Experiences

Switzerland In Winter : Best Places And Experiences

Adorned with beautiful lakes, snow-covered alps, and lovely villages, Switzerland in winter turns into a wonderland. During this season (December to February), you can experience excitingly cold temperatures ranging from -2°C to 7°C, with frequent snowfall creating a surreal scenery. The alps get covered in thick blankets of snow, and the villages light up with the spirit of festivity, making it a great time to take a Switzerland trip.

On your Switzerland vacation, you can explore iconic destinations such as Interlaken, St. Moritz, Lucerne, and Zermatt, each known for festive markets and world-class winter sports. If you’re wondering about the things to do in Zurich in winter, the city becomes truly magical with its sparkling Christmas markets, open-air ice rinks, and illuminated streets that create the perfect setting for shopping and evening strolls. Adventure seekers can enjoy snowboarding, skiing, and snowshoeing, while those seeking a relaxing time can marvel at the serene alpine landscapes. For an unforgettable journey, travellers can board the Glacier Express or Bernina Express to witness panoramic views of the snow-covered Swiss Alps. To complete the experience, indulge in traditional Swiss fondue and immerse yourself in the country’s rich culinary culture.

Whether you are strolling through the old towns or skiing down alpine slopes, you can experience the warm hospitality and stunning beauty of Switzerland at every step. So, plan your Switzerland trip this winter and enjoy an unforgettable travel experience!

Hot Selling Experiences In Switzerland Explore All (8)

Escape to a world of natural beauty and Alpine serenity on this day trip from Zurich

12H

156 Ratings

Day Trip To Grindelwald And Interlaken From Zurich

€ 117 € 116 per adult

Embark on a 2-hour sightseeing tour of Zurich

2H

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Zurich Sightseeing Bus Tour

₹ 4,916 ₹ 2,851 per adult

10H

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Day Trip to Jungfraujoch From Lucerne

€ 300 € 295 per adult

Embark upon an exciting trip to the Jungfrau summit

7H

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Jungfraujoch Day Tour From Interlaken

€ 300 € 299 per adult

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Panorama Yacht Saphir Lucerne

₹ 1,211 ₹ 867 per child

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Geneva Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

₹ 1,092 ₹ 710 per child

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Zurich City Tour With Ferry and Cable Car

€ 71 € 66 per adult

Enjoy this hassle free tor at tour in the city of Zurich

1H

168 Ratings

E-Zurich Tuk Tuk Tour

€ 86 € 85 per adult

Essential Information About Switzerland In Winter

01

Why To Visit Switzerland In Winter

Visit Switzerland in winter because it offers a heart-warming mix of scenic beauty, seasonal festivities, and cultural experiences that make it one of Europe’s most attractive destinations. Snow-covered Alps and frozen lakes create a striking backdrop for skiing, snowboarding, and alpine walks in places like Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Grindelwald.

Cities like Zurich and Basel add a festive atmosphere with Christmas markets, light displays, and traditional food stalls. For relaxation, thermal spas such as Therme Vals and Bains de Lavey provide a warm contrast to the snowy surroundings. Whether you’re planning an adventurous trip or looking for something more romantic, Switzerland honeymoon packages let you experience all of this in a perfectly planned way, from cozy alpine stays to scenic train rides through the snow. With world-class winter sports, snowy landscapes, cultural attractions, and festive celebrations, Switzerland combines adventure with comfort, making it an ideal choice of place to visit on a winter holiday.

02

What To Do In Switzerland In Winter

One of the popular activities is skiing in Switzerland, and you can enjoy it safely with famous resorts like Verbier, Zermatt, and St. Moritz. These resorts offer a world-class experience, combining beautiful alpine views with highly-maintained slopes. Also, you can take part in other adventures like sledding, ice skating, and snowboarding. If you like a slow pace, you can gear up for train rides such as the Bernina Express and the Glacier Express, which take you through the heart of the country. Also, have a great time visiting some of Switzerland's most famous peaks via cogwheel trains or Gondola Rides, like the Matterhorn and Mount Titlis.

Travellers can further explore some unique places to visit in Switzerland in winter, such as Davos, Grindelwald, and Arosa, famous for their cozy mountain lodges and hiking trails. You can also stroll through vibrant Christmas markets in Basel, Lucerne, and Zurich, or rejuvenate yourself in thermal spas surrounded by snow.

03

Switzerland Weather & Temperature In Winter

During winter, the weather in Switzerland is cool and snowy, making it an ideal time to explore the country. From December to February, the temperatures range between -2°C and 7°C, making for chilly weather. Days are very short, especially in December and January, with sunrise often after 8:00 AM and sunset before 5:00 PM. You can experience frequent snowfall, which creates suitable conditions for winter hiking, snowboarding, and skiing.

