out at a riverside badi (public swimming baths) in Zürich. If you’d rather be on the water than in it, summer is also peak season for the ferry companies, which offer trips on all the major lakes.

October and November are rich with fall colors and food events

There’s a reason why this is the cheapest time to visit Switzerland. With the mountain lifts closed, and many hotels too, villages can be sleepy and the weather unpredictable. But if you get a sunny day and use the bus or train to reach the start of a hike, you’ll be rewarded with a blaze of color in the trees that most visitors never see. It’s also  a great time to eat , with many restaurants serving game meats with traditional accompaniments (chestnuts, sprouts, red cabbage, berries and Spätzli – a sort of Swiss pasta). A number of food events are also worth exploring, including two in the  Swiss Jura : the  truffle market in Bonvillars, and the  Feast of St Martin in Porrentruy, where you can fill your belly with as much pork as you can eat.

This article was first published February 2021 and updated January 2024

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Best Time To Visit Switzerland: A Month-by-Month Guide

Wondering when is the best time to visit Switzerland? If you’re already planning your visit to the Swiss Alps, then you know that choosing the best time of year isn’t as obvious as you might think.

You wanna maximize your experiences, enjoy perfect weather with minimal crowds, and to top it off, you’d love to do it on a budget . But does this idyllic time of year even exist?

>>Just here for the free download? Here it is !

Prefer to WATCH instead of READ? Here ya go!

Hey, we’re Jana and Brett , and this beautiful slice of Switzerland has become our adopted home for the past 2 summers (since 2021). But we don’t just spend time here for our enjoyment — we’re on a mission to help you maximize your trip to Switzerland while minimizing your budget and planning time .

So today we’re gonna help you decide when is the best time to visit Switzerland, based on questions you often ask us about in the comments of our YouTube videos:

• What’s the weather like?
• Which months are cheaper or more expensive?
• What’s open and which trains/mountain lifts are running?

We’ll answer these questions month-by-month using real data. But you know we’re gonna give you more than just the facts, right? So after working our way through the calendar, we’re gonna get down to the nitty gritty—sharing when we would choose to visit based on sightseeing priorities and travel preferences that are way more personal than any amount of research.

So are you ready to plan your trip to Switzerland? Let’s go.

Follow along using our free spreadsheet download of month-by-month weather data, average Airbnb costs, and train openings!

Weather in Switzerland Year Round (Month-By-Month)

As we work through the calendar, here’s what we’ll highlight for each month using data for Interlaken, Switzerland since that’s the hub of the region (and may be one of the best places to visit in Switzerland):

• Average high temperature
• Average # of days with sunshine
• Average # of days with precipitation (rain or snow)
• Average cost of an Airbnb during the month
• Which railways and cable cars are open or closed

Keep in mind, though, that averages only tell some of the story. This region frequently has extreme weather swings, so your experience could be quite different than the averages indicate. And of course, it can change quite drastically depending on the altitude.

So use this as a guide to help make your decision, and then commit to having a great time on your trip to the region no matter what the weather throws at you!

Switzerland Weather in January

• Temperature : 36°F
• Sunshine : 7 days
• Precipitation : 9 days
• Lodging : 4th least expensive

It’s no surprise that the first month of the year is also the coldest, with an average high temperature of 36 °F, 7 days with sunshine, and 9 days with precipitation.

It’s also the 4th least expensive month based on airbnb data.

During January, you’ll find that most of the important mountain trains and cable cars are running, with the exception of ones that run only in summer such as the funicular to Harder Kulm, the cogwheel train to Schynige Platte , and the steam train to the Brienzer Rothorn.

The Berner Oberland Regional Pass (our favorite!) won’t be available for a few more months, but in the past few years a winter version of the Top of Europe pass has been available.

If you love snow or snowsports, then January is obviously a great month to visit, and there are even sledding, snowshoeing, and winter hiking tracks too.

Switzerland Weather in February

• Temperature : 40°F
• Sunshine : 5 days
• Precipitation : 3 days
• Lodging : least expensive month

February looks a lot like January in many ways. The average high temperature is slightly warmer at 40°. 

You’re likely to see snow or rain just as often as in January. But it has one of the lowest amounts of total precipitation for the entire year.

But It’s typically not as sunny, with an average of just 5 days with sunshine—however, February also has fewer days, so there is that 😉

A benefit of traveling in February is that it’s the least expensive month to book a rental on Airbnb . And as for rail operation and travel passes, you’ll pretty much find the exact same availability as January.

When is the best time to ski in Switzerland? Possibly February because that’s when the locals go. Schools typically close for a week or two in February and lots of Swiss use this time to go skiing. So if you’re coming primarily for a ski trip you might want to avoid this month, or at least be aware of how school holidays might impact the crowds and prices.

Switzerland Weather in March

• Temperature : 48°F
• Sunshine : 10 days
• Precipitation : 11 days
• Lodging : 5th least expensive

March is kind of a weird month in a lot of ways. Winter is starting to say goodbye, especially at lower elevations, but it really isn’t spring yet either.

There’s an average high temp of 48° in Interlaken with 10 days with sunshine and 11 days with precipitation. But your experience could really vary depending on where you visit.

Lower elevation ski areas such as Oeschinensee and the Niederhorn wrap up their winter season and close for maintenance by the middle of the month.

And airbnb prices are beginning to pick up, but it’s still the 5th least expensive month of the year.

Switzerland Weather in April

• Temperature : 54°F
• Sunshine : 14 days
• Precipitation : 12 days
• Lodging : 7th least expensive

April really is the beginning of Spring in Switzerland, especially at lower elevations. Interlaken sees an average high temp of 54°, but you’ll probably see days in the 60s as well, especially later in the month.

There are an average of 14 days with sunshine and 12 days with precipitation, but it also ranks 7th for your budget, indicating that international tourism is beginning to come out of hibernation.

The Top of Europe summer pass is usually available around the middle of the month, but it’s a complicated time to plan your sightseeing. More cable cars and mountain trains are shut down part of the month for maintenance, with the Schilthorn included in that mix.

But the funicular to Harder Kulm opens midway through the month, and might just be the best spot for a sunset view on a clear day.

And around this time, you also see Lake Thun and Lake Brienz spring back to life, with boat cruises beginning to run regularly. It’s not a great time for hiking or skiing in the high mountains, but at lower elevations it might be one of the most beautiful times of year.

Waterfalls and rivers flow freely, wildflowers begin to bloom, and it’s all set against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

Keep in mind that schools also closed for a week or two around Easter for a spring break of sorts. So you might find more Europeans traveling and perhaps some smaller shops or restaurants closed for the break.

Need a cheat sheet?

I know, this is a lot of technical information. But when you’re planning a trip to the mountains, this is the stuff you need to know!

So we created a free download with all of the weather data and Airbnb stats we’ve been referencing, plus we made a comprehensive chart of 23 trains, cable cars, and funiculars in the Jungfrau Region and which months they’re open or closed.

Sign up for the free download and it will be sent straight to your inbox!

But for now, let’s dive into the next few months which are the peak tourism season in the Swiss Alps.

Switzerland Weather in May

• Temperature : 64°F
• Sunshine : 11 days
• Precipitation : 19 days
• Lodging : 9th least expensive

May feels more like the springtime you might be used to with average high temperatures of 64° and plenty of days well into the 70s.

It also rains like the spring you might be used to—with just 11 days with sunshine and 19 days with precipitation on average, making it the rainiest month of the year. (Maybe that’s why they call it “spring?”)

But as colleges in the U.S. wrap up their spring semesters, you’ll see the return of more international tourists, as well as higher prices on airbnb.

There are still times of maintenance for some of the mountain railways and cable cars; but very few of them are shut down for the entire month.

The cable car and train from Lauterbrunnen to Mürren is closed for maintenance for a couple weeks. But thankfully the Schilthornbahn is open once again so you can reach Mürren using that cable car instead.

On top of that, the cogwheel train to Schynige Platte and the gondola to the beautiful blue lake at Oeschinensee are running by the end of the month, and you’ll finally be able to use our favorite train pass: the Berner Oberland regional pass.

Oh and we forgot to mention that our free download also shows you which train passes are available for every month of the year.

Switzerland Weather in June

• Temperature : 70°F
• Sunshine : 12 days
• Precipitation : 18 days
• Lodging : 2nd most expensive

When June comes around it’s officially summer in Switzerland—both in terms of weather and tourism.

The average high temperature is just 70°, but you’ll likely see temps reach well up into the 80s at some point.

June sees an average of 12 days with sunshine. But along with the heat, you’ll also see plenty of precipitation.

The first part of the month can still feel like Spring in Switzerland, depending on the year. But by the middle of the month we’re very much into high season, making this the 2nd most expensive month according to airbnb data.

A couple of mountain trains and funiculars, like the one to Allmendhubel , wait until the first or second weekend of the month to open for the summer season, but by the middle of the month, everywhere you’d like to visit in the mountains is open.

Schools break for the summer starting early in the month, which means you’ll definitely notice a difference in how busy this place gets as June moves along.

And that definitely won’t show any signs of slowing down as we move into July.

Switzerland Weather in July

• Temperature : 75°F
• Precipitation : 17 days
• Lodging : Most expensive

July could probably be thought of as the high of high season, and there are plenty of good reasons for that:

• Schools and universities are on break in Europe and North America, bringing tons of international travelers.
• The snow has melted at most higher elevations, making world-class hiking trails available all over the region.
• The weather is the warmest and the days are the longest.

While the average high temperature is only 75°, don’t be surprised to see that thermometer stretch up into the high 80s or even the 90s.

Your chances of sunshine tend to be higher than during the Spring, but you’re probably going to see your fair share of rain as well.

Unfortunately all that means July is also the most expensive time to book an airbnb . But along with high prices and lots of daylight, you also have every summer activity imaginable at your disposal.

All of the mountain trains and cable cars are running throughout the entire month, and this is also the perfect time for cruising on—or even swimming in—the lakes.

If you’re coming for summer sports activities and are willing to pay a premium and endure the crowds, July is a safe choice.

