Best Time to Visit Switzerland

Switzerland

You are here

Last updated:
29.09.2021

Ready to take your next trip? If you're looking for a destination with stunning landscapes and plenty of activities, then Switzerland tours is an excellent choice. Located in Western Europe, Switzerland has become one of the main synonyms for prestige. It's one of the most beautiful countries in the world and has something for everyone. From skiing to hiking, there are endless possibilities. Let's take a look at some tips on the best time to visit this European paradise!

Tourist season in Switzerland

The impeccable ecological situation, breathtaking natural landscapes, and the best ski resorts in Europe are not the only reasons for the high tourist popularity of Switzerland. This country attracts over 10 million people annually with its fantastic cities like Geneva and Zurich, where you will find the priceless artistic, musical, and architectural treasures of Europe. Switzerland's weather can easily make it a country of contrasts: on the one hand, there are legendary mountains covered with snow, and on the other – lively cities on the shores of lakes. This means that choosing the best time to visit Switzerland depends only on what you want to do.

Tourist season in Switzerland

Quick Swiss facts:

  • Location: Central Europe
  • Capital: Bern
  • Official language: Italian, German, French, Romansh
  • Size: 41,285 sq km
  • Population: 8,5 millions (2021)
  • Currency: Swiss franc (CHF)

High season in Switzerland

It's not a secret that Switzerland is known as the top destination for winter holidays, with its beautiful scenery and diverse offerings. It boasts the most respectable ski resorts in the world, designed for both beginners and professionals. As a result, the Swiss Alps are considered one of the most elite vacation places in Europe, so you may find yourself sharing your track with some famous top models or well-known pop stars.

One of the best months to visit Switzerland is in January. The mass opening of the ski season begins a week before Christmas, although several ski resorts receive their guests starting in the last days of November. The season closes in mid-March to mid-April. In addition to exciting show programs offered by local restaurants and entertainment venues, the season is always marked by interesting competitions and holidays. For example, in mid-January, the "Snow Sculpture Festival" takes place in Grindelwald and the international curling championship, "Bull-Trophy", is expected in the same month.

High season in Switzerland

Low season in Switzerland

The low season in Switzerland is a time for reflection and relaxation. It typically encompasses late autumn and early spring, with only a few exceptions like the week of Easter. A spring trip to Switzerland is the best solution for many reasons: the temperature rises, wildflowers bloom, and you can browse through an abundance of local products in the markets. This is an excellent time for a honeymoon or for a family vacation as there is no special tourist excitement; as a result, there are a lot of discounts in ski resorts, and the main attractions are more accessible than at the height of the season.

Low season in Switzerland

The best time for outdoor activities

The summer months, in particular July and August, are the time when hiking enthusiasts put on their boots and go on high-altitude routes. Their goals are the tourist trails of the Bernese Oberland, Valais, and Grisons, which boast interesting trails and magnificent landscapes. Lowlands, such as the Lavo wine region or the bucolic town of Appenzell, are also characterized by a great atmosphere.

The best time for outdoor activities

The best time for excursions

Switzerland has the charm of old cities, the splendor of over 1000 castles, and an abundance of museums and galleries! April, May, and June will be the best months to visit Switzerland and excellent times for city sightseeing tours. Going on a trip? Don’t forget to visit the most important Swiss cities, Lucerne and Zurich, where you will find some of the oldest sights in Europe.

We also recommend you enjoy the huge Rhine Waterfall and take a walk around the botanical garden of Geneva and its city square, Bourg de Bourg. In Lausanne, travelers will be interested in visiting the castles of St. Mary and St. Mary, the stunning Cathedral, and the unique Cathedral of St. Francis.

The best time for excursions

Beach season in Switzerland

One of Switzerland's most popular holiday destinations includes relaxation on the numerous lakes of the country, despite the fact that most of them are cold and have a glacial origin. Beaches, as well as ski resorts, are equipped at the highest level. The beach season on Lake Geneva, Lugansk, and Lake Maggiore lasts from the middle of July to August. Here, at the height of summer, the water warms up to +26 °C.

If you're looking for some active pursuits, Swiss lakes will definitely surprise you. Here you can always try activities like yachting, windsurfing, golf, etc.

Beach season in Switzerland

The Swiss Alps and surrounding lakes provide an incredible backdrop to any traveler's journey. From the cities of Zurich, Bern, Geneva, or Lausanne, there are plenty of adventures awaiting you in Switzerland. We hope this article helps you plan your next trip and provides a better idea of what to expect when visiting one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. So, have fun on your next adventure and travel safely!