Endless green hills, picturesque wooden houses, and crystal-clear water – Switzerland attracts tourists all year round. However, due to variations in the different seasons, one can only determine the best period to visit depending on his/her preferences. Here’s a guide to help you plan your Swiss adventure.
Spring (March-May): See the country come to life after the winter season. Flowers bloom in the fields and in the atmosphere are the notes of mountain flowers. It is warmer and less crowded, which may be perfect for trails and lowland regions including Interlaken or Lucerne.
Things to Do
- Take a hike surrounded by flowers in the villages of car-free Mürren or car-free Wengen. These delightful villages, located in the Lauterbrunnen Valley, are scenic with no intrusion of traffic noises.
- Go to Lake Lucerne or Lake Geneva to take a ride in a boat. Sail along picturesque towns, medieval castles, and alpine mountains with snow. Admire the views of the natural environment and appreciate the calmness of the lake waters.
- Discover the beautiful city of Lucerne with the famous Chapel Bridge. Discover the past and feel the medieval atmosphere of the city. Make sure to take pictures of the bridge painted with various paintings representing the history of Lucerne.
Summer (June-August): Summer receives the highest visitors since the weather is warm and sunny throughout the day. Soft grassy pastures and rocky mountains create the perfect setting for adventure lovers. This is the best time to traverse the hiking trails, and mountain resorts are lively. Expect to spend more money and to be surrounded by more people, particularly in places like Interlaken, Zermatt, or the Jungfraujoch.
Things to Do
- Discover the beautiful landscapes of the Jungfrau region through hiking or cycling. Discover the unique car-free trip to the highest rail station in Europe with stunning viewpoints, glacier hiking, and direct glacier entrance.
- Take a cable car ride to Mount Titlis for a scenic view and also to explore a glacier. At over 10,000 feet, there are spectacular views of the mountains, opportunities to explore ice caves, and even take an experience revolving gondola, the Titlis Rotair.
- Take a dip in the pristine waters of Lake Oeschinen in Kandersteg. This is a calm water lake found within a mountainous region which makes it an ideal place for relaxation. One can hike or bike to the lake to make the experience even more fulfilling.
Autumn (September-November): Switzerland transforms into a blazing furnace during the autumn season with red, orange, and yellow colors. The population density dwindles, and the weather is ideal for any outdoor activities. Take advantage of cheaper accommodation and fewer crowds as the nation moves to the next season, winter.
Things to Do
- Take a lovely hike and marvel at the stunning colors of the trees in Lenzerheide or Lago di Maggiore. Set out for walks through the colorful woods and get impressed by the change in the seasons. Take deep breaths of fresh mountain air and enjoy the sights and sounds of the relatively untouched trails.
- Visit the Grape Harvest Festival in the month of September to enjoy the harvest festivities. Engage in the celebrations in areas such as Lavaux to view the grape-picking process, indulge in the grape-crushing ceremonies, tasting of wines, and consumption of local meals including cheese fondue and raclette.
- Ride on a glass-top train like the Glacier Express that offers slow train travel amidst alpine scenery. Cycle through picturesque towns such as St. Moritz and Davos, cross Alpine passes such as the Oberalp Pass, and marvel at the landscape of Switzerland in the fall.
Winter (December-February): It’s time for winter! Switzerland turns into a skiing and snowboarding heaven. Some of the prominent resorts which are Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Davos present perfect snow, cozy après-ski mood, and Christmas atmosphere. Expect freezing climate and the possibility of snowing during the day.
Things to Do
- Ski down the world-famous slopes of places like Zermatt or Wengen. Ski some of the toughest and picturesque slopes worldwide, with powder snow to cut through or smoother slopes to glide on. Engage in après-ski activities in traditional wooden tea huts, partaking in hot beverages and Bavarian snacks.
- Take a ride in a sled across snowy terrain. Cuddle up in a blanket and take a slow ride across the villages and through the snowy woods. Enjoy the calmness of the winter views and make wonderful memories.
- Take a stroll in the Christmas markets that Basel or Zurich have to offer. Enjoy the atmosphere of a holiday where one can find various handmade souvenirs – from cuckoo clocks to Christmas decorations. Taste exquisite seasonal delicacies such as hot mulled wine, ginger biscuit, and melted cheese sandwich.
Switzerland is a country that can be enjoyed equally regardless of the season. Here are some additional experiences to consider that extend beyond the seasonal highlights
Major Cities: Experience the flair and traditions of cities such as Zurich, Geneva, and Basel. Visit great art galleries, museums, and other historical attractions. Taste Swiss food culture and enjoy traditional meals including cheese fondue, raclette, and also other meals from other parts of the world.
Switzerland on Budget
Just like every other country in the world, traveling to Switzerland may cost dearly, but it is not completely out of reach. Here are some tips
- It is also advisable to travel during the off-peak times, which is during the spring and autumn seasons.
- You may want to buy a Swiss Travel Pass which gives you the freedom to travel on any train, bus, or boat.
- Choose self-catering accommodation and prepare your meals on your own.
- Free things include going for hikes, visiting quaint towns, and enjoying a meal in picturesque surroundings.
Traveling by train is one of the best ways to explore Switzerland and appreciate its scenic beauty. Switzerland has a well-organized system of railways, which is punctual and provides magnificent views of the Alps. Make a train ride such as the Glacier Express or the Bernina Express for an exquisite experience.
Whenever one decides to go, Switzerland guarantees an unforgettable experience. Starting with the tall mountains and passing through picturesque villages to dynamic cities, this enchanting country has something for everyone.