Switzerland Weather in August

• Sunshine : 16 days
• Precipitation : 15 days
• Lodging : 3rd most expensive

Moving on to August, it would be a mistake not to mention that the 1st of the month is the Swiss National Day, kind of like Independence Day in the U.S.

There are activities and parades in nearly every village and town, and we think it’s a lot of fun to be in Switzerland during this time. But you’ll likely see a lot more of the Swiss traveling to the area and some small shops might be closed at least for the day, so keep that in mind.

August has the same average high temperature as July, and the first part of the month is almost certainly going to feel like the heat of summer. But as the month goes along, you just might find hints of Fall temperatures around the corner.

It also tends to be a little more stable than Spring and early Summer, with an average of 16 days with sun compared to 15 days with precipitation. 

August is the 3rd most expensive month on airbnb. But just like July, all of the mountain trains and lifts will be running, making it another fantastic month for summer sports of all kinds.

Switzerland Weather in September

• Temperature : 68°F
• Sunshine : 20 days
• Precipitation : 10 days
• Lodging : 5th most expensive

By early September, schools are back in session in Switzerland, Europe, and North America, so you’ll notice a discernible decrease in the number of tourists.

The average high temperature drops back to 68°, but there is normally still an abundance of sunshine and quite a bit less rain, and you’ll probably see plenty of days with temperatures in the 70s.

It’s the 5th most expensive month on airbnb, but all of the mountain trains and cable cars are still running, making it a solid option for those traveling on a budget who still want high mountain hiking options.

The last two years we’ve noticed pretty drastic weather changes between the first and second half of the month. And while that might not be typical every year, it’s worth mentioning that Autumn really has arrived by the end of the month.

All that to say, if you crave warm temperatures and long, sunny days, both are likely gone by the time the calendar changes to October! But to us, the blue September skies just look a little clearer and this is one of our favorite months to visit this region.

Switzerland Weather in October

• Temperature : 57°F
• Sunshine : 22 days
• Precipitation : 8 days
• Lodging : 6th least expensive

Speaking of October, this is the month when the locals enjoy spending time in their mountains.

Schools are on break for a couple weeks and most international tourists have packed up and left, so October is perhaps one of the most authentic times to enjoy the Jungfrau Region.

The weather tends to be pretty cooperative too, even though it’s quite a bit cooler, with an average high of 57° and temperatures rarely reaching beyond the 60s.

If you like sunshine and cooler temperatures, this just might be the month for you. 22 days with sunshine compared to just 8 with precipitation makes this one of the sunniest and driest months of the entire year.

Having said that, October will also bring a few more planning complications compared to the summer in Switzerland. By the end of the month, lots of mountain trains and lifts start closing for maintenance, with Grindelwald First included in this group.

But all in all, October (which is the 6th least expensive month) might just be an all-around bargain. With Fall colors on full display, and fresh mushrooms and local game on offer at restaurants, there’s a lot to love about this time of year.

Switzerland Weather in November

• Temperature : 45°F
• Sunshine : 15 days
• Lodging : 3rd least expensive

What can we say about November? For starters, it seems to have a bit of an identity crisis. It’ll make you think it’s Autumn in Switzerland and it’ll also tell you it’s Winter—and sometimes both at the same time!

The average high temperature is 45°, but you might see days with highs in the low 30s and other days in the low 60s.

The amount of sunshine also drops quite a bit, though you likely won’t see huge amounts of precipitation either. Gray, misty fog just might be the best picture of an average day in November.

But November is also the 3rd cheapest month according to airbnb.

Most of the summer trains and cable cars have shut down by this point, and even the Schilthorn goes into maintenance mode partway through the month.

Jungfraujoch is open 365 days a year, but even a visit there could be more complicated. Both the Eiger Express from Grindelwald and the train from Wengen to Kleine Scheidegg are closed for maintenance for part of the month, meaning it could take up to an hour longer than normal to reach Jungfraujoch depending on where you’re staying.

Answers to your travel questions

Travelers just like you have asked us a ton of questions about when to visit, what’s the weather like, and what to do if the lifts are closed—and this post and our free download are made to give you a realistic picture of what it’s like to visit Interlaken during each month of the year.

Just want to remind you to snatch up the free-and-helpful goodness using the form below!

And now, let’s wrap up with the final month of the year.

Switzerland Weather in December

• Temperature : 38°F
• Lodging : 2nd least expensive

If Christmas markets, mulled wine, puffy coats, and snow sound charming to you, then you’re probably going to love December.

I’m sure we don’t need to tell you it’ll be cold, with average high temperatures in the upper 30s. But that’s what gets you in the holiday spirit, right?

Unsurprisingly, the amount of sunshine drops along with the temperatures, but average precipitation for the month remains pretty low.

If you avoid the days surrounding Christmas and New Years, December is pretty budget friendly, with airbnb ranking it the 2nd cheapest month of the year.

Though the first half of the month still has quite a few closures, all the important ski areas and sightseeing spots—including Grindelwald First and the Schilthorn —will be open and waiting for your visit.

So if you like the holiday season and know how to pack your layers, December in the Jungfrau Region could be an experience unlike anything you’ve enjoyed before!

That was helpful but…now what?

We’re all about helping you maximize your trip while minimizing your budget and planning time, so here are some bonus tips that will help you decide when to visit based on specific priorities and activities.

We get lots of questions like, “When is the most beautiful time to visit the Swiss Alps?”

While that’s an impossible question and every time of year is beautiful here, we know this usually means a few things: wildflowers in bloom, green alpine meadows, and waterfalls filled to the brim with snow melt.

To enjoy scenes like these that inspired even great writers like Tolkien, there’s nothing like Springtime in the Jungfrau Region. Particularly, aim for mid-April to mid-June .

Giessbach Falls will be raging, the Sprutz and Staubach falls will be plunging mightily, and the entire Lauterbrunnen Valley will look like a fantasy.

If you’re looking for the best combination of springtime beauty and hiking availability, look to June. You might not be able to access the highest of alpine hikes, particularly early in the month, but you’ll find plenty to keep all of your senses busy!

If you’re like us and you love hiking in the Swiss Alps , then plan your visit sometime from June to September . A word of caution though about June: snow sometimes covers trails above 2000m well into the month. So if it’s really important to you to have the best trails available with good conditions, you might wanna wait until at least the second half of June . 

And if you’re looking for fewer tourists and perhaps a lower budget, the first half of September has proved to be a great time to visit. You’re less likely to experience extreme heat, the weather is a little more stable, and the snow usually hasn’t yet returned even at higher elevations.

Now if the hiking you’re more interested in isn’t so high in the mountains, mid-May to mid-June and mid-September to mid-October could be a great choice as well. But don’t count on being able to hike mountain trails above 1700 or 1800, even though it might be possible depending on the year.

It goes without saying that if you like to swim in the lakes and you’re not cold-blooded, July and August will be the best times to visit.

But enjoying a nice boat ride on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz can happen anytime from mid-April until the last week or so of October . This entire time is also great for lakeside strolls .

Winter in Switzerland

If you love winter wonderlands yet winter sports aren’t your reason for traveling, it’s hard to imagine a better time to visit than December , when the Christmas markets and decorations are in full swing, and the charm level is dialed up to a 10 out of 10.

If winter sports are your jam, we’ve heard that January and February are the best time to ski in Switzerland, although February is particularly busy due to school breaks. So December and March might offer fewer crowds and better prices.

But admittedly, we aren’t skiers, and we haven’t yet been here for Winter in Switzerland. But we wanted to share our perspective with you based on our own experience as well as lots of research.

When is the best time to visit Switzerland?

Our goal is to help you travel with confidence by reducing your planning time and stretching your budget, and that’s exactly what our free download does!

So check your inbox for the free guide , and we’ll see you in Switzerland!

Jana is an SEO copywriter and content editor plus travel YouTuber. She loves all things gelato, sunshine, and words. Her perfect day? Tossing on sunglasses to read a book and catch some rays, then dinner with her husband and friends. In her free time, Jana disciples teen girls and cooks from scratch (like homemade pasta). Jana lives in Switzerland with her husband, Brett.

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Figuring out the best time to visit Switzerland depends on what you want to see and do while you are here.

Switzerland experiences a huge range of weather during the different seasons of the year, ranging from scorching hot in the height of summer to freezing cold in winter. I have experienced it all during my 20+ years of living here.

So, the weather will undoubtedly make a massive difference to your stay and the things you can do while you’re there. Hiking and mountain excursions are great from May to October but impossible in winter. Skiing is awesome in January, but the weather is in the cities does not allow for el fresco dining!

Join me as I run through everything you need to know to decide when the best time to visit Switzerland is for you.

Table of Contents

Spring (April to June) – Shoulder Season

Spring is a delightful time to visit Switzerland as the temperatures are moderate and the flowers are in bloom.

Known as shoulder season, this is also when Switzerland is not yet overrun with tourists and popular places are a little more peaceful.

Between April and June, the countryside is lush, snow on the peaks, and you will see all the wildflowers in bloom. I love heading to places like Maderanertal, where the variety of Alpine flowers is mind-blowing, as is the road to get there.

During spring, hiking trails at lower elevations might be open, the mountains will be free of skiers, and hotels and flights are more affordable too.

If you are brave, it might just be warm enough to swim in some lakes and enjoy watersports. I don’t do it personally, but some of my friends swim for nine months of the year. So anything is possible!

Temperature

Temperatures range on average from 59°F in April to 68°F in May and up to 70°F in June. It is not cold by any means, but if you prefer warmer weather, June will be your favorite month to visit Switzerland in spring.

April and May can be a bit wet in my experience. Although global warming changes all the seasons, so, this is not something I can 100% predict anymore.

June will have sunny skies and less rainfall, making it the best month to visit before summer starts

Reasons to Visit

• More affordable flights and accommodation
• Fewer tourists around
• Wildflowers in bloom
• Hiking trails open up
• Ideal weather
• Snow-capped peaks
• Lush countryside
• Ideal for a countryside train experience

Travel Tips

• Pack warm and cold clothes
• Pack so you can stay dry if needed
• Always have sunscreen and a hat with you
• Go to the mountains as it is the most affordable time
• It is the perfect time for scenic train rides

Summer (July to August) – High Season

Summer in Switzerland is the busiest time of year to travel.

