best places in switzerland to visit in spring

Switzerland in Spring: Best Things To Do & Places To Go By A Local [2024]

By Gemma Tedaldi | Published: 24th January 2024 | Updated: 16th February 2024

Switzerland in spring is a beautiful blend of freshly blossoming landscapes, weather beginning to warm up again and wonderful local festivals. You can experience the cows heading up into the mountains for the summer, stunning spring blossom hikes with the Alps as a backdrop and of course the incredible Basel Fasnacht , (our favourite festival in Switzerland that is held in our home city), All of which make Switzerland the perfect destination to visit in the spring.

So, are you looking to find out more about this wonderful destination? Here is our guide to Switzerland in spring.

Table of Contents

• Is it worth visiting Switzerland in Spring?
• Holidays and Festivals in Switzerland in Spring

Hikes to do in Switzerland in Spring

Activities to do in switzerland in spring, best places to visit in switzerland in spring, where should i stay in switzerland in spring.

• Switzerland in Spring FAQs

Planning Your Trip? Use our favourite travel resources below:

Accommodation: We recommend Booking.com

Rental Car: We recommend Rentalcars.com

Flights: We recommend Kiwi.com

Tours: We recommend Get Your Guide

Is it worth visiting Switzerland in spring?

It is very much worth visiting Switzerland in spring. The weather is warming up, there is still a possibility of snow depending on where you are in the country, and the festivals celebrating the end of winter and beginning of spring are really something to witness. Generally hiking trails up to 2000m will also now be snow-free so you can lace up those hiking boots again, (this can obviously not be guaranteed but on average spring means hiking season is back.

Average temperatures across Switzerland in spring:

📍 16 – 23° C / 60 – 74° F in Zurich

📍 3 – 23 ° C / 37 – 73° F in Basel

📍 1 – 23° C / 34 – 73° F in Geneva

Average rainfall across Switzerland in spring: 137mm – 173mm rain.

Is this peak season or low season?

Spring is considered a low season in Switzerland ; however, it is also one of the loveliest times to visit, with blossoms blooming and the hiking trails beginning to open for the year. Spring is also some of the cheapest months to visit Switzerland as accommodation prices are reduced. Just be mindful that the weather can be a little rainy in June.

If you’re thinking about visiting Switzerland but at a different time of year, check out our other posts for Switzerland in summer , autumn and winter .

Holidays and Festivals in Switzerland in spring

Spring in Switzerland is from March 20th through to June 21st. The Easter holidays fall between April and May, with Ascension Day, Whit Monday and Corpus Christi also falling throughout the end of May and into June. Alongside these holidays there are a number of wonderful festivals as well; here are the top 6 festivals in Switzerland in spring that you should try and visit:

Switzerland in March

📍 Lucerne Spring Festival

From late March through to early April depending on the year, the Lucerne Spring Festival is 3 days of incredible classical music, giving the city a taste of the Lucerne Summer Festival, which happens in August. Each year the festival focuses on a different composer each night, with Mendelssohn, Chopin and Rachmaninoff as some of the recent ones.

Switzerland in April

📍 La Fête de la Tulipe, Morges

La Fête de la Tulipe or the Tulip Festival in Morges is held along Lac Léman from the end of March through to the middle of May showcasing more than 140,000 flowers and 300 different types of tulips. With over 50 years of the festival, Morges really knows how to put on a show with the tulip displays. This is also the location of the Dahlia Festival from July to October, so Morges is the place to go in Switzerland if you want to experience the flowers.

📍 Sechseläuten Zürich

Zurich’s answer to saying goodbye to the winter and hello to the spring, Sechseläuten, (happening on the third weekend in April), is the cities spring festival with parades, guildsmen in costume and the symbolic burning of the giant wooden snowman, called a Böögg. This unique festival is like no other in the country, especially as the time span from the starting of the fire to the final explosion of the head of the snowman has been said to predict the weather for the upcoming summer.

Switzerland in May

📍 Gruyères Cheese Festival

The medieval town of Gruyères hosts one of the best cheese markets in Switzerland in May, with cheese makers from around the local region sharing the traditions behind Gruyère AOP cheese making. With plenty of opportunities to taste and take home the cheeses as well, this festival along the Rue du Bourg may be smelt before it is seen, but it is well worth a visit too.

📍 Alpaufzug / Estive alpine cattle ascent, throughout May, June and July

The alpine ascent known as the Alpaufzug or Estive, happens throughout May, June and July. Farmers decide at short notice when exactly is will happen depending on the weather so there isn’t a set date, but the goats, cows and sometimes sheep will make their way to the mountain for the summer season.

Switzerland in June

📍 Eidgenössisches Jodlerfest

The Eidgenössisches Jodlerfest, or the National Yodeling Festival, occurs once every three years at the end of June, (the most recent was held in 2023 in Zug, with the next in 2026 in Basel), and is the place to be if you want to experience yodelling, alphorn blowing and traditional flag waving.

The years in between the official Jodlerfest have numerous cantons holding smaller Jodlerfest from mid-June through to early July.

Best Things To Do In Switzerland In Spring

Switzerland offers wonderful experiences like no other during the spring. With traditional local festivals, the hiking season just beginning and of course, spring blossoms to witness everywhere! So here are our favourite and top things to do in Switzerland in spring;

📍 Blossom Hike, Zug

Zug may not be the most well-known destination to visit in Switzerland in spring, but it is by far one of the best purely for its wonderful blossom hikes. There are three different hikes you can choose from to see the blossom, all starting in the Old Town of Zug, and with a dedicated ‘ Chriesitelefon ’ or ‘Blossom Phone’ that you can ring to check if the blossom is ready, meaning you can time your hike to see the perfect blossom.

We would recommend hiking the Zug to Goldau route, which takes which follows alongside the eastern shore of Lake Zug, (Zugersee), passing through historic cherry, apricot, apple and pear orchards, as well as past waterfalls and through forests, all while in the view of Mount Rigi.

Taking roughly 5 hours to complete the 18km, this one-way route is not for the faint-hearted, but you can easily shorten the route by finishing at Oberwil, Hörndli or Walchwil instead, and then hopping back to Zug on the local train.

📍 Mürren to Gimmelwald

Lots of people come to the Lauterbrunnen Valley, but not many venture to the very south to Stechelberg. From here you can take a series of cable cars up to the summit of Schilthorn , (best known for being in a James Bond film), where there are of course plenty of summer hiking trails you can do, but in the spring when there is still snow you can instead hike from Mürren down to Gimmelwald .

Both Mürren and Gimmelwald are car-free traditional mountain villages, and both are well worth a visit in their own right, so the short and easy hike between them is a must. Taking roughly an hour and a half to walk the 3km long route, you will pass through both the villages as well as wildflower-filled pastures, with a cow here and there too. This route is also ideal for families as it is mainly on well-paved paths.

If you are into your paragliding, or fancy giving it a go, then Mürren is also a great place to do this, with the cable car having a dedicated paraglider wing crate that sits alongside the main car.

📍 Mount Rigi

You can walk various trails up and down the mountain, but we would highly recommend taking the train to Rigi Kulm , (the very top), then walking back down via Rigi Staffel, Staffelhöhe, Chänzeli and finishing at Rigi Kaltbad . This 4km long route follows a ridge line most of the way alongside the train tracks, before joining with route 558 to Rigi Kaltbad. Walking this way you get some of the best views, even if there is a cloud inversion like the day we first did it.

Depending on how far you want to hike, you can either stop at Rigi Kaltbad for a bite to eat or a dip in the spa before taking the cable car or train down, or you can continue hiking on one of the many routes that lead from here down.

📍 Go To An Easter Market

Easter Markets aren’t held everywhere across Switzerland, but where they are they are great places to wander through for some Easter treats. Bremgarten in Aargau is the largest of all the Easter Markets with over 400 market stalls to explore.

📍 Witness The Alpine Cattle Ascent

Although not as well known or celebrated as the Alpabfahrt, the Alpine cattle ascent takes place in June and is a wonderful thing to witness during spring in Switzerland. A few locations across the country celebrate this festival, but one of the most well-known is the ascent up to the Engstligenalp via narrow rocky pathways.

📍 Visit The City Of Roses

The city of Bischofszell in the canton of Thurgau, also known as the ‘city of roses’, is a great and unique place to visit in Switzerland in spring. With specially decorated fountains around the city and a walking route that takes in both the beautiful old town and the spring flowers, Bischofszell should be added to your list of places to visit in spring.

📍 Take A Lake Cruise

Lake cruising in Switzerland is great any time of year, we are regularly hopping on a ferry throughout the year, but spring in Switzerland is particularly lovely for a lake cruise. With the country waking up from the winter, there are blossoming trees popping up all along the lake edges, in particular along Lake Zug, (Zugersee).

📍 Visit Alpine and City Flower Gardens

If spring isn’t the best time to visit the alpine flower gardens and city gardens, then we don’t know what is! Whilst tulips and daffodils are springing to life in the cities, the alpine flower gardens start blooming on the mountain slopes, with unique plants and flowers only native to the Swiss Alps.

📍 Taste The New Season Asparagus

Switzerland is a great place for seasonal and local produce throughout the year, and spring in Switzerland is no different with fresh asparagus making its way into every dish you can think of. Both the green and white varieties are available across the country and both or equally delicious and must tries if you are here.

Planning your own trip to Switzerland? Make sure you check out our Travelling Tedaldi Amazon Store Travel Guides for all your guidebooks and maps. (We’ve done the hard work for you and linked all the things we used to plan our trip!)

📍 Zug in Spring

Zug is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in spring. Known for its cherry blossoms as well as its cherry-flavoured cuisine , this picturesque lakeside town is a great place to spend a day or two. As well as the Old Town to explore, you can also hop on board a boat on Lake Zug, (Zugersee), to witness the blossom from the waters as well.

📍 Morges in Spring

Home to one of the biggest spring flower festivals in Switzerland, with over 100,000 tulips that bloom here each year in April and May, Morges is without doubt a wonderful place to visit in the spring whilst in Switzerland. Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, (Lac Leman), Morges is also known for its impressive castle and quaint old town alleyways, which are more often than not, brimming with flower displays, (even when it’s not spring). Due to its location on the shores of Lac Leman, you can also take to the lake via one of the many boat cruises and ferries that connect Montreux in the east to Geneva in the west, with numerous stops in both Switzerland and France along the route.

📍 Rigi in Spring

Known as the ‘ Queen of the Mountains ’, Rigi is the perfect place to spend the day just as spring has begun. With the hiking trails just reopened, you can take the cogwheel train or cable car up to the summit before wandering back down and taking in the views with a warming mountain delicacy or by taking a dip in the spa pools. You might even get the chance to witness a cloud inversion during this time of the year, which is truly spectacular, and makes you feel like you are surrounded by a sea of clouds.

📍 Lauterbrunnen in Spring

The valley of Lauterbrunnen is a great place to visit in the spring, in particular, due to the sheer number of waterfalls that flow down into the valley from above. Spring not only brings the waterfalls to their peak flow due to the snow melting, (this is the best time to visit Trümmelbach Falls and see Staubbach Falls ), but also fields beginning to bloom with wildflowers. Some snow may still be hanging around at the beginning of the season, but it just adds to the scenery of the area.

📍 Ticino in Spring

If you want to visit anywhere to get a true sense of spring in Switzerland, then Ticino is the place to go. This Italian-speaking canton is also the warmest canton in the country , so spring often comes a little earlier here than elsewhere, which is great if you want to shake off those winter blues. With luscious Mediterranean gardens lining the shores of Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore alongside towns such as Locarno, Ascona, Lugano and Morcote, spring in Switzerland is at its best here.

Zurich is a great place to stay in Switzerland in spring, with the city coming to life after the cold winter months but being within an easy-reaching distance of numerous mountain locations that might still be clinging to the last snowfall of the year.

Switzerland in Spring FAQ’s

How to get to switzerland.

Switzerland has excellent connectivity with the rest of mainland Europe and numerous international destinations. With three international airports located in Geneva, Zurich, and Basel, as well as additional airports in Bern, St Gallen and Lugano. Switzerland is also convenient to reach from its neighbouring countries of France, Germany, Austria, and Italy.

How to get around Switzerland

Navigating Switzerland is best done using its extensive and fantastic public transportation. With a comprehensive network of trains, boats, buses, trams, cable cars and funicular railways transporting you between both the mountains and the cities, the more well-known tourist destinations, and the small unknown locations.

To optimize your time in Switzerland and get the most out of your budget, then you should consider booking your transport tickets in advance through either the SBB website or the SBB mobile app , (you can of course buy your tickets on the day before you board any public transport, but you may end up paying more than if you had bought in advance). Depending on your length of stay in Switzerland, you can get a Swiss travel pass or a number of day passes instead, both of which are great value for money and give you unrestricted access to the public transport network across the entire length of your ticket i.e. a day pass is 24 hours worth of transport anywhere in the country, (it is worth noting that some cable cars / funicular railways may not be included).

Alternatively, if you would rather make your own way then you can, of course, hire a rental car to see this wonderful country instead. We can highly recommend using Rentalcars.com  for this, we’ve used them numerous times throughout Europe, and they always have a wide selection of vehicles as well as being budget-friendly, (something you will want when visiting Switzerland!).

How many days do I need in Switzerland in spring?

If you want to visit Switzerland in spring, then we would recommend you spend at least a week exploring both the alpine landscapes and the cities. That way you can experience quaint lakefront or riverside cafes in the cities and beautiful quiet hiking routes and picnic spots in the Swiss landscape.

What is spring like in Switzerland?

Spring in Switzerland is a wonderful time of year, with some of the best, and most unusual festivals happening across the country alongside the landscape blooming into life. The weather can be a little unpredictable, with June bringing the most rainfall of the year, but the months gradually warm up and offer plenty of opportunity to get out and enjoy spring in Switzerland.

Switzerland in Spring Tours

Tours are a great way to see Switzerland and are even better in the spring when the weather is warming and the tourists are still away. We can highly recommend these tours in Switzerland:

Get a day pass up Mount Rigi with added Spa admission

See the glacier & snow at Mount Titlis

Book your Switzerland in spring tours here

Which month is best for spring in Switzerland?

The best month to visit Switzerland for the spring is April. With the festival season beginning to kick off, the landscape beginning to bloom after the winter and the hiking season starting, April is a great month for visiting both Swiss cities and the lower-elevation alpine villages and hiking trails.

What do people do in spring in Switzerland?

With numerous bank holidays falling within the spring, the Swiss like to spend their long weekends exploring the Alps and holidaying in the warmer cantons of the country, with Ticino being the favoured one.

Is Switzerland worth visiting in April?

100% yes, Switzerland is worth visiting in April. This is the time of the year that the flowers start blooming, (the canton of Ticino is particularly well known for its early blooms), there are cherry and almond blossom trails throughout the country and you may even stumble upon an Easter Market or two, depending on when Easter falls that year.

Is it better to visit Switzerland in April or May?

Both April and May are great months to visit Switzerland, with the weather getting gradually warmer and the snow beginning to thaw. If you want to witness the spring blossoms though then April is the time to visit, whereas May is the perfect time to start hiking in the mountains, as the cable car routes and funicular railways open again after the winter season.

Conclusion: Switzerland in Spring: Best Things To Do & Places To Go

Switzerland in spring is truly wonderful, with blossom blooming across the country, the weather warming up and the hiking season just beginning, all the while the snow hangs on at the higher elevations should you want a last-minute toboggan or snowshoe hike. Spring is also one of the shoulder seasons in Switzerland so you can expect fewer crowds and much more affordable accommodation and transportation tickets. So, if you are looking to visit this wonderful country, then look no further than Switzerland in spring.

Gemma is the owner and author of The Travelling Tedaldi, a travel blog helping travellers to discover the best road trips and travel itineraries throughout the UK and Europe. When she isn’t writing about her favourite travel destinations, she can often be found out exploring local hikes or planning future trips.

Top 15 places to visit in Switzerland during Spring

Switzerland is known for its stunning scenery and has earned a high standing among people all over the world. In this blog, we will inform you about the top 15 most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland during the Spring season. Are you ready to discover majestic Switzerland? Whether you’re visiting or perhaps relocating, don’t miss out on our top 15 places to visit in Switzerland during the Spring season. Let’s start with Zermatt!

Zermatt is a stunning popular mountain resort located in the Swiss Alps and is a perfect destination for a spring vacation. This picturesque town is surrounded by breathtaking peaks and is known for its stunning views of the Matterhorn. The spring season in Zermatt brings with it a fresh blanket of snow, mild temperatures, and an array of outdoor activities to enjoy.

One of the main attractions in Zermatt is the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, which is the highest point in Europe accessible by cable car. From the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and the Matterhorn itself. Another popular activity during spring is skiing and snowboarding, as the ski slopes in Zermatt are renowned for their quality and variety. Good to know, even during spring, it can be a great time to go skiing in Zermatt. The days are typically longer and a bit warmer but you can still enjoy fresh snow days in march or April. Read more about the Matterhorn and how to reach the famous mountain from Zermatt here .

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, Zermatt offers plenty of opportunities for scenic walks and hikes. The Gornergrat Bahn , for example, is a scenic railway that takes visitors on a breathtaking journey through the Swiss Alps, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

Zermatt is also home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, providing a lively atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a gourmet dining experience or a quick snack, Zermatt has something for everyone. Also, Zermatt is home to many hotels with amazing spa facilities to really relax and re-energise.

In conclusion, Zermatt is a must-visit destination during spring, offering a unique blend of outdoor activities, stunning views, a place to relax and a great atmosphere. Whether you’re someone looking to ski or snowboard or simply relax and explore the region, Zermatt is a perfect place to be.

Bern is of course the capital city of Switzerland and should definitely be on this list. It is a beautiful destination to visit during the spring season. The city is known for its well-preserved old town, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city’s medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and charming fountains come to life during the spring months. This makes it a great place to visit with your family or friends during the spring season.

One of the must-visit attractions in Bern is the Bundeshaus, the Swiss Federal Palace. The palace is a symbol of Swiss democracy and is home to the country’s parliament. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building and learn about the country’s political system.

Another popular attraction in Bern is the Bear Pit, which is home to the city’s emblematic bears. The pit is surrounded by the old town and is a great place to relax and enjoy the views.

In addition to its historic attractions, Bern is also home to a vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to numerous museums and art galleries, including the Bern Art Museum. The museum is dedicated to Swiss and international art. Also, just strolling through Bern and enjoying a coffee and the sun in one of the many cosy cafes is a great way to enjoy a day in Bern.

In conclusion, Bern is a fantastic destination for a spring vacation, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich history, admiring its beautiful architecture, or simply relaxing in one of its charming parks, Bern has something to offer everyone.

3. St Moritz

St. Moritz is a world-famous mountain resort located in the Swiss Alps and must be on this list. With its stunning views of the surrounding peaks, mild temperatures, and an array of outdoor activities, St. Moritz is the perfect place for a spring holiday.

One of the main attractions in St. Moritz is its ski slopes, which offer a range of runs for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The slopes are renowned for their quality and variety, making St. Moritz a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

In addition to skiing, St. Moritz is also home to a variety of other outdoor activities, including ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. We love to hike along the nearby lakes and the valleys, this a great way to spend a day.

The town of St. Moritz itself is known for its luxurious shopping and dining experiences. The town is home to a range of high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, providing a lively atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

In conclusion, St. Moritz is a top destination for a spring vacation, offering a unique blend of outdoor activities, stunning views, and luxurious experiences. Whether you’re a winter sports enthusiast or simply seeking a relaxing escape, St. Moritz is the perfect place to be.

4. Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen is a picturesque valley located in the Swiss Alps and is a must-visit destination during the spring season. With its 72 waterfalls, breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, and mild temperatures, Lauterbrunnen is the perfect place for a spring getaway. NIce to know, Lauterbrunnen is known as the valley of 72 waterfalls.

One of the main attractions in Lauterbrunnen is the Trümmelbach Falls, a series of waterfalls that are accessible via a network of tunnels and walkways. The falls offer a unique perspective of power and nature, this is something you have to see in person.

Another popular activity in Lauterbrunnen during spring is hiking. The valley is surrounded by stunning peaks and is home to a range of well-marked trails, offering great opportunities for scenic walks and hikes. In this blog about Lauterbrunnen you can read a lot about hikes and things to do in this village. The nearby village of Mürren is also a popular starting point for hikes and offers panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding peaks.

In addition to its natural beauty, Lauterbrunnen is also home to a vibrant cultural scene. The valley is home to a range of traditional Swiss villages, each with its own unique charm and character. Visitors can also explore the valley’s churches and chapels, which offer a glimpse into the region’s rich religious history. Just stroll through this popular village and enjoy the atmosphere or drink a coffee and enjoy the views, highly recommended.

In conclusion, Lauterbrunnen is a nice destination for a spring vacation, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities.

5. Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a charming mountain village located in the Swiss Alps and is a must-visit destination during the spring season. With its stunning views of the surrounding peaks, mild temperatures, and an array of outdoor activities, Grindelwald is the perfect place for your next holiday to Switzerland during the spring season.

One of the main attractions in Grindelwald is the First cable car, which offers panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding peaks. The cable car is a popular destination for visitors, and provides easy access to the nearby hiking trails.

Another popular activity in Grindelwald during spring is skiing. The village is home to a range of ski slopes, offering a range of runs for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The slopes are known for their quality and variety, making Grindelwald a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

In addition to its outdoor activities, Grindelwald is also home to a rich cultural scene. The village is home to a range of museums, art galleries, and cultural events, providing a lively atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. If you want to read more about what there is to do in Grindelwald, take a look at our other blog about Grindelwald.

In conclusion, Grindelwald is a nice destination for your next spring vacation. Because of the variety of things to do, from skiing to hiking or enjoying the atmosphere. A great option for your next holidays which you should definitely consider. Let’s go to the next one.

6. Lausanne

Lausanne is a beautiful city located on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland. With its mild temperatures, and stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains this is a nice place to be during your spring holidays.

One of the main attractions in Lausanne is the Olympic Museum. It is dedicated to the history of the Olympic Games and the Olympic movement. The museum is a popular destination for visitors. It offers a range of interactive exhibits and displays that provide insight into the world of sports and the Olympic Games.

Another popular activity in Lausanne during spring is exploring the city’s charming old town. The old town is home to a range of historical landmarks. Think of the Cathedral of Lausanne. It offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also explore the city’s quaint streets and alleyways, also really nice to stroll through.

In addition to its cultural experiences, Lausanne is also home to a range of outdoor activities. The city is surrounded by stunning mountains and is home to a range of well-marked trails, great for a hike. The nearby lake also offers a range of water-based activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing. If you want to read more about things to do in Lausanne, take a look at our blog here.

In conclusion, Lausanne is a top destination for a spring vacation, offering a unique blend of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and stunning views. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a relaxing escape, Lausanne is the perfect place to be.

Geneva is a big city located on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland. Thanks to its mild temperatures, and because of the location nearby the lake, its a great place. Geneva is the perfect place for your next spring holidays.

One of the main attractions in Geneva is the Jet d’Eau. This is a towering fountain located in the heart of the city. The Jet d’Eau is a popular destination for visitors, offering panoramic views of the city and the lake.

Another popular activity in Geneva during spring is exploring the city’s Old Town. The Old Town is home to a range of historical landmarks. Also includes St. Pierre Cathedral, which offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

In addition to its cultural experiences, Geneva is also home to a range of outdoor activities. The city is surrounded by stunning mountains and is home to a range of well-marked trails. We also love to take a boat ride on the lake, so nice to see another perspective of the Geneva and its surroundings. If you want to know more about Geneva, take a look at our blog here .

In conclusion, Geneva is a cool destination for a spring vacation, offering a unique blend of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and stunning views. Whether you’re into history or love to combine citylife and a lake, Geneva is the perfect place to be.

Zurich is a vibrant city located in the heart of Switzerland, great destiona all year long. although its not the capital of Switzerland, its probably one of the most popular cities of Switzerland.

One of the main attractions in Zurich is the Old Town. It is home to a range of historical landmarks and quaint streets and alleyways. The Old Town is a popular destination for visitors, offering a unique blend of history and charm.

Another popular activity in Zurich during spring is visiting the Zurich Zoo. It is home to a range of exotic animals from around the world. The zoo is a popular destination for families and animal lovers. It offers a range of educational exhibits and interactive displays.

In addition to its cultural experiences, Zurich is also home to a range of outdoor activities. The city is surrounded by stunning mountains and is home to a range of well-marked trails. Lake Zurich also offers a range of water-based activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing. Read more about things to do in Zurich here .

In conclusion, Zurich is a great place to visit, not only during spring. This place offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and stunning views.

9. Montreux

Montreux is a charming city located on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland. Just like, Geneva and Lausanne, the mild temperatures make it a great place to go during the spring season.