Alpine places like Davos, Zermatt, and Grindelwald in winter are covered with snow, and cities like Zurich and Geneva experience mild cold. In lower-altitude cities like Lucerne and Basel, snow is less frequent and rainy days are common. You can admire the magical glow of the landscapes when the sky is clear and the sun reflects on the snow.

Whether you are relaxing in hot spas, exploring villages, or marveling at frozen lakes, Switzerland weather in winter gives you a splendid experience. If you’re planning a winter trip, also check out what Switzerland in December looks like for a truly magical experience.

Places To Visit In Switzerland In Winter

04

Interlaken

Interlaken Switzerland in winter is an ideal place for adventure seekers and snow lovers. Surrounded by popular mountains such as Mönch, Jungfrau, and Eiger, this charming town offers beautiful alpine scenery. While exploring the town, you can take part in various adventurous activities like paragliding, skiing, and snowboarding. You can visit cosy cafes, explore winter markets, and take pictures at frozen Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

From the town, you can enjoy a scenic cogwheel train ride to Jungfraujoch, offering an unique experience. Whether you are interested in trying thrilling activities or admiring calm mountain views, Interlaken promises a mesmerising experience.

05

Zermatt

Zermatt is one of the most scenic places with snow in Switzerland where you can enjoy amazing views of the famous Matterhorn Mountain. During this season, the village turns into a winter wonderland, which is ideal for ice climbing, skiing, and snowboarding. You can ride the Gornergrat Railway, on which you can marvel at the true beauty of the snow-covered Alps.

You can also experience the perfect winter ambiance in the village due to lively après-ski places, cozy chalets, and luxury resorts. You can also have an ice palace experience as you visit Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, the highest cable car station in Europe.

06

St. Moritz

St. Moritz is a luxurious mountain escape, which is popular for frozen lakes, sunny alpine weather, and glamorous ski resorts. With clear skies and glimmering snow, the town shows the charming beauty of Switzerland’s weather in winter. Here, you can take part in various activities like world-class skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating on the frozen Lake St. Moritz. You can also enjoy horse racing and polo events on the ice.

The town has gourmet restaurants, thermal spas, and elegant boutiques, making it ideal for travellers looking for a comforting vacation in Switzerland. Whether you wish to unwind in cheerful chalets or enjoy cable car rides to Piz Nair to admire mountain views, St. Moritz is one of the top places to visit in Switzerland.

07

Grindelwald

Grindelwald in Switzerland is a beautiful alpine village which is surrounded by the Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger mountains. Being one of the popular destinations in the Bernese Oberland, it is ideal for those seeking adventure as well as relaxation. You can enjoy thrilling activities here, such as sledding, snowboarding, and ice climbing, although skiing in Grindelwald is the most popular one of them all.

In the village, you can visit the Glacier Canyon (Gletscherschlucht) and enjoy a cable car ride to First Cliff Walk by Tissot,while enjoying panoramic mountain views. The place also offers hiking trails, Swiss chalets, and a wonderful train ride to Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe.

08

Lucerne

Lucerne is one of the must-visit places with snow in Switzerland because of its breathtaking beauty. Situated near Lake Lucerne and surrounded by the stunning Swiss Alps, the city offers a warm ambiance and wonderful snowy views. On your visit, you can take a relaxing boat ride on the lake, explore the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), and visit the Old Town to admire colorful frescoed buildings.

You can also enjoy adventurous activities like sledding, skiing, and a cable car ride on nearby Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi. For a leisure activity, spend a peaceful evening by strolling through vibrant Christmas markets, having coffee in cozy cafes, or walking on the lakeside.

09

Zurich

Ideal for shopping and cultural explorations, Zurich in winter is a lively and festive destination which is often blanketed in snow. You can explore its Christmas market and enjoy hot chocolate, local desserts, and handcrafted souvenirs. You can also visit the Bahnhofstrasse, one of the famous shopping streets in the world, where you can have a variety of shopping options like home decor and luxury fashion. Explore the charming Old Town (Altstadt) and see historic buildings like the Fraumünster Church and the Rathaus (Town Hall). Talking about things to do in Zurich in December, you can get a chance to enjoy ice skating as you visit the Dolder Sports rink. If you love photography, you can visit the Uetliberg Mountain to capture amazing views of the city and the Alps.

10

Davos

It is known as one of the highest towns in Europe and is a popular place for skiing in Switzerland. The town is surrounded by the beautiful Swiss Alps and it turns into a vibrant hub for winter sports from December to March. It has six main ski areas, including Parsenn and Jakobshorn, where you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding. Apart from skiing, Devos is also popular for other activities like snowshoe hiking, sledding, and ice skating.

You can take a stroll near the frozen Lake Davos, which becomes an ideal place for ice sports and winter walks during winters. Davos also has cozy mountain restaurants, spas, and luxury hotels that offer endless experiences to visitors.