This time of the year coincides with the school holidays in July and August, making it a popular time to visit. Popular tourist destinations are crawling with people, and you will also experience the warmest and sunniest weather.

Of course, having sun every day is not guaranteed in an Alpine country like Switzerland. However, it is sunnier fare more often than not. The lakes warm up for swimming and watersports, making high-altitude hiking trails accessible.

Most of the fun music festivals take place in summer, too. Famous ones like the Montreux Jazz Festival, the Zurich Street Parade and Swiss National Day do too.

It is a fun time to be in Switzerland as everywhere is alive. Particularly this year, I found the cities and towns in Switzerland to be thriving. Every restaurant and terrace was full of sun lovers having lunch or a coffee.

So, it is a lot busier, and prices can be as high as 50% more for flights and accommodation.

Mountain resorts also become particularly busy during this time—especially places like Interlaken, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, and Zermatt.

Average temperatures range from 75 °F in July to 73 °F in August, the weather does just stay consistently hot over the high season months of July and August.

You will generally be blessed with sunny days and blue skies through July and August in the lower altitude areas of Switzerland, such as around Lake Geneva. Higher altitudes may experience more cloud cover and the odd rain shower.

• Guaranteed warm weather
• Access to high-altitude hiking trails
• Ideal for water sports and mountain sports
• Switzerland is alive with people
• A lot of fun festivals to go to
• Great for lakeside chilling
• Book flights & accommodation well in advance as they are very busy during this time of year
• Pack for hot weather plus a few items for warmth and to keep you dry
• Do not forget swimwear, sunscreen, hats, or sunglasses

Autumn (September to October) – Shoulder Season

Fall is a magical time of year to visit Switzerland. And it is another shoulder season, meaning prices are cheaper too.

During September, the weather is still warm , there are fewer crowds , the prices of flights and accommodation are lower , and it is much more peaceful.

It is still warm enough to swim in the lakes and access high mountain trails, and you also get to see the beautiful autumn colors coming out around the mountains. The alpine scenery is at its best and it is a lovely time to go on an alpine train ride like the Glacier Express.

October is an extraordinary time of year in the South as the Larch trees turn yellow, making for unique scenery and stunning photos. I was in Zermatt during this period last year and it was jaw-droppingly beautiful.

This is also the time of year when the grapes are being harvested and you can experience Switzerland’s many wine festivals

Average temperatures are about 68 °F in September and drop dramatically to 57 °F in October. This makes September a better time to visit for warmer activities, but it is in October that you see the autumn colors come to life.

Generally, the weather in high and lower altitudes is warm and dry during September, but it is starting to turn a bit colder at higher altitudes by the end of the month.

October in low altitudes is lovely, but high altitudes will start to get snow, passes and trails may be blocked, and cable cars will close for maintenance for a few weeks

• Good weather
• Autumn colors
• Spaces on experiences like the Glacier Express
• Great hiking access
• It is still warm for water sports & adventure sports
• Pack for warm/cold/wet/dry weather
• Get up into the mountains to see the Autumn colors
• Book last minute and you might get a deal

Winter (November to March) – High & Low Season

Winter season is high-season in Switzerland for the ski resorts and low-season for the rest of Switzerland.

The snowfall begins at higher altitude resorts in November and hits all resorts by about mid-December and runs through to late March. Christmas is the busiest time for winter sports enthusiasts, as people come to ski and have a white Christmas and see the Christmas markets.

February is also known as “Sport holiday” to the locals, as all the school children have a week or two off. As such, prices are also higher in the mountains during most of February.

Prices in Winter in the ski areas skyrocket, while in lower altitudes, you will find low season rates. It is a great time to experience Switzerland for a bargain as you can visit cities like Geneva and Zurich, pop into Christmas markets for some festive cheer, and hop up into the mountains for a hike in the snow.

If you want to go skiing, I recommend either January or March because by then there is enough snow, but you skip the two busiest months of the winter.

The average temperature during this time in Switzerland varies from 36 °F to 45 °F, close to freezing. It is, of course, a lot colder at higher altitudes.

Snow, rain, wind, sunshine, and cold are everything you might experience in winter.

• Awesome for winter sports
• The snow-covered Alps are stunning.
• Christmas markets
• More affordable flights & accommodation (not in ski areas)
• Winter hikes are beautiful
• Waterproof boots are a must
• Warmth is all about layering
• Sunscreen and sunglasses are a must
• Christmas markets are worth a visit
• Zermatt and the Valais region are stunning

Best Month to Visit Switzerland

The best month to visit Switzerland, in my personal opinion, is in September. It is quieter and more affordable, the weather is excellent, and all the high-altitude hiking trails are still open. It is also warm enough to enjoy all the water sports around the lower-altitude lakes.

June also offers the same benefits as September, but you might get to see some autumn colors in September, which is why September is best in my eyes.

On top of that, in June, not all of the hikes are open yet, as it takes some months for all the snow to melt!

Cheapest Month to Visit Switzerland

There is not one single cheapest month for visiting Switzerland, there are 3. November, March, and April are the most affordable times to visit Switzerland.

This is when the weather isn’t so great at high or low altitudes, making the demand low and the prices too.

Best Time to Visit the Alps

If you are looking to do snow sports, then you have to go during the ski season. The best snow is usually between December and the end of March, but if you want quiet slopes, choose the second week of March or the first 2 weeks of January.

If you want to hike around the Alps in June and September, either side of the peak season is your best bet. You will miss the summer crowds but still have good weather and access to high-altitude trails.

Best Time to Visit for Honeymoon

The best time to visit for a honeymoon depends entirely on what you would like to do on your honeymoon, there are many reasons to visit Switzerland after all.

If you want snow and skiing, the first week of March is your best bet. For fabulous weather and outdoor activities, May, June, and September are great, plus the romantic Autumn colors of October are also lovely.

Best Time to Visit for Hiking

May and June, as well as September and early October, are the best times to be visiting Switzerland for hiking. The higher altitude trails will begin to open. May & June has beautiful wildflowers, while September & October has stunning autumn colors and more higher trails are open.

If you want to do high-altitude hiking outside the high season, late June and early September will give you the best access.

How Many Days in Switzerland Is Enough?

How many days is enough to spend in Switzerland? The answer to this comes down to what you would like to do again. For a dash of city life and some mountains, 5 days is ideal – 2 in the cities and 3 in the mountains.

So, When Is the Best Time to Visit Switzerland?

The best time to visit Switzerland is a very personal choice as it depends on what you would like to experience.

The best time to ski is the first week of March in my eyes, as the snow is still good and the slopes are quieter.

For a warmer experience with outdoor activities, June and September are hard to beat. The weather is excellent, prices are lower, there are fewer crowds, and the countryside is still looking stunning.

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Discover the Charms of Switzerland in October: Cities, Mountains, and More

• September 14, 2023
• Visit Switzerland
• Aletsch Glacier , appenzell , Autumn , basel , bern , Bernese Oberland , Cultural Exploration , Engadin Valley , Fall Foliage , geneva , interlaken , lausanne , Local Cuisine , lucerne , lugano , montreux , Nature Exploration , neuchatel , October , Outdoor Activities , swiss alps , Swiss Architecture , Swiss Cities , Swiss Culture , Swiss Destinations , Swiss Gastronomy , swiss hiking , Swiss History , swiss lakes , Swiss Lakeshores , Swiss Landscapes , swiss mountains , Swiss Museums , Swiss Nature , Swiss Scenic Drives , Swiss Sweets , Swiss Traditions , swiss trains , Swiss Travel Tips , swiss villages , switzerland , Travel , zermatt , zürich

Welcome to Switzerland in October , where autumn transforms this picturesque country into a breathtaking showcase of natural beauty. As someone who has called Switzerland my home since 2016, I can attest that this is one of the most enchanting times to explore its diverse landscapes. So, join me on a journey as we discover the top cities, places, and activities that come to life amidst the backdrop of autumn’s splendor.

1. Zürich – the bustling heart of Switzerland

Let’s start our Swiss adventure in the vibrant metropolis of Zürich , where modernity meets tradition. In October, the Old Town (Altstadt) takes on a golden hue as trees shed their leaves along the cobblestone streets, creating a mesmerizing display of colors. Art lovers will find their haven at the renowned Kunsthaus Zurich, which boasts an impressive collection. And, of course, you can’t leave Zurich without indulging in the silky delights of Swiss chocolate at Sprüngli .

Our Tip : Take a leisurely boat ride on the tranquil waters of Lake Zurich to get a unique perspective of autumn’s embrace.

2. Lucerne – the beauty of white peaks

Next, a short train ride from Zürich brings us to the fairytale-like city of Lucerne. October is a time when nature transforms the iconic Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) into an ethereal masterpiece. The Lion Monument, a symbol of deep emotion, captures the essence of this colorful season. A boat cruise on Lake Lucerne reveals majestic panoramas that are sure to leave an indelible mark.

Our tip : For even more dramatic fall foliage vistas, head up to Mount Pilatus or Mount Rigi .

3. Interlaken – nestled in the Alps

Interlaken , nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz , becomes an adventurer’s paradise in October. The shimmering lakes reflect a kaleidoscope of colors that surround them. Hiking trails wind through forests draped in autumn’s tapestry, and for the thrill-seekers, paragliding offers an exhilarating experience with sweeping aerial views. Don’t forget to take the scenic train journey to the “Top of Europe” at Jungfraujoch .

Our Tip : Plan your excursions in advance to avoid disappointment as it is a very busy location.

4. Zermatt – the capital of mountaineering

Zermatt , in October, transforms into a cozy alpine wonderland that feels like it’s straight out of a storybook. This car-free village, surrounded by nature, takes on an enchanting charm as its streets, paved with cobblestones, meander through a plethora of trees. Hiking amidst the autumn landscapes provides a rejuvenating experience. For a breathtaking view of the iconic Matterhorn and surrounding peaks, take the Gornergrat Railway.