A popular activity in Montreux during spring is visiting the Château de Chillon, a medieval castle located on the shores of Lake Geneva. The castle is a popular destination for visitors, offering a glimpse into the history of Montreux and the surrounding region. We have made a blog about the castle, read it here .

In addition to its cultural experiences, Montreux is also home to a range of outdoor activities. The city is surrounded by stunning mountains and is home to a range of well-marked pathways and hiking trails. Also, water activities are a nice thing to do during your visit.

In conclusion, Montreux is an awesome destination for a spring vacation. The Castle is nice to visit, the lake and its old town.

Flims is a picturesque town located in the Swiss Alps and is a must-visit destination during the spring season.

One of the main attractions in Flims is its natural scenery, including the Caumasee. This lake is seriously so beautiful. So blue, with the forest surrounding it and a nice path towards the lake, so nice…Go for a swim, a picnic or just enjoy reading a book at the lake. Such a beautiful place. Read more about Lake Caumasee here .

Another popular activity in Flims during spring is skiing, with the town offering a range of ski slopes and trails for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. The town is also home to a number of ski schools and rental shops, making it easy for visitors to get started on the slopes.

In addition to skiing, Flims also offers a range of other outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding. The town is surrounded by stunning mountains and forests, offering great opportunities for scenic walks and adventures.

In conclusion, Flims is a top destination for a spring vacation. Skiing and snowboarding are all possible. Also, lake Caumasee is so beautiful. Definitely, a place you should consider visiting during your spring holidays.

11. Interlaken

Interlaken is a beautiful town located in the Swiss Alps and is a must-visit destination during the spring season. With its mild temperatures and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, this is a nice place to visit.

One of the main attractions in Interlaken is its proximity to Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. These are two stunning mountain lakes that offer a range of recreational activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing. A walk along these lakes is also very nice.

Another popular activity in Interlaken during spring is adventure sports, with the town offering a range of outdoor activities, including paragliding, hang-gliding, and canyoning.

In conclusion, Interlaken is a top destination for a spring vacation. With its nearby lakes, nice shopping possibilities and beautiful views. Definitely, a place you should consider. Read more about Interlaken in our blog.

12. Ticino region (Foriglio)

Ticino region in Switzerland is a beautiful destination to visit during spring. The warm temperatures, stunning scenery, and a variety of outdoor activities, make this such a nice place. The Foroglio area in Ticino is a particularly beautiful spot, known for its rolling hills, lush forests, and clear streams.

Visitors to Foroglio in spring can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking. The area is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, offering great opportunities for scenic walks and adventures.

One of the main attractions in Foroglio is the Lago di Vogorno, a stunning mountain lake surrounded by forests and meadows. The lake is a popular destination for visitors, offering a range of recreational activities including swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.

In conclusion, the Ticino region, and specifically the Foroglio area, is a top destination for a spring vacation. Read more about Foroglio in our blog .

13. Verbier

Verbier is a popular ski resort located in the Swiss Alps and is a great destination for a spring getaway. With its mild temperatures and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Verbier offers a range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.

Skiing is one of the main attractions in Verbier during the spring season, with the resort offering a range of ski slopes and trails for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. T

In addition to skiing, Verbier also offers a range of other outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding. Really nice activities besides skiing.

At night, Verbier comes to life with a vibrant après-ski scene, featuring a range of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

In conclusion, Verbier is a top destination for a spring vacation, offering a unique blend of stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and a lively après-ski scene. Read more about Verbier in our blog .

Chur, located in the Swiss Alps, is a charming town that’s worth a visit during the spring season. Chur is an ideal destination for a spring getaway. Also here, the temperatures are quite warm and we would say mildly.

One of the main attractions in Chur is its well-preserved Old Town, with its narrow cobbled streets and medieval architecture. The Old Town is home to several museums and cultural attractions, including the Rhaetian Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the region.

Another highlight in Chur is its scenic location, with the town surrounded by stunning mountains and forests. The nearby Churfirsten mountains offer great opportunities for hiking.

In conclusion, Chur is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway during the spring season. With its charming Old Town, stunning scenery, and range of cultural and outdoor activities, Chur is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Lugano is a charming lakeside city located in southern Switzerland and is a popular destination for a spring holiday. With its mild temperatures and stunning views of Lake Lugano and the surrounding mountains, Lugano offers a unique blend of city life and natural beauty.

One of the main attractions in Lugano is its lakeside promenade, which offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The promenade is a popular destination for visitors, offering a range of recreational activities, including strolling, picnicking, and sunbathing.

In addition to the lakeside promenade, Lugano is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and historic buildings.

In conclusion, Lugano is a nice destination for a spring getaway, offering a unique blend of city life, natural beauty, and cultural attractions. Also, this destination should definitely be on your list.

In conclusion, Switzerland is a breathtaking country with a long range of destinations to visit during the spring season. We hope this list of 15 possible holiday destinations during the spring season, will give you inspiration for your next visit. From the charming lakeside city of Lugano to the stunning mountain town of Interlaken, there’s something for everyone. We hope you will have a lovely time during your visit to Switzleran din the spring season. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below.

Maurits love affair with Switzerland started on his first visit to Switzerland and still continues today. He visits Switzerland often and enjoys writing about his discoveries and sharing his tips with fellow travellers.

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Best Spring Hikes In Switzerland: 12 Epic Trails to Explore

Spring hiking in Switzerland isn’t very easy to come by and this is because the weather makes it quite challenging.

Between the months of April and mid-June, the weather isn’t so predictable and you can experience snow in early April one week and glorious sunshine the next.

Also, the alpine trails aren’t open until mid-June in most cases, and some ski seasons in the mountain resorts push to May. This means those high-altitude hiking trails are off-limits, the mountain huts are closed, and mountain transport has barely started up.

So how do you find some good spring hikes in Switzerland? Luckily the lower altitude trails are absolutely gorgeous with beautiful views of surrounding snow-capped mountains.

Join me as I run through some of the top spring hikes Switzerland has to offer so you can enjoy hiking from early spring into late June in this great destination.

Table of Contents

Lauterbrunnen Valley

Sitting in Central Switzerland close to the popular regions around Jungfrau, the Lauterbrunnen Valley is open for hiking from April while the surrounding mountains are closed until late June.

The hiking path begins at Lauterbrunnen Bahnhof and takes you through the valley which is home to more than 70 different waterfalls. Early spring is the best time to see waterfalls in Switzerland as the snow melt has them booming.

The surrounding countryside is stunning with rolling fields, green hills, trees, blue lakes , and of course, the giant mountain tops towering on either side.

This is an easy 6.7 km hike along a well-paved trail that follows the valley. You will see waterfall after waterfall plummeting down the mountains and there are plenty of picnic areas along the way, some of which even have BBQs and firewood.

You’ll stroll past lots of farms and alpine villages, and you could even ride the cable car up to Schilthorn for a great view on a clear day. Be sure to see the subterranean Trümmelbach falls along the way as they are very unique and immensely powerful.

Once you get to Stechelberg you can either get the bus back to Lauterbrunnen or follow the same trail back to where you started!

Type: Out and Back

Distance: 6.7 km each way

Duration: 2 hours each way

Rating: Easy

Starts At: Lauterbrunnen Bahnhof

Ends At: Stechelberg, or Lauterbrunnen Bahnhof

Mt. Rigi Panorama Trail

Overlooking the shores of Lake Lucerne is one of the best hikes you can do in Switzerland in the Spring . Situated in eastern Switzerland, this hike is very easy to access from Zurich.

The Mt. Rigi Panorama Trail is accessed via the Goldau Train which runs all year round. The train takes you up to Rigi Kulm ay 1798 meters above sea level where the trail begins.

The panoramic views are stunning from the trailhead and as you follow the trail, you will pass by incredible cliffs and mountain tops. The trail is easy with very little elevation so it is great for kids too.

The trail finishes at Rigi Scheidegg where you will find a fun playground and a restaurant with great views of the mountains, surrounding forests, and lakes too.

From Rigi Scheidegg you jump on the cable car down to Kräbel and from there, hop on the cog-wheel train back to Goldau.

Distance: 8.2 km

Duration: 3 hours

Rating: Medium

Starts At: Goldau Train Station

Ends At: Goldau Train Station

The Swiss Path

The Swiss Path trail doesn’t get its name from anywhere as it showcases everything quintessentially Swiss in one hike, from wildflowers to farms, it has it all.

The trail begins in Flüelen and follows Uri, one of Lake Lucerne’s branches. There are fantastic views across this bright blue lake and it is a lovely view to have beside you while you hike for the first few hours.

From the lakeside, you will then hike up into the mountain meadows that will be filled with wildflowers if you do this hike in May. Once you reach the meadows you will have nice views of the peaks above you.

This is when the hike becomes very Swiss and you will hike past cows, farmhouses, through villages, along promenades, and more.

It is quite a tough trail for spring but it is great mountain training for when the high alpine hikes open up in the summer.

Type: Point to Point

Distance: 15 km

Duration: 5 hours

Starts At: Flüelen

Ends At: Brunnen

Lavaux Vineyard Terraces

This is another great spring hike as it flows through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Lavaux Vineyards next to Lake Geneva in Western Switzerland.

You will get big views across Lake Geneva with the Swiss Alps in the background all contrasted by the deep green vineyards. You may even be able to buy some local wine from vine-side stalls along the way and you can combine it with a lake cruise too.

The trail starts at St Saphorin after which you will follow a small paved road through the vineyards with the lake and the alps sitting on your left. The views are never ending and will be sitting there for the whole of your hike.

It is an easy route that follows the same path for 11 km. Along the way, it is worth stopping for a lakeside lunch and once you get to Lutry , have a refreshing dip in the lake. You can then catch the ferry back to where your car is or where you are staying and enjoy a lake cruise too.

Type: Point To Point

Distance: 12 km

Duration: 4 hours

Starts At: St Saphorin

Ends At: Lutry

Giessbach Falls

Sitting in the Bernese Oberland region of central Switzerland lies the stunning hike to Giessbach Falls . This hike has more than just one waterfall by the way, there are three major ones and lots of smaller ones too, and they are all in full flow in the springtime.

The trail starts at Bönigen and follows the stunning shores of Lake Brienz. It isn’t too challenging but there are some long climbs and descents too. However, the views across the lake and into the Alps are a great distraction.

The first waterfall you will come to is Eschwanden after which you go through the little fishing village of Iseltwald . After this, follow the signs to Isch which will take you to Mülibach falls and onto Giessbach Falls.

Giessbach Falls really is the main attraction on this hike. This waterfall is incredibly powerful as it showers down into the lake with the stunning Grand Hotel Giessbach in the background.

Distance: 18 km

Duration: 6 hours

Starts At: Bönigen

Ends At: Brienz Bahnhof

Pfannenstiel Weg, Canton Zurich

The Pfannenstiel trail is another great lakeside hike with stunning views that are perfect to do in Spring.

The trail takes you from Forch up to Pfannenstiel and down to Meilen on the shores of Lake Zurich. It is easily accessed if you are staying in the Zurich Area and features forests, views across Lake Zurich, and the alps.

It begins by taking you through a forest up the Pfannenstiel ridge and once you are at the top, the views are to die for! Be sure to check out the views from Hochwach and Uetliberg towers. This is also where you can stop for a picnic or lunch in the hilltop restaurant.

From here, it is a slow descent down to Meilen on the lake. The trail follows a lovely stream with a few waterfalls. The landscapes as you go down are pretty magical.

Starts At: Forch

Ends At: Meilen

Schnebelhorn, Canton Zurich

This is a wonderful hike if you are craving some elevation as it takes you up to the highest peak in Zurich Schnebelhorn which sits at 1291 meters above sea level.

The hike is of medium difficulty and features stunning views of Lake Zurich, the Alps, Santis , and even Lake Constance on a clear day.

A lovely trail to follow starts at Hulftegg and takes up along route 69 and the Zurich Höhenweg ridge . You will hit a few peaks along the way including Chrüzegg, Tweralpspitz, and Schnebelhorn.

You will know you have finished the hike when you get to the cable car at Atzmännig which will take you back down the mountain. It is open from April onwards.

Starts At: Mühlrüti Hulftegg Bus Stop

Ends At: Atzmännig (Bergstation) Cable Car

Gorges de l’Areuse

Sitting in the Jura Region of northwestern Switzerland lies the stunning Areuse Gorge and there is no better way to explore it than by hiking through it.

This is a great hike to do in spring or summer that follows a river almost the whole way and features numerous waterfalls. The area used to be called Fairyland and that is because everything is green, covered in moss, and somehow magical.

The trail is flat but trail conditions can change to be very slippery if it is wet. Along the way, you will have the steep walls of the gorge to marvel at as well as thunderous rapids and waterfalls of the river you follow as you do.

Distance: 11 km

Starts At: Noiraigue Bahnhof

Ends At: Boudry Bahnhof

Seerenbachfälle Hike

The Seerenbachfälle Hike can be done in many ways but the best way includes one of the best lakeside trails you can find in Switzerland.

Following the river from Ziegelbrücke station, you will get to Lake Walensee. The lake is surrounded by cliffs and mountains that appear to fall straight into the lake. It looks like a seascape but with mountains and rugged contrast of green foliage, cliffs, and the crystal waters of the lake are to die for!

The trail takes you through the town of Weesen to Betlis, then to the magical Seerenbach waterfalls . You can then head to the lake for a chilly dip and get the boat back from Weesen to shorten the hike.

Type: Out And Back

Starts At: Ziegelbrücke Bahnhof

Ends At: Ziegelbrücke Bahnhof

Swiss Grand Canyon

The Swiss Grand Canyon as it is known is actually the Rhine Gorge Trail. This is a great option for spring hikes with the family as the path is easy, and great for strollers, there are playgrounds along the way, plus a restaurant at the end with some of the best views around.

Starting at Flims Waldhaus, it is a 3.5 km walk along the trail past the stunning Caumasee lake . Then it is a bit of time in the forest before you reach the lookout tower with amazing views of the Rhine Gorge.

Stop for lunch and then head back or hike down the gorge and follow the river to the train station and get the train back home.

Distance: 7 km

Starts At: Flims Waldhaus

Ends At: Flims Waldhaus

Federispitz

If you are looking for a tough hike to do in spring in Switzerland, going to the top of Federispitz is the challenge you have been looking for.

This hike requires a 1400-meter climb over 8 km as it rises up and when you reach the top you’ll have awesome views of the Glarus Alps , Appenzell Alps, Walensee, and Zürichsee. The descent to Weesen is tough but takes you through stunning meadows full of flowers.

Be sure to wear good hiking boots for this trail and be sure to do it in good conditions as the trail gets very narrow with steep drops at some points.

Distance: 14 km

Rating: Hard

Ends At: Weesen

Oeschinensee Lake

Sitting in the Bernese Alps, this is a stunning hike that can be done by the whole family from mid-May.

The Kandersteg cable car will take you up to a flat and easy trail that leads to the stunning Oeschinensee Lake . This alpine lake is about as beautiful as they come and you should make a day of it.

You can eat at one of the lakeside restaurants, have a picnic, and even hire a rowing boat. There are stunning mountains surrounding the lake too!

If you are a little more adventurous and the snow has melted in late spring or early summer, there are lots of multiday hikes in the area too. You can hike from the Oeschinensee Lake over into Lauterbrunnen for starters. Or head to one of the huts above the lake and stay overnight for more of a typical Swiss adventure.

Distance: 4 km

Duration: 1 – 2 hours

Starts At: Kandersteg cable car

Ends At: Kandersteg cable car

There are of course plenty of other hikes to do in Switzerland, including lots of fun ones in Appenzell .

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The Best Things to Experience in Switzerland in Spring

Spring in Switzerland is a time of celebration. The winter chill eases away, the days get longer and mountain passes begin to open up again. If you have your heart set on visiting at this time of year, take a look at some of the best sights and attractions in Switzerland this spring.

Caves ouvertes.

Indulge in an all-you-can-drink wine tasting at Switzerland’s caves ouvertes , the best way to get a crash course in one of the country’s lesser-known products. This annual tradition sees thousands flock to the countryside to sample winemakers’ latest wares. It’s pretty simple, you pay for a glass and then taste as much wine as you like (some wineries are more generous than others). The caves ouvertes are a great excuse to get some fresh, country air and also find a good bottle or two to take home.

Watch nature awaken in Ticino

To catch the spring blooms in all splendour, head to the Italian-speaking Canton of Ticino in southern Switzerland. With its warm temperatures and continuous days of sunshine, Ticino is not only a pleasant place to visit, but it’s also beautiful in spring. Around Lake Maggiore, azaleas, magnolias and camellias come into full bloom and make for a wonderful time to go for a trek.

Narcissus blooms

Switzerland’s narcissi blooms, best seen in the countryside near Montreux, are one of the country’s understated natural wonders. Overshadowed by the dramatic scenery of the surrounding Alps, these gentle white flowers turn green meadows into a beautiful white, and for good reason, they are known as the snow of May . Sadly, narcissi are under threat due to agricultural expansion and it is becoming harder and harder to see them bloom en masse. Learn how you can be a respectful traveller and not add to the danger that they face.

Although the hiking season doesn’t kick off in earnest until around June, there are still some great trails to be explored. You can reach areas like the Aare Gorge , one of the most beautiful spots in the entire country, and the Trummelbach Falls , which open in April. Although many trails begin to open , the weather in Switzerland is highly unpredictable, particularly around April, so be sure to check the forecast ahead of time.

Some of Switzerland’s high altitude resorts, like Zermatt and Verbier , offer almost year-round skiing. Most of the lower altitude resorts close up shop as winter comes to an end, particularly in recent years as there have been difficulties with snow surety and this is only expected to get worse. Wherever you decide to go, be sure to check ahead of time for snow cover.

Take a train ride

While summertime is still the best time to enjoy some of Switzerland’s famous train rides, spring offers up some pretty spectacular sunrises and sunsets that can be enjoyed in the comfort of a train seat. The ever-dramatic Bernina Express, which crosses 196 bridges and passes through 55 tunnels, on its way through the Bernina Pass from St. Moritz , is a definite highlight, whatever the time of year. Take a look at some of the most scenic train rides in Switzerland for more inspiration.

The festivals

In the Geneva region, the return of spring is heralded by children wreathed in floral headdresses who sing their way through the streets following the May King and Queen. In Zurich , locals celebrate the longer days and the warmth of sunshine with a festival, known as the Sechseläuten , that culminates in the burning of a giant Böögg, or snowman. Some of the Swiss cantons enjoy a good old-fashioned Eierläset, or egg race, with super competitive participants (some representing winter and others spring) lining up to fill a basket with eggs. In short, as spring returns, there are dozens of festivals and celebrations to enjoy across Switzerland that will give you more than just a glimpse of the fascinating and perplexing Swiss culture that lies behind the ski resorts and fondue.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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Home » Trip Planning » Spring

25 Best Spring Hikes in Switzerland

• Last Updated: 12 Apr 2023
• 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.

Spring can be a beautiful time to hike in Switzerland. But since many mountain resorts and trails aren’t open until mid June, you’ll need choose your trails carefully. But don’t worry! We’ve done the research for you.

Here are my top suggestions for hiking in Switzerland in spring, from April to June.

What to expect when hiking in spring

1. the swiss path, 2. lake lucerne waldstätterweg, 3. zug cherry blossom trail, 4. zug alpine panorama trail, 5. hochstuckli engelstock loop trail, 6. stäuben falls, 7. fürenalp engelberg, 8. grosser mythen, 9. walensee & seerenbach waterfalls, 10. chli aubrig, 11. näfels obersee, 13. ebenalp wildkirchli, 14. rhine gorge (aka “swiss grand canyon”), 15. lauterbrunnen valley, 16. oeschinensee lake, 17. giessbach falls, 18. les pleiades narcissus flower hike, 19. lavaux vineyard terraces, 20. creux du van, 21. areuse gorge, 22. weissenstein, 23. valle verzasca, 23. monte generoso, 24. san salvatore to morcote, 25. füri to zermatt, don’t go here in spring.

Most trails listed here should be in good condition in May. But you may encounter paths that have suffered some damage during winter (e.g. landslides, broken fences, mud bogs), since regular trail maintenance often doesn’t happen until prime hiking season starts in June.

Also, it usually rains a lot in spring and conditions can change quickly. So always check the forecast and current trail conditions before heading out and have a back up plan.

Spring hikes near Lucerne

The Lucerne area is a great choice for spring as there are many lower elevation areas to explore. See also our Lucerne in Spring guide .

Best starting in mid April

The Swiss Path is a long distance trail, circling around the southern half of Lake Lucerne. It is divided into six sections, accessible by public transportation, so you can easily adjust how long you want to hike. We have hiked all the sections and our favorite is from Sisikon to Brunnen , as shown in the picture below.

Since it stays at lower elevations near the lakeshore, it is usually warmer and free of snow in early spring. Also the trail is accessible by train, bus and boat, which run year round. We typically hike this trail at the end of April, when the alpine meadows start to fill with wildflowers. But it’s  a little prettier around mid May when the trees are all green.

Learn more about the Swiss Path .

Best starting in May

Like mirror of the Swiss Path, this long distance trail circles around the northern half of Lake Lucerne. We like Stage 7 from Beckenried to Treib, which visits two big waterfalls near the start of the trail.

It has a steep climb through a forest, then a gentle descent through alpine meadows with big views to the lake and mountains. At the end of the trail, you can ride the ferry back to your starting point, a fun extra to an already lovely day.

You could do this trail anytime if there is no snow. But we think this hike is prettiest starting mid May. The ferry runs year round, but the spring schedule that has more frequent connections starts in mid April.

Hike: moderate • 3.5 h • 10.5 k • 410m up, 370m down

Location: Beckenried – 2o mins by car from Lucerne,

Learn more about the Lake Lucerne Waldstätterweg

Best around mid to late April

This trail hikes in the hills above the Zugersee lake, where you can find many cherry trees blossoming in mid to late April. It’s about a three hour walk, starting at the lake, wandering through small villages. Then it heads up the hills, often in the forest with occasional views across the lake to Mt Rigi.

The trees are usually blossoming in the second half of April. You can check the bloom status buy contacting the Zug flower hotline: 041 723 68 00 or [email protected]  

Hike: moderate • 3 h • 8 k • 240m up, 225m down

Location: Near Zug. Start at Zug Fridbach train station , end at Walchwil Bahnhof

Learn more about the Zug Cherry Blossom Trail

Best starting late April

This trail wanders through the countryside near Zug, passing through farms and fields filled with dandelions. It’s a long trail, but not difficult, with only one short uphill climb.

This trail also has lots of cherry trees, which blossom around the end of April. We did this trail in mid May, missing the peak bloom, but the weather was sunny and warm and plenty of other flowers along the way. 

Hike: Easy • 3.5 h • 11.6 k • 200m up, 500m down

Location: start in Unterägeri and end in Zug

Learn more about Zug Alpine Panorama Trail

Opening 22 April 2023

This family mountain is one of the first to open in spring because of its low elevation. A gondola takes you up to 1200m, where you find lovely views, restaurants and a family amusement center with bouncy castles, trampolines, summer toboggan, suspension bridge and more.

The Engelstock LOOP trail hikes around the mountain, with panorama views of many mountains and lakes. The dirt path is suitable for strollers and has activities for kids with a goat theme.

Hike: Moderate • 2 h • 5.7 k • 140m up, 130m down

Location: Sattel Hochstuckli gondola , about 45 mins by car from Lucerne or Zurich

Learn more about Sattel Engelstock Panorama Loop

Best starting mid May

You can reach these impressive waterfalls with an easy one hour walk on a service road along the river. If the snow has melted (or you have snowshoes), you may be able to visit the falls in late March or early April. But we think it’s prettiest starting in mid May when the flowers are blooming and trees green.

Once spring hits, the walk itself is very lovely, with lots of green meadows that fill with wildflowers. Near the falls, there is a picnic area and the Gasthöfli Aesch restaurant , though they typically don’t open until June.

Starting in late May, you can take an alternate route, riding a cable car up the mountain and hiking around the alps above the falls before reaching this viewpoint. This narrow dirt trail is best for those with hiking experience and a good fitness level.

Hike: easy • 2 hours round trip • 6 km there and back • 200m up & down

Location: Unterschächen , about 50 mins by car from Lucerne

See details for  Stäuben falls .

Opening 6 May 2023

The Engelberg valley west of Lucerne is classic Switzerland, exactly how you imagined Switzerland would look like, speckled with mountain huts on green hills, surrounded by towering peaks. The Fürenalp hike here (1800m), which usually opens in May, is one of the nicest (and most affordable) spring hikes we’ve done. It has big views and a roaring waterfall and river in the middle of the hike.

If you want even bigger views, you can combine this with a ride up to Mount Titlis, where you can stand on the glacier and soak in 360 views from one of the highest peaks in the region. The cable cars to Titlis run year round, with a short maintenance break in November.

