Best Time to Visit Switzerland

Switzerland, a land for epic adventures and inspirational journeys, captivates with its pristine nature, dramatic mountains, and lovely culture that make you want to stay one more day. There are never-ending moments of awe as you gaze upon the highest peaks of the Swiss Alps. It’s a paradise for hikers, boasting over 64,000 kilometres (40,000 miles) of marked hiking trails. Explore our Switzerland Walking Holidays and find a trail that suits your appetite. Finding the perfect time to visit this land of rolling hills is a question worth pondering. Pause, savour a cup of Swiss hot chocolate, and discover with us.

 

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Highlight of Switzerland's Varying Seasons

Each season unveils its mesmerising spectacle. Spring's gentle breeze carries the scent of blooming flowers. Summer dances in with golden sunshine, inviting cool dips in alpine lakes as temperatures rise. Autumn's embrace heralds a symphony of colours, with crisp air hinting at the approaching chill. Winter's arrival is celebrated by a frosty kiss, transforming the landscape into a wonderland of sparkling snow where temperatures plummet. Yet, hearts are warmed by cosy firesides and steaming mugs of hot chocolate. Let us explore the best season for you to visit.

 

Photo credit: Liudmila

 

Peak Season: Summer (June to August)

Bask in the sweet summer sun of the peak season in Switzerland while you enjoy a lovely swim in a lake surrounded by nature. It is considered one of the best times to visit, a time bustling with numerous visitors streaming in from around the world. Enjoy the warm weather and hike the lovely mountainous terrain after the snow has melted. Trek from the iconic trails in the Bernese Oberland and Zermatt.

 

Weather: With the air temperature ranging between 19°C to 32°C, you can easily step outdoors to get familiar with the environment and enjoy the lovely sun.

 

Significant events: The magic of Switzerland welcomes you in its warm embrace as the turquoise blue waters glimmer in the sun, reflecting the beauty this region is known for. It has fun activities, including music festivals, concerts, operas, and many more recreational activities.

 

Visit the town of Lugano to enjoy 17 free jazz concerts organised for both tourists and locals. The Ascona Music Festival is the season's highlight, featuring renowned music artists from across the globe. Celebrate the Gauklerfest Interlaken Street Festival in July, where talented artists take over the street, displaying spectacular acts, including juggling, acrobatics, and many more.

 

Enjoy BBQs while you watch the fireworks around the bonfires on Swiss National Day, which is the first day of August. Children fill the streets with their street lanterns, and the locals light candles on their windows.

 

Why visit now: Being the peak season, excitement is in the air. Streets are lit up with exciting events, festivals, sumptuous food, and lots more. Embrace the immersive experience offered on our Switzerland walking trips, where hiking is paired with luxurious hotels, superb cuisines, and excellent route support.

 

Photo credit: Basil Minhaj

 

Autumn: (September to December)

As the summer bids its goodbye, Switzerland welcomes autumn, a time of the year with crisp days and vibrant foliage transforming the scenery. Watch the peaks streak brilliant colours of hues of yellow, then orange, and then gold as a chill fills the air from the sun setting.

 

As the summer crowds recede, enjoy the autumn winds with less struggle for spots on the cable cars. Hear the sound of crunching leaves as you go on mountain hikes. Discover our walking holidays in Interlaken traversing charming alpine villages.

 

Weather: The air temperature during this time usually ranges between 8°C and 15°C

 

Significant events: The Grape Harvest Festival highlights this time of the year, marking the beginning of the grape harvest. Streets filled with spectacular floral parades, each floral pattern carefully painted with artistic genius. Experience the freedom to enjoy the best of this region at your own pace with multiple walking options to choose from each day's accommodation varied activities. Our guided tours give you a worthwhile experience and memories that will last a lifetime.

 

Why visit now: Spend more time with family on a lovely vacation away from the crowd. You get to enjoy exciting moments, make sweet memories, and explore the beautiful scenery around you. Join the autumn festival, where you relish the grapes, lovely folkloric music, and wine.

 

Photo credit: Patrick Robert Doyle

 

Winter: (December to February)

Snow lovers own this season in Switzerland. Whether you enjoy skiing or want to explore the beautiful towns covered in snow, the wintertime is for you—marvel at glaciers, including the largest glacier in Western Europe, the Aletsch.

 

Immerse yourself in exciting adventures, skiing down the slope. Explore the countryside to discover the amazing cultures of the Swiss folks

 

Weather: The temperature during this period ranges between -1°C and 4°C.

 

Significant events: Despite the cold, this season has intense festival activities and events. Visit Christmas markets to shop for yourself and your loved ones. Get to explore and enjoy the yuletide spirit on your snowboards or skis. Share some laughs with other tourists, enjoy the tasteful local cuisines of Switzerland, and mingle with the locals. 

 

Why visit now: This is the time for folks most interested in skiing and other snow sports. Crowds will be fewer than in the peak season, and prices may be lower. Do some Christmas shopping and take home lots of goodies after your trip to the Swiss Alps.

 

A Trip to the Mountains

Enrich your travelling experiences with a tour of the beautiful Switzerland terrain, beautiful cultures, sumptuous meals, luxurious accommodations, and much more. Immerse yourself in euphoric adventures, exploring the Swiss Alps, where natural wonders are infinite.

 

 

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