Our tip : Warm up on cooler evenings with traditional Swiss fondue at one of Zermatt’s charming restaurants.

5. Lausanne – majestic views await

Lausanne in October is the perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural splendor. Parks like Parc de l’Hermitage and Parc de Mon Repos transform into vibrant canvases, as leaves change their attire. Admire nearby Lavaux Vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which offers a stunning vineyard terrace amidst the fall season.

Our tip : Visit The Olympic Museum, against the crisp air and the scent of fallen leaves, offers insights into the history of the Olympic Games.

6. Geneva – the home to beautiful lake

Geneva , in October, is a serene haven where urban elegance harmonizes with natural beauty. Stroll along the picturesque Lake Geneva promenade, where trees drape themselves in the golden hues of autumn. Explore the historic Old Town (Vieille Ville) with its charming lanes, historic buildings, and cozy cafes.

Our tip : Enjoy a picnic amidst the tranquil surroundings of Parc des Bastions , where the Reformation Wall stands amidst the fall foliage.

7.Bern – the capital city

Switzerland’s capital, beckons with timeless beauty in October. The UNESCO-listed Old Town, with its medieval architecture and winding streets, becomes a romantic haven as it adorns itself in the warm tones of autumn. The Zytglogge clock tower, with its intricate mechanisms, seems even more enchanting in the crisp autumn air.

Our Tip : Explore the Bear Park, home to Bern’s beloved bears, and watch these majestic creatures in their natural habitat amidst the colorful surroundings

8. Basel: A Cultural and Artistic Haven in October

Welcome to Basel , where art, culture, and the beauty of autumn come together in harmony. During your visit, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the Kunsthaus Basel, where an impressive collection of art awaits. The streets of the Old Town (Altstadt) are ripe with centuries of history, seen in every cobblestone and aging building.

Our Tip : for your stay to be even better – experience the Basel Autumn Markets (Herbstmesse), where you’ll find lively celebrations, delicious treats, and unique crafts that create an immersive cultural experience.

Read more:  Visit Basel in October and witness the city’s charm

9. Neuchâtel: A Peaceful Paradise on the Lakeshore

October transforms the city of Neuchâtel into a serene escape for anyone seeking tranquility. Explore the shores of Lake Neuchâtel, where the vibrant autumn foliage is a stunning contrast to the pristine waters. Neuchâtel Castle towers above the landscape offering breathtaking views that capture the beauty of this picturesque city.

Our Tip: for your stay to be even better – hike through the natural amphitheater of the nearby Creux du Van , where you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking fall foliage.

10. Montreux: Jazz, Lake Views, and Autumnal Charm

Come to Montreux , nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, where autumnal colors mix with lively festivities. Although the Montreux Jazz Festival ends, the town continues to put on a colorful display of autumnal beauty. The lakeside promenade is adorned with trees dressed in red and gold, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Our Tip : for your stay to be even better – go on a leisurely boat cruise and take in the crisp autumn air and picturesque water reflections.

11. Lugano: Italian Flair in Swiss Paradise

Discover Lugano in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino, where Mediterranean flair meets vivid autumn colors. Luxuriate in Parco Ciani, the lakeside park that offers walking paths surrounded by vibrant foliage, and experience the city’s natural beauty.

Our Tip: escape to nearby Morcote , a charming village on Lake Lugano, where you’ll find serene escapes and stunning lake views amidst fall’s vibrant hues. It is mostly a pretty warm location even during the fall season, once I was in Morcote on the 1st of January and was hiking around in my T-shirt.

12. Engadin Valley: A Nature Lover’s Dream

The Graubünden canton’s Engadin Valley is an autumn paradise, boasting stunning villages and dramatic views of pristine lakes and majestic mountains. These include St. Moritz, Pontresina, and Sils Maria, each offering picturesque trails for hikers and bikers alike. The natural landscape and vibrant fall foliage make the region a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

Our Tip : for your stay is to take a journey on the Bernina Express , a UNESCO World Heritage-listed railway, and witness the valley’s beauty unfold before your eyes.

13. Appenzell: Picture-Perfect Destination in Northeastern Switzerland

Appenzell is the picturesque northeastern town that presents a traditional Swiss culture and traditional feel. During October, the town and its surrounding Appenzellerland region are adorned in vibrant fall colors. Stroll through the Old Town with unique shops amidst colorful buildings and indulge in a fulfilling Appenzeller cheese fondue.

14. Bernese Oberland: A Symphony of the Season’s Vibrant Colors

For hikers and nature enthusiasts, the Bernese Oberland region is a paradise in the fall season. Towns like Grindelwald , Lauterbrunnen , and Wengen are surrounded by picturesque alpine beauty and trails, highlighting the season’s vibrant foliage, adding a colorful display of autumn leaves.

There are hundreds of hikes you can do in this region, check out my recommendations:

6 Majestic Hiking Trails in Lauterbrunnen Region

5 Fun and Majestic Hiking Trails in Wengen, Switzerland

5 Fun and Adventurous Hiking Trails in Grindelwald

15 most fun hikes in the Jungfrau Region

Our Tip: take a cable car ride to Jungfraujoch; you’ll visit the “Top of Europe” – the highest mountain restaurant, shop and many other activities in Europe, where you’ll behold the snow-capped peaks, which create a stark contrast but complement the autumn colors.

15. Aletsch Glacier: Nature’s Majestic Marvel of October

Switzerland’s largest glacier, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Aletsch Glacier , is a mesmerizing sight for visitors in October and beyond. The clear skies and cooler temperatures make it an ideal time for hiking amidst nature’s beauty. The Aletsch Forest, surrounded by diverse foliage, creates an idyllic contrast with the ice’s glittering majesty.

Our Tip: for your stay is to take an expert-guided hike to explore the glacier safely and gain a new understanding of its ecological importance.

Personal Recommendations and Tips for First-Time Switzerland Visitors in October:

Swiss Travel Pass : For the most convenient and unrestricted travel during your Swiss trip, we recommend getting a Swiss Travel Pass, which allows unlimited use of public transportation, especially when exploring various cities and regions throughout Switzerland.

Weather Preparedness : In October, the weather in Switzerland can change rapidly. We suggest packing warm clothes.

Plan for Shorter Days: Keep in mind that the days become shorter in October, with daylight hours decreasing. Plan your activities accordingly, and consider earlier starts to make the most of your day.

Visit Smaller Villages: While Switzerland’s major cities are fantastic, consider exploring smaller villages and towns in the countryside. These places often offer a more intimate and authentic Swiss experience, and they are less crowded in October. Check my recommendations:  15 Most Beautiful Swiss Villages: Explore Rural Switzerland

Language : Switzerland has four official languages (German, French, Italian, and Romansh), so knowing a few basic phrases in each can be helpful, although English is widely spoken.

Travel Flexibility : Be open to adjusting your plans based on the weather. Switzerland’s natural beauty shines in any season, and sometimes the best experiences are unplanned.

FAQ Switzerland in October

1. what is the weather like in switzerland in october.

October is a month of transformation in Switzerland as it undergoes the transformation from summer to winter. The temperature cools down significantly, and the days become noticeably shorter. The average daytime temperature during this month ranges from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F), and it can get much colder at higher altitudes (it will probably be already chilling temperatures above 2000 meters). However, it is still possible to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing, as Switzerland’s natural beauty is enhanced by vibrant autumn colors.

2. Is October a good time to visit Switzerland for fall foliage?

Autumn is a spectacular time to experience Switzerland’s natural beauty, and October is one of the best months to witness vibrant fall foliage. The landscapes are adorned with different shades of red, orange, and gold, making it a breathtaking sight. Tourists can enjoy scenic drives, leisure walks, and photography sessions.

For the best experiences to enjoy the whole color palette I recommend going to the Alps, visit Andermatt , Engadin valley, Grindelwald, Engelberg and other charming villages in Switzerland .

3. Are tourist attractions, museums, and restaurants open in Switzerland in October?

Most tourist attractions, museums , and restaurants remain open in October. However, some of the mountain excursion services may have reduced schedules, so it’s advisable to check with the authorities in advance.

4. Do I need to book accommodations in advance for an October trip to Switzerland?

Switzerland continues to attract tourists even in the colder season, and it’s advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially in the more popular tourist destinations like Zurich, Lucerne, and Interlaken. Tourists can find a range of options, from romantic chalets and luxurious hotels to cozy inns and budget-friendly hostels.

5. Is it possible to go hiking in Switzerland in October?

October is an ideal time for hiking in Switzerland because the weather is cool and the crowd is less compared to the summer months. The trails are surrounded by beautiful fall foliage, which makes it an awe-inspiring sight. However, hikers should prepare themselves for varying weather conditions, especially at high altitudes where snowfall and rain are frequent.

Most of hiking trails are fully opened in October in Switzerland, I just would not recommend hikes above 2500 meters as they will probably will be already full of snow, but, if you have experience, it is perfect for snowshoeing .

6. Can I see snow in Switzerland in October?

While snowfall in Switzerland’s lower regions is rare in October, it is possible to find snow at higher altitudes. The Swiss Alps can already experience light snowfall, making it perfect for winter sports enthusiasts to ski and snowboard.

Just go to Zermatt, Saas-Fee, Grindelwald, Leukerbad, Adelboden , Juf and there is close to 100 percent chance to see snow in October in Switzerland.

7. What are the best Swiss dishes to try in October?

October is an ideal time for gourmands to savor Swiss comfort food like cheese fondue, raclette, and hearty stews. These dishes provide warmth, making it the perfect meal to have on a chilly autumn evening. Tourists can also try roasted chestnuts (this is very popular and mostly are sold on the main squares or in the streets in the old towns all around Switzerland), a popular snack during this season.

8. Are outdoor activities still available in Switzerland in October?

Despite the cooler climate, tourists can still enjoy various outdoor activities in Switzerland, including paragliding, boat cruises, and scenic train rides. As some of these activities are weather-dependent, it is best to check with local providers for availability.