11

Jungfraujoch

Known as “Top of Europe,” Jungfraujoch is one of the most popular attractions in the Swiss Alps. It is a must-visit place for visitors looking for skiing in Switzerland, and it can be reached via scenic train rides on the Jungfrau Railway. Situated at an altitude of 3,454 meters, the saddle provides breathtaking views of surrounding glaciers, snow-covered peaks, and valleys throughout the year. You can also marvel at the stunning Aletsch Glacier, known as the longest glacier in the Alps.

At the Jungfraujoch, you can explore attractions such as the Ice Palace, which is filled with tunnels and amazing ice sculptures. To enjoy 360-degree views of the mountains, you can explore the Sphinx Observation Deck, a viewing platform for travellers.

12

Montreux

Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, Montreux is a beautiful lake town. It is surrounded by snow-capped Alps, making it one of the most popular places with snow in Switzerland. The town offers a calm and festive ambiance with scenic winter views and a mild climate. During winter, you can explore the famous Montreux Christmas Market here, which is one of the best in Europe. Nearby, you can marvel at the Chillon Castle, one of the famous landmarks, covered in light snow. You can also enjoy the GoldenPass train for scenic winter views or explore Rochers-de-Naye, a nearby mountain for sledding.

13

Lauterbrunnen Valley

Lauterbrunnen is one of the most beautiful valleys to visit in Switzerland in winter, surrounded by snow-covered peaks, towering cliffs, and frozen waterfalls. It is known as the “Valley of 72 Waterfalls” because of the many waterfalls that dot the landscape. In the valley, you can hike through scenic trails, take the cogwheel train up to Jungfraujoch, or visit nearby villages like Wengen and Mürren. Some of the most popular things to do in Lauterbrunnen include witnessing the frozen Staubbach Falls illuminated at night, exploring the picturesque alpine trails, and enjoying sledding or skiing in the surrounding areas. The stunning views and peaceful ambiance make Lauterbrunnen a unique place to visit in Switzerland.

14

Engelberg

Engelberg is a charming alpine village, one of the most popular places with snow in Switzerland. Situated at the foot of Mount Titlis, it is known for offering winter activities like sledding, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and skiing. Here, you can explore the Glacier Cave, enjoy scenic winter hikes around the village, and walk across the Titlis Cliff Walk (Europe’s highest suspension bridge). Engelberg is also known for traditional Swiss restaurants and thermal spas which promise a wonderful time on your trip.

15

Gstaad

It is a luxurious alpine resort town in Switzerland, which is known for elegant chalets, snowy landscapes, and high-end shopping places. Here, you can enjoy various adventurous activities such as snowboarding, skiing, and sledding on gentle slopes. Along with this, you can participate in a range of sports like winter hiking, ice skating, and horse-drawn sleigh rides through the valley. Gstaad is known for gourmet restaurants, luxury boutiques, and mountain cafes where travellers can relax. You can also have cultural experiences by visiting nearby alpine villages, enjoying local festivals, and exploring the Gstaad Palace.

Also check out : Mountains in Switzerland

16

Bern

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is a charming city to visit in Switzerland in winter. The UNESCO-listed Old Town of Bern is adorned with historic buildings and medieval streets like the Bern Cathedral, Zytglogge (Clock Tower), and the Federal Palace.

In the city, you can stroll through Christmas markets, savour warm drinks, festive food, and shop for local crafts. You can also have a wonderful time by visiting museums like the Einstein Museum, walking along the Aare River, or ice skating at the Kornhausplatz rink. With history, culture, and winter charm, Bern is an ideal place for travelers to admire urban exploration and scenic beauty.

17

Arosa

Arosa is a fanatics palace if you want to get started with skiing, especially if you are a beginner. All the people interested in ice hockey are familiar with Arosa as it has the best ice hockey team which used to be one of the most successful teams in Switzerland.

They are known throughout Switzerland. Arosa is a small town in Switzerland that travellers can spend as a staycation place.

Location: Arosa, Switzerland

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18

Appenzell

For experiencing Switzerland in winter, Appenzell is a marvellous destination. Situated amidst rolling snow-covered hills, it is a traditional and lovely Swiss village, popular for its local culture, alpine scenery and colorful houses. The village is famous for cheese-making, so you can visit some local dairies to learn about the process of traditional cheese production. You can also enjoy snowshoeing, winter hiking, and cross-country skiing to admire the region’s peaceful landscapes. While exploring the festive market in the town, you can admire the traditional Swiss architecture and folk music performances. Accessible by cable car, you can visit the nearby Säntis Mountain and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Alps from here as well.