Get more details about the Fürenalp hike and Mount Titlis

Starting early May

This tall peak is a defining feature of the Mythen Region. Starting the middle of May, you can ride a cable car to the base of the peak. From there, it’s a little over an hour of steep rocky switchbacks to the top, gaining about 400m elevation over 2 km.

At the top, you can get warm drinks and snacks at the hut to enjoy while you take in the panorama views. It’s a demanding trail, best for those with hiking experience and a head for heights.

If snow melts early, you can do this trail without the cable car, either by hiking across from the Ibergeregg pass or from Brunni Alpthal (the valley cable car station). I did this once for a sunrise hike before the cable car opened for the day. But first check the status of the trail to make sure it’s open and free of ice.

Hike: challenging • 2 h round trip • 3.8 km up and back • 410m up & down

Location: Brunni-Holzegg cable car – Brunnistrasse 14, 8849 Alpthal

Learn more about Grosser Mythen hike

Spring hikes near Zurich

Zurich has dozens of low elevation hikes that are great for spring. So I’ve only chosen a few favorites for this list. See also Easy Nature Walks near Zurich and Zurich Walks for April

Best starting mid April

One of my favorite spring traditions is hiking to the Seerenbach Falls near the gorgeous Walensee lake. You can start your day with a short ferry ride to reach the trail. Then walk on a private road past a few farms, greeting cows and goats along the way. Near the cliffs, a dirt foot path leads into the forest and up to a viewpoint close to the falls.

There are a couple picnic areas with fire pits and a restaurant near the start of the trail. If you want to hike longer, you can follow the trail past the waterfalls and traverse the mountain couple hours , ending at the tiny lakeside village Quinten and catch the ferry there instead.

Hike to falls: easy • 1h30 round trip • 3.5 k there & back • 110m up & down 

Location: Weesen boat dock – from Zurich, 45 mins by car, 1 hour by train/bus

Learn more about the Walensee hike

Because of the relative low elevation at 1642m, you can usually hike to this peak starting in May. No gondola required either. You just drive to the mountain pass where the trail starts.

The trail starts on a service road for dairy farmers, through alpine pastures bursting with wildflowers. Then a narrow dirt path up the mountain and steep scramble to the peak, where you can enjoy panorama views across the Einsiedeln region. After visiting the peak, the trail loops below the peak through some marshy fields that can be flooded right after rain.

Trail:  Moderate • 3 h • 9.5 k • 400m up/down

Location: Sattelegg – from Zurich, 45 mins by car, not possible by public transport

See details for  Chli Aubrig Hike

As spring arrives in the mountains in late May, this area turns bright green, absolutely gorgeous with the mountain peak reflecting in the water. There is an easy path around the lake, with a few nice picnic spots where you can build a fire and linger to enjoy the view.

You can drive directly to this small alpine lake, no gondola required. However, the narrow one lane road could be impassable or dangerous if there is recent snow. 

Hike: Easy • 1 h • 2.7 k loop • 20m up & down

Location: Näfels Glarnerland – from Zurich, 50 mins by car

Get the details for  Näfels Obersee

Chair lift opens 29 April 2023

Amden is a small mountain area south of Zurich where the snow melts earlier than other mountains because of the low elevation and excellent sun exposure. The Höhenweg is a lovely loop that wanders through alpine meadows, moor and rocky forest with beautiful mountain views.

The chair lift that services the trail usually opens at the end of April. But if there’s no snow before that, you can just hike down the mountain without the lift, adding about 2 km and 380m of elevation.

Hike: Moderate • 2.5 h • 8.5 k • 280m up, 290m down

Location: Amden – from Zurich, 50 mins by car and 1h15 by train

Learn more about Amden Höhenweg

Scheduled to open 1 May 2023 

Starting in May, the Ebenalp cable car opens for summer season, enabling you to easily access the famous cliff restaurant, Berggasthaus Aescher. From the top of the cable car, it’s a short walk down through a cave and around the mountain on a wooden walkway built into the cliffs.

The other mountain hikes in this area usually aren’t ready until June due to snow. Check the Ebenalp website for trail status and restaurant opening times.

Hike to cliff restaurant: moderate • 1 h round trip • 1.4 km there and back • 120m up & down

Location: Wasserauen , Appenzell Region • from Zurich, 

Get the details for the Ebenalp Wildkirchli hike

The Rhine Gorge is a section of the Rhine river in central Switzerland, where the water has created a unique craggy rock formations in the limestone walls. It has been affectionately nicknamed the Swiss Grand Canyon . Since this area is low elevation and doesn’t require gondolas, it’s a good choice to visit in spring.

There are many ways to enjoy the charms of this area. Our favorite is to ride the vintage open-air train up the gorge, admiring the dramatic gorge walls on the way. Then walk back along the riverbanks, about three hours, then catch the train back to your starting point. Since the trail parallels the train route, you can walk as little as one hour or as long as 27 km. 

Learn more about the Rhine Gorge river walk

Another popular choice is starting in Flims and hiking out to the gorge lookout tower at Conn. Next to the tower, there’s a picnic area and nice restaurant ( reservations recommended !). The path is easy walking through the forest, on a wide path suitable for strollers. Along the way, you’ll pass the beautiful Caumasee lake, worth a short detour for some pictures before they start charging in late May (26 May 2023). 

After enjoying the view, you can hike back the way you came or hike down the canyon to the river and catch a train back back to your starting point. 

Learn more about Hike to Rhine Gorge lookout tower  

Jungfrau Region & Bernese Oberland

Most popular summer trails in the Jungfrau Region and Bernese Oberland won’t be open until mid June or later, depending on when the snow melts. So even if the mountain railways are running in spring (like Grindelwald First or Schynige Platte), the trails probably won’t be open ( check trail status ). 

If you want to hike here in spring, here are a few lower elevation options. See more spring ideas for Bernese Oberland .

Open year round

A walk down the Lauterbrunnen valley is a good choice any time of year. It’s particularly nice in spring when the many waterfalls falling down the cliff walls will be in their prime. The full path is about 2 hours from Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg, where you can take a bus back to your starting point. But you can walk less, just wandering out and back as far as you like.

Right as you start the path, you’ll see the big Staubbach falls and I suggest a short detour on the path that leads close to the water and to a lookout behind the falls. I also suggest combining this walk with a visit to the Trummelbach Falls , a tourist attraction that opens in early April. 

Get details for the  Lauterbrunnen valley walk

Summer season starts 14 May 2023

This gorgeous lake is one of the first mountain lakes you can visit in spring, with the gondola and other services usually opening in early May. From the top of the gondola, it’s an easy walk about 40 mins to reach the lakeshore. This is a wonderful place to enjoy a lakeside picnic, admiring the impressive mountain peaks above.

One advantage of visiting the Oeschinensee in spring is that the waterfalls are much bigger. In May and June, there is usually a huge waterfall right next to the lakeshore. But by June, that waterfall often dries up and disappears altogether.

Note that the Panorama Trail above the lake usually isn’t free of snow until early June, so don’t plan to do that ( check trail status ). If you want to visit before the cable car opens for summer season, you can hike up from the Kandersteg village, about 1hr.

Hike: easy • 1.5 h round trip • 4 k • 110m up & down

Location: Kandersteg – from Interlaken, 40 mins by car and 1h30 by train

Get details for Lake Oeschinen

Open starting 7 April 2023

The lovely Giessbach falls are a popular spring outing, when the water volume is at its highest. You can reach the main falls by riding a ferry to the base of the falls, then a vintage funicular up to the hotel/restaurant.

For a short hike, you can follow the narrow footpath up along the upper falls. It leads to a walkway underneath the roaring water and nice view down to the lake far below. Instead of taking the funicular back down to the lake, you can walk down a paved path where you can enjoy a few views of the lower falls.

The ferry, funicular and restaurant all open for summer season at the beginning of April. But the ferry doesn’t run every day until mid-May. So check the schedule carefully before heading out.

If you want a longer hike, you might like the Brienzersee Drei Wasserfälleweg (aka “Three Waterfall Trail”). It along the southern shores of Lake Brienz. The full trail is about 18 km from Bonigen to Brienz, with stops in the pretty village Iseltwald and the Giessbach Falls. See trail maps for Stage 1 and Stage 2 of this trail. 

Hike up falls: moderate • 1 hour • 2.1 km up and back • 220m up & down

Location: boat from either Brienz or Interlaken to Giessbach (See)

See details for Giessbach falls

Montreux & Lake Geneva region

Flowers bloom in late May/early June

In early June, the hills near Montreux and Lausanne are full of narcissus flowers. The easiest places to see them in the easy hike at Les Pleiades, shown below. Even if the flowers aren’t in full bloom, this area is a lovely area for walking in spring.

Hike: Easy • 2 h • 5.45 k • 200m up & down

Location: Les Pleiades – from Montreux, 25 mins by car and 1 hr by train

See details for Les Pleiades hike

Possible year round, best starting in May

The Lavaux terraces along the shores of Lake Geneva are a beautiful place to hike in spring. The contrast of the green grape vines against the bright blue lake makes for fantastic photos.

There are several trails crisscrossing through the vineyards, connecting the villages and wineries that speckle the hillsides. We suggest the trail from St Saphorin to Cully (about 2 hours) or a bit farther to Lutry (about another 90 mins). In both villages, there are restaurants and lovely promenades along the lakeshore. 

On weekends, some vendors have stands where you can taste and purchase local wines. I suggest combining this with a lake cruise and visit to Chillon Castle back in Montreux. 

Hike: moderate • 4 h • 12 k • 230m up, 240m down (can shorten)

Location: start in St Saphorin , 30 mins drive west of Montreux

See details for Lavaux terrace hike  

Northwest Switzerland (Jura, Solothurn)

Creux du Van is a natural amphitheater located in the Jura Mountains in western Switzerland. The semi-circular cliff face rises over 160 meters above the surrounding landscape, and it stretches for more than a kilometer.

You can visit this area year round by driving close to the cliffs and doing a short walk through farm fields to reach the viewpoint. Then you can walk along the cliff arena, behind a stone wall for safety.

If you are coming by public transportation, you must hike up the mountain to reach the cliff viewpoint. Since that could be dangerous with snow or ice, we don’t recommend doing that trail until around late April.

Hike along cliffs: Easy • 1 h • 4 k • 90m up, 70m down

Location: Val-de-Travers , west of Neuchâtel

Get the details for Creux du Van  

Best starting in late April

This hike follows a river through forests and meadows, with a few narrow gorge sections with cliff wall rising up on both sides. It’s a bit long, but easy walking mostly downhill. One highlight is this classic bridge where everyone takes a photo. 

You can hike this trail any time of year. But it will be prettiest in spring when the trees have filled in, around early May.

Hike: Easy • 11.5 k • 120m up, 350m down

See details for Areuse Gorge  

Open mid April, best starting in May

This mountain north of Bern is a good choice for spring because of its relatively low elevation at 1280m. The cable car runs year round, usually with a short maintenance break at the beginning of April. And even if the cable car isn’t running, you can drive to the top of the mountain and park near the trailhead.

The trail visits to two viewpoints, peering cliffs down to Swiss farmland dotted with yellow fields. If there’s no snow, you can start hiking here in April, but we find it best in late May when the trees have turned green again. 

Hike: Moderate • 2h40 • 7 k • 210m up, 430m down

Location: near Solothurn north of Bern –   Weissensteinstrasse 187, 4515 Oberdorf

See details for Weissenstein hike .

Spring comes earlier to Ticino, the southern part of Switzerland south of the alps, so it can be warmer and greener at this time of year. These are our top picks in Ticino for spring. See more Ticino hikes .

This river is famous for its arched stone bridge and summer swimming area with crystal clear water. Before the hot weather arrives, we love the long trail along the river, starting far up the valley in the tiny village Sonogno.

The trail winds through forests and lush fields and past clusters of charming “Rustico” stone houses. The full trail takes about four hours, but since it parallels the bus route, you can easily shorten it down to about 90 mins. The last part of the trail has activities for kids, with elaborate marble runs built into the landscape.

Hike: easy • 4h • 14 k • 10m up, 390m down (can easily shorten)

Location: Lavertezzo , near Locarno

Get the details for the Valle Verzasca river hike

Opens for summer season 25 March 2023

This mountain sits at the southwest end of Lake Lugano, so you can start your day by riding ferry boat to the base of the mountain. A cogwheel mountain train takes you to 1704m, where you can enjoy fantastic views of both Swiss and Italian alps.

Near the station, there is a panorama terrace along the cliffs and a restaurant. There is a short 1 km loop that goes up to the Monte Generoso peak and viewpoint. Or for a longer hike, there is a lovely 8 km loop that starts along the mountain ridge and dips down into the forest before looping back through alpine meadows to your starting point. 

Hike:  Moderate • 3 h • 8 k • 390 up/down

Location: 25 mins by car, 15 mins by train

See details for  Monte Generoso hike

Best starting in April

The San Salvatore peak is just south of Lugano, almost part of the city. To get to the top, you can ride a vintage funicular or hike up if you want some fitness. From the panorama terrace, you can enjoy spectacular views across Lake Lugano.

San Salvatore is the starting point for a popular hike to Morcote, considered by some the most beautiful village in Switzerland. The trail follows the ridge shown in the above photo, visiting a few villages before arriving at Morcote at the southern end of this range.

Location: San Salvatore funicular – Via delle Scuole 7, 6900 Paradiso

Hike: moderate • 3h • 9.2 km • 190m up, 750m down ( see trail map )

Learn more about San Salvatore

If you want to hike, Zermatt is not the best choice in spring. Since Zermatt is at a high elevation (the village is at 1620m), the snow stays longer and summer hiking season doesn’t really start until late June/early July.

You can always visit the beautiful viewpoints at Gornergrat and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise . But the mountain hiking trails will definitely be closed.

If you must visit Zermatt in May or June, I would suggest the hike from the Füri cable car station down to Zermatt, assuming that is free from snow. From your starting point at Füri, you have very nice views of the Matterhorn.

On your walk down, you have beautiful views of the Zermatt village as shown below. If you visit Zermatt in April, the hiking trails will probably be under snow and you should do a winter hike instead .

See Füri trail and more Zermatt spring hikes .

Some parts of Switzerland are at such high elevations, that spring comes late and you will have a hard time finding things to do there. Don’t misunderstand: we love these areas in summer! But in spring, you will probably enjoy your time more in the parts of Switzerland mentioned above.

St. Moritz in the Engadin valley is very high at 1856m, as high as mountain tops in other regions. We’ve been skiing in this region as late as mid-May! If you do go to this area in spring, probably best to do walks in the valley, along the lakes, maybe rent bikes and do a long valley ride.

Davos, Lenzerheide, Arosa – These areas are also higher elevations (valley stations around 1400 to 1600m) and don’t open for hiking until June. On holiday weekends in May, the cable cars will take you to the top for pretty views and a meal but don’t expect to hike.

See also mountain peaks you can visit year round

• TAGS: Spring Hiking , Top 10 Lists for Switzerland

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9 Responses

Hi, Thanks so much for all the information you have put up on the web and all your hikes on YouTube etc, they have been very helpful and beautiful to watch! I have been looking at this post Top (10 Spring Hikes in Switzerland 17 Mar 2018) and would love to know where the photo was taken that is right up the very top, above the title of this article. I am planning a holiday as soon as the COVID situation allows and would love to visit this spot. Thanks. Kind regards, Virginia

That photo is from the Fürenalp hike. https://swissfamilyfun.com/furenalp-hike/ I think that was near the end of April when I took that pic. I hope you enjoy it!

Hi, thanks for the article. I would like to go camping for one weekend in this month. It’s gonna be the first time we will do it with some friends. We don’t have too much experience hiking and doing this, so I would prefer a medium/easy hiking and then to camp for just a night. What places do you suggest? I would really appreciate your answer.

I suppose you mean wild camping? It’s not super popular in Switzerland, but in general, you are allowed to bivouack above the treeline in many areas unless specifically forbidden (check the local regulations). You can’t do it in nature reserves. You can do it on private land with permission, which is somewhat common and we’ve done that a few times. You ask the farmer that works that land or at the nearby hut. There’s this document provided by SAC (Swiss Alpine Club) that explains the guidelines: https://www.ticino.ch/dam/jcr:65ec8a47-1717-4db5-ae56-6012f22fc663 I don’t have a particular area to suggest at the moment, that would take some time to research. Good luck!

Thank you so much for such a great article. I’m finding it challenging to find information on hiking outside of the main season so this was super helpful. I am coming to Switzerland (from Australia) in early June and reading this has just increased my excitement for the experience!

Yay, so happy you found this post helpful! Wishing you the best on your upcoming trip.

Thank you so much for scribbling the road map for hiking in Switzerland. I really liked the way you explained each hiking trail in your blog. I am a professional hiker and climber, I really liked your article.

Thank you. Being a professional hiker sounds dreamy!

Thank you for a great blog! We will be visiting Switzerland four weeks in June with our two year old. We love nature and hiking! We are planning to stay nine nights at each of the following destinations; Ticino, Luzern (area) and BO/Grindelwald. Would you be able to recommend the best place to base ourselves in Central Switzerland/Luzern for hiking and great views? Maybe Engelberg? Other places that are more off the beaten track?

We are also doing two more weeks in the start of September, planning to visit Engadine and Zermatt. Hopefully we have covered much of the best sights in the country by then 🙂

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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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The best things to do in Switzerland this spring

Find out where to go and what to do this spring with our ultimate guide

Have you noticed? Those sub-zero conditions are gradually making way for warmer temperatures and there are even some sunny days appearing. Yep, spring is here and we couldn’t be happier about it, frankly.

Mainly because it signals the start of tons of good stuff happening across Switzerland, including lots more options for exploring the country’s great outdoors. Below, we’ve given you a heads-up on the very best a Swiss spring has to offer, from world-class art exhibitions to boat trips to botanical gardens and much, much more. This is how to do spring like a professional.

Around Switzerland

Ride the GoldenPass Express

Ready to take your train travel to the next level in just three hours and 15 minutes? Then step aboard the GoldenPass Express and get comfy. This stylish locomotive travels smoothly between Montreux and Interlaken, passing through some of Switzerland’s finest scenery along the way and offering passengers a unique and sleek experience. Click through to get to know this special route a little better.

Visit three must-see exhibitions in Basel’s museums

Thanks to nearly 40 museums housing various world-class collections, this picturesque and peaceful city is a hub for world-class art. Get to grips with the scene by visiting three unmissable exhibitions taking place in 2024. Click through below to find out more.

View six countries from one amazing place

The St Gallen-Lake Constance region is a wonderfully scenic place, but perhaps the most jaw-dropping sight of all can be found 2,502 metres up Mount Säntis, the highest mountain in the area. Take the Schwägalp-Säntis cable car to the summit and enjoy the stunning views over six countries: Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, France and Italy. And don’t forget to explore the rest of the region, too, where you can cruise around Lake Constance, lunch at a landmark restaurant (Berggasthaus Aescher-Wildkirchli) built into the side of a mountain.

See Lugano from up high at Monte Brè

Catch the funicular railway from the lake shore at Cassarate, which trundles up to the summit of Monte Brè, Lugano’s local mountain. At the top, active types can follow hiking trails or race down some of the 30 mountain bike runs, or you can simply enjoy lunch in one of the mountaintop restaurants, perhaps explore the pretty village of Brè afterwards, a short walk down from the summit.

Lac de Joux

The huge Lac de Joux in the Jura valley of the same name is a draw for outdoor enthusiasts at any time of year. From spring it’s a magnet for swimmers, sailors and windsurfers making the most of the warm water and favourable winds, while cyclists and hikers take to the many marked trails around the lake. 

People-watch at the Zurich Horn

People flock to the promenade in Lake Zurich’s Seefeld district, known as the Zurich Horn, to stroll, cycle, skate or show off their street art skills. Take it all in by sitting on a bench and watching the world go by – with an ice cream, of course. 

Botanischer Garten

Take an early morning stroll across the vast grounds or just sit and relax on a sunny afternoon. The botanical garden is rarely crowded and can deliver instant peace and happiness when you stumble upon some fine flora.

Wander the hip hangouts of Zurich West

Get your finger firmly on the pulse by exploring the alternative heart of Zurich. These days, the ‘Industriequartier’ is filled to the brim with buzzy bars, restaurants,  cafés  and shops, particularly those in the Viadukt and the cool, cute Frau Gerolds Garten.

Soak up the views from Lindenhof

Overlooking the Old Town, Limmat river and cathedral, this elevated spot is full of history, but people now come here to relax rather than ruminate on the past. It’s a great place to head for a picnic or just with a good book to while away an afternoon.

Unearth vintage treasures at Flea Market Bürkliplatz

Arguably Zurich’s best flea market, this weekly event is a paradise for those who love a good rummage. Sift through jewellery, antiques, clothes and more until you find some old-school gold.

Seebad Enge

A badi is never just about swimming, and this one offers on-site swim coaches, yoga classes, ving-tsun (a martial art), stand-up paddle-boarding and lots more besides. 

See Lake Geneva from a paddle steamer

Hop on a ferry and explore the towns that sit on the vast shore of this ever-endearing lake, including Montreux, the medieval French village of Yvoire and famous spa town Évian-les-Bains.

Relax and get cultured at Bains des Pâquis

It doesn’t have to be summer to take advantage of this public swimming bath, as there’s a sauna, Turkish bath, hammam and massage service to enjoy year-round, plus all manner of cultural happenings.

Browse the bargains at Plainpalais flea market

• Markets and fairs
• Plainpalais

This long-running oasis of bric-a-brac appears every Wednesday and Saturday, and the first Sunday of the month, offering punters the chance to sift through everything from books to clothes to vinyl, in hope of finding a gem.

Lounge around in Parc des Bastions

• Old Town (Vieille Ville)

This leafy idyll in the heart of Geneva is perfect for a lazy sit in the sun or to spectate on people playing chess and go on giant boards. Reward your strenuous efforts with a coffee at the old bandstand-turned-café. 

Get back to nature at Musée et Jardins Botaniques Cantonaux

Explore this garden's 6,000 plants spread over terraces and in hothouses, with a splendid view from the top. Once you’re at the peak, find your own spot of greenery and gaze out at the mountains to feel at one with the world.

Fill your belly at Lausanne Market

• Ville Marché

You can find all sorts at Lausanne’s twice-weekly market, but the foodie side is really where it’s at, whether you’re after fresh fruit and veg, cheese, charcuterie, local booze or premium snacks like empanadas and macaroons.

Appreciate the alternative at Collection de l’art Brut

• Art and design

This fascinating museum showcases Jean Dubuffet’s collection, created by untrained artists on the fringes of society. The work here is offbeat, imaginative and thoroughly eye-opening.

Lounge around in Ouchy

Warmer weather means it’s time to head back to Ouchy, Lausanne’s lakefront district. The best tactic is to go there with absolutely zero plans and just see what’s going on. Grab an ice cream and go for a stroll, café-hop to your heart’s content or just sit outside a bar and watch the world go by.

Splash some shopping cash

If you feel the need for some serious retail therapy, Lausanne’s hip boutiques, gift shops and quirky independent stores will set you right. Start off at shopping hub Place St François and just start wandering.

Shop in style through Bern’s Old Town

Bern’s Old Town isn’t just a feast for the eyes – it’s also full of endearing, classy stores, such as über-cool stationery shops, ludicrously beautiful flower boutiques and a packaging-free concept store.

Find some fine flora in the Rose Garden

No matter how many times you’ve been, Bern’s Rose Garden is still a winner. Home to over 220 rose varieties, it also offers a splendid water lily pond and grand views of the River Aare and Old Town.

Get giddy at Bern Cathedral

Even if you’re a local and you’ve done it before, visiting the gothic wonder that is Bern Cathedral is always a lovely distraction, offering amazing architecture and incredible views across the city – as long as you have a good head for heights. 

Clearer spring days mean it’s the perfect time to soak up jaw-dropping views from this mountain, just a short hop from Bern city centre. There’s a funicular if you don’t feel like the walk, plus restaurants at the top and a viewing tower to really make the most of those views.

Eco-sail over the Rhine

One of the best ways to experience the free-flowing heart and soul of Basel is in an environmentally friendly boat. Powered by the river current, these vessels ferry passengers along the Rhine from four different locations, all without noise or pollution. 

Browse Kleinbasel’s boutiques and galleries

• Altstadt Kleinbasel (central Kleinbasel)

On the other side of the Rhine to Basel old town, Kleinbasel is bubbling with small independent businesses, including art galleries, eateries and boutiques that knock the socks off the city’s tourist traps. Great for shopping or a culture fix, and as a great bonus, the south-facing riverbank also enjoys a serious amount of sun. 

Sightseeing in the Old Town

• Walks and tours

Get to grips with Basel’s extensive and very well-preserved historic heritage by leisurely strolling through the Old Town without too much of a plan. But make sure you factor-in the Mittlere Brücke, which also allows you to appreciate the beauty of Basel on the river.