9. Is Switzerland crowded with tourists in October?

While October is generally less crowded than the summer months, Switzerland can still attract fair numbers of tourists. To avoid the crowds, visitors can opt to explore the less-traveled destinations, where a peaceful and natural retreat can be found.

10. Are there any special events or festivals in Switzerland in October?

In October, Switzerland celebrates various autumnal festivals across the country, including wine festivals, harvest celebrations (the most popular one is Herbstmesse in Basel), and local fairs. Tourists can take part in these cultural events, get a taste of traditional cuisine, and witness local custom and traditions. It’s worth checking with the local event calendar to see what’s happening during the trip.

Conclusion: Switzerland in October

In conclusion, Switzerland in October is a magical time to explore this diverse and breathtaking country. From vibrant cities to serene lakes, and from hiking trails to historic towns, Switzerland offers a wide range of experiences amidst the stunning backdrop of autumn’s colors. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or a nature lover, Switzerland in October has something special to offer, ensuring your visit will be an unforgettable and heartwarming experience. So, pack your bags and prepare to fall in love with Switzerland all over again!

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Hi there! I’m Aurimas, a man behind Go Look Explore. I’m passionate about hiking, exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, and everything outdoors related. Let’s connect .

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• Switzerland Weather in October 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers

In the low elevations, there is mostly cool weather and moderate rainfall. The beginning of the month is mild or cool, and the end is decidedly cool. The whole country has short daytime hours and mostly overcast skies. You could nevertheless have comfortable tours and hikes in Switzerland's low season.

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

Content Preview

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

Switzerland Weather in October: Overview

• Temperature range: 7–15°C (44–58°F)
• Total rain/snow: 9 cm (4 inches)
• Days with rain/snow: 10
• Humidity: 83%
• Sunshine hours/day: 3 hours

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

Switzerland's weather is usually cool during the day in October at the low elevations where the biggest cities are. There are an average of 3 hours of sunshine and 11 hours of daylight. It might feel gloomy. It is low tourism season with relatively smaller crowds and lower prices.

Lower altitude: The big cities such as Geneva, Lausanne, and Zürich are below about 500 meters (1,600 feet). In them you can expect daily highs averaging 20°C (68°F). You will feel warm when the sun shines. The average nightly lows are approximately 15°C (59°F). There is moderate rainfall.

Higher altitude: Above 1,600 meters (5,200 feet) where the ski resort towns such as Zermatt are, the average daily highs are about 11°C (52°F), and the lows are slightly above freezing. There is both rain and snow, low total precipitation, and a daily average of 4½ hours of sunshine.

The Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in October

Touring in October has the benefits of moderate to low tourism and mild weather, especially at the beginning of the month. There is great natural beauty and no snow at the low elevations plus an amazing display of fall colors. You could enjoy the cities, ski, and hike amid beautiful scenery.

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

1. Zürich — See the Historical Sites in Beautiful Fall Scenery

Zürich is Switzerland's largest city. The cultural attractions and the natural scenery attract many tourists. Others arrive there and transit through because it's Switzerland's main travel hub with the main international airport and train hub. October has low-to-moderate tourism, mild weather, fall foliage, relatively low prices and smaller crowds.

There are an average of only about 3 hours of sunshine daily and about 10 days of moderate rain in October. There is damp cool weather with 84% humidity. The average daily high is 14°C (57°F). When the weather is good, you could stroll along the river or the lake or hike in nearby mountains.

When the weather is inclement, shopping, touring the Old City, and seeing the Swiss National Museum or other museums are options.

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

2. Lugano — Enjoy More Sun, Warmer Weather, and Hot Italian Cuisine amid Alpine Scenery

If you want to get away from tourist crowds and into warmer weather in a Swiss city, then Lugano is an option along the Italian border. You enjoy a combination of Italian culture, language, and climate and beautiful Swiss Alpine scenery. Lugano's average daily high in October is 17°C (63°F).

The low elevation of 278 meters (912 feet) and a big lake keeps the climate mild. There is more sun than in the north with a daily average of 4½ hours of sunshine. The days are often warm and comfortable. There is moderate rainfall spread across about 9 days in October.

The better weather and sunshine make Lugano a good location for a family tour, biking, or hiking. You could take a cruise on Lake Lugano or Lake Maggiore. San Salvatore is nearby and provides a panoramic view of Lake Lugano and surrounding mountains. A trail there goes along the ridge to Morcote — "one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland".

For more about things to do in Lugano, see visiting Lugano in May .

3. Geneva — Enjoy Warmer Weather and More Sun

Zürich has German culture, Lugano has Italian culture, and for Swiss French culture, you could go to Geneva. It is Switzerland's second-largest city. There are fine French restaurants and luxury shopping opportunities in relatively warmer fall weather. The average high is a mild 16°C (61°F).

It can get cold at night since the lows are 5°C (41°F). However, 4 hours of sunshine brightens the region up, and you might enjoy the produce of the grape and apple harvests such as grape juice and apple cider. Lake Geneva helps to warm the city in October.

Taking a cruise on Lake Geneva or the Rhône are options. You might also enjoy strolling in the countryside and walking past the vineyards and orchards during harvest season and buying some of the products. Vineyards stretch along Lake Geneva. You could also buy fresh apples and honey.

4. Interlaken — Enjoy Hiking and Biking in the Lower Elevations of the Jungfrau Valleys

Interlaken is situated between two beautiful lakes — Thun and Brienz, and since it is at a low elevation, it stays warmer when the famous nearby scenic valleys, Lauterbrunnen and Lütschental, get cold. The hiking season in the higher valley areas is between the end of May and mid-October.

This is when most of the gondolas and trains operate to take hikers to high elevation trails. However, when they stop operating, some hikers simply hike to the higher elevations, and vehicles are permitted in some areas. In October, you can hike around Interlaken in mild or cool weather.

The daily highs are 14°C (57°F). There is moderate rainfall, and there are 3 hours of sunshine daily on average. It is a great base for exploring the region since there are large supermarkets, stores, and many restaurants and a range of accommodations.

• For information about Interlaken and travel there, see visiting Switzerland in January .
• For information about Grindelwald, see visiting Switzerland in July .
• For information about the adjacent Lauterbrunnen Valley, see visiting Switzerland in June .

Crowds and Costs for Traveling in October

Switzerland is a beautiful country to visit in October. The lower elevation cities and the mountainsides are dressed with beautiful fall colors. The changing colors of the leaves create changing landscapes with vibrant shifting shades of red, orange, and yellow creating beautiful panoramas.

The northern cities are somewhat gloomy with little sunshine. They generally have damp, cool weather. So, for more warm sunshine, you could go to the southern low-lying Geneva and Lugano regions. You might enjoy tasting the fresh grape produce and other crops and watching the herds descend from high pastures.

Smaller crowds and relatively less expensive touring costs make the end of October and November a time for travel deals. You may find discounted accommodations, flights, and activities with fewer other visitors. Many facilities in the mountains such as trains and trams stop service in the fall.

There are no public holidays providing a day off from work in October. Each canton has its own holidays and observances.

What to Wear in October

There is a big difference of daytime and nighttime temperatures. The mountains begin to freeze at night and have low rainfall, and the cities have moderate rainfall and mild temperatures. You can be prepared for every circumstance by taking a coat and winter clothes, summer clothes, and rain gear.

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

• Comfortable shoes with good traction
• Warm waterproof boots with good traction. You might wear them in-flight to travel lightly.
• Winter coat
• Some summer clothes
• Cardigans or thermals
• Universal adapter

Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Switzerland

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Tourist Places to Visit in Switzerland in October

Here are some of the best places to visit in switzerland in october:, quick navigation.

Rhine Falls

No trip to Switzerland is complete without paying a visit to Europe's biggest waterfall, the Rheinfall. Located right on the border between Switzerland and Germany, it is often called the Niagra Falls of Europe. Formed more than 15,000 years ago due to certain tectonic shifts, the falls have now gained popularity among those visiting Switzerland.

Top Experiences To Do in Rhine Falls

Interlaken is a quintessential Swiss town that sits in the lap of the majestic Alps. The long-fabled mountains surrounding the town have welcomed visitors for over a hundred years, making Interlaken the much-visited destination that it is today. The unparalleled scenic beauty of the Swiss Alps along with its rich culture and a very quaint, small-town vibe make Interlaken a holiday-maker's paradise. From it's azure lakes to snow-capped mountains, Interlaken has a lot to offer! The old heart of the town, its centre is dotted with buildings that date back centuries. You can walk past old hotels, quirky cafes and chocolate making workshops here. Just like the rest of Switzerland, Interlaken also has an enviable variety of cheese that you must try. As far as culture is concerned, Interlaken has loads of it, including ancient musical instruments, colourful traditional dresses and local food. If you are lucky, you will be able to have a glimpse into all of these on a walk through the town. If you love nature and would love to go on hikes and treks on your trip to Interlaken, then you have landed at the right place. You can catch one of over 45 cable cars that leave from Interlaken and get off at a different destination, allowing you access to hundreds of trails, summits, cliff-fronts, caves, waterfalls and more! There are trails that would take you through old villages, trails that run along Lakeshores and trails that go up the mountain tops. Whether you are here to enjoy the luxurious holiday destination of the Victorians or want to get your heart pumping with some amazing adventure sports, Interlaken has everything. You can stand at the highest point of the continent or float down rivers, you can enjoy a private spa by a lake or glide through the air. Its beautiful landscape is steeped in history, myth, and legend and you will find everything from dragons to castles and old convents here.  Interlaken has something for everyone!

Top Experiences To Do in Interlaken

Mount Titlis

Discover the jewel in the crown of central Switzerland which is the only glacier in the area that is accessible to the public. The ski area at Mount Titlis comprises over 80 km of pistes with slopes of varying gradients that can accommodate skiers at any level of proficiency.

Top Experiences To Do in Mount Titlis

Jungfraujoch

Famous for being one of the highest accessible points in Europe, Jungfraujoch lies at a height of 3,463 meters above sea level. This iconic destination in Switzerland is a must visit for the state of the art rail ride, some of the most spectacular views, and lovely ice sculptures at chilling temperatures.