Also check out : Hikes in Switzerland

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Riffelsee Lake

Riffelsee Lake, located in the picturesque town of Zermatt, Switzerland, is a gem nestled amidst the majestic Swiss Alps. Situated at an elevation of 2,762 meters, this tranquil alpine lake offers visitors a mesmerizing reflection of the iconic Matterhorn peak, known worldwide for its distinctive shape. Accessible via the Gornergrat Railway, the journey to Riffelsee is as enchanting as the destination itself. Nature enthusiasts and photographers flock here to witness the breathtaking scenery, characterized by crystal-clear waters, lush alpine meadows, and the towering Matterhorn backdrop. Riffelsee Lake in Zermatt is a haven of serenity and natural beauty, beckoning travelers to immerse themselves in its splendor.

More Switzerland Attractions

The Olympic Museum, switzerland The Cathedral of Bern Titlis Cliff Walk, switzerland Lucerne City Hall, switzerland The Geneva Water Fountain (Jet D'eau) Rhine Falls, switzerland Chapel Bridge, switzerland Bachalpsee Lake, switzerland Musée d'Art et d'Histoire, switzerland Neuchatel Castle, switzerland St. Moritz-Celerina Olympic Bobrun, switzerland Enea Tree Museum, switzerland Mountaineer's Cemetery, zermatt Einstein House, bern Inseli Park, switzerland Zermatt Ski Resort Oberalp Pass, switzerland Sternenplatz Square, lucerne Matterhorn Museum - Zermatlantis, zermatt Devil's Bridge, switzerland Käfigturm, bern Swiss National Park, switzerland Grindelwald First, switzerland Museo Hermann Hesse Montagnola, lugano First Cliff Walk Switzerland Museggmauer, lucerne Santa Maria degli Angioli, lugano Landwasser Viaduct, switzerland Gandria, lugano Rhaetian Railway, switzerland The Ruinaulta (Swiss Grand Canyon), switzerland Lauterbrunnen, switzerland Sphinx Observatory, switzerland Gruyeres, switzerland Lake Saint Moritz, switzerland Ice Palace Jungfraujoch, switzerland Swiss Alps, switzerland

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Switzerland Reviews

23 January 2020

Aaditya Sethi Mount Titlis Tour From Lucerne

Excellent

The Mount Titlis Day Tour with Cable Car was a delightful experience for me. I was traveling with my spouse. The views were gorgeous and something that I can never forget about, it was dramatically gorgeous. If you are visiting Switzerland then Mount Titlis cable car ride is a great way to spend some time in the arms of nature and enjoy a great time. I was also able to capture some really good photos of the cute little snow penguins.

10 February 2020

Kalyani Sinha Mount Titlis Tour From Lucerne

Excellent

The fully rotating cable car experience topped with interacting with the snow penguins makes for a really fun time to enjoy. I recommend everyone should once visit the Mount Titlis and do the Cable Car ride. And I must say that the view from the cable car was amazing.

04 November 2019

Brajesh Jain Night Sledding Interlaken

Excellent

It was great to spend such a great evening enjoying a ton of fun activities. I had a lot fun sledding and I must say that the fondue dinner was delicious. Fun and food, a great way to spend a night indeed.

10 December 2019

Anilaabh Bharadwaj Night Sledding Interlaken

Excellent

The dinner was on point, the activities were really fun and I along with my kids had a lot of fun exploring the night night sledding experience. If you are in interlaken you have to take one night out and enjoy this thrilling adventure with your family or your friends. The drinks served were also delicious.

19 September 2019

Amish Chopra Night Sledding Interlaken

Excellent

The best fun I had at night in Switzerland was with sulwald Sledding experience at Interlaken. The activities are really organized and the guide gives thorough instruction about the details of the night. I must say that these instructions can get really boring but the guide found a way to make it really fun. I and my partner I was able to get into the action really fast with Sledging which followed dinner. All in all, I must thank Thrillophilia for making our night adventurous.

24 October 2019

Arnesh Gandhi Chamonix Mont Blanc Day Tour From Geneva

Excellent

Chamonix Mont Blanc Day Tour was an amazing experience. We could visit a number of tourist attractions and sight the mesmerizing views of the white mountains. A delightful and fun filled tour indeed. Thanks to the team Thrillophilia and our guide for making it happen.

13 November 2019

Vrund Malik Zurich Airport Transfers

Superb

The overall service was satisfactory and very cost effective at the same time.

05 October 2019

Girindra Pillai Zurich Airport Transfers

Excellent

The experience of being received at the Zurich Airport was very smooth. The car had arrived at the location on time and we had a very comfortable ride.

10 February 2020

Deeptimoyee Nehru Swiss Museum of Transport Tickets

Excellent

The place is perfect for half a day trip. It takes around 5 hours to completely enjoy every part of the museum and it is the place worth visiting. Everything about the museum is great, I mean the first thought in my head when I heard the museum was boring but the Swiss Museum Of Transport is completely opposite. There are a ton of fun activities to do and cars to admire.

28 August 2019