E-bike hire

Switzerland's popular e-bikes or pedelecs have a bit of extra va-va-voom. These electrically-assisted bikes can be rented at the rail station and are a nippy way to get around town or explore more of Basel and the surrounding region’s lush countryside, including the historic town of Liestal. 

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Arzo Travels

Solo Female Travel – Switzerland, Europe and Beyond

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN SWITZERLAND IN SPRING – 2024

Spring in Switzerland | Top Things to Do + Travel Tips

Table of Contents

Switzerland in spring is a time to celebrate as winter’s bitterly cold temperatures give way to sunny, warmer climates. The Swiss spring season is ideal for outdoor activities and hiking through the Alps without the crowds and freezing weather. 

In early spring, some of the best towns to visit in Switzerland still experience snowfall. Others bloom into verdant greenery and floral landscapes.

Springtime brings many unforgettable Swiss experiences. This includes thawing hiking trails, water sports, and breathtaking scenery to explore. On sunny days, you can enjoy the warmth by taking a stroll through one of the many parks or along the scenic routes that wind through forests and villages.  

This guide will help you plan your Switzerland spring getaway and explore some great destinations you can add to your itinerary.

SWITZERLAND WEATHER IN SPRING

Swiss spring lasts between mid-March and mid-June.   Swiss weather can be quite unpredictable all year round. It is still chilly and snowy in some parts during the early months of spring, but May and June bring sunshine and pleasant weather in many areas.

Due to the mountainous regions, you can expect snow in high-altitude areas even in late spring – but due to climate change, weather conditions are also changing.

Warm, sunny days are not guaranteed but spring still allows for an abundance of outdoor activities. There are also many fantastic indoor activities for the coldest days.

• Mountainous areas like the Jungfrau Region, Zermatt , or the Engadine Valley and St.Moritz may still experience scattered snowfall throughout March. Its colder temperatures range from -5℃ (21 °F) to 6℃ (42,8 °F).
• In lower-altitude towns like Zürich and Lugano, the first spring blossoms bloom towards mid-March. The temperature is slightly warmer, with averages of 9℃ (48 ° F).
• Average daytime temperatures in April range between 10℃ (50°F) and 20℃ (68°F).
• Mountainous areas are still rather chilly, with temperatures that can drop below 0℃ during the night.
• You can expect some rainfall in April country-wide.
• May weather is moderate and pleasant, with the average daytime temperature being 20℃ (68°F).
• Nighttime temperatures drop to around 7℃ (44,6°F).
• You can expect some rainfall.
• June weather across Switzerland is pleasant, with daily averages of between 16℃ (61 ° F) and 26℃ (78,8°F )  in mountainous areas. 
• Low-lying regions like Ticino and Valais can experience warmer (and even hot) temperatures of up to 35℃ (95°F).
• Daylight hours increase, with up to 12 hours of sunshine daily .

As a testament to how unpredictable weather can be here, early March 2022 was what you’d expect. Warm and sunny days in lower altitude villages, towns, and cities. But, in late March and April, you would still find heavy snow even in lower altitude areas like Iseltwald (566 meters above sea level), which isn’t the typical conditions you’d expect then.

So, my Switzerland family trip in late March/April turned for a few days into a winter trip. Just keep that in mind and check the weather forecast a few days before your Switzerland spring vacation.

SWISS TRAVEL PASS IN SPRING

Before talking about the best spring activities, I like to introduce you to the Swiss Travel Pass. If you use public transportation, I recommend getting a Swiss Travel Pass . Swiss Travel Passes are available for non-Swiss residents. I visit Switzerland often, and most of the time I get one – even if it’s a road trip because they are amazing.

• A Swiss Travel Pass allows you to use trains and buses without any extra costs – so basically, you can use almost all trains and buses for free.
• You can also do boat cruises without additional costs.
• It also gives you a 50% discount on most mountain rides (you can get up via cable car/funicular for half of the price, and if you follow my tips, you will need it twice), and some mountain excursions are even included – including a trip up to Mürren.

The initial prices for a Swiss Travel Pass are quite high – but it pays for itself if you get around via public transportation and are active in Switzerland for more than three or four days. So, check out prices for boats and trains and then calculate if it is a good option for you.   Check out prices here .

PLACES TO VISIT IN SWITZERLAND IN SPRING

Switzerland has many beautiful sights to experience and destinations to explore. The guide below will help you explore some of the best options to add to your itinerary.

Experience Spring in Bern

The picturesque Swiss capital of Bern boasts many cultural and historical treasures. Combine this with breathtaking panoramic views of natural landscapes, and you’re in for an amazing trip. 

There are many fantastic things to do in Bern throughout the year, including in spring. Although the temperature remains a bit chilly, there are fewer crowds around, and you can see most of its significant landmarks in one day.  

Experience the city’s unique medieval feeling and charming atmosphere by taking a stroll along the Aare River. You’ll come across many of the city’s remarkable landmarks. You’ll also pass through a significant part of the celebrated Old City of Bern .

One of the best places to spend a springtime afternoon is the esteemed Rosengarten . From late March to mid-April, the ornamental Japanese cherry trees in the park spring into full bloom. This picture-perfect scenery, paired with the phenomenal view of Bern’s Old City, makes it a truly great experience.

Also, from mid-March, the famous brown bears in the bear park of Bern awake from their hibernation.

Enjoy the Charm of Lugano

Located in the Ticino region of southern Switzerland is Lugano. The city is a unique blend of Swiss, Italian, and Mediterranean lifestyles. It’s well-known for its  fairytale-like small towns and villages, including the picturesque Gandria and Morcote .

Lugano has mild and comfortable spring temperatures, allowing for breezy walks around town. The city’s Mediterranean-style main square, Piazza Della Riforma, has markets, arcades, and bistros. 

The glacial Lake Lugano is a popular outdoor destination during the warmer spring months. Surrounded by spectacular mountains and valleys, the lake is great for avid hikers. Active visitors can also enjoy swimming, paddle boarding, and canoeing in the lake’s fresh, clear water.

There are occasional thunderstorms in the region during springtime. So be sure to check the weather in advance if you are planning outdoor activities in Lugano .

Explore Nature in Lauterbrunnen and Mürren

Lauterbrunnen is a small village located in the Jungfrau Region in the Bernese Alps. It is the perfect destination for nature lovers and those who enjoy calm and tranquility. From lush green valleys to snow-capped mountain peaks and waterfalls , the area’s natural beauty is astonishing.

One of the most spectacular natural wonders in the area is the internationally acclaimed Trümmelbach Falls . It is Europe ‘s only subterranean falls, made up of a series of ten waterfalls hidden in the mountains of Lauterbrunnen Valley. It is closed in the winter months and opens in spring .

While a visit anytime during spring is great, May and June are the best times due to their lovely all-around weather conditions. 

The lower part of the valley, Hinteres Lauterbrunnental, is a spectacular area for hiking and exploring nature. There are many established trails to follow that will take you past secluded waterfalls, lush forests, flowery meadows (at least in late spring), mountain streams, and moorlands.

And if you head up to the cute village of Mürren , you will find snow until April when the winter sports season ends. It is located at the foot of the Schilthorn peak , at 1638 meters above sea level.   Murren is composed of very few streets lined with cute houses, covered in snow in the winter (which lasts until mid-April), and decorated with colorful flowers in late spring and the summer.

With those mountains in the background, Mürren is a perfect postcard of Switzerland! Since Mürren is car-free you can only get there by cable car/train – but that train ride is one of the most scenic in Switzerland , so you will not mind.

Admire the Beauty of Zürich

Switzerland’s biggest city, Zürich, is a perfect spring destination. With its charming streets lined with gorgeous terraces, eclectic shops, festivals, and scenic gardens, there’s something for everyone.

A popular springtime event in Zürich is the annual traditional festival Sechseläuten in mid-April . It celebrates the beginning of the spring season in a fun way. There’s a parade featuring guild members dressed in historical costumes, traditional music, horses, colorful flags, and flower displays.  

The highlight of the festival is the customary burning of the Böögg, where an eleven-foot-tall snowman effigy is set alight at exactly 6 pm. This symbolizes the end of winter and the festival ends with a lively celebration and fireworks display. 

Lake Zurich is an enticing outdoor experience where you can hike, cycle, or simply relax on the shore. It is also a paradise for bird watchers, with observation decks in quieter areas. The lake is a wonderful destination for a family-friendly day in the sun. 

For a few days in early spring, you will also find “rose fountains” all over the old town of Zurich. It is a lovely and unique sight to see.

For the best spring experience, I would visit Zurich only from mid-April to June and not in March (as there it still be can quite rainy and grey overall). Check out my guide on the best time to visit Zurich to find out more.

Journey to the Aletsch Glacier

Stretching almost 15 miles in length, the imposing Aletsch Glacier is a magnificent wonder of nature. It holds the title of the largest glacier and the longest ice stream in the Alps . During spring, the immense ice flow starts to melt and makes for a spectacular sight.

A fun way to explore the splendor of the glacier is to take a cable car ride up – either to the  Hohfluh, Moosfluh, Bettmerhorn, and Eggishorn  viewpoints. All these viewpoints are high above the ground with a staggering altitude of around 7,000 feet. This provides exceptional panoramic views of the glacier, surrounding peaks, and lush greenery sitting at the foot of the mountain. 

This region also has an extensive network of running and hiking trails for active visitors. For the more adventurous traveler, some activities will get your adrenaline pumping, such as paragliding, ziplining, and ice caving.

Feel the Sophistication of Montreux

Montreux is a gorgeous and sophisticated town nestled between steep mountain slopes and the beautiful Lake Geneva . It combines magnificent natural scenery with an elegant urban lifestyle for a unique, vibrant atmosphere. While it is also a great destination during the other seasons, it is great to see Montreux waking up and showing its prettiest colors from spring onwards.

The six-mile-long Montreux Promenade is one of the most popular destinations in town. Spectacular displays of spring flowers, street performers, vendors, and breathtaking views line this lakeside boardwalk. This is especially beautiful in late spring. Along the path, there is also a larger-than-life bronze statue of Freddie Mercury that is a popular spot to take a break and pose for some photos. 

Situated on the banks of Lake Geneva is the historic Château Chillon , one of Europe’s most well-preserved medieval structures. Dating back to the 13th century, the castle is a highly renowned attraction that draws many visitors. Montreux experiences occasional rainfall during spring, so the castle’s perfect for rainy days.

Experience the Charm of Grindelwald and  Grindelwald First

Grindelwald is an idyllic small village surrounded by the majestic mountains of the Jungfrau Region. This famous mountain resort has natural beauty and spectacular scenery, including snow-capped mountains and green valleys in spring.

Thousands of dandelions spring up all over the rolling green meadows from March onwards. This provides the perfect backdrop for the many Alpine cows with their signature Swiss cowbells that roam the area. 

There is much to enjoy during spring in Grindelwald, including many seasonal outdoor activities. The town boasts 1,864 miles of hiking trails and is also an excellent spot for mountain biking, and running.

If you want to spend some time in the snow, even in March or April, make sure to get up Grindelwald First Grindelwald – a dream destination for any adventurists or adrenaline junkies. At Grindelwald First, a mountain at 2184 meters above sea level,  you can do winter sports even until mid-April.

It is also known as the “Top of Adventure” –  throughout the year you can do a couple of thrilling activities.  The First Cliff Walk is an exhilarating experience that is sure to take your breath away. It is a metal walkway that leads to a viewpoint that juts out from a cliff with a sheer drop of close to 150 feet. While the height might be harrowing, what awaits is totally worth it. You’ll get panoramic views of distant lakes, Alpine peaks, and rocky slopes that are absolutely indescribable.

There is a wide variety of exciting outdoor thrills to enjoy apart from its plentiful hiking trails. As it is still a snowy wonderland during spring, skiing, and snowboarding are popular activities in the area. Another thrilling experience is the First Flyer – a 2,625-foot zipline that flies above the valley at speeds of up to 52 miles per hour. Here is more about a day trip to Grindelwald and Grindelwald First.

Reach New Heights at Jungfraujoch

The Jungfraujoch is a saddle connecting two major 4000ers of the Bernese Alps: the Jungfrau and the Mönch.  Fondly dubbed “the top of Europe”, Jungfraujoch sits at a staggering 11,630 feet above sea level. Due to the altitude, the mountains are snow-capped well into spring, and ski season lasts longer than usual.

A great way to explore the area is by taking a trip on the Jungfrau Railway, Europe’s highest railway station. There are also various observation platforms at the railway station. Here, the views of surrounding mountain peaks are sure to take your breath away. And you will also see the Aletsch Glacier (the longest glacier in the Alps) from a different perspective. 

A trip to Jungfraujoch is a great way to round up your experience in the Bernese Oberland. You get to stand on one of the highest, most easily accessible sites in Europe, play in the snow, and soak in the magnificent scenery.

Experience Swiss-French Culture in Sion

Located in the southwest of Switzerland in the Valais Region, Sion is one of the most sun-blessed towns in the country. It shares a border with France , and some French culture, including the language, has spilled over into the area.

Sion is home to many renowned vineyards, wineries, historical castles, and ancient ruins. A notable structure is the eleventh-century Château de Tourbillon , a Swiss National Heritage site. This fascinating medieval castle sits atop a hill, and there are hiking trails that lead to it that include a tour of the building’s interior.  The surrounding vineyards look a bit bleak in March and April but therefore Cherry blossoms and more are all around the castles .

During spring, Sion’s l ovely weather is perfect for spending time outdoors. It has a large park designed for fun and recreation, Domaine des Îles, a popular family-friendly destination. You can enjoy activities like swimming, tennis, mini-golf, and more here. 

I’d also recommend a stop at Lac Souterrain, Europe’s largest underground lake . It has vivid blue waters that stay incredibly still and a temperature of 52ºF — just be wary of the bats.

Enjoy the Waters of Lake Thun

Located in Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland, Lake Thun is an Alpine body of water named after the nearby city of Thun . The charming town is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, and is also a great place to start your journey to Lake Thun.

Get a dose of history at Thun Castle, take in nature at Schadau Park, and enjoy a picturesque stroll along the Aare River.

Springtime’s moderate and breezy weather brings many fun activities to the banks of Lake Thun. This includes kayaking, waterskiing, sailing, and canoeing. There are also hiking trails and guided excursions to the Stockhorn, Niesen, and Niederhorn mountains on offer.

Adjacent to Lake Thun is the popular resort town of Interlaken, where adventurers can enjoy many thrilling experiences. The resort offers skydiving, paragliding, and base-jumping, and is a perfect destination for adrenaline junkies.

FINAL THOUGHTS – SPRING IN SWITZERLAND

Switzerland in spring is a captivating symphony of nature’s renewal. As the snow melts away, the landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colors. The Swiss Alps, still crowned with white peaks , contrast beautifully with the lush green valleys below . 

In the cities, spring is marked by a palpable sense of awakening. Outdoor cafés begin to fill, and the streets buzz with the energy of locals and tourists alike, eager to embrace the warmer weather.

During the springtime, Switzerland is absolutely breathtaking. It is a good season to visit because it is much less crowded than in the summer and winter months.  You will experience some of the most magnificent scenery and have a wide variety of amazing destinations and activities to choose from.

Enjoy your time in Switzerland in spring.

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12 things you can do in spring in Switzerland

Spring is the season when nature comes to life. Many look forward to the months of March, April and May when the days get longer and the temperatures warmer. In Switzerland, there are many destinations and ideas that you can try in spring or during your spring vacations

Mount Rigi day pass

With the Mount Rigi day pass, you can enjoy a day of unlimited travel on two rack railroads and two cable cars. Ride up to Rigi Kulm, Rigi Scheidegg and many more.

Schilthorn Ticket from Mürren or Stechelberg

Take this return ticket from Stechelberg or Mürren on the Schilthorn cable cars to the summit in 20 minutes and enjoy the panoramic view. The Thrill Walk, the James Bond Adventure World and the Piz Gloria await you on the summit plateau.

Schynige Platte Ticket rack railroad from Wilderswil

Enjoy an unrestricted view of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau triumvirate during the one-hour ride on the nostalgic Schynige Platte Railway.

Ticket Chateau Chillon in Montreux

Visit the famous historic Chillon Castle, explore the interesting exhibitions and be enchanted by the romantic location of the castle on Lake Geneva.

Day ticket Lake Thun and Lake Brienz in summer

With the day ticket, experience unlimited travel by boat on Lakes Thun and Brienz, two beautiful and turquoise blue lakes in the Bernese Oberland.

Lake Geneva ticket from Lausanne to Evian-les-Bains return

Take a beautiful boat trip from Lausanne to Evian and back with a view of Lake Geneva. You will make your way to the source of the world famous Evian water.

Monte Generoso cog railroad ticket

Climb the Monte Generoso in Ticino on the cog railroad. Enjoy a 360° panorama and visit the famous stone flower by Mario Botta.

Harder Kulm Ticket from Interlaken East

The Harder Railway takes you up Interlaken's local mountain, where a wonderful view over the Bernese Oberland awaits you. The funicular railway takes you from Interlaken Ost to Harder Kulm in just 10 minutes.

From Grindelwald: Ticket Jungfraujoch incl. seat reservation

Book your ticket from Grindelwald to the Jungfraujoch and travel to the Top of Europe without queuing. The modern cable car "Eiger Express" and the Jungfrau Railways take you on one of the most spectacular journeys to the highest station in Europe.

Spring is the favorite season for many. Especially for those who do not necessarily appreciate the cold winter and are often plagued by fog at lower altitudes. Therefore, it is all the more beautiful when nature really comes to life again in March, April and May, depending on the altitude. The days become longer, the temperatures warmer and there is a new desire to do something.

For your spring vacations or for your spring in Switzerland, we list 12 things you can do in this beautiful season.

• Admire the cherry blossoms

To see the cherry blossoms in their full glory, you don't even have to travel to Japan. Also in Switzerland, especially in the northwest of Switzerland, the many cherry trees show their most beautiful side in spring. Here are four hikes where you can marvel at the cherry blossoms.

• Fricktaler Chriesiwäg : This trail in Gipf-Oberfrick is located in the Jurapark-Aargau Nature Park . The Fricktal is a region particularly rich in cherry trees. Along the route, there are always information boards that introduce you to the world of cherries. The trail starts at the community center Gipf-Oberfrick and there are two variants of different lengths. The 5 km long trail takes about 2 hours, for the 9 km long trail you need about 4 hours.
• Chirsiweg Nuglar-St. Pantaleon: This 4.3 km long trail leads you in the north of the canton of Solothurn on a circular path through the municipal districts of Nuglar and St. Pantaleon. Depending on the weather and the time of flowering, it is most beautiful here in March or April. For the well signposted, easy hike you need about 1.5 hrs.
• This 10.7 km long trail leads you through the cherry blossoms in the Baselland. You can start your hike in Sommerau and end it in Oltingen or vice versa. On the way you will pass narrow valleys and sunny Tafeljura plateaus. Allow approx. 3 hours for this hike.
• Zug is famous for its cherry blossom cake. So it's hardly surprising that you can take numerous cherry blossom hikes here in spring. A somewhat longer tour, for example, leads from Arth to Zug or vice versa. If this 20 km long route is too much for you, you can reach one of the villages on the way by public transport. Walchwil or Oberwil bei Zug are good options.

Of course, cherry trees can be found everywhere in Switzerland. Even in the cities, it's worth sitting in a park in spring and enjoying a bit of Japanese flair.

• Walking through apple blossoms

What cherry trees can do, apple trees have been able to do for a long time. In particular, the canton of Thurgau in eastern Switzerland is known for its many orchards. But the Valais and the Lake Geneva region are also important growing regions. At Lake Constance, there are numerous smaller and larger hiking trails where you can marvel at the apple blossoms on foot or by bike.

• Apfelweg Altnau: The apple trail in Altnau actually consists of three trails and is most beautiful in April and May. All three paths start in the village, about 500 m from the train station. The apple trail "Lisi" is 4 km long, the apple trail "Emma" is 3 km long and the apple trail "Fredi" is 2 km long. You can also combine these three trails to one long route and go by bike. By the way, you can find out the current state of the blossoms by calling +41 71 531 01 30.
• Roggwiler Weg:** This 9 km long trail leads you through large orchards via Freidorf back to Roggwil. Here, too, you will encounter a blooming splendor in spring.
• This poetically named trail starts in Sulgen and leads through blooming fields with tall fruit trees down to Amriswil. The hike is just under 15 km long and takes about 3:45 hrs.
• Visit a waterfall

Waterfalls often carry extra water in the spring due to the melting of snow in the mountains. There can also be heavier downpours in the spring, making the waterfalls even more impressive.

• Lauterbrunnen : The "Valley of 72 Waterfalls", as the Lauterbrunnen Valley is also called, is an ideal destination in spring. You will find a spectacular waterfall at the Trümmelbach Falls . These underground accessible waterfalls are closed in winter, but open their gates to visitors in April.
• Rhine Falls : The largest waterfall in Europe carries a full 600,000 liters of water per second. This is equivalent to about 3500 full bathtubs. It's quite a spectacle and especially beautiful in spring when the trees in the parks shine lush green.
• Giessbach Falls: The Giessbach Falls plunge 400 m in 14 cascades behind the grand hotel of the same name on Lake Brienz . There is a path that leads behind the waterfall. From here you can discover the Grandhotel Giessbach and Lake Brienz from a new perspective.
• Reichenbach Falls: Famous for the detective Sherlock Holmes and his rival James Moriarty, this waterfall in the Bernese Oberland captivates visitors with its 120 m height. On three viewing terraces you get a great view of the waterfall and the Haslital. From here you can also hike to the Rosenlaui glacier gorge or to the Aare gorge.
• Visit animal babies

Spring is the time when lots of cute, cuddly baby animals see the light of day. That's why it's especially worthwhile at this time of year to plan a visit to the zoo, animal park or farm in your neighborhood.

At the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum near Brienz you will also see many cute calves, piglets, puppies or kittens romping around in spring.

By the way, many animal parks in Switzerland are accessible for free. These include:

• Wildpark Peter und Paul in St. Gallen
• Roggenhausen Wildlife Park in Aarau
• Lange Erlen Zoo in Basel
• Alpine Park in Interlaken
• Animal Park in Biel
• Animal Park in Langenthal
• Wildpark Bruderhaus in Winterthur
• Wildlife Park in Zurich
• Wildpark Heitern in Zofingen
• Sleep on the straw

If you want to immerse yourself in farm life, sleeping on straw is the perfect opportunity. On the website MyFarm of Agrotourism Switzerland you can find farms all over the country that offer sleeping on straw. This way you are even closer to the offspring of the animals on the farm. You can also watch the awakening of nature in the best location.

• Make your own syrup or jam

When everything in nature blossoms, amateur cooks and kitchen fairies also blossom. There is so much that you can use in spring to make a delicious jam or a refreshing syrup. This way you have a suitable souvenir for every visitor for the rest of the year and can benefit from spring for a long time to come.

• Dandelion Blossom Jelly : Pick the yellow flowers from the dandelion and boil them in about a quart of water. Let them stand overnight and cool. The next day, pass the flowers through a sieve and boil the mixture again with jelling sugar and lemon juice. After 5 minutes you can fill the mixture into sterile jars and seal them airtight
• Elderflower syrup:** Put the picked flowers in a bowl and pour water over them. Add sugar and citric acid and stir until everything has dissolved. After two days covered at room temperature, you can strain the syrup, boil it and bottle it in pre-warmed bottles Lilac blossom jelly: Pluck the lilac blossoms and boil them for 10 min in bubbling hot water. The next day, strain the flowers and squeeze them with a cloth. Heat the flower liquid with the jelling sugar and boil it for 5 min. Now you can fill the jars and wait until your lilac blossom jelly has set.
• Explore a dam

Switzerland is the country with the highest density of dams and counts over 220 large dams. Many dams and reservoirs can be visited on a shorter or longer hike. Of course, there are often trails you can take on a mountain bike as well. Dams are especially in the Valais a great destination in spring, when the mountains are often still covered with snow.

• Grande Dixence: The melt water from 35 Valais glaciers collects here. The Grande Dixence is the highest gravity dam in the world at 285 meters. You can reach the dam by cable car from Hérémence in Valais. Here you can also hike along the lake or start a bigger hike in Valais .
• Cleuson dam: If you're looking for a turquoise-blue reservoir, a trip to the 87m high Cleuson dam in Valais is perfect. Thanks to the fine-grained silt sediments that reflect the sunlight, the lake gets its unique color. On a walk you will learn interesting facts about the project on numerous information boards.
• Escape the fog on a mountain top

Especially in the midlands, even in spring there are days when a thick layer of fog spreads. In this case, the best option is to seek the heights as soon as possible. Often there is still snow at higher altitudes. So you can say goodbye to winter in peace and experience another wintry day.