Top Experiences To Do in Jungfraujoch

This charming alpine village lies at the foot of one of the most mystical and majestic mountains of Switzerland- The Matterhorn. Zermatt.One of the most impressive places to visit in Switzerland, Zermatt is famous for its rugged untouched beauty that’s so peaceful and calm that it will take you away from all your worldly problems. This is mostly because Zermatt is a car-free village and its beauty can be savoured leisurely on foot, horse-driven carriages, electric cars, and gondolas.  In the old village area, there are as many as 30 ancient buildings including granaries that depict the traditional way of living of mountain communities. This area also has a beautiful ancient church, Mountaineer’s cemetery, and a museum dedicated to mountaineering. The village streets are dotted with cafes with flower-lined walls in typical Swiss style. It is an amazing experience as you tuck into delicate pastries, cheese, and coffee while looking onto the Matterhorn, looming just miles away.  Travellers from all over the world visit Gornergrat, the sun-drenched observation deck that offers one of the finest views of over 38 thirteen-thousanders and 14 glaciers including Monte Rosa, Matterhorn, and the Gorner Glacier. The ride to this deck, in a glass cable car, is as exciting as the destination itself. This is where Europe’s highest hotel, the Kulmhotel Gornergrat, is located. No visit to Zermatt is complete without venturing into the breathtaking mountainside. Zermatt is one of the few places in Switzerland where you can get up close with wild Ibex and visit a village consisting entirely of igloos. This is the place where you can get direct access to miles of pristine skiing pistes and paragliding points. Zermatt is also one of the places that offer unforgettable dining experiences. Whether it is authentic Swiss mountainside cuisine in rustic cafes, or award-winning restaurants serving hearty meals with the most exquisite of ingredients, or having a meal in a sky-high gondola ride while enjoying the sunrise or the moonlight, the choices here are endless. Zermatt, due to its location, enjoys extremely pleasant weather throughout the year. In summers, the days are cloudy and the temperatures average at around 22°C. The winters are long and harsh, with snowfall almost daily. 

Top Experiences To Do in Zermatt

Mount Pilatus

Located in central Switzerland, overlooking Lake Lucerne, Mount Pilatus is counted among the top hiking destinations in the world. You can enjoy some of the most amazing sights from here in the Swiss Alps especially if you hike up to Tomlishorn, one of its most beautiful peaks.

Top Experiences To Do in Mount Pilatus

Mountain peaks surround the stunning landscape of Lucerne, amongst them is the most popular the "queen of the mountains," Mount Rigi. It sits atop three lakes, namely, Zug, Lucerne, and Lauerz. At the height of 1797.5, the panoramic views of the Swiss town are enchanting.

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Nestled amidst the two Bernese Oberland towns called Thun and Interlaken, Lake Thun is a beautiful Alpine Lake brimming with deep blue water. Cuddled on the northern periphery of the majestic Mount Alps, the lake possesses a beautiful backdrop which is reflected vividly on its crystal clear surface.

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Basel, sharing its borders with France and Germany, lies on the banks of the River Rhine in the northwest region of Switzerland. It is one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland, especially known for the diversity of its flora and fauna. It has miles and miles of lilac flowers edging along the stunning Rhine River. Like all the major Swiss cities, Basel also has its own charming Old Town area, which takes one back in the luxurious and slow pace of life as it was in the medieval era. It has stone houses with tiled roofs, beautiful cafes, well-kept boutiques, and vantage points to see stunning views of River Rhine. There are numerous cruises available for you to see the pristine beauty of the river its promenades.  The most famous attraction here is the 10th-century Basel Minster known for its architecture heavily influenced by Roman and Gothic architecture. Almost as a symbol of its diversity, near the church, stands the striking 18th-century Jewish synagogue. The city is a haven for those who love nature and the outdoors. Basel Zoo, the oldest and the largest in Switzerland, houses over 600 species of rare animals like Indian Rhino, Flamingo, African elephants, and panthers. The sun-drenched city of Basel is the cultural epicentre of Switzerland. This is the most vibrant of places in the country famed for its festivals, art events, concerts, and open-air cinemas. Due to its location on the French and German borders, it is a melting pot of people, languages, and cuisines. It is known as the ‘city of museums’ and has over 40 museums that house world-famous galleries, collections of paintings and artworks. Some of the best museums to visit are the Basel Toy World Museum, Antiques Museum for Egyptian artefacts, and Basel Museum of Ancient Art. The people of Basel love to celebrate and welcome everybody to the amazing carnivals held here throughout the year. These carnivals are an absolute riot of music, satirical performances, hand-painted lantern processions, and parades by pipers & drummers in colourful costumes. Basel remains rainy throughout the year with overcast skies. The summers are comfortable with July being the hottest month. The winters are freezing with January being the coldest month. The temperatures fall below zero often accompanied by snowfall. 

Top Experiences To Do in Basel

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Lake Brienz

Situated in the Canton of Berne, Lake Brienz is a wonderful lake in the north of the Alps spread over an area close to almost 29.8 square kilometres. The lake is about 14 kilometres long, 2.8 kilometres wide and 260 meters deep. Lake Brienz is one of the deepest lakes in Switzerland.

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People Also Ask About Switzerland

Which are the best places to visit in switzerland.

1. Rhine Falls:  Rhine Falls is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in October as during this month you can enjoy boating here. The waterfall is known for its breathtaking beauty, and you can take a walk along one of its trails to admire the stunning beauty of the falls. The best thing is that you can discover the waterfall from various viewing platforms, some of which will take you incredibly close to the falls.  2. Matterhorn:  This is the jewel of the Swiss Alps, with several ski parlours, hiking trails, and resorts that only operate in winters. During October, you must visit Matterhorn if you want to enjoy hiking and rock climbing as the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for enjoying these activities. 3. Grindelwald:  This is a famous mountain village you can visit in October as winter starts during this time, making it an ideal snowy spot for tons of adventurous activities. With its clear skies and alpine beauty Grindelwald is a welcome respite from the cacophony of city life.

How many days are enough in Switzerland?

What clothes to pack for switzerland in october, is there snow in switzerland in october, which are the best day trips i can book while in switzerland, what are the best selling europe tour packages that you can book with thrillophilia.

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The clock is installed in one of the city’s oldest monuments, which was built in 1191 as a tower. The working clock was added in 1530 and was the authoritative clock in Bern from the 16th to 19th century. This popular landmark has played different roles for the city of Bern over the centuries. Know how a devastating fire destroyed the tower in 1405 and how the structure was rebuilt and given a new identity.Till date, the clock is functioning and captivates its visitors who gather five minutes before each and every hour to watch its nearly one-of-a-kind performance. At the strike of each hour, the mechanical figures of bears, a joker, a golden rooster and Chronos, the God of Time, perform and enthral its spectators.

Step into the awe-inspiring world of The Cathedral of Bern, an exquisite Gothic masterpiece in Switzerland. With Thrillophilia Europe packages, Admire its soaring spire, intricate sculptures, and stunning stained glass windows. This historic cathedral holds immense religious and cultural significance, as it serves as the principal church of Bern.The Cathedral of Bern offers a serene and spiritual ambiance, inviting visitors to reflect and marvel at the architectural brilliance that has endured through the centuries. From its sweeping views of the city to its impressive architecture and religious heritage, this landmark promises an unforgettable experience.A visit to The Cathedral of Bern is a journey through time, where spirituality, history, and architectural artistry converge. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment, appreciate Gothic architecture, or simply wish to embrace Switzerland's cultural treasures, this cathedral stands as a testament to Bern's enduring charm and religious legacy.

Titlis Cliff Walk in Engelberg, Switzerland, is an exhilarating attraction that promises an unforgettable mountain experience. Perched at an altitude of 3,041 meters (9,944 feet) above sea level, it is Europe's highest suspension bridge and a true engineering marvel. The Cliff Walk offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Swiss Alps, including the iconic Mount Titlis.Visitors can access the bridge via the Titlis Rotair, the world's first revolving cable car, which adds to the thrill of the journey. With our Europe packages, you'll step onto the suspended pathway, you'll be surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and deep valleys below.The Cliff Walk is designed with safety in mind, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Whether you're an adventure seeker, nature lover, or photography enthusiast, the Titlis Cliff Walk provides a unique opportunity to witness the magnificence of the Swiss Alps from a truly breathtaking vantage point. It's a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring the enchanting region of Engelberg.

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The Best 17 Places to Visit in Switzerland

It's no secret that Switzerland has scenery in spades. The small European country is big on towering, snow-capped mountains, shimmering lakes, storybook villages, and vibrant cities. For active vacationers, Switzerland offers virtually every winter sport, including, of course, some of the world's best skiing, plus hiking, biking, climbing, hang-gliding, and other temptations for adrenaline junkies. There's also plenty to fill a more leisurely vacation, with hearty cuisine, including what some say is the world's finest chocolate, high-end shopping, first-rate museums, and, at every turn, another gobsmacking panorama.

Switzerland is a year-round destination, and it would take many, many trips to see all that it has to offer. But assuming you don't have a lifetime to explore the country, here's our list of the top 17 places to see in Switzerland.

TripSavvy / Michela Sieman

Switzerland's largest city is a stunner—at once historic and modern, cosmopolitan and bohemian. Divided by the Limmat River and wrapping around Lake Zurich's shores, Zurich offers some of Switzerland's best museums, Swiss and international dining , and Bahnhofstrasse—rightfully called the world's most expensive shopping street. Plan to spend much of your time in the Altstadt, or Old Town, and enjoy at least one traditional meal in a restaurant housed in a former medieval guildhall. Many a tour of Switzerland begins or ends here, as the city is seamlessly connected to the rest of the country and Europe, thanks to the ultra-efficient Swiss Rail System .

©GenèveTourisme; ©www.geneve.com 

Switzerland's second-largest city, French-speaking Geneva sits at the southwestern end of Lake Geneva and has a long lakefront promenade on two shores offering views of the famous Jet d'Eau fountain. Geneva is one of Europe's most expensive cities in which to live; that prosperity is felt in its elegant streets and parks, high-end shopping avenues, and five-star hotels with luxury sedans parked out front. But the city is also rich in history, as the center of the Swiss Reformation and, today, the home of the International Red Cross and the United Nations.

