can we visit switzerland in december

Switzerland in December: Weather & Best Places to Go [2024]

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. FIND MORE INFO IN MY DISCLAIMER.

Home » Switzerland in December: Weather & Best Places to Go [2024]

Have you been wondering about visiting Switzerland in December? I’ve got you covered!

Switzerland is a beautiful country, nestled high in the Alps and home to breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains.

During the winter months, Switzerland is especially magical with plenty of winter activities like skiing and snowboarding on offer, as well as charming Christmas markets to explore.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy ski resort or an exciting city break, Switzerland has something for everyone in December. At Wanderlust Storytellers, we believe that your travel experience should be unique and tailored to you.

In this complete guide to visiting Switzerland in December, we have even included our selection of the best cities in Switzerland and Christmas markets in Switzerland in December!

So if you need help to plan a trip to Switzerland be sure to read on to learn more about this incredible place and find out why it just might be the perfect destination for your winter getaway!

Typical Weather in Switzerland in December

You may be wondering if December is the best time to visit Switzerland .

The month of December is the start of Winter in Switzerland which means that the weather in Switzerland is usually cold and wet.

Days are short and temperatures rarely rise above 10°C (50°F). Heavy snow in cities and towns is uncommon but higher areas such as the Alps will receive some snowfall, making it suitable for skiing and other winter activities.

On a typical day, you can expect cloudy skies, temperatures around 2-3°C (35-37°F) during the day, and possibly some rain or snowfall.

The sun will be out for a few hours a day, but most of the daylight hours will have cloud cover.

Does It Snow in Switzerland in December ?

Switzerland is a beautiful country known for its mountain-filled landscape and snow-white peaks.

The amount of snowfall varies depending on altitude but generally, you can expect to see plenty of powdery white snow throughout the season.

Average Switzerland Temperatures in December

Temperatures in December can drop as low as -20°C during the night, with an average temperature of 4°C during the day.

The lowland cities and towns in Switzerland experience mild temperatures compared to the higher elevations, which are much cooler.

For example, Zurich, located at an altitude of 407 m (1337 ft) has an average high temperature of 14°C and an average low of 6°C in December.

If you travel just a few kilometers up into the Alps mountains, temperatures drop significantly. In Zermatt for instance (located at 1605m or 5268ft), December’s average high temperature drops to 0°C, and its average low dips to -6°C.

As you continue to climb even higher into Switzerland’s alpine regions, temperatures get even colder!

Christmas in Switzerland

Just like Like everywhere else in the world, Switzerland’s Christmas is on December 25.

However, for the Swiss, the main Christmas celebration takes place on December 24, known as Heiliger Abend.

Heiliger Abend: December 24

Heiliger Abend, or Christmas Eve in Switzerland, is a time for celebrating with loved ones.

The decorated Christmas tree, often freshly cut by hand, remains hidden until after dinner and is then revealed, adorned with apples, bells, snowflakes, and festive sugar cookies.

Many families still light candles on the tree, creating a memorable moment.

The Nativity story is retold, followed by singing the favorite alpine Christmas carol, “Stille Nacht”. The night ends with the excitement of hunting for hidden presents, which are usually simple and practical gifts.

It is also common to attend Midnight Mass, filled with joyful bell ringing and carol singing.

Christmas Day: December 25

On December 25th, families gather around the Christmas tree for more gift exchanges.

In Switzerland, Christmas Day marks the start of the winter sports season when many families will head to local ski resorts or mountain chalets to enjoy tobogganing, skiing, ice skating, Nordic skiing, and bobsledding!

The chilly day of winter sports ends with a traditional Swiss dinner of fondue or raclette.

What to Expect if You Are Visiting Switzerland for Christmas

Visiting Switzerland for Christmas would be a holiday of a lifetime. The country is renowned for its winter wonderland, with festive decorations and plenty of activities to do in the snow.

The Christmas Markets are one of the most popular traditions that draw people in from all over the world. Think wooden chalets selling traditional wares, festive treats, and mulled wine.

There’s usually an ice rink and local carolers singing traditional songs, as well as parades through town centers.