The many mountain railroads in Switzerland are ideal for turning your back on the fog for a day. In our guide about 20 mountain peaks in Switzerland you will find more information to spend a sunny day in the heights.

• Plan a trip by boat

On certain lakes you can travel by ship all year round. In the winter, however, the ships don't run as often as in the summer. Most of the shipping companies in Switzerland start operating more in the spring. Therefore, this time of year is perfect for a trip on the lake. Watching the awakening nature from the lake is definitely something worth doing.

• Boat trip on Lake Lucerne : Spend a whole day on the lake with the day ticket, take a round trip or combine the boat trip with a hike. By the way, a great destination for an excursion with children on Lake Lucerne is the Glasi in Hergiswil or the Museum of Transport in Lucerne.
• Boat trip on Lake Geneva : On Lake Geneva you can travel by boat all year round. But taking a boat from Lausanne to Chillon Castle or Evian in the spring is the perfect excursion in this mild climate.
• Shipping on Lakes Thun and Brienz : There are no boats on Lake Brienz in winter. Also on the Thunersee the timetable is heavily thinned out. Fortunately, the season starts again in spring with the spring timetable. By boat you can visit for example the Beatus Cave on Lake Thun and the Giessbach Falls on Lake Brienz. Depending on the melting snow, the waterfalls carry a lot of water at this time of year
• Ship on Lake Constance : At the end of March, you can travel by boat on Lake Constance on weekends and holidays. From the end of May, the ships operate daily again. This gives you the opportunity to admire the blossoming apple and cherry blossoms from the ship. You can also stop off in Rorschach, Romanshorn, Kreuzlingen and Constance to enjoy the first ice cream of the season.
• Visit a castle

Certain castles keep their doors closed during the winter and do not reopen until spring. Others are open all year round, but with limited opening hours. However, a visit to one of Switzerland's many castles is worthwhile not only because of the extended opening hours. Often you will find mighty trees in the immediate vicinity of the castle, which show off their flowering splendor in spring. Be it magnolias, cherries, beeches, maples or even rose bushes; your visit in spring will be made even more special by the enchanting blossoms.

• Schloss Wildegg : Next to this castle in the canton of Aargau is a large tulip garden with a magnolia tree. Therefore, the castle is a popular destination in spring.
• Lenzburg Castle : The picnic areas around the castle, the baroque garden and the rose garden are the perfect place for a trip in spring. Here you feel like a lord of the castle or a lady-in-waiting in the awakening nature.
• Chillon Castle : The waterfront between Montreux and Chillon Castle is also in full bloom in spring. You will probably rarely be alone here. In early summer, even more visitors seek the summer temperatures on the lake and around the castle.
• Rapperswil Castle: The rose garden next to the castle Rapperswil blooms especially beautifully in spring. Travel for a day trip by boat from Zurich and visit the stately castle in the cute lakeside town.
• Taking a bike tour

The Swiss like to call their country "Veloland". No wonder that the overview page of all bike paths on SwitzerlandMobility bears this very name. The more than 12,000 km of bike paths invite you to take leisurely tours, especially along the lakeshores and in the midlands in spring. An excursion by bike can also be combined with a visit to a waterfall, a lido (in later spring), a castle or a pretty town.

• Kreuzlingen to Stein am Rhein:** For this 27 km long route you need about 2 hours. You cycle along the Rhine, past blossoming orchards and can visit the pretty old town of Stein am Rhein at the end.
• If you've always wanted to ride through the lush green vineyards of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll love the tour from Lausanne to Montreux . You'll ride for about 40 km through the Lavaux vineyards. The path goes up and up and the descents feel like you are on a roller coaster. You are constantly accompanied by the view of the enchanting Lake Geneva.
• Solothurn to Altreu: From Solothurn to the largest stork colony in Switzerland in Altreu it is only about 10 km. A large part of the route leads along the Aare. In spring the storks return from their winter stay in the south. Then a visit to this idyllic oasis on the Aare is particularly worthwhile. And in Solothurn, a delicious ice cream is waiting for you at the vitamin station when you get back.
• Hiking to a mountain lake

In Switzerland there are about 1500 lakes and rivers. So it is not surprising that you will pass a mountain lake on very many hikes. Depending on the snow conditions you can visit the higher lakes only in summer. But many of them are already an ideal destination in April or May.

• Seealpsee:** You can visit the Seealpsee in the Alpstein all year round. But in spring with the awakening nature it is especially beautiful, even if the water is still a bit cold for swimming. If you are tough, you can swim here in the middle of the idyllic landscape of the Appenzellerland. Otherwise you can simply enjoy the view and watch the ducks on the lake. You can reach the Seealpsee in about 1:30 hours from Wasserauen. Oeschinensee: It's no secret that Oeschinensee is one of our favorite lakes. The approximately 1 square kilometer lake is the largest mountain lake in Switzerland. It is fed by the surrounding glaciers and is correspondingly cold. You can reach it from Kandersteg either on foot or by cable car.
• Caumasee: The turquoise blue Caumasee near Flims is a jewel in the middle of the forest. Numerous hiking and mountain bike trails lead to this oasis. Even though the lido does not open until the beginning of June, a hike through the forest to this enchanting lake is worthwhile.

As you can see, spring in Switzerland offers many possibilities. We would be very happy if you share your favorite picture of this beautiful season with us. On Instagram with #swissactivities or @swiss_activies or on Facebook with @Swissactivites.com.

Table of contents

Discover leisure activities, top destinations.

• Grindelwald
• Lauterbrunnen
• Brienzwiler

Top Activities

Top attractions.

• Harder Kulm
• First Cliff Walk
• Jungfraujoch
• Museum of Transport
• Mount Titlis
• Lake Lucerne
• Schynige Plate
• Eiger Glacier
• Lake Geneva
• Grindelwald First
• Chillon Castle

Top Things to Do in Switzerland

Top Things to Do in Geneva

One Week Itinerary

Most Scenic Train Routes

Switzerland's Nature Parks

How to Go Skiing

The Top Hikes

Matterhorn Complete Guide

The Most Beautiful Lakes

Foods to Try

Best Restaurants

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Switzerland Airports

Getting Around

Places to Visit in Switzerland

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.

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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 .

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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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Switzerland, it really is this stunningly beautiful © scaliger / Getty Images

Nowhere is perfect, but let’s face it,  Switzerland gets pretty darned close. 

The Alps ripple across 60% of the country, and the landscapes and towns look like they have been dreamed up by a particularly imaginative child. We’re talking glacier-capped peaks, crash-bang waterfalls, turreted castles of the fairy-tale kind and lakes in the most surreal shade of turquoise blue. Red trains curl up mountains to improbable heights and clanging cowbells ring out across hilly meadows that you can skip down with Heidi-like glee.

Even the culture-filled cities have magnificent backdrops of vineyards, lakes or rivers, and the mountains are never more than a whisper away. As natural beauty goes, Switzerland is off the charts. That makes it a joy to travel around , whether by train, bus or car. Here are the 11 best places to visit in Switzerland.

1. Jungfrau

Best for outdoor activities

The idyllic Jungfrau region is the icing on the Alpine cake of Switzerland’s  Bernese Oberland . Sky-high peaks, glaciers and thundering falls elicit gasps of wonder wherever you go. Grazing the 4,000m (13,123ft) mark are Switzerland’s "big three:" Eiger (Ogre), Mönch (Monk) and Jungfrau (Virgin), enshrined in mountaineering legend.

Take a once-in-a-lifetime ride up to the everlasting snow at Europe’s highest train station, 3,454m (11,332ft)  Jungfraujoch . Hike, ski, sled and zip-line among mountains of myth in  Grindelwald , enjoy waterfalls galore in  Lauterbrunnen  and tackle every kind of extreme sport imaginable in  Interlaken (skydiving, ice climbing, glacial bungee jumping – you name it). The Jungfrau region is the great outdoors on a blockbuster scale.

Planning tip:  Rush this region and you’ll regret it. Allow a week or more to dive in deep if you have the time. It's worth it. 

Best for stepping back in time

Bern often pops up in those I-can’t-believe-it’s-the-capital trivia questions, but frankly, Switzerland’s first city deserves more love. The cobbled, flag-bedecked medieval  Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage treat, with 6km (3.7 miles) of covered arcades, cellar shops and bars, fantastical folk figures topping 16th-century fountains and the eye-grabbing  Zytglogge . Framed by wooded hills and split in two by the turquoise Aare River, this red-roofed city looks good from pretty much every angle. It’s pure storybook stuff for kids, too, with its giant who snacks on children (the  Kindlifresserbrunnen ) and  resident bears .

Sights-wise, you’ll be drawn to big-hitters like the  Einstein-Haus  (where the genius and Nobel laureate developed his theory of relativity), the  Kunsthaus  (with its outstanding fine arts collection) and Renzo Piano’s wavy Zentrum Paul Klee (Bern’s answer to the Guggenheim).

In summer, the action’s on the water with swimming, tubing, rafting and paddleboarding along the Aare River.

3. Geneva and Lake Geneva

Best for a cosmopolitan city experience

In Switzerland’s western crook, crescent-shaped Lake Geneva  (Lac Léman to Francophones) is a joy to behold with its mountain backdrop, spirit-lifting views, vineyards and shoreline necklaced with handsome cities and castle-crowned towns.

Marked by its rainbow-kissed  Jet d’Eau fountain and Mont Blanc peeping up on the horizon, Geneva wraps around the lake’s southern shore. The worldly city makes an excellent launchpad for exploring with big-hitting museums and galleries to absorb, botanical gardens to stroll, lidos to swim at, Old Town cafes to hang out in and bright-yellow mouettes  ferrying locals across the water – surely one of the world’s most scenic commutes.

Planning tip: It’s a quick boat or train hop to  Lausanne , which can culturally give Geneva a run for its money, especially with its  Plateforme 10 arts district , the lovely terraced vineyards of the  Lavaux  wine region (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and flower-draped  Montreux , host to one of the world’s most famous jazz festivals, with the picture-perfect  Château de Chillon right on its doorstep.

Best for hiking, skiing and rock-climbing

No peak has more pulling power than the 4,478m (14,692ft) Matterhorn, a terrific, gnarled fang of rock that flings up above the seductive, timber chalet-filled Alpine resort of Zermatt . It's Switzerland’s mountain icon, so beloved by the nation that it inspired the pyramid shape of Toblerone chocolate.

Zermatt is more than a one-mountain wonder. Climbers have been rocking up here since the mid-19th-century, and it’s still a magnet for challenging summit ascents today. Otherwise, come to hike, ski and gaze over a sea of glaciers and 4,000m (13,123ft) peaks at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise . 

5. Swiss National Park 

Best for wildlife (and wildflowers) spotting

Switzerland has just one national park? Yes, we know it’s a shock, but trust us it’s a good one. Snuggled away in a remote corner of the country’s southeast on the border with Italy, the 172-sq-km (66-sq-mile)  Swiss National Park is the Alps in overdrive: a nature-gone-wild spectacle of high moors, forests, wildflower-freckled pastures, waterfalls, jewel-colored lakes and mountains as high as the sky, where ibex, chamois, marmots, deer and golden eagles roam and fly free.

Planning tip: Start off on the right foot with the inside scoop on walking trails and ranger-led guided hikes at the visitor center in Zernez.

6. Bellinzona

Best for piazza dining

With medieval castles rising high and the Alps rearing beyond, good-looking Bellinzona in Ticino is a taste of the best of Italy's best food and culture in Switzerland. You’ll find a generous splash of Italian flair in its historic center, woven with flower-draped alleys, Renaissance churches and cafe-rimmed piazzas that brim with life, laughter, clinking glasses and the out-of-tune toll of countless campaniles. 

Planning tip:  Top of any wish list is seeing the castles, among them hilltop Castelgrande , which can be drawn out into a full day’s activity (bring water and comfortable shoes). 

7. Jura Mountains and Lac de Neuchâtel 

Best for road tripping

In the dark forested hills along the French-Swiss border, the Jura Mountains are a natural wonder. This peaceful region has a beauty all its own: meadows of green, ancient forests, rocky outcrops overlooking a trio of lakes against an Alpine backdrop and slow-paced villages and valleys little changed in centuries. 

Begin with a road trip . Kick off at the Jura Vaudois Nature Park for hikes with dress-circle views of Lake Geneva and Gruyère cheese tastings at rustic Alpine huts. Swing north to Lac de Joux, the watchmaking village of Le Sentier, and Vallorbe, honeycombed with Switzerland’s biggest (and most impressive) limestone caves.

Tag on a trip to Lac de Neuchâtel and you can bathe in the thermal waters of Yverdon-les-Bains, tiptoe off the map in the lushly rolling Val-de-Travers (birthplace of absinthe) and the crescent-moon canyon of Creux du Van . Cultured Neuchâtel is a fitting climax with its fantasy of a lavishly turreted château.

8. Lake Lucerne

Best for sunset promenades

Reclining on the shores of its glittering namesake  lake ,  Lucerne  is a walkable, medieval dream of a city that has a magic you can’t quite put your finger on. It will grab you when you are strolling along the promenade as the sun sets in a blaze of gold and pinks or as you cruise across its waters to mountains of myth: 2,132m (6,995ft) Mt Pilatus, where Wagner raved about the Alpine panorama and Queen Victoria trotted on horseback, and 1,797m (5,896ft) Rigi, with a light so sublime Turner painted it in three different moods.

The little city punches far above its weight culturally with its iconic medieval Kapellbrücke  bridge leaping across the Reuss River and the Jean Nouvel–designed  KKL arts center and  Sammlung Rosengart  harboring a prized private collection of Picassos. Ambling past the belle époque hotels lining its shores, the same views that captivated Goethe, Queen Victoria and Wagner in the 19th century will hold you in their thrall.

Planning tip: With more time on your hands, you can really get out on the lake. Cruise across fjord-like, mountain-rimmed Lake Uri for a taste of Switzerland’s geographical and spiritual heartland. Boats ply the glassy turquoise waters to  Rütli , birthplace of the Swiss nation.

9. Appenzell and northeastern Switzerland

Best for a bucolic Swiss experience

Northeastern Switzerland might not have the in-your-face drama of higher realms of the Alps, but it nevertheless delights in its own serene, deeply rural way with dairy country unraveling to meet the mountains and half-timbered, gaily muralled towns all fit for a postcard. This pocket-sized region is perfect for a family vacation with a hit of culture and gentle adventure.

Begin in St Gallen, with a spin round its World Heritage  Stiftsbibliothek (Abbey Library), a literary marvel and a feast of rococo art and architecture. Move on to folksy, ridiculously pretty Appenzell, popping into the  Schaukäserei to sample regional cheeses.

Muscling further south into the Alps, head on up to Säntis at 2,501m (8,205ft) for views embracing six countries and then go to  Werdenberg , a tiny speck of a medieval hamlet home to Switzerland’s oldest timber chalets.

Planning Tip: Close by is  Vaduz ,  Liechtenstein ’s princely, castle-topped capital on the banks of the Rhine.

Best under-the-radar city experience

Popularity-wise, poor old  Basel barely gets a look. But that’s a mistake. Straddling the Rhine, this city has everything going for it: world-class art in some of the country’s best galleries, a hot food scene, avant-garde buildings bearing the hallmark of Pritzker Prize–winning architects and an upbeat cafe culture.

Allow several days for a satisfying romp of the center, where must-sees include the  Kunstmuseum and its fine arts collection, the Renzo Piano-designed  Fondation Beyeler and the Frank Gehry-designed  Vitra Design Museum .

Planning tip: Basel endears itself most to those who look beyond the trophy sights, with sundown drinks by the river or a wild swim in the Rhine. Rent a Wickelfisch (a fish-shaped waterproof bag) at the tourist office, strip to your swimming suit and go with the flow, floating downstream past the city’s landmarks.

Best place to live

Regularly landing at the top in quality-of-living surveys, urban dynamo Zürich never seems to miss a beat: from cool waterside bars on the banks of the Limmat River to its alley-woven Old Town, where the twin-spired Romanesque Grossmünster shines with Augusto Giacometti’s rainbow of stained glass. Le Corbusier’s boldly colored architectural creations and the edgily post-industrial Züri-West neighborhood notch Zürich's culture cred up even further.

Planning tip: In mid-August, Zürich throws one of Switzerland’s wildest parties: the techno-pumping Street Parade. 

This article was first published September 2021 and updated November 2023

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20 of the Best Places to Visit in Switzerland — From Quaint Villages to Glamorous Cities

From tiny medieval towns to iconic ski resorts, here are 20 of the best places to go in Switzerland.

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When you close your eyes and think of Switzerland, what do you see? Is it snow-capped mountains? Perhaps a verdant valley punctuated by springtime wildflowers? Or maybe it's a quaint Swiss city filled with cultural attractions and world-class restaurants. No matter which vision comes to mind, all of them are right — because Switzerland is all that and more. 

"Switzerland is small, yet we have four official languages, and every single one of the 26 cantons (states) is unique and has something different to offer," Catja-Camilla Straub, a tour guide with GatyaGoes , shared with Travel + Leisure . "There are different ways to explore and experience Switzerland, and there is something for everyone's interests: the outdoors, activities, luxury, a large number of festivals, food, culture, and history." 

Straub isn't the only one to see the nation's remarkable beauty. "Switzerland can offer you all Europa has to offer in one country," Tim Wehrle, a tour guide and underwater archaeologist in Zurich, said. "From lonely mountain valleys to a Mediterranean flair in the south of Switzerland, from busy nightlife to historic town centers, you can find everything in Switzerland." 

Ready to see it all? Here are 20 of the best places to visit in Switzerland.

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“Zurich is a small gem with only 450,000 inhabitants, yet it's the largest and most vibrant city in Switzerland,” Straub shared. Zurich may be best known for its banking and shopping, but, as Staub noted, it “actually has a rich history dating back to the Romans.” Staub recommends seeing it all and learning everything you can on a walking tour with a local like her.

Mount Rigi Kulm

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Make your way to the top of Mount Rigi to get a view of three countries at once. The mountain, located between Lake Lucerne and Lake Zug, offers views of Switzerland, France, and Germany at the top, which you can reach by taking a train or hiking all the way .

Lake Lucerne

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Lake Lucerne offers some of Switzerland’s most fantastic views. The glittering lake stretches on for 43 square miles, offering visitors the chance to hike around it, boat through it, or stay at any number of fantastic hotels lining its shores to enjoy the view. 

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Make your way about an hour northeast of Lake Lucerne to the town of Rapperswil , which sits on Lake Zurich. The town is known for its abundant roses in the spring and summer and for its medieval architecture, including its very own castle.

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History lovers, this one is for you. Ticino, a town in southern Switzerland, is home to not one but two UNESCO World Heritage Sites — the Bellinzona castles and Monte San Giorgio. Come explore them all year long, dive in the lake in summer, or take to the mountains for a ski trip in winter. 

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Tucked between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, travelers can find the town of Interlaken . It’s well known as an adventure-lovers paradise, offering the chance to hike, ski, paraglide, skydive, and more through the majestic mountain range surrounding the town.

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Quinten , which sits on the shores of Lake Walen, is the place to be for those who love to see everything on foot. The entire community is car-free and offers spectacular views throughout its terraced neighborhoods lined with vineyards overlooking the Churfirsten mountain range.

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Want another car-free adventure? Head to the picturesque town of Appenzell in northeast Switzerland. The small community of just 7,000 full-time residents is known for its hand-made cheeses, best enjoyed with a picnic out in the rolling green pastures. 

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Montreux, positioned on the shores of Lake Geneva, is loved for its palm-lined promenade, castles, and gorgeous alpine vistas. It’s also the place to be over the summer when it hosts the annual Montreux Jazz Festival, which is worthy of planning an entire trip around.

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If you’re into cheese, you’ve likely heard the name Gruyère before. Visit its namesake town, located in southwest Switzerland, to dig into the cheese-making tradition and to visit its fairy-tale streets surrounded by a positively bucolic landscape.

Oeschinen Lake

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Explore another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Switzerland with a visit to the glacial Oeschinen Lake. Like many places in Switzerland, this lake comes flanked by snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows, and it offers more than its fair share of outdoor fun, including everything from hiking and biking to ice fishing in the winter.

Lavaux Vineyard

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Wine lovers will adore visiting Lavaux Vineyard, the nation’s largest contiguous vineyard area that goes on for nearly 2,000 acres. The vineyard is yet another one of Switzerland’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which comes with the added bonus of gorgeous views and divine wine tastings .

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Want to feel like you’re on top of the world? Head to Stoos , a town located at 4,265 feet. The entire (car-free) town is adorable, but the coolest part is its funicular railway — which holds the record as the steepest on Earth — that takes guests some 2,400 feet high in under 10 minutes. 

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Find a little slice of luxury in St. Mortiz. The high-end town marries some of the best skiing in the world with some of the best shopping. It’s got glitz, glamour, and plenty of bona fides to back up its reputation as a winter sports heaven; St. Moritz hosted the 1928 and 1948 Winter Olympic Games.

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Geneva, the second-largest city in Switzerland, is renowned for its international organizations like the United Nations European headquarters and the International Committee of the Red Cross. It’s also a spot where travelers can find luxuries galore, including high-end watch shops selling some of the most exclusive pieces on Earth.

Rhine Falls

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Feel the power of Mother Nature at Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall. Visitors can marvel at the thunderous waters from viewing platforms, and those feeling more adventurous can take boat trips for a closer experience. Just make sure to wear something waterproof.

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Zermatt , which sits in the shadow of the Matterhorn, is one more car-free village that combines rustic charm with high-end amenities, including some of the best skiing in Europe. Of course, guests can explore the mountains all spring, summer, and fall by hiking and biking, or just enjoy the town’s fantastic (year-round) shopping opportunities.

Bern, Switzerland's capital, offers an enticing mix of old and new. The city has retained much of its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets, now the setting for world-class dining venues, boutiques, and beer gardens, all worthy of visiting on your next trip.

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Find a little taste of Italy in Lugano, the largest Italian-speaking city in Switzerland (which counts Italian among its four official languages). The Swiss city offers more gorgeous promenades to stroll, along with delicious Italian-influenced restaurants and an art scene that can't be beaten. 

Swiss National Park

Get one more taste of Switzerland’s incredible natural beauty with a visit to Swiss National Park , located in the Engadin Valley. The park encompasses 68 square miles, making it a fantastic place to explore. While on a hike, see how many animals you can spot, including the park’s resident marmots, ibexes, and golden eagles.

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Switzerland in Spring (2024) : Info and The Best Places to see in Spring in Switzerland

Switzerland in spring is quite refreshing as while it may be colder than summer time it means you get to see spring in switzerland without the crowds. while you may still need to layer up, it also means budget-friendly stays, even in places like lucerne and zurich here are the best places in switzerland in spring you shouldn’t miss.

Switzerland has been and will always be one of the most romantic places that people tend to pick for honeymoons. Yet, this beautiful and rugged region is home to the best hikes and outdoor activities on the planet.

Switzerland also boasts some of the freshest air in the world.

All of this comes at a price of course as Switzerland is one of the pricier destinations in the world, not just Europe . This is why Switzerland in spring is one of the best times to travel to Switzerland.

Switzerland in April may not be one of the warmest places in Europe in April , but it definitely is refreshing.

Sure, Switzerland is a place which is a great choice even in winter, especially for skiing and winter sports, however, if you’re not someone who loves the cold and bundling up, are looking to avoid the insane crowds that fly to places like Lucerne and Matterhorn, then spring in Switzerland is an ideal time to visit.

Lush fields and cattle everywhere, stunning sunrises and sunsets and if you choose to go on hikes, hazy mornings full of drama in the Alps. Here’s all you need to know to plan a trip to Switzerland in spring.

Switzerland in spring: the best places to see, things to do and pack!

When is it spring in switzerland.

Switzerland experiences the spring season from the end of March to the beginning of June.

Switzerland in spring is chilly and dry at the beginning, i.e., in March . But it gets warmer as the season proceeds towards summer after May. The climate is more than pleasant in the spring months, April and May.

Hence, these months also make it the best time to travel to Switzerland. Though the weather is warm in most parts of the country, some areas in Switzerland have snow-covered mountain peaks, making Switzerland’s springtime a bit more exciting!

Spring in Switzerland in March

Weather in switzerland in march.

March in Switzerland marks the end of the winter season and the beginning of spring.

The average temperature at the start of the season ranges between 8 to 11 degrees Celsius. Spring begins to pick up from the southern regions keeping the northern part of Switzerland still covered in blankets of snow. Southern Switzerland in March has beautiful stretches of lush greenery and astonishing landscapes, making it the best time of year to visit Switzerland for sightseeing.

If you are looking forward to skiing, heading north is the perfect thing to do. Because it is the end of winter, you may expect a less chilly climate, making it more enjoyable for ski rides!