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

The Swiss capital of Bern sits on a sharp bend in the River Aare in the western part of the country. Its Altstadt, or Old Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to so many well-preserved medieval buildings. But the undisputed star of the show is the Zytglogge, the fascinating astronomical clock that Einstein is said to have studied when developing his Theory of Relativity. Bern Minster has the tallest church spire in Switzerland and a stunning main portal. Those with more modern tastes can head to Zentrum Paul Klee, a museum dedicated to the country's most famous artist.

Like so many Swiss cities, pretty, walkable Lucerne occupies a magnificent setting—this time on Lake Lucerne with the Alps as a backdrop. The 14th-century wooden Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) is one of the most photographed sights in Switzerland, and Lucern's medieval Altstadt (Old Town) looks much the same as it did hundreds of years ago. The innovative Swiss Museum of Transport  is the most visited museum in Switzerland.

Lake Geneva

 MontreuxRiviera.com

With one shore in Switzerland and one shore in France, Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) is a sparkling, half-moon shaped international playground. On the Swiss side, it offers the elegant city of Geneva; relaxed Montreux , famous for its jazz festival; and Lausanne, home of the International Olympic Committee. The terraced vineyards of the Lavaux wine region are a UNESCO World Heritage Site—some date back to the 11th-century. Last but definitely not least, 12th-century Chillon Castle is everything a castle should be—complete with a (partial) moat, dungeons, and a keep.

David Hanson/GettyImages 

The smallest Swiss canton, Appenzell Innerrhoden is set in the rolling hills south of Lake Constance. This is storybook Switzerland, complete with villages of brightly painted houses, folk traditions, and residents in traditional costume. In the fall, the cows literally come home, as herdsmen bring their cattle—decked out in bells and flower garlands—down from the mountains for the winter. Appenzell's car-free village is a center for folk-art, traditional festivals, baked goods, and yes—yodeling.

St. Moritz & the Engadine

Francesco Meroni / GettyImages

St. Moritz ranks as one of the world's top winter playgrounds for the jet set, and its palatial hotels, luxury shopping, and tony apres-ski scene are fun to dip into. Non-one-percenters might prefer some of the smaller, more down-to-earth towns and villages of the sunny Engadine Valley, known for its glaciers, snowy peaks, glacial lakes, forest, and folk culture. Listen closely, and you may hear Romansch being spoken—the ancient Latin-based language is still taught in the Engadine schools. The area is also a summer paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, and windsurfers.

Interlaken & Jungfrau

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Set between lakes Thun and Brienz, the pleasant town of Interlaken is the most convenient base for exploring the towering peaks of the Bernese Oberland—the region of glaciers, craggy mountains, and pristine lakes that offer postcard views at every turn. From Interlaken, a system of trains, cable cars, and cogwheel rails connect to the region's major ski areas and the Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe. For more than a century, it’s been the highest railway station in Europe. There, a high altitude playground awaits, with observatory platforms offering multi-peak views, the Eispalast (Ice Palace) walk inside a glacier, plus restaurants, and, of course, more skiing.

Lugano and Ticino

You'd be excused for thinking you've crossed over into Italy once you reach Ticino, the region wedged between the Alps and the Italian border. There's a distinctly Mediterranean vibe here, and Italian, not Swiss, is the first language. Lakes Lugano and Maggiore shares shores with Italy and offers a summertime playground for hiking, sailing, and swimming, with a touch of la dolce vita thrown in. Lugano's lakefront city is the bustling regional hub, but climb—or take a cable car—up any mountain to discover sleepy, rustic villages, clean air, and traditional country inns and restaurants.

raymondchan photo / GettyImages 

Something looms large over the car-free, stylish-yet-traditional mountain town of Zermatt—the Matterhorn. Europe's most famous mountain peak draws hordes of visitors to this otherwise sleepy town in the valley for skiing, ice-climbing, and arduous summer hikes and mountain biking. There's plenty of passive sightseeing to do here as well, and the views never disappoint. A mountaineering museum, traditional restaurants, luxe spas, and cozy—if not cheap—hotels can keep you pleasantly occupied here for a few days.

Stuart Dee/GettyImages

Near Lake Constance and the border with Liechtenstein, historic St. Gallen has a car-free center, a UNESCO-listed abbey and cathedral, and a textile-making tradition more than a thousand years old. The Rococo-style abbey library, stocked with 170,000 priceless volumes and documents, is a must-see here. There's a full cultural program in this important university town, as well as easy access to biking, hiking, boat rides on Lake Constance, and jaunts into Germany, Liechtenstein, and Austria.

Andrew Bain / GettyImages 

Pass the cheese, please. Though there's more to this charming medieval town than its namesake cheese, it would be a shame to leave Gruyères without sampling traditional raclette or fondue and visiting the Maison du Gruyère, where they make—you guessed it. In-between bites of cheese, visit the imposing 13th-century Gruyères Castle and take in the pastoral countryside. Oh, and did we mention there's a chocolate factory here, too?

Great St. Bernard Pass

irisphoto2 / GettyImages

Connecting Italy to Switzerland, the Great St. Bernard Pass has been a strategic gateway for the continent—long before the Romans first laid claim to it. The St. Bernard Hospice is still here, as are the iconic St. Bernard dogs—though they perform fewer mountain rescues than they once did. You can drive over the scenic pass or spend the day crossing it on foot, stopping at cozy village inns for hearty sustenance along the way.

Rhaetian Railway

 Dirk von Mallinckrodt / GettyImages

It's all about the journey rather than the destination when you climb aboard one of the Rhaetian Railway trains, the network of scenic Alpine train rides that includes the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express . Panoramic train cars allow for sweeping views of passing glaciers, glacial lakes, mountain passes, and dense forests. The astonishing engineering feats of these high-altitude train tracks are reason enough to make the trip on at least one leg.

Trümmelbach Falls

Catalin Daniel Ciolca / GettyImages 

If you're visiting the Jungfrau, be sure to stop and see where all that spring snowmelt goes. Trümmelbach Falls are a series of falls that crash through a scenic gorge, carrying waters of the Jungfrau as they roar through underground caverns and pools. A series of elevators, bridges, and pathways puts visitors right in the spray of the mighty falls, which are closed in the wintertime.

Ayhan Altun / GettyImages

Palm and lemon trees give Locarno a nearly tropical feel. Switzerland's warmest city sits on Lake Maggiore and is the relaxed alternative to busy Lugano. Wandering the narrow streets of the town, strolling along the lake, and having a coffee or aperitivo on Piazza Grande—these are the simple pleasures of Locarno. A hike or funicular ride up to the Madonna del Sasso pilgrimage church rewards with breathtaking views of the lake, the town, and the surrounding mountains. From there, explore the villages and streams and waterfalls of the surrounding Valle Verzasca.

 Alexander Spatari / GettyImages

Literary Lausanne has inspired writers and artists through the ages, no doubt inspired by Lake Geneva's views, the city's pedestrian-only medieval center, and, perhaps, its mighty Gothic cathedral. Divided between upper and lower towns connected by a subway, Lausanne the smallest city in Europe with a metro system. It's the International Olympic Committee's home and a sporty vibe pervades—as evidenced by all the bikers, walkers, swimmers, and sailors.

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8 Day Switzerland Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide (2024)

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

OVERVIEW – BEST SWITZERLAND ITINERARY

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

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

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

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

HOW TO BEGIN YOUR SWITZERLAND 8 DAYS ITINERARY

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

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

HOW TO GET AROUND SWITZERLAND?

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

Get the all-in-one Swiss Travel Pass!

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

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

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

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

HOW LONG TO STAY IN SWITZERLAND?

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

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

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SWITZERLAND?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHAT IS SWITZERLAND FAMOUS FOR?

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

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

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

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

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

SWITZERLAND ITINERARY – THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

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

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

MOBILE DATA:

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

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

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

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DAY 1: ZURICH TO LUCERNE

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

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

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

THINGS TO DO IN LUCERNE

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

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

Read It Here: 15 BEST Things To Do In Lucerne

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

#1 CHAPEL BRIDGE

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

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

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

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

#2 BOAT TRIP ON LAKE LUCERNE

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

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

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

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

BEST LUCERNE TOURS

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

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

#3 MOUNT RIGI

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

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

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

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

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

MUST READ: 21 BEST TRAVEL ACCESSORIES FOR ANY TRIP

WHERE TO STAY IN LUCERNE

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

Luxury: Lucerne Lake View Apartments

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

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

Mid-Range: Hotel De La Paix

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

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

Budget: Barabas Hostel

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

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

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

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

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

DAY 2: LUCERNE TO INTERLAKEN

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

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

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

HOW TO GET TO LAUTERBRUNNEN

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

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

9 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN LAUTERBRUNNEN

#1 visit staubbach falls.

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

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

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

RELATED GUIDE: Things To Do In Lauterbrunnen

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

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

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

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

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

#2 TRÜMMELBACH FALLS

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

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

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

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

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

BEST LAUTERBRUNNEN TOURS

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

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

#3 MÜRREN VILLAGE

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

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

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

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

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

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

#4 MOUNT SCHILTHORN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#5 WENGEN VILLAGE

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

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

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

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

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

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

#6 PARAGLIDING IN LAUTERBRUNNEN

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

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

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

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

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

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

#7 HIKING IN LAUTERBRUNNEN

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

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

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

Related Article: Must-Do Hikes In Lauterbrunnen

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#8 CYCLING IN LAUTERBRUNNEN

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

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

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

#9 SKYDIVING IN INTERLAKEN

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHERE TO STAY IN INTERLAKEN

Luxury: victoria jungfrau grand hotel.

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

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

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

Mid-Range: Hotel Interlaken

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

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

Budget: Valley Hostel

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

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

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

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

DAY 3: INTERLAKEN TO MONTREUX

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

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

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

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

THINGS TO DO IN MONTREUX

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHERE TO STAY IN MONTREUX

Luxury: montreux apartment on the lake.

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

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

Mid-Range: La Rouvenaz Hotel

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

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

Budget: Montreux Youth Hostel

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

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

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

DAY 4 & 5: MONTREUX TO ZERMATT

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

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

THINGS TO DO IN ZERMATT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHERE TO STAY IN ZERMATT

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

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

Luxury: Grand Hotel Zermatterhof

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

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

Mid-Range: Schlosshotel Life & Style Zermatt

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

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

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

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

Budget: The Matterhorn Hostel Zermatt

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

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

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

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

DAY 6: ZERMATT TO ST. MORITZ

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

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

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

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

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

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

OPTIONAL DETOUR TO LANDWASSER VIADUCT

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHERE TO STAY IN ST. MORITZ

Luxury: badrutt’s palace hotel.

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

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

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

Mid-Range: Hotel Piz St. Moritz

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

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

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

Budget: St. Moritz Youth Hostel

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

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

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

DAY 7:  ST. MORITZ

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DAY 8: ST. MORITZ TO ZURICH

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

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

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

WHERE TO STAY IN ZURICH

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

Luxury: Park Hyatt Zurich

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

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

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

Mid-Range: Motel One Zurich

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

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

Budget: Zurich Youth Hostel

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

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

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

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

MAP OF SWITZERLAND

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

WHAT TO PACK FOR SWITZERLAND

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

Must-Have Travel Essentials

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Reusable Water Bottle

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Travel Backpack

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Quick-Dry Travel Towel

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Portable PowerBank

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More Switzerland Travel Guides

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

FINAL THOUGHTS – SWISS ITINERARY

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

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

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

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

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

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Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

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THANKS FOR READING

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you so much and hope to hear from you!

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

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

I hope this helps and enjoy 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

I hope this helps and enjoy!

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

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

Appreciate your advice. Thank you!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for your sharing. Lov it!

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

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

Many thanks !

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

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

Appreciate your advise. Many thanks.

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

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

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

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

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

What are the 3 places we should stay ?

Your help is much appreciated Thank you once again

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Warm Regards, Manish

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks in advance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hello, Yes I was traveling 1st Class.

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

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

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

thanks in advance!!

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

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

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

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

I read some other blogger recommended half fare pass

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It would be great if you can share your comments.

Keep up with good working!

Regards, Mesut from Turkey 🙂

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

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

Glad you found this guide useful and enjoy Switzerland!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Please ignore the duplicate comment. My sincere apologies!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Best places to visit in switzerland.

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

Appenzell District

Jungfrau region.

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

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

Picturesque Lucerne sits on Lake Lucerne in central Switzerland, framed by snowcapped mountains and medieval buildings. This beautiful city's old town is home to historic attractions, lively town squares, boutique shops and old churches. Top attractions include the Musegg Wall and its towers (the preserved fortifications date back to the 13th century) and Europe's oldest wooden covered bridge, the must-see Chapel Bridge, which was originally built in the 1330s. Those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure can also ride a cable car to Mount Pilatus for stunning views of Lake Lucerne and plenty of activities at the top.

This lakefront city on the Swiss-Italian border offers visitors a unique travel experience. Because Lugano shares waters with neighboring Italy, the city features a mix of Swiss and Mediterranean influences in everything from its cuisine to its architecture. Plus, Lugano boasts unforgettable panoramas. Visit Monte San Salvatore and Monte Brè, both of which you can reach by funicular, for bird's-eye views of Lake Lugano and the city. Or, spend a few hours hiking the Olive Grove Trail or strolling the gardens of Ciani Park. If you'd rather lounge on a beach, head to Lido di Lugano.

Zurich is a cosmopolitan financial center, a foodie haven and a romantic European city that appeals to all types of travelers. A vacation here should include spending time admiring Lake Zurich, exploring the trendy bars and Michelin-starred restaurants, meandering through Lindenhof park and exploring the city's distinct neighborhoods. Join well-heeled shoppers (or just admire the window displays) on Bahnhofstrasse, a world-famous exclusive retail boulevard. While here, be sure to sample the famous dark chocolate Champagne truffles from specialty chocolatier Teuscher.

Visit the medieval town of Gruyères if you want to feel as if you've stepped back in time during your next trip. Its good looks (think: car-free cobblestone streets, fountain-filled squares and a 13th-century castle) create an old-world ambiance you're bound to love. Plus, the town is world-renowned for its Gruyère cheese, which you can sample and learn more about at a local cheese dairy or cellar. Sampling chocolate is also a must-do here, so be sure to check out a chocolate factory or attend a chocolate workshop while in town.

Like its neighbor Lugano, Locarno is located in the Ticino region near the Italian border. This quiet, small town is surrounded by stunning scenery (it sits on the shores of Lake Maggiore in the foothills of the Alps), and since it's the warmest destination in Switzerland, you'll have plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and explore. Be sure to stroll through the picture-perfect main square, Piazza Grande, where the city hosts several summer festivals, and trek to Madonna del Sasso, considered sacred among Roman Catholics. Then, head to the Verzasca river valley to swim or bungee jump.

Appenzell captures the essence of Switzerland with rolling hills, a car-free village and well-preserved customs. Visitors can take in the scenic landscape of the Appenzell District (located in the northeastern part of the country) by taking a cable car to the oft-photographed Aescher guest house, picturesquely built into the rock face, or hiking the region's "experience trails" like the Gonten Barefoot Trail and Appenzeller Kapellenweg, which weaves past 11 chapels. Meanwhile, the tiny village of Appenzell boasts quaint, frescoed shops and Museum Appenzell, which highlights the region's traditional crafts, folk music and art.

You'd be hard-pressed to find a small town that boasts more charm and incredible scenery than Brienz. Located in the stunning Bernese Oberland region, Brienz sits on the northeastern shore of Lake Brienz, which features gorgeous turquoise water and is flanked by towering evergreen mountains. Some of the best ways to soak up the awe-inspiring setting include strolling picture-perfect Brunngasse (often proclaimed the most beautiful street in Europe), riding the Brienz Rothorn Bahn (which traverses a steam rack railway) and taking a boat tour to lake attractions like Giessbach Falls.

Set along the banks of crystal-clear Lake Geneva in western Switzerland, this city is known for its incredible views and as the headquarters of the Red Cross and the United Nations. Geneva is also home to some iconic sights, including the Jet d'Eau (one of the world's tallest water fountains) and an old town with cobblestone streets and picturesque squares. While exploring the latter, be sure to check out the Saint Pierre Cathedral, which features Roman, Gothic and neoclassical details.

The capital of Switzerland, Bern sometimes gets overlooked for flashier Swiss cities like Zurich and Geneva. But Bern holds many charms, including an old town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) featuring the iconic Zytglogge clock tower, Renaissance-style fountains and a Gothic cathedral with the highest spire in Switzerland. The city also boasts many museums – several dedicated to Albert Einstein, who lived in Bern when developing his theory of relativity. Head to Gurten mountain – which you can reach by funicular, by bike or on foot – for sweeping views of the city below.

As the largest ski area in central Switzerland, Engelberg is a winter playground, with a long, snowy season for downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding and sledding. But don't sleep on a summertime visit here; warmer months allow for a bevy of fun family activities like a toboggan run, 300-plus miles of hiking trails and water activities on Trübsee lake. Regardless of when you visit, you won't want to miss the TITLIS Rotair, a revolving cable car that takes riders up Mount Titlis, and the other cable lifts that stop at a glacier cave, a panoramic restaurant, and the TITLIS Cliff Walk.

Considered "the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism," St. Moritz welcomes travelers with world-class skiing, swanky hotels, renowned après-ski offerings and top-notch restaurants. In addition to offering downhill skiing trails so highly regarded that the town has hosted the Olympics twice, St. Moritz features excellent spots for cross-country skiing, sledding and winter hikes. Come summertime, the area invites outdoor lovers to golf, bike, hike or enjoy water sports and swimming in the surrounding lakes.

The Jungfrau Region is the perfect place for first-timers wanting to experience the otherworldly splendor that is the Swiss Alps. But be forewarned: The destination is sky high. Popular attractions like the Jungfraujoch (which features Europe's highest train station), the Grindelwald-First cable car and the First Cliff Walk Presented by Tissot sit at the top of towering peaks. The innovative Eiger Express gondola offers even faster transport to the top (just 15 minutes from Grindelwald). For those who'd rather stick closer to Earth's surface, prioritize a hike on a lower-level valley path and a visit to the Pfingstegg toboggan.

Tourists may not be as familiar with Montreux as they are with its Lake Geneva neighbors, which makes this Swiss town such an undiscovered gem. Quaint Montreux features a waterfront promenade dotted with flowers and trees, a medieval castle and a charming old town, not to mention a statue commemorating Freddie Mercury (Queen recorded multiple albums here from 1978 to 1995). Montreux is also surrounded by vineyards and hosts a popular open-air jazz festival every summer, while the holiday season brings the festive Montreux Noël market.

Located less than 5 miles from Montreux, Vevey is another Lake Geneva gem. This town's picturesque promenade along the lake is filled with flowers and features a sculpture of Charlie Chaplin, who spent the last 25 years of his life in Vevey. The Alimentarium, a nutrition-focused museum, also adorns the shoreline with its beautiful sandstone building, which once served as the headquarters to Nestlé (the company is still based in Vevey). After admiring the town, visitors can take a cog railway to the scenic Les Pléiades vantage point for its stunning views and the astronomy-centric Astropléiades trail.   

The second-largest city on Lake Geneva, Lausanne is characterized by its renowned Gothic cathedral and surrounding hilly terrain. The stunning lake views and colorful city center don't hurt, either. Travelers can take in Lausanne's lively atmosphere by checking out the city's cafes, admiring the old town's beautiful architecture and perusing the exhibits at the Olympic Museum. No visit would be complete without venturing outside the city to nearby Lavaux, where you can enjoy wine from vineyards that are so scenic and well-preserved (some date back to the 11th century), the area was deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Swiss National Park

Stein am Rhein

Swiss Grand Canyon

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