Monthly rainfall averages for March: 33-97 mm (1.3-2.8 in), which varies a lot from North to South, the highest is 255 mm in Santis and 150 mm in Mount Pilatus

Daily temperature averages (High) for March : 11°C

Daily daytime temperature averages (Low) for March: 8°C

Daily daylight hour averages for March: 8-9 hours

Things to do in Switzerland in March

Be a part of Basel Fasnacht

Basel Fasnacht is one of the most significant events in Switzerland. It is celebrated between February and March .

This UNESCO-recognized festival lasts three days, starting Monday after Ash Wednesday. The carnival participants dress in bright clothes and masks and march in parades with an orchestra.

So, if you are going to be present in Switzerland in spring anytime between the end of February and the beginning of March, you must witness the vibrancy of Basel Fasnacht.

Attend Chalandamarz

A traditional spring festival is marked to wave goodbye to the winter season and welcome warmth for prosperity and well-being.

Celebrated on March 1st, Chalandamarz takes place in most places in Switzerland by ringing bells, wearing beautiful costumes, singing songs, playing instruments, and enjoying delicious traditional food. It is an experience you should not miss if you are visiting Switzerland in spring.

Places to see in Switzerland in March

The Switzerland spring season is a good time to visit places that need more time exploring, especially cities that tend to get crowded in summer. Here are the best places to visit in Switzerland in spring especially if you are going to Switzerland in March.

Located in the south, Zermatt is a mountainous region with some of the best picture-postcard views of Switzerland in its natural beauty. Located just below Matterhorn, this place is a must-visit in March since it is famous for various adventure activities. You can explore nature’s abundance as you go skiing, hiking, climbing, and sightseeing.

Apart from that, you may also want to enjoy food at some great restaurants in the vicinity, go shopping in the stores nearby or even have fun ice-skating.

Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva is beautiful year-long, but spring makes it prettier. If you are a water baby, you can enjoy activities like skiing, boating, scuba diving, and windsurfing near Lake Geneva.

 Swiss National Park

You probably shouldn’t miss visiting Swiss National Park . The territory is known as a World UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and has brilliant natural beauty.

The park is home to magnificent views of snow-covered mountaintops and rare wildlife. Swiss National Park is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in March, for it gets covered with greenery once spring arrives making it quite pleasing to take a walk here.

Spring in Switzerland in April

Weather in switzerland in april.

Spring is at its best in Switzerland in April. If you are looking for the best places to visit in Switzerland in April , you won’t be disappointed. If you are wondering what the weather would look like in Switzerland during April, here’s everything you must know.

The average temperature during April in Switzerland is 15 degree Celsius. However, the temperature may drop to 6 degrees Celsius at night. In some cases, expect light rainfall.

But an average day in April in Switzerland consists of at least six hours of sunshine; if you are lucky, you can also catch rainbows!

Monthly rainfall averages for April: 40-85 mm (1.6-3.3 in)

Daily temperature averages (High) for April: 15°C (56°F)

Daily daytime temperature averages (Low) for April: 8°C (42°F)

Daily daylight hour averages for April: 8-9 hours

Things to do in Switzerland in April

If you are looking forward to visiting Switzerland in April, here are some of the festivals and events you should not miss.

Attend Lucerne Festival

It is one of the most famous events in Switzerland in the world of classical music. Lucerne festival hosts a series of music shows that attract a worldwide audience.

You will find world-famous orchestras and famous artists if you plan on visiting the Lucerne Festival.

The event takes place between the end of March and the beginning of April and is one of the most-visited places by tourists who come to Switzerland in spring.

Attend Zurich Spring Festival

Also called Sechseläuten , the third Monday of April marks the celebration of this festival. Easter has its roots in Christ’s Resurrection and is celebrated to welcome summer.

People gather from different parts of the world to join their friends and families on the day of celebration. The locals go to a Church for service followed by a traditional meal.

As a tourist, if you are visiting Switzerland around Easter, you can get a chance to enjoy Zurich city breaks with live music, fireworks, tasty food, flower decorations, flags, and so much more.

Caprices Festival

This internationally recognized festival, Caprices is known for its Modernity stage. If you have always dreamed of having a musical weekend up on a scenic mountaintop, this is for you.

Set up on the top of the Swiss Alps in the ski resort of Cras Montana , it is an experience filled with lots of excitement for tourists. So if you are present here in April, take the chance to party in the mountains with electrifying music.

Places to see in Switzerland in April

There are great places to visit in Switzerland in April.

Rhine Falls

Located on the border of Zurich and Schaffhausen, Rhine Falls are one of the best and most powerful waterfalls in Europe. Rhine Falls are a must-visit spot if you visit Switzerland in spring.

The high volume of water makes it a stunning site to be at in April in Switzerland. You can take a boat to reach the falls or even take the adventure trail. You could also watch the waterfalls from the viewing platforms.

Lake Brienz

Situated to the North of the Alps, in Bern, this lake is one of the five deepest lakes in Switzerland. Surrounded by tall and beautiful mountains, waterfalls and lush greenery, the lake looks surreal. The colours of spring make the place come alive thus making Lake Brienz a spectacular site.

Apart from relaxing in nature, you can also spend time here indulging in adventure activities.

The city of Geneva

Placed between the Jura mountains, and the Alps, Geneva is a city located in the south of Switzerland.

The city is known for its breathtaking views of Mont Blanc. Geneva could be one of the cities you could start your Switzerland itinerary if you are visiting Switzerland in spring.

It is a place to see if you are fond of history, culture, knowledge, nature, and modern architecture.

Spring in Switzerland in May

May in Switzerland is regarded as the start of the shoulder season meaning there are more tourists in May than in March and April. But there are still plenty of places to stay around the country and a tonne of exciting things to do and places to go on weekends in Switzerland in May.

Weather in Switzerland in May

The climate in Switzerland in May is more pleasant, making it the best time of the year to visit Switzerland. The average temperature in May ranges from 7 to 20 degrees Celsius.

Furthermore, May experiences only a few cold days as compared to the other months in spring. Many regions in Switzerland start experiencing hotter climates by the end of May. However, travellers and adventurers from different parts of the world start arriving in this month making it one of the busiest months to visit Switzerland in spring.

Monthly rainfall averages for May: 52-81mm (2 – 3.2in)

Daily temperature averages (High) for May: 20°C (50°F)

Daily daytime temperature averages (Low) for May: 7°C (40°F)

Daily daylight hour averages for May: 9 hours

Things to Do in Switzerland in May

Consider yourself lucky if you are visiting Switzerland in May. It is one of the best times of year to visit Switzerland, as there are lots of opportunities to capture landscapes lit up by sunlight, the weather is comforting for those who do not enjoy cold weather but like going on hikes. Here’s a list of the best things to do in Switzerland in May:

Cheese festival in Gruyères

This festival is hosted every year in spring in May on the main street of Gruyères. Many cheese-makers and enterprises come together to present hundreds of cheese varieties at the show.

If you are a cheese lover or a passionate chef, you will enjoy watching people making cheese. You can also watch artisans make regional artefacts like laces, jewellery, wooden spoons, etc.

Top places to see in Switzerland in May

Located in Zermatt, Matterhorn is known as the king of Swiss mountains. The tooth-shaped mountain is one of the most visited places in the Swiss Alps in April and May.

If you are an avid trekker, Matterhorn offers unparalleled opportunities to go trekking and glacier hiking. If you visit Switzerland in May, take advantage of the cable car rides that give you panoramic views of the mountain range. Fun fact – It is the mountain that you will find on the wrapping of the iconic Toblerone.

Mount Titlis

If you love snow and have always imagined Switzerland as a snow-covered destination, Mount Titlis is so for you! One of the most popular tourist locations in Switzerland, this place is covered in snow throughout May.

So you can play your heart out in the snow, do ice skating, hike, and take a cable car ride to enjoy the stunning landscapes this spot has to offer.

Interlaken 

Known as one of the best skydiving locations in the world, Interlaken is an ideal place to visit if you love adventure sports. If you plan on taking this up, know that it’ll be one of the best things you’ll ever do!

At Interlaken , you can also take up other adventure activities like bungee jumping, mountain biking, paragliding, and hiking.

What to wear in Switzerland in spring

Spring in Switzerland is tricky. The temperature changes quite frequently. While some days may be warm and cosy, others can be pretty chilly.

Furthermore, while some days start with the perfect sunrise, they tend to get quite cold later during the day, and vice versa. So, depending on which areas of Switzerland you wish to visit, you will need to be extra thoughtful about what you choose to wear in Switzerland in spring.

Here’s a quick list of essential items to carry to Switzerland.

Consider wearing bright and fresh-coloured outfits for spring in Switzerland as it makes for great pictures against the Alps as a backdrop! Trousers and long-sleeved shirts, comfy spring dresses paired with leggings or jeans are a good choices.

Though it is spring, and you may not expect cold weather, but having some underlayers, warmers, and sweaters handy is a good idea. Also, consider carrying additional winter wear, especially if you are on a trip with your little ones in the North or are keen to hike.

Choose comfortable footwear. Also, carrying a pair or two of waterproof walking shoes is recommended since you might need to walk a great deal if you’re planning to go hiking.  You should also carry your hiking shoes if you prefer the outdoors.

Switzerland’s climate fluctuates a lot during April and May, so you can consider carrying all-season jackets, overcoats, or windcheaters that make you feel comfortable almost anywhere. It is necessary to consider the weight of these jackets. The lighter, the better and ones that help against the wind, help.

Spring hikes in Switzerland in spring

Switzerland is synonymous with hiking. So, if you are heading to Switzerland for a spring vacation, you should know about the best spring hikes in Switzerland.

While many options are available, it is essential to understand that some are shut down until June sometimes due to unpredictable weather. So, if you are visiting Switzerland in April or May, keep reading and mark these paths.

Furenalp Engelberg

Located in central Switzerland, this region has spectacular natural beauty filled with greenery, snow-capped peaks, and blue skies. You also get to experience the beauty of waterfalls, rivers, forests, rocks-filled pathways, open fields, etc.

If you are visiting Switzerland in May, Furenalp Engelberg is a must-go. However, if you want something more adventurous, consider going up by cable car to Mount Titlis.

Nafels Obersee

Nafels Obersee is an Alpine lake and one of the best places to go spring hiking in late May. Located in the Obersee Valley, the lake has a 21 km stretch and is best known for its beautiful landscapes day-long.

The lake turns blue-green in May and is a fab hiking spot for picnics with friends and family, where you can enjoy magical views while keeping yourself warm around a campfire.

Giessbach Falls

Feeding into Lake Brienz, Giessbach Falls is a beautiful hiking place in Switzerland. You can easily reach the falls by getting on a ferry that leaves you at the base of the falls. From here you can start hiking or take a historic funicular to the top.

Hiking here is fun as the path has a few spots you could eat at coupled with amazing views of the waterfalls and the lake! The best time to visit the falls is after mid-May when the ferry service is up and running. Ferry timings can be found here .

I went to Wasserauen for a hike and while I’m not much of an active person, this has been one of my favourite hikes ever. Do consider it if you’re in the area. All details in this article .

Switzerland in Spring by Region: 5 Spots To Visit In Switzerland in Spring

Spring is undoubtedly one of the best times to visit Switzerland. It is that time of the year when you can finally explore the Alps without freezing. Here are the top five places to visit in Switzerland in spring.

This famous city is also the largest in Switzerland and is not the capital of Switzerland although many get confused and assume it to be, Bern is the capital of Switzerland. However, it is one of the top city getaways in Switzerland as there’s much to do here, especially for art lovers.

Kunsthaus Zurich has numerous masterpieces as does Rietberg Museum, Switzerland’s biggest for non-European cultures. Fraumunster Church is also quite famous as are the twin towers of the Grossmunster where you can climb to the top of the Karlsturm and enjoy panoramic views of the city. In addition to this the town centre and the parks are worth visiting if you’re with family.

The Alps are incredible almost any time of year. And so, Zermatt is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in spring. While there are numerous activities you can do here there are many attractions you can visit as well.

Matterhorn is the most famous with it having the highest cable car station in Europe accompanied by restaurants and views of Italy too; Gornergrat is also quite popular due to its mountain panoramas. You’ll also find a village tour here and the 5 lakes walk where the views are picture-perfect.

Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen is a small town in the centre of the Swiss Alps located only an hour from Bern.

Staubbach waterfall is a must-visit for hikers and nature lovers. You can also consider visiting Mount Schilthorn, the highest mountain in Lauterbrunnen.

There are lots to do in Lauterbrunnen. You can go paragliding here, visit the pretty Church, or go on the Trummelbach Falls hike. Interlaken is close by and worth exploring as well.

A tiny city based on the borders of Lake Lucerne, this stunning city is by far one of the most visited places in Switzerland. It is famous for its unique architecture and beautifully decorated lake-side cafes that provide views of snow-covered mountains all around.

While in Lucerne, apart from enjoying your favourite drink sitting in a lakeside restaurant, you can also explore the town. The best things to see in Lucerne in spring include the Chapel bridge, Spreuer bridge, Needle Dam, Bourbaki Panorama, and Glacier Garden.

Jungfraujoch

If you are going to be in and around the Jungfrau region, visiting Jungfraujoch in spring is a must-do.

Jungfraujoch is less crowded in spring and stunningly beautiful. Out of the many things you can do here, a few important ones include a train ride from Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch, riding up the Sphinx Terrace, hiking at Monchsjochhutte, visiting the Ice Palace and the Glacier Plateau.

I visited Switzerland in May and it was chilly but a couple of layers and it was all good! Afternoons were hot and quite summery. In terms of prices, it was cheaper than summer and even with it being May, the crowds were increasing.

So yes, it may be chilly at times but irrespective of the weather, the countryside is fabulous in Switzerland. No matter when you go, you’re bound to have the perfect holiday!

Spring break in Switzerland: Things to do in Switzerland in spring

If you are looking forward to taking a spring break this year in Switzerland, here are the top things to do in Switzerland in spring:

Visit Interlaken

If adventure sports in the Swiss Alps were on your bucket list, there is no better place than Interlaken to tick it off. From cruising, hiking, sightseeing, riding jetboats, paragliding, and riding on cable cars to witnessing the miracles of nature all around, there’s much to do in Interlaken.

Enjoy traditional food

A spring break in Switzerland is complete only when you’ve tried some of the traditional delicacies on offer. If you are a foodie, you certainly cannot miss trying dishes like Fondue, Raclette, Zurcher geschnetzeltes, Tartiflette, lekerlis biscuits with hazelnuts, etc. The food in Switzerland is mouth-watering, and you should make sure to give it a try, even the pizzas!

The outdoor baths in Bern

The thermal baths at Marzili are one of the oldest and free, located right in front of the Parliament building making it a fun activity especially if you’re on a budget.

The castles of Bellinzona

The castles of Bellinzona are some of the oldest medieval monuments in Ticino, North of Lugano. Castello di Montebello and Castello di Sasso Corbaro are located by the Murata ie the defense wall. The location is a UNESCO World Heritage site .

Now that you know how beautiful Switzerland in Spring can be, and you have some of the best recommendations to plan your itinerary, make sure you pick the best spots as it can be quite a budget-friendly visiting during this time of year.

However, irrespective of when you plan to visit, the landscapes here and the cheese (and meat) will definitely keep you hooked and make it one of the most memorable trips of your lifetime!

Switzerland in Spring – FAQs

Is spring a good time to visit switzerland.

Spring in Switzerland is a good time to explore the country. The months of April, May, and the first 2 weeks of June are considered to be the shoulder season where tourists are few, accommodation is cheap, and flights are low-priced.

You will still find snow-clad mountains and that too without crowds before the summer begins.

Is April a good time to visit Switzerland?

April can be an ideal time to visit Switzerland as it will allow you to enjoy plenty of outdoor activities without the interference of touristy crowds.

You will find snow on the mountain peaks but the winter air is starting to disappear. You will find sunny days but summer is still weeks away.

Where to go in Switzerland in spring?

Some of the popular destinations in Switzerland in Spring are Interlaken for its adventure activities, Geneva for its popular tourist sites, Lugano for its natural beauty, and Bern and Zurich for their historic attractions.

Is it better to visit Switzerland in April or May?

Between the months of April and May, it is better to visit Switzerland in April. This month will allow you to enjoy adventure activities but there will be fewer tourists.

If you visit Switzerland in May, the chances of coming across travelers are higher as summer tourists start arriving in June.

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.

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17 Spectacular Places to Visit in Switzerland (+ Map!)

Nestled in central Europe and dominated by the Alps, the best places to visit in Switzerland are downright sublime.

When it comes to jaw-dropping landscapes, quaint small towns, and enchanting cities that perfectly blend the past, present, and future, nowhere does it quite like Switzerland.

Many people (us included) put off planning trips to Switzerland’s beautiful corners for years because of its deserved reputation for high prices–but the best Swiss travel destinations are so incredible that, while expensive, you never doubt that you’re getting your money’s worth.

To help get you excited about planning your bucket list Switzerland vacation, we’ve worked with several other travel bloggers to round up the most magnificent places in Switzerland to visit!

Whether your dream Swiss trip involves Alpine hiking, lake swimming, skiing, or simply eating lots of fondue while overlooking the mountains, there’s an incredible getaway in Switzerland here for you.

Here are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland!

Table of Contents

Stunning Cities to Visit in Switzerland

Beautiful small villages + mountain towns in switzerland, more of the best places to visit in switzerland, map of the most beautiful places in switzerland to visit.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

From Rachel of Rachel’s Ruminations

Basel is a lovely little city with a historical core that is just perfect for strolling and soaking up the atmosphere.

The houses are simple and charming, some dating to the Middle Ages.

Art dots the streets: fountains, decorative sculpture, and painting on the centuries-old buildings as well as amusing modern art, like the dragon sculpture that breathes actual smoke!

“Reaction ferries” – no motor or sails – carry passengers across the Rhine between the two halves of the city.

If you like to see historical sights, the Romanesque and Gothic Basel Cathedral is one of the best sights in Basel , and climbing the spire to see the view is also worth the effort.

Three of the original city gates still stand, restored to their medieval glory, and the bright red Rathaus (city hall) is quite a sight too.

The more modern Tinguely fountain is an amusing cross between a fountain and a kinetic sculpture.

The Foundation Beyeler, on the edge of town, houses a truly exceptional collection of modern masterpieces by major artists such as Rothko, Picasso, Monet, and Mondrian. It’s just outside of town but easy to reach.

Basel is a year-round destination, but summer is the best season for enjoying the outdoor attractions and architecture.

However, December brings a different charm: Basel is home to what is widely considered to be the best Christmas market in Switzerland!

From Caroline of Veggie Wayfarer

Snowcapped mountains, half-timbered houses, and a city that seemingly rolls down a hill right into the most pristine lake, upon which steamboats glide to and back from France: this is the storybook city of Lausanne, in the  Vaud-region .

Built atop three hills, the very first thing you will want to bring with you is a good pair of walking shoes. Start at the Lausanne Cathedral for some of the best views over the entire city, walk down the famous wooden staircase ( Escaliers du marché ) into the heart of the city at the  Place de la Palud , which contains a clutch of restaurants and bars as well as the oldest working fountain of the city.

Meander through the tiny streets until you hit  Palais de Rumine , a Renaissance palace well worth a visit.

The buzzing Flon district is great for a night on the town, or grab a drink at Brasserie Montbenon if you are looking for a more intimate setting.

Make your way to Lake Geneva at the foot of Lausanne, where you’ll find a variety of watersports on offer throughout the year.

Time permitting, hop of a steam peddler to Chillon Castle.

On the way make a brief stop at the UNESCO Lavaux vineyards, to try a glass of locally-produced wine.

From Zoe of Together In Switzerland

For one of the best places to visit in Switzerland, consider booking your next Swiss getaway in Lugano!

Located in the heart of the Italian-speaking Ticino region, Lugano is beautiful to visit all year round.

However, the best time for  Lugano is in the summer , with long warm days and lots of local events in the city.

Since Lugano is well known also for its Lake Lugano, one of the best things to do after exploring and shopping in the city is to get out onto the lake!

You can rent cute red little paddle boats for a minimum of 30 minutes, or else book a larger boat trip that includes sightseeing at some local villages nearby. 

Lugano also is home to two funiculars that you can take up either Mount San Salvatore or Monte Bre.

Both nearby mountains are just above 900 in elevation and both have gorgeous views of the lake and the city of Lugano.

Summer is especially beautiful at each top mountain as they both have a restaurant serving drinks and food late into the night.

From there, you can see the sunset from above as well as watch the city light up in the darkness. 

If you’re visiting Switzerland in the summer, it’s also a must to bring your swimsuit to Lugano as you should not leave without swimming in the lake!

There are a few dedicated swimming areas to choose from, such as at Lido Riva Caccia right in the city center. 

From Kristin of Global Travel Escapades

When looking for the best travel destinations in Switzerland, you won’t want to miss the lakeside city of Geneva.

The city is in the French-speaking region of Switzerland and is located right next to the border of France, not far from Annecy.

In addition to being a beautiful city with lots of French-style architecture, Geneva’s location along Lake Geneva makes it an ideal Swiss city to visit.

The most iconic attraction in Geneva is the Jet d’eau Geneve, a 140m tall water jet in the middle of Lake Geneva.

After seeing the fountain, you can walk along the harbor and admire the colorful flower clock in the nearby Jardin Anglais.

The flower clock features over 6,500 flowers that create the watch’s face.

No trip to Geneva would be complete without paying a visit to Palais de Nations.

You’ll see the flag of each country that is part of the United Nations!

So if you’re looking for places to visit in Switzerland, consider Geneva, and make sure you visit during the summer months to minimize your chances of rainy weather!

From Dymphe of Dym Abroad

One of the best places to visit in Switzerland is the picturesque city of Lucerne.

Whether you are spending  one day in Lucerne  or enjoying a longer trip, this German-speaking city nestled along the River Reuss is a beautiful travel destination.

One of the best things to do in Lucerne is to visit the Kapellbrücke, a covered pedestrian wooden bridge that spans the river in the city that dates back to the 14th century.

The Kapellbrücke has unique architecture and there are historic interior paintings that are very interesting to see.

If you like the Kapellbrücke, the Spreuer Bridge is another must-see!

Other top attractions in central Lucerne include climbing the towers along the Musegg Wall for incredible views of the city and Lake Lucerne and visiting the Swiss Museum of Transport .

Another one of the best things to do in Lucerne is to spend time on Lake Lucerne to enjoy spectacular views of the mountains. You can ride the ferry or go swimming in the summer.

While visiting Lucerne, don’t miss the chance to head up to Mount Pilatus , either–not only are the views incredible but getting to the top includes riding the steepest cog railway in the world!

From Sarah of CosmopoliClan

Nestled amidst rolling green hills and hugged by the crystal-clear Aare river, lies the city of Bern.

It’s the political epicenter of Switzerland with the Bundeshaus as the seat of the Swiss Parliament.

Bern’s picturesque Old Town may be compact, this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site has a lot offer.

Visiting the Zytglogge, or Clock Tower, is one of the most popular of  things to do in Bern .

This landmark featuring a bear parade, golden rooster and time god Chronos as it strikes the hour, seems to come straight out of a story book.

As you stroll the elegant flag-lined streets of Bern, you’ll notice the many colorfully decorated water fountains.

Other architectural highlights are the stately arcades and the vaulted cellars that guarantee a pleasant shopping or dining experience regardless of the weather.

For a wonderful view over the city, climb the 312 steps to the viewing platform of the Bern Minster. This cathedral has the highest spire in all of Switzerland.

Behind it, you’ll find the Mattelift which will take you to the lower-level Matte district with its artistic flair and half-timbered houses.

From there, you can cross the Aare river to the Bärengraben where you can meet some of the city’s most famous residents: the bears.

The legend goes that the Duke who founded Bern would name the city after the first animal he encountered while hunting and that happened to be a bear.

End your visit at the Rosengarten park and take in the most spectacular panoramic view over the Altstadt and the white mountain peaks of the Bernese Oberland.

From Emma of Travel on a Time Budget

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland , with no shortage of things to do.

It’s also a beautiful city, with the Limmat River flowing through the old town and Lake Zurich at one end, surrounded by mountain peaks.

Among the best things to do in Zurich is to spend some time in the historic old town.

This has picturesque cobbled streets and squares to wander through, with beautiful churches, wonderful cafes and restaurants, and a 17th-century renaissance town hall.

Boat trips run along the river and around the lake; the ferry stops at Zurichhorn for the chance to walk around the park and visit the small pretty Chinese Garden with its lake and colorful temples.

Zurich also has a number of fascinating museums to visit.

These include the Swiss National Museum, the Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum , the Rietberg Art Museum, and the FIFA World Cup Museum dedicated to the history of football.

For visitors looking for some relaxation, there is the rooftop thermal pool at the Thermalbad and Spa that provides views out across the city.

Zurich is a wonderful place to visit at any time of year.

The summer months are perfect for walking around the lake or dipping in the water in one of the city’s lidos.

In the winter, there is skiing in the nearby mountains and ice skating in the city.

The city’s streets are lit up, and there are cozy cafes to pop into to warm up with the local fondue. At Christmas, the city hosts several markets.

Though deservedly famous for being expensive, Zurich has a range of accommodations to suit most Switzerland-friendly budgets.

The Hotel Montana near the main train station is ideal for short city breaks.

For more luxury, The Dolder Grand , with its hilltop setting, complete with an ice rink in winter, is a great option. 

From Megan of Megan & Aram

Interlaken, also known as the “Adventure Capital of Switzerland”, is a gorgeous place that can be visited in any season!

There are so many things you can do regardless of whether  you visit in winter   or summer… you just need to dress appropriately for the weather.

Go kayaking on beautiful Lake Brienz in all seasons, and relax on the beach after a swim session in the summer.

Interlaken has many fantastic hiking trails to choose from, and some of the most popular ones are Oberburghorn or Hardergrat.

You can take the funicular up the mountain to the Harder Kulm viewpoint, where you can enjoy the stunning views and dine at the Panorama Restaurant.

To see the countryside from another perspective, take a hot air balloon ride!

And for even more views, take Europe’s highest railway to Jungfraujoch, where you will get breathtaking views from an elevation of nearly 3,500 m (about 11,500 ft).

You will never get tired of the spectacular scenery no matter how many viewpoints you go to!

Travel back in time by visiting the following fairytale-like places: St. Beatus Caves, a cave system over a kilometer long where legend says St. Beatus ousted a dragon living there in the 6th century; the medieval Thun Castle; or the charming village of Grindelwald.

Interlaken is a must-visit location in Switzerland and should be added to every itinerary!

From Paul D’Souza of Paulmarina.com

Mürren  is a beautiful, small village in the Bernese Oberland in Switzerland.

Situated at 5400 feet (ca. 1,646 m) above sea level, this car-free village can only be accessed by cable car or mountain train.

Visitors can get there within 10 minutes from Stechelberg with the Schilthornbahn or take the iconic mountain train via Grütschalp to travel to Mürren within 20 minutes.

The views from Mürren are beyond stunning and will enthrall every nature and mountain-loving traveler.

Mürren and the Schilthorn peak came to fame thanks to a James Bond movie. Take the cable car further up to Birg and Schilthorn to discover Bond World and enjoy brunch in the Piz Gloria rotating restaurant.

From there you can spot the Mönch, Jungfrau, and Eiger peaks.

Adventure lovers will enjoy the Brig Via Ferrata trail, a rock climbing, zip lining, and tight rope walking trail further down.

Every season is beautiful and has its perks in Mürren, but the warmer months are more suitable to go hiking and paragliding.

Skiing and snowshoe walking are popular winter activities in the area.

A winter wonderland awaits you from December to March with plenty of snow and snow-dusted Swiss mountains.

From Dean and Laynni of Routinely Nomadic

Home to the world-famous Matterhorn, Zermatt has long been one of the most popular tourist destinations in Switzerland.

So, yes, it can get very busy. But the fabulous mountain scenery more than makes up for that.

While the iconic Matterhorn dominates the skyline, the town is completely surrounded by impressive mountains and fantastic viewpoints, many of which are accessible by cable car .

Truly a year-round destination, Zermatt is one of the top skiing destinations in Switzerland in the winter, while in summer it attracts outdoor enthusiasts from all over to enjoy mountain biking, rock climbing, paragliding, white-water rafting, and, of course, hiking.

If you have your heart set on seeing the Matterhorn , try to give yourself a few days in Zermatt in order to increase your odds of clear weather.

Along with a wide variety of gorgeous day hikes, Zermatt serves as the start or end point of the incredible  Walker’s Haute Route , a phenomenal 2-week hut-to-hut trek through the Alps that is arguably the best long-distance hike in Europe.

Secluded at the top of a picturesque valley, Zermatt is closed to vehicles (except for electric hotel and work shuttles), making it a wonderful place to wander on foot.

While long-time visitors to Zermatt lament the ever-growing number of hotels, restaurants, and retail stores, they make it a very easy place to have fun and every new building still conforms to the town’s classic ski town vibe.

Those looking for a luxury stay with amazing Matterhorn views should check out the Europe Hotel & Spa , although there are practically endless Zermatt accommodation options to fit most budgets.

Baden, Switzerland

By Nina of Nina Out and About

Baden is the spa capital of Switzerland, yet most people have never heard of it.

Unlike Bath in the UK, Baden has remained off the beaten paths for tourists, and even most  expats who live in Switzerland .

Baden is a small town located in Aargau, about 20 minutes by train from Zurich.

It’s routinely confused with Baden-Baden in Germany (even when you try to buy a ticket to visit). But don’t be fooled: it does exist!

Baden’s claim to fame is the natural springs that have made it a popular spa destination for centuries.

The most well-known is the Friedensquelle (“Peace Spring”), but there are several others to explore as well.

In addition to its spas, Baden is also home to a beautiful old town with plenty of shops and restaurants. There’s also an interesting museum dedicated to the history of the town’s springs.

You can try out the hot springs for free along the riverside.

There’s a bench with a trough of natural hot water that you can put your feet in while you enjoy a hot chocolate or takeaway pastry.

The spa inside has evening and early morning discounted tickets, which will allow you to enjoy the spa when it’s nearly empty.

If you’re looking for a relaxing day trip from Zurich to one of the most underrated places to visit in Switzerland, Baden is the perfect place to head.

The best time to visit Baden is in the spring or summer when the weather is warm and you can enjoy all the town has to offer.

Lauterbrunnen

From Martha of May Cause Wanderlust

Lauterbrunnen is a village at the base of the stunningly beautiful Lauterbrunnen Valley in the Bernese Oberland region, and it is indisputably one of the absolute best places to visit in Switzerland!

It is the epicentre of this bucolic area, which boasts of pretty waterfalls, steep snow-capped mountains and quaint wooden chalets, and there are plenty of  things to do in Lauterbrunnen  and the surrounding area.

In the village itself, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to scenery. On either side of the village, there are green hillsides dotted with chalets and sheer cliff faces.

The stunningly delicate and impossibly tall Staubbach Falls seem to be falling on the village – although they are actually just a short walk outside it.

And the best view of all is southward across the village towards Lauterbrunnen Church.

Looking in this direction, you see the pretty church steeple flanked on either side by the steep valley walls and the Staubach Falls, with the snow-capped peaks of the Alps behind them.

It is so picture perfect, it almost doesn’t feel real!

To explore the countryside around Lauterbrunnen, there are hiking and cycling trails, and you can also take trains and/or cable cars to the neighbouring car-free alpine villages of Mürren and Wengen.

You can also take a series of trains from Lauterbrunnen to Jungfraujoch for an up-close look at one of Switzerland’s remarkable glaciers.

For a reasonably affordable stay, with good food and a chance of gorgeous views from your room, check out the Hotel Oberland .

From Marianne of Pasta, Pretzels & Passports

Located approximately 25 kilometres southwest of Lucerne, in the heart of a UNESCO biosphere reserve, lies the picturesque town of Entlebuch.

Covering a 22-square-mile area, the town is home to only 3,300 people.

But don’t let its size fool you! Entlebuch is one of the prettiest towns you will ever see.

And if you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, climbing, or canoeing, then this town is definitely one of the best places to visit in Switzerland.

Entlebuch offers more than 60 kilometers of well-marked hiking trails.

You can also choose one of the 13 loop trails that wind through gorgeous forests, along clear rivers, and through mountain meadows.

But if you are looking for something truly unique, head over to  Stillaub Lama  where you can go Lama-Trekking with a guided tour! Enjoy an incredible hike accompanied by llamas.

If canoeing is something that interests you, the Canoe Club in Entlebuch offers canoe rentals or even guided excursions.

Paddle along the scenic Emme (Emmenuferweg) river between Hasle and Entlebuch.

And although summer is an incredible time to visit Entlebuch, if you like winter activities, the town has plenty to offer at that time of the year as well.

From snowshoeing to winter hiking, cross-country and downhill skiing, you won’t find a more scenic location.

And after an exhilarating day of exploring this incredible area, head back to town where you will find several excellent restaurants serving local cuisine.

From Trijit of Budget Travel Buff

On the banks of Lake Geneva stands the charming resort city of Montreux, which happens to be one of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland.

The town looks out over the entrancing splendor of the surrounding countryside as it lies peacefully tucked away within the Swiss Alps.

The architecture of the historic cities and the ancient castles of Montreux has made it a place worth exploring.

The ideal months to visit Montreux are from April to October, but you’ll also find a charming Swiss Christmas market here in December!

The French-speaking Vaud region of Switzerland, which stretches from Lausanne to Montreux, is the heart of the Swiss Riviera and has a distinct Mediterranean character.

The lakeside resorts provide a surreal view of the lush green landscape, where you can unwind.

It’s one of Switzerland’s most picturesque locations due to its gorgeous lakeside location, expansive vineyards, and mountains, hills, and valleys.

Take a relaxing boat trip on Lake Geneva to take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape and the lakefront villages.

You can visit the Freddie Mercury statue, wander along the Old Town’s streets, and circle the Montreux Lake.

It is unusual to visit Switzerland without trying  Swiss chocolate , the country’s most well-known delicacy.

The chocolate train on the Montreux-Berner Oberland Railway is devoted to the world’s most delicate temptation.

The famous Château de Chillon, which is about a 30-minute walk from Montreux, is another reason to visit.

This 13th-century fortress comes from the Middle Ages and features a beautiful view of the lake.

From Michelle C. of Intentional Travelers

When it comes to beautiful places in Switzerland to add to your bucket list, nothing compares to the Alps.

Nendaz, a small ski resort town up in the mountains, is popular for both winter and summer activities.

Arrive via train to Sion, in the valley, and then take a Postbus up to town.

The drive up the winding mountain road is a beautiful initiation to the area with spectacular views.

In the summer and fall, there are great hikes leaving from town so be sure to pack  walking shoes !

Several of the trails in the region follow along the “ bisses ,” or old waterways, in and out of small villages and farms, through the hills and forests.

The ski lift to Tracouet’s Black Lake provides another panoramic perspective and more hiking trails.

The vacation rental options in Nendaz are abundant, although many of the hotels close in the shoulder season (fall).

Staying in Haute (“high”) Nendaz not far from the Tourist Office is best for easy access to restaurants, grocery stores, bus stops, and the ski lift.

Nendaz can also be a good base for day trips to other excellent Switzerland travel destinations like Sion, Martigny, Zermatt, and even places a little further like Spiez, Interlaken, and Bern.

Ascona, Switzerland

From Giorgy of G-Extreme Travel

The small lakeside town of Ascona is located in Ticino, the sunny, warmest, and most charming place in Switzerland.

Indeed, it boasts more than 300 days of sunshine a year and its mild climate makes it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

There are always plenty of delightful things to do in Ascona, regardless of the time of year.

From hiking to discovering the holy Monte Verità, and from soaking in the Maggia or Verzasca Valley surrounded by magical waterfalls to visiting historical museums such as Castello san Materno, Galleria Borgo, and Museo Comunale d’Arte Moderna.

And, of course, the Ascona lido is always tempting in the summer.

Don’t forget to walk along the famous lungolago, where there are plenty of restaurants offering delicious Italian cuisine.

From this promenade, you can take an electric train around Ascona to discover the local attractions.

Or, you can take a boat to Brissago Island in the middle of Lake Maggiore letting you live an exciting story of only Switzerland’s Botanical Garden on the island.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed getaway, this little hidden gem is an incredible Switzerland travel destination to add to your bucket list!

Bernina Express

It’s hard to say whether a train ride counts as a Switzerland travel destination–but then again, trains in Switzerland are a bit more exciting than just about anywhere else.

Famous for being one of the most spectacular train rides in the world, the Bernina Express runs from Chur, Switzerland to Tirano, Italy, covering truly spectacular scenery along the way!

Featuring nearly 200 bridges and more than 50 tunnels along the way, this 4-hour scenic journey definitely belongs on your Switzerland bucket list.

Dramatic views of the Alps, glaciers, the soaring bridges, and more are waiting to be enjoyed through panoramic windows.

Be sure to book this Swiss travel experience in advance–the train is deservedly popular, and gets booked up quickly!

Schynige Platte

From Amela of Stay Wild Travels

If you’re heading to the Jungfrau Region in Switzerland, then visiting the summit of  Schynige Platte  is a must.

In order to get there, you’ll need to hop on board the Schynige Platte-Bahn, an old-fashioned, historic railway that leaves from the small village of Wilderswill which is not too far from Interlaken.

It chugs slowly up the mountainside and offers fantastic views, which is an incredible experience in itself.

Once you’ve arrived at the summit, you’ll find a plethora of hiking trails, a restaurant and a botanical alpine garden, to name a few.

The most popular hiking trail is the Panorama Trail. As the name suggests, this offers unmatched views over the Jungfrau Region, including the three major peaks in the area: Jungfrau, Mönch and Eiger.

You’ll be able to visit Schynige Platte from the end of May to the end of October.

Those looking for a traditional stay among the mountains are in luck, as the restaurant also offers doubles up as a popular hotel .

The rooms are quaint with Swiss décor and offer picture-perfect mountain views.

It’s worth noting that Swiss Travel Pass holders receive a discount on the trip, and Jungfrau Pass holders have a visit included with their card.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “17 Spectacular Places to Visit in Switzerland (+ Map!)”

One place that should be a must to visit when in Switzerland is the Rheinfall (Rhinefall) near Schaffhausen which also is a beautiful town. It is less then 1 hour from Zurich. PS: A small typo, the river in Lucerne is called Reuss, not Neuss

Thanks, Thomas, I’ll get that fixed. 🙂

And yes, I hear the falls are supposed to be gorgeous!

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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

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Switzerland In Spring: 10 Best Towns You Shouldn't Miss

Visiting Switzerland in spring? Here are the towns to explore.

Switzerland's stunning scenery has made it a favorite tourist destination among many people around the world. Spring is a great time to explore this country; as the temperatures get warmer, there are plenty of things to do. Snow begins to melt, flowers start to bloom, and the atmosphere is incredibly vibrant so vacationers can make the most of their trip. Switzerland is home to some of the most beautiful towns in the world. These towns come with amazing features, including cultural attractions, natural beauty, and the incredible ruins of Switzerland . A spring vacation in these towns is bound to be unforgettable. Planning to travel to Switzerland in spring? Here are the best towns you shouldn’t miss.

Related: Switzerland Vs Austria: Which Has The Better Alps?

10 Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen is always worth visiting for its uniquely breathtaking scenery. The town is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders, which tourists should explore at least once in their lifetime. In spring, the town turns into a magical place, and with a scenery that feels like a fairy tale village, Lauterbrunnen is one of the unmissable spring destinations in Switzerland. Hiking is one of the must-dos in spring in Switzerland, thanks to its jaw-dropping views of the charming village. There are plenty of blooms to see in the valley during the hike.

Dating back to 15 BC , Zurich is one of the top towns to explore in Switzerland in spring, and there are plenty of things to do. One can spend time camping around Fischers Fritz, along the banks of Lake Zurich. Camping here offers a unique, peaceful, and mind-blowing natural environment for relaxing and taking in the breathtaking views of the beautiful scenery of the mountains. Seeing the town's museums, such as Technorama Science Museum, Lindt Chocolate Museum, and Wow Illusion Museum, is one of the best things to do in spring. Zurich is home to beautiful weekend markets and gardens with gorgeous plants that are always in bloom during spring. Hiking along Lake Zurich is another favorite activity, thanks to the beautiful trails and cherry blossoms that adorn the area. This town is among the incredible places in Switzerland one has to see before one dies .

8 Grindelwald

Grindelwald is one of the most beautiful towns in Switzerland to visit in spring. It is a magnificent mountain town in the Swiss Alps, boasting incredibly spectacular views, beautiful weather, and numerous outdoor activities. Skiing is one of the most popular spring activities, and there is a wide range of slopes offering fun adventures for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Museums, art galleries, and numerous cultural festivals and special events are among the top things to do in Switzerland’s Grindelwald .

Related: Grindelwald: A Guide To Switzerland's Most Beautiful Village

Located in the famous Swiss Alps, Zermatt is a charming mountain resort town surrounded by stunning peaks and incredible views of the Matterhorn. With splendid weather and plenty of fun outdoor adventures, Zermatt is one of the best Switzerland towns to visit in spring. With a fresh blanket of snow, skiing, and snowboarding are just as enjoyable in spring as they are in winter. The fact that people can still enjoy skiing in spring in Zermatt is amazing, making it an absolutely unique destination not to miss. Vacationers can also go hiking to enjoy the magnificent views of the Swiss Alps and the Matterhorn. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Europe’s highest point, is one of Zermatt’s most striking attractions and a must-see in spring!

6 St. Moritz

Another gorgeous town in the Swiss Alps, St. Moritz, shouldn't miss the Switzerland spring bucket list; thanks for being surrounded by gorgeous views. It also boasts warm temperatures and plenty of outdoor adventures. Its ski slopes are some of its most striking treasures and offer unforgettable skiing and snowboarding memories, thanks to their quality and availability in variety.

Vacationers can enjoy other winter activities, such as cross-country skiing, ice skating, and snowshoeing in spring.

With bustling luxury shopping and culinary scenes, tourists can explore a few high-end boutiques and restaurants during their trip to St. Moritz.

Related: Experience Luxury At These 10 Most Expensive Hotels In Switzerland

Sion is one of the best towns one shouldn't miss in Switzerland, especially during spring, thanks to plenty of breathtaking views and natural scenery to catch. At this time, the town boasts mild temperatures, making it suitable to enjoy the great outdoors. Place Maurice Zermatten is one of the must-sees, as it offers incredible views of the Castle Tourbillon and Valere Castle. Vacationers will also see beautiful flowers in bool around this place. The old town is another unmissable spring spot in Sion, and tourists can enjoy exploring its cobblestone streets and historical sites.

Located between steep mountain slopes and the gorgeous Lake Geneva, which has plenty of things to do , Montreux is one of the Switzerland towns one shouldn’t miss in spring. Whether looking to explore spectacular natural scenery or want to experience the city lifestyle, Montreux comes with an incredible blend of that. During spring, the environment gets more stunning, thanks to the gorgeous colors of the blossoming flowers here and there. Some of the best places to see are the 13th-century Chateau Chillon, one of the most impressive castles in Europe, and the six-mile Montreux Promenade, which is beautifully lined with plenty of spring flower displays, street performers, and gorgeous views.

3 Interlaken

Looking for perfect spring destinations in Switzerland? Interlaken is a must-visit. Surrounded by the gorgeous Lake Brienz and the world-famous Swiss Alps, this charming town has a lot to experience for travelers of all ages and interests. The snow melts gradually, the flowers are in bloom, and the weather is perfect for going outside. Vacationers can see different types of flowers at the Alpine Garden, including 777, crocuses, and the soldanellas.

Related: 10 Cities Art Lovers Should Visit In Switzerland

Flims is one of the most beautiful must-visit places in Switzerland . It is located in the Swiss Alps and is among the best spring destinations to explore in the country. There is plenty of things to do, including picnicking, swimming, hiking, and relaxing by the lake with a drink or a book at hand. Skiing is another enjoyable activity to enjoy in Flims, thanks to the wide range of ski slopes that suit all levels of skiers and snowboarders. It is surrounded by gorgeous mountains and forests, which provide more opportunities for adventurous vacationers.

Lucerne is an incredible destination in spring and among the top spots with a German touch. Vacationers can see numerous beautiful cafes located by the riverside, medieval splendors, and spectacular lakeside views. Lake Lucerne is one of the top places to explore for its breathtaking scenery of the surrounding hills and mountains, including Mount Pilatus.

Extending your stay in Lucerne? Plan a day trip to the nearby Mount Titlis and get rewarded with stunning glaciers and incredible cuisine.

17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Switzerland

Written by Becca Blond and Joni Sweet Updated Mar 20, 2024

Switzerland's natural beauty is as addictive as its mouthwatering chocolates – one taste and you'll be left craving more. Whether you are on the hiking trails outside Zermatt, laying eyes on the iconic Matterhorn for the first time, or marveling at the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains schussing down a ski trail beginning atop the Jungfraujoch, Switzerland seduces quickly.

This landlocked central European country is home to two mountain ranges, the Alps in the south and the Jura in the northwest. But Switzerland's natural attractions don't stop with peaks and glaciers. You'll also find glimmering turquoise lakes, emerald valleys where tingling bell-wearing cows and sheep graze, charming chalets, and flower box-filled villages that look ripped from the pages of a fairytale storybook.

Amid all this natural beauty are also some fantastic urban diversions and places to visit. With four official languages (French, German, Italian, and Romansch), Switzerland has a multicultural sophistication to its cities, which all offer something different when it comes to history and culture.

French speaking Geneva is home to four major offices of the United Nations and has a large international population. German speaking Zurich is Switzerland's largest city and financial center, known for its shopping, museums, and nightlife. The capital city of Bern boasts a medieval old town with a famous moving puppet clock tower and a stunning riverfront locale.

Switzerland is a four-season destination with countless things to do for outdoor adventurists. In winter you can partake in snow sports at world-class resorts, while summers are perfect for hiking, biking, climbing, and paragliding.

Getting around Switzerland is easy. Although you can rent a car and drive, we recommend utilizing its excellent train system that goes almost everywhere in the country. Trains are fast, mostly on time, and allow you to just sit back and soak up the stunning scenery.

Explore in more depth by checking out our list of top attractions and places to visit in Switzerland

1. The Matterhorn

3. jungfraujoch: the top of europe, 4. interlaken, 6. lake geneva, 7. chateau de chillon, montreux, 8. st. moritz, 10. lake lugano and ticino, 12. the rhine falls, 13. swiss national park, 14. the albula/bernina railway line, 15. oberhofen castle, 16. swiss grand canyon, 17. gruyères, best time of the year to visit switzerland.

You'll never forget the first time you see Switzerland's most symbolic mountain, the Matterhorn. Maybe you arrive in the charming village of Zermatt, at its base , on a clear blue day and the 4,478-meter high , tooth-shaped mountain looms clearly in front of you. Or maybe it is spitting rain when you first set foot in the car-free town, and it isn't until the next morning that you witness the emblematic peak emerging from a sea of dissipating clouds. Whichever way you first see this legendary mountain, it will remain seared into your memory for years to come. It's that impressive.

One of the highest mountains in the Alps, the Matterhorn sits on the border with Italy. It has four steep faces rising to its craggy tip. Climbers have been intrigued by this mountain from the first successful summit in 1865 by British climber Edward Whymper and his team. The trip still ended tragically when four of the climbers fell to their deaths during the descent.

Today, thousands of experienced climbers come here in a summit bid each summer. There are several routes to the top of this mountain, which is not accessible by cable car. The easiest route is the Hörnligrat, which begins in Zermatt.

Things to Do at the Matterhorn

If you don't have the skills to summit the Matterhorn, there are still plenty of ways to experience the mountain. One top excursion is to ride the Gornegrat Bahn cog railway to the summit of the 1,620-meter Gornergrat mountain for stunning Matterhorn views. Europe's highest open-air cog railway, and the first fully electric train of its kind, departs from Zermatt station multiple times per day.

The ride itself is also bound to leave you speechless. Taking 33 minutes and climbing 1,469 meters it crosses dramatic bridges, passes turquoise-hued mountain lakes, and at times clings to the side of the mountain with views down into rocky ravines.

Once you reach the mountaintop, you'll find an observation deck with views in all directions including a view of Switzerland's highest mountain and the second biggest glacier in the Alps. Keep an eye out for wild ibex near the viewing platform in summer.

Europe's highest-altitude hotel, the Kulmhotel Gornegrat is also here. Besides lodging, it has a restaurant and shops open to the public. There is excellent hiking in summer, while Switzerland's highest sledding hill provides winter fun.

At the foot of the Matterhorn, lies the charming village of Zermatt, a top international resort that is one of the most popular ski destinations in Switzerland , and a hiking, biking, and climbing paradise in summer.

Laid out along just a few main streets with a surreal-looking blue river running through it, motorized vehicles except for official electric taxis are banned to preserve the air quality and the town's peaceful ambiance.

Zermatt can also only be reached via helicopter (very pricy) or the Matterhorn Gotthard railway via the towns of Visp or Brig. If you drive to the region, you'll need to park your car down the valley in the town of Tasch, and then continue by train. As such, staying in Zermatt truly feels like you hiked into a remote mountain paradise.

In the winter, skiers can play on more than 300 kilometers of slopes accessed via a funicular and the Blauherd and Rothorn gondolas. In the summer, these slopes turn into hiking and mountain biking trails.

The Five Lakes Trail is one of the most popular hikes, beginning at the top of the Blauherd gondola and eventually taking you back to town via a series of five lakes, three of which you can see the reflection of the Matterhorn in on a clear, windless day. If you want to paraglide, this is also available.

Back in town, you'll find dozens of shops, restaurants (order Raclette, a cheese and potato dish that is a regional specialty), and hotels. If you are interested in history, pay a visit to the Matterhorn Museum , which tells the story of the mountain village turned international holiday resort. It also provides facts and photos from the Matterhorn's first ascent.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Zermatt & Easy Day Trips

Since 1912, tourists have been making their way to the fairytale-like village of Grindelwald for an excursion to the Top of Europe (also known as Jungfraujoch). As its name suggests, it's the highest train station in Europe.

It offers panoramic views of the UNESCO-recognized Jungfrau region that will make your jaw drop. The Sphinx Observatory, an astronomical observatory that looks like a Bond villain lair perched 3,454 meters above sea level, is the best place to see the magnificent Aletsch Glacier and the 4,000-meter peaks that flank it. With snow 365 days per year, it's also a prime spot to get a break from Europe's heat in the summertime.

This famous attraction has come a long way in the last 100 years, giving tourists lots of things to do at the top. Step into the 360-degree cinematic experience room for a closer look at the glacier and the Swiss Alps (perfect for ensuring you still get a wonderful view on a foggy day). Walk through a 250-meter-long corridor with artifacts and exhibits on the history of the miners who built the railway to Jungfraujoch—the antique mining equipment hanging on the walls will give you a deeper respect for these early pioneers.

Peek inside a giant snow globe that depicts the region with charming moving figures, like yodelers and gondolas. Then, glide through the Ice Palace. Frozen from floor to ceiling, it features smooth, icy hallways filled with ice sculptures of animals, including several penguins around an igloo.

Jungfraujoach's highly sustainable cable car, the Eiger Express , shortened the journey between Grindelwald and Jungfraujoch from 45 minutes to just 15 minutes when it opened in late 2020. That makes it possible to summit the Top of Europe on a day trip from Interlaken or even Zurich, but if you have time, it's worth sticking around Grindelwald to hike for a few days .

The trails here are among the most beautiful in the world and most trailheads are easily accessible through the town's network of cable cars and gondolas. The aptly named Panorama Trail takes you along paths lined by wildflowers with a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, while the Grindelwald First cable car station puts you on the path to the world-famous Bachalpsee lake.

You can also break up your days of hiking with adventure activities. Grindelwald First is home to a zip line that soars at 80 kilometers per hour and a mountain cart attraction that lets you race down winding gravel paths, plus a trail you can tackle on a "trottibike"—a unique cross between a scooter and a bike that's surprisingly fast.

Nestled on a strip of land between two glassy lakes, Interlaken looks like a postcard brought to life. The enchanting resort town has been a popular vacation destination for centuries, giving tourists a home base to explore the Bernese Oberland. Visit in the spring or summer to take in the striking sight of the town's lush gardens blooming with the snow-dusted Eiger, Jungfrau, and Mönch towering in the background.

Interlaken's proximity to Lake Thun to the west and Lake Brienz to the east, along with soaring alpine mountains, has helped it become the "Adventure Capital of Europe" —and it offers thrills for any taste.

Want to hike? Take a 10-minute ride on the Interlaken Harderbahn, a funicular railway that's more than 100 years old, to the Harder Kulm (Interlaken's closest mountain). A brick path lined with quirky Swiss statues takes you to the trailhead for the Harder Kulm Circular Path , a relatively easy, forested path that opens up to panoramic views of Interlaken.

From mountainside slopes, you can also take the sky on a paragliding adventure in the summer, or slip on a pair of skis and zip down fresh powder in one of five winter sports areas around Interlaken. It's also a lovely place to get out on the water. Rent kayaks, row boats, and pedal boats for a serene experience on the lakes. Or challenge yourself to wakeboarding, windsurfing, or water skiing.

The beautiful part about Interlaken, though, is that it's as much a place for excitement as it is for a laid-back retreat. Once you've gotten your share of adrenaline, wind down with a stroll on the Höheweg , Interlaken's main boulevard, or find a moment of peace at the Garden of Friendship, the country's first Japanese garden.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Interlaken & Easy Day Trips

Imagine a sparkling blue lake surrounded by mountains, a car-free medieval old town, covered bridges, waterfront promenades, frescoed historic buildings, and sun-splashed plazas with bubbling fountains. No wonder Lucerne (in German, Luzern) is a top spot for tourists.

Famed for its music concerts, this quintessential Swiss town lures renowned soloists, conductors, and orchestras to its annual International Music Festival . The Culture and Convention Center is home to one of the world's leading concert halls.

One of the city's most famous landmarks is the Chapel Bridge , built in the 14th century. In a small park, lies the famous Lion Monument , a poignant sculpture of a dying lion, which honors the heroic death of Swiss Guards during the attack on the Tuileries in the French Revolution. History buffs will enjoy the Swiss Transport Museum with extensive exhibits on all forms of transport, including air and space travel, railroad locomotives, and a Planetarium.

For beautiful views of Lucerne, the Alps, and the lake, ride the funicular to the Dietschiberg on the north side of Lake Lucerne; cruise up Mt. Pilatus on the cableway; or head to the Rigi , a famous lookout point.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lucerne

Lake Geneva, Europe's largest Alpine lake , straddles the Swiss/French border, and laps at the shores of some of Switzerland's most popular cities. The city of Geneva (in French Genève; in German Genf) sits between pretty snowcapped peaks at the point where the Rhône spills into Lake Geneva.

This French-speaking "capital of peace" is the European seat of the United Nations and exudes a pleasing blend of French joie de vivre and Swiss structure. Promenades, parks, and gardens surround the lake, and the old town is a lovely spot to stroll among the historic buildings. The Jet d'Eau , a fountain in Lake Geneva shooting water 150 meters into the air, is a famous landmark. Cultural attractions include the Opera House and the Grand Théâtre , which stages international acts.

Also on the lake, about 62 kilometers from Geneva, Lausanne boasts lovely views over the surrounding region and the lake, with the Alps rising in the distance. Take a stroll through the medieval old town with its cute cafés and boutiques and stunning Gothic cathedral. At the foot of the Alps, on Lake Geneva, Montreux hosts the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival in June/July.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Geneva

On the shores of Lake Geneva, near Montreux , the Chateau de Chillon (Chillon Castle) has inspired artists and writers for centuries. Lord Byron, Jean Jacques Rousseau, and Victor Hugo are among the luminaries who have written about this architectural treasure.

Once the stronghold of the Counts and Dukes of Savoy from the 12th century, the complex encompasses about 25 buildings clustered around three courtyards. Highlights include the Great Halls, with magnificent views of Lake Geneva; the Gothic underground rooms; the Chapel , adorned with 14th-century paintings; and the Camera Domini , a bedroom occupied by the Duke of Savoy decorated with medieval murals.

St. Moritz is a city of firsts. The world's first electric light clicked on here in December 1878. In 1889 it hosted the Alps' first golf tournament and in 1935 began operating one of Switzerland's first ski lifts. Additionally, the town is considered the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism after a hotelier convinced British summer guests to winter here in 1864. It went on to host the Winter Olympics twice (1928 and 1948).

In the Upper Engadin region in southeast Switzerland, in a valley surrounded by the Alps, today it is one of the world's most ritzy ski resorts , favored by billionaires and celebrities. It has 350 kilometers of ski and snowboard runs with some of Switzerland's steepest terrain.

Winter sports run the gamut, from skiing, snowboarding, skating, and bobsledding to tobogganing. One of the oldest natural ice runs for toboggans on the planet is found here, the famous 1.2-kilometer-long Cresta Run . There is also a snowboard fun park and 150 kilometers of winter walking and cross-country ski trails.

In summer, St. Moritz attracts hikers, bikers, horseback riders, and rock climbers. If you prefer to golf, you can play four courses with fantastic mountain views. You can also enjoy the iron-rich natural mineral hot springs here year-round. They were discovered about 3,000 years ago.

Adding to all this spectacular mountain scenery, St. Moritz is a cultural crossroads. Romansch, German, Italian, French, and English are all spoken in the surrounding areas, not to mention the different languages of the many well-heeled international visitors and expats.

The town is divided into two parts: St. Moritz Dorf sits on a sunny terrace overlooking the Lake of St. Moritz. The other part of town, lakeside St. Moritz Bad on the valley floor, is a health resort with less expensive lodging.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in St. Moritz & Easy Day Trips

In a stunning location, perched on a peninsula of the River Aare, the Swiss capital of Bern exudes old-world charm, and the city's medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Strolling along the cobbled streets, visitors can explore the tallest cathedral in Switzerland, with panoramic views from its tower; 16th-century fountains; the Zytglogge medieval clock tower with moving puppets; and six kilometers of shopping arcades, called " Lauben " by the locals. The Rose Garden (Rosengarten) offers beautiful views of the old town center.

Bern has many tourist attractions waiting to be discovered, including excellent museums. Art lovers will appreciate the impressive galleries, including the Zentrum Paul Klee, the world's largest collection of works by this famous artist, and the Bern Museum of Art (Kunstmuseum).

Don't miss the markets, held in the Bundesplatz (parliament square) with views of the elegant Renaissance-style parliament building (Bundeshaus). Families will also enjoy a visit to the Bear Park.

Lake Lugano lies on the Swiss/Italian border in Ticino, Switzerland's only official Italian-speaking canton, and offers a tantalizing taste of the Mediterranean. Citrus, figs, palms, and pomegranates flourish in the mild climate here–even as snowcapped peaks beckon in the distance.

In the towns around Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore to the west, the feel of Italy is unmistakable in the architecture, the piazzas, and the passion for fine food, which spills over the Italian borders from the south, east, and west.

Visitors can explore the area by touring the lake on one of the white steamers or renting a boat. For a panoramic overview, Monte San Salvatore offers one of the most spectacular vistas of the surrounding countryside, lake, and snow-capped peaks.

Lugano , a financial center and the largest and most significant town in Ticino, is a popular summer resort. Northwest of Lugano, in sun-drenched Locarno on Lake Maggiore, Swiss lakeside living takes on a subtropical touch with warm days, blossoming gardens, and palm-studded estates. In Bellinzona , capital of the canton, three magnificent castles are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lugano, Locarno, and the Ticino Region

Zurich is Switzerland's largest city, a major transportation hub, and a top starting point for travelers. The city lies at the northwestern end of Lake Zurich astride the river Limmat. Beyond its buttoned-up façade, this affluent banking capital boasts a rich line-up of cultural treasures.

A great place to begin a walking tour is the cobbled streets of the Old Town with its quaint shops, cafés, and galleries. Mile-long Bahnhofstrasse , one of Europe's finest shopping strands, beckons with designer stores selling fashion, watches, and jewelry.

Venturing away from the boutiques, visitors will find more than 50 museums and 100 art galleries, as well as many other tourist attractions . A top pick is the Kunsthaus Zürich , the museum of fine arts, with an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to the present day. Another favorite is the Rietberg Museum , which focuses on non-European art with many works from China, India, and Africa.

A short stroll from Zürich's main station, the Swiss National Museum , in a Gothic chateau, spotlights Swiss cultural history. Families will love the Zurich Zoo with an elephant park, penguin parade, and Madagascar pavilion. From the city, take a train ride to Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic views of the city and countryside.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Zürich

Spanning 150 meters, the Rhine Falls (Rheinfall) at Schaffhausen are the largest falls in Europe. The best time to visit is during June and July when the mountain snow melts, and the falls swell in volume to spill over a 21-meter-high ledge of Jurassic limestone.

Boat trips up the Rhine provide excellent views of the falls, as do the viewing platforms on both sides of the river.

Founded in 1914, Swiss National Park in the Engadine Valley is the oldest reserve in the Alps. The park sits right on the border with Italy and encompasses more than 170 square kilometers of flower-dotted hollows, fast-flowing rivers, and limestone crags. The scenery is especially dramatic in winter when the forested mountains are covered in a blanket of snow, and the views from the cross-country ski trails are stunning.

Nature lovers can explore the region on the large network of trails, though veering off these paths is forbidden in an effort to preserve the natural ecosystems. More than 5,000 species of wildlife call the park home, including marmot, red deer, chamois, ibex, fox, and more than 100 species of birds.

One of the very few railway lines in the world designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage listing, the Albula/Bernina line on the Rheatian Railways offers a majestic ride not to be missed. The route extends throughout the Albula and Bernina landscapes, covering 122 kilometers and winding through almost 200 bridges, the Graubünden mountains, and a number of tunnels and viaducts along the way.

A ride on this train means panoramic seats that overlook unspoiled mountain landscapes, including the Piz Bernina, the highest mountain in the Eastern Alps at just over 4,000 meters tall. The train operates all year long, and the views are just as magical in summer as they are in winter.

Right on the shore of Lake Thun and surrounded by a 2.5-hectare park, this 13th-century castle is one of the most breathtaking in Switzerland. Because Oberhofen Castle changed hands many times through the centuries, and new owners kept adding rooms to it, the result is a magical mix of many styles: Bernese Baroque-style buildings, Romantic-style facades, and Prussian-inspired exotic new areas (including a library and a smoking room).

The castle also houses a living museum showcasing the times and lives of feudal societies that called the castle (and its surroundings) home from the 16th to the 19th centuries.

The Ruinaulta (also known as the "Swiss Grand Canyon") is a deep gorge surrounded by expansive meadows and forested cliffs. Located in Eastern Switzerland, it was created over 10,000 years ago–when the Ice Age Rhine Glacier retreated, it led to a chain of events that resulted in a massive rockslide in the Rhine Valley. As the Rhine River seeped through the rock walls, the gorge was filled with water.

Today, the Swiss Grand Canyon is not only one of the most beautiful areas in Switzerland, but also a preferred destination for hikers, bird-watchers, and nature lovers. It's possible to raft the rapids here between May and October, or rent a canoe or kayak for a gentler route with stunning views of the steep cliffs all around.

Even if you don't know anything about this small medieval town, you've probably heard about the hard yellow cheese that made its name famous. Today, that's one of the town's main attractions. Visitors can tour a cheese factory, sample the local specialties, and wave to the cows that call the surrounding green hills home. If cheese isn't enough, the Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory also operates in town.

Gruyères might be tiny – it covers an area of just 28.4 square kilometers and is home to around 2,000 permanent residents – but it makes up for it with plenty of things to do, including the 13 th -century Castle of Gruyères and its two small arts and regional museums, as well as Saint-Germain Castle, which was bought by Swiss surrealist painter and sculptor H. R. Giger, and it now houses a museum dedicated to his work. The Tibet Museum, housed in an old church in town, is also worth a visit.

Stunning landscapes surround Gruyères, including the Gorges de la Jogne (favorite with hikers) and the nearby Mont Moléson, popular with climbers in the warmer months and home to ski and snowshoe trails during winter.

The best time to visit Switzerland depends partly on why you're going there. If you're going for the skiing, then of course winter is the best time to visit. For mountain hiking, summer is best, as it's warm even high up in the mountains, and you won't encounter much rain to disrupt your outdoor plans.

If your visit to Switzerland will include a bit of everything, then the months between April and June are your best choice . You'll still find some snow if you arrive early in this period, and warm days if you arrive later on.

Temperatures vary between 15 and 22 degrees Celsius, and you'll get a bit of rain, but you'll also see long days with plenty of sunshine, perfect for hiking and sightseeing . May is the most unpredictable month weather-wise – you might see rain and cold evenings or sunshine with temperatures in the low 20s.

Since the summer crowds don't arrive until July, and the winter crowds are long gone, you'll get more privacy and a chance to grab better deals on flights and accommodations .

More on Switzerland

17 Unforgettable Places to Travel This Spring

Posted: April 26, 2024 | Last updated: April 26, 2024

Spring break offers the promise of a luxurious respite from winter's chill and dreariness, making the perfect reward for surviving the season. And you certainly don't have to be in college or flock to a crowded party town to enjoy spring break—in fact, we encourage quite the opposite. These spring destinations all foster rest and relaxation (but if you want to enjoy adrenaline-pumping water sports or indulge in a few poolside cocktails, we think that's just fine too!). Not to mention, these absolutely stunning properties all boast five-star amenities—from championship golf courses and luxe spas to private safaris and infinity pools. Whether you want to find some French flair in St. Martin, discover a new favorite locale in Central America, or hit the slopes in mild March weather at a favorite ski town , you're sure to find a spring getaway that excites you.

1) Barnsley Resort: Adairsville, GA

If you want to truly unwind, look no further than Barnsley Resort . Nestled on 3,000 acres in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Northwest Georgia, you can't help but feel at peace when you hear the birds chirping and see all of the natural beauty around you. While you could certainly spend a long weekend in nature drinking coffee on the porch, walking the resort's trails, riding horses, and playing golf at the Jim Fazio-designed golf course, you should also carve out time to visit the Manor House Ruins and Gardens, eat at the delicious on-property restaurants, and experience the spa's signature bamboo massage.

2) Marquis Los Cabos: Baja California, Mexico

Forget everything you think you know about all-inclusive hotels: Marquis Los Cabos is an adults-only escape that features luxury accommodations, superb dining, and panoramic views of desert mountains and the Sea of Cortes. Spring is the perfect time to go to Mexico, since you'll catch the peak of whale-watching season and it's warm enough outside to enjoy SCUBA diving, sunset cruises, snorkeling, fishing and more.

3) Villa Palopó at Casa Palopó: Soloá, Guatemala

Find a new paradise at Casa Palopó this year, particularly at Villa Palopó, which features three bedrooms, private hot tubs and patios overlooking Lake Atitlan, a fireplace, and access to a private chef and butler. The property is filled with local textiles, furniture, and antiques, and the hotel gives guests back 10% of their nightly rate back in vouchers to support local artisans and shops to benefit the local indigenous community while guests enjoy private excursions to explore the Mayan villages and local volcanoes.

4) Residences at Sonnenalp Hotel: Vail, Colorado

Those looking to ski through The Rockies in sunny spring weather can look to Sonnenalp Hotel 's residential accommodations for stays seven days and longer. Just steps from the hotel and Vail Mountain, these two- to four-bedroom offerings feature spacious gourmet kitchens if you're looking to stay in for meals and offer priority to desired tee times and spa reservations. Sonnenalp offers plenty of private experiences for vacationers as well, from guided hikes to dining. Plus, the idyllic Alpine architecture and feel give a taste of Europe without needing a passport.

5) Rose Hall Villas at Half Moon: Montego Bay, Jamaica

The Rose Hall Villas at Half Moon in Montego Bay are a gorgeous place to get away. Each villa offers between five and seven bedrooms, a living and dining room, a private pool, and features idyllic amenities like 24/7 butler service and a private chef. Half Moon's concierge team will work with you to ensure a memorable vacation by curating private experiences, booking reservations at the property's 10 restaurants and bars, and even delivering your morning cup of coffee.

6) Sirenian Bay Resort & Villas: Placencia, Belize

For the ultimate spring getaway, we have our eyes on Sirenian Bay Resort & Villas in Placencia. The owners of Sirenian Bay also own their own tour company to ensure guests experience everything they want to while in Belize—from private dining on the beach to SCUBA trips and chocolate-making tours. The resort's villas house between two and 14 guests and have an option for a private chef, butler, and special concierge services (think: personal grocery shopping and golf cart rentals) to ensure a lavish stay. There are also bungalow options for solo travelers or couples seeking a more intimate getaway.

7) The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee: Greensboro, GA

Even though it's an easy drive from the Atlanta airport, The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Set along 30 acres of shoreline, this beautiful property features amenities such as a luxe spa, exceptional dining, five championship golf courses, nightly lakeside s'mores, hiking trails, bourbon tastings, fishing, boating, backyard concerts and more. Don't miss the Lake Oconee Food & Wine Festival , which runs from March 17-19 this year. The three-day festival highlights wine and spirits from around the world as well as food prepared by some of the best chefs in the region.

8) Oil Nut Bay: Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Virgin Gorda's Oil Nut Bay offers an idyllic place to relax and unwind, thanks to 400 lush acres surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean—plus, a deep focus on preservation and sustainability. Guests can book luxuriously appointed villas that house between two and six bedrooms, all of which feature private pools and outdoor spaces, spectacular water views, and one-of-a-kind amenities and services. From private adventures and excursions to a plethora of wellness programming and the ability to curate customized menus with a private chef, a trip to Oil Nut Bay ensures the spring getaway of your dreams.

9) Mauna Lani Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection: Hawaii

We have our eyes on the Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection on the Big Island this spring, which features two-bedroom residences appointed with private pools, gardens, and jacuzzis. Not to mention, you'll enjoy a designated concierge that takes care of everything, from filling your fridge before arrival to scheduling sunset dinners on the beach. The resort also boasts a world-class restaurant, a permanent GOOP retail experience, private excursions and cultural workshops, and stunning views of the Kohala Coast.

10) Mesa Home at Amangiri: Canyon Point, Utah

Amangiri 's Mesa Home is an absolute haven for wellness seekers looking to enjoy the great outdoors in style this season. This stunning four-bedroom house offers a private swimming pool, courtyard, and terrace with an outdoor dining area—plus all of the fabulous amenities of an Aman Resorts stay. One-of-a-kind private experiences include adventures around The Colorado Plateau, hot-air ballooning across Bryce Canyon, and discovering the Native American heritage of the area. And that's before you encounter the world-famous spa and wellness facilities to recuperate from a day of thrill-seeking!

11) The Shore Club at Long Bay Beach: Turks & Caicos

The Shore Club at Long Bay Beach is one of the island's most luxurious offerings. The club offers spectacular villas with four to six bedrooms—and all the amenities one could dream of. From airport transfers and fully stocked bars to breakfast deliveries and a personal butler to accommodate every need, you're sure to feel like an MVP here. A sister property to The Palms , The Shore Club not only offers spectacular accommodations, but guests also have access to both properties' dining venues.

12) Luxury Tented Suites at Angama Mara: Masaai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

If you're searching for adventure this spring, look no further than the award-winning luxury safari lodge Angama Mara that houses fabulous tented suites. The lodge is located on the same hills where Out of Africa was filmed and fans will recognized many of the breathtaking sights. The property also just launched Angama Safari Camp , an even more secluded luxury option that features a cluster of four tent suites for a multi-generational family trip, featuring a private guide, safari vehicle, and staff. There's something for everyone here, with incredible culinary, cultural, and wellness experiences in between the wildlife spottings and sunset cocktails.

13) Wilderness: Tahoe Vista, California

If you have your sights set on Northern California this spring, relax in the splendor of Lake Tahoe's natural beauty at this idyllic offering from Plum Guide . This five-bedroom home features gorgeous architecture, ample outdoor living spaces, and unparalleled views of the lake. Northern Lake Tahoe is less crowded than the south while still being full of charm, and it makes a lovely place to find respite for a work-cation or unplugged weekend.

14) Pool Villas at La Samanna: St Martin

Luxury in St. Maarten is made easy at La Samanna , a Belmond property that offers glamorous three- and four-bedroom pool villas for a romantic or family getaway. Wraparound terraces, private pools, daily gourmet breakfasts, and private airport transfers are just a few of the many reasons to consider taking a spring break in St. Martin.

15) Soneva Fushi: Kunfunadhoo Island, Maldives

We're dreaming of a trip to Soneva Fushi this season, as it's home to some of the world's finest over-the-water villas, amenities, and experiences. The villas feature retractable roofs for stargazing, catamarans, and an incredible indoor-outdoor living concept that'll have you wanting to stay forever. Soneva Fushi offers private excursions, tours, and activities for anything you could think of, like glassblowing, free diving, historical tours, and sustainable living seminars. And you won't want to miss out on dining at one of the property's acclaimed dining establishments, as every chef has come from a Michelin-starred restaurant.

16) The Henderson Lofts at Henderson Beach Resort: Destin, Florida

If you're looking for the easiest access to jewel-toned waters and white sand beaches, the greater Destin area is the perfect place to land. Destin's premier resort, The Henderson , offers one- and two-bedroom vacation rental options with prime views and sleek kitchens for those looking to stay for a week or longer. There are special offerings for those looking to balance work and play, the budding artist, and even your canine companion. Round out a blissful stay on the Gulf of Mexico with a trip to the exquisite spa facilities and vibrant dining experience inspired by the local cuisine and culture.

17) Lovango Resort & Beach Club: Lovango, U.S. Virgin Islands

Lovango Resort & Beach Club is just a ferry ride or private charter away from St. John and St. Thomas, but it feels worlds away from packed cruise ships full of tourists. This fully sustainable property features villas with private pools, remote beach access, and a private concierge. A sister property to highly acclaimed The Nantucket Hotel + Resort and Winnetu Oceanside Resort on Martha's Vineyard, Lovango is sure to become a hot destination for anyone looking to enjoy private island living at its finest.

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