To make sure you get to experience the best of Alpine Christmas celebrations, head to one of Switzerland’s many mountain towns like Jungfrau Region or Zermatt which are particularly stunning at this time of year.

You’ll find more magical decorations, gorgeous views from the peaks, and lots of opportunities for skiing and snow sports in resorts like Leukerbad or Gstaad.

10 Best Christmas Markets in Switzerland

If you are heading to Switzerland in December visiting a Christmas market is a must!

With so many winter wonderland towns in Switzerland in December you are spoilt for choice and every market will be magical.

Below we have 10 of the best Christmas Markets in Switzerland to help you decide where to visit in Switzerland in December. Most markets start from mid to late November and last into January.

1. Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz Market in Basel

Located in front of the historical cathedral of Basel, this Christmas market is considered to be the largest and prettiest Christmas market in Switzerland.

The Basel Christmas Market is a great opportunity to explore and experience the history and culture of Switzerland. With more than 150 traditional wooden stalls, visitors can shop for handmade Christmas decorations, local delicacies, and toys.

2. Weihnachtsmarkt in St. Gallen

The St. Gallen’s Christmas market offers an assortment of handmade crafts ranging from wooden toys, and silk scarves to colorful lanterns which can all be found within the city’s beautiful Baroque Cathedral Square.

Visitors can also enjoy mulled wine along with some delicious local treats while listening to live music performances throughout the night.

3. Montreux Noël Christmas Market

Located at the foot of the majestic Alps on Lake Geneva, Montreaux’s enchanting Christmas village features specially lit and decorated wooden chalets.

Meet Santa Claus at his house atop Rochers-de-Naye mountain, explore crafts and countless gift ideas at Christmas Market stalls along the lakeside promenade, or celebrate Christmas at the legendary Chillon Castle.

4. Chur Weihnachtsmarkt

Located in eastern Switzerland’s lovely old town centre it is one of the biggest markets in Switzerland with over 150 stands.

Here you can find all kinds of souvenirs or Swiss cheese specialties as well as traditional beauty and decorations like snow globes or candles made from beeswax in their stalls lining up along Main Street and Old Town Hall Square.

5. Rudolf’s Christmas Spectacle

This picturesque city on Lake Lucerne holds a variety of markets with craft stalls selling hand-made gifts such as wood carvings, pottery, glassware, jewelry, and more during this festive time of year.

Visitors can also enjoy a romantic ride around town on horse-drawn carriages to enjoy its mesmerizing views.

6. Christkindli Market in Appenzell

This charming country-style Christmas market located in Appenzell offers shoppers a chance to purchase homemade gifts or try out some regional dishes while taking part in their festive activities throughout December such as ice skating shows or visits with Santa Claus himself!

This Christmas market is only on the second Sunday of December so be sure to visit this one if you are in the area around this date!

7. Christmas Markets in Bern

Bern boasts three main Christmas markets and three smaller events scattered across the city.

For a traditional experience, visit Waisenhausplatz Christmas Market. For a popular option, check out the main market in front of Bern Minster.

And for an upmarket, designer village-style market, head to Berner Sternenmarkt.

Each market has varying opening dates and times, running from around November 23rd to December 29th (closed on Christmas Day).

With over 80 vendors selling everything from paintings and hand-knit sweaters to jewelry and confectionary among other things.

8. Weihnachtsmarkt in Zurich

Zurich offers a variety of Christmas markets to suit every taste. Enchanting gift options await visitors at beautifully decorated stands.

Whether it’s the oldest market in the Old Town, the urban “Wienachtsdorf” Christmas village near Bellevue, or the Christkindlimarkt next to the sparkling 15-meter Christmas tree at Zurich Main Train Station, there’s something for everyone.

The Christmas markets in Zurich and the surrounding Lake Zurich region are inviting and diverse, ensuring each visitor finds their favorite spot.

This world-renowned ski resort that sits at the foot of Mt Matterhorn hosts one spectacular Christmas village with over 100 stalls featuring food specialties from across Europe such as raclette or roast chestnuts alongside traditional artisans selling crafts by local artists who illustrate alpine traditions each year.

10. Bô Noël Christmas Market in Lausanne

One of the biggest Christmas markets in Switzerland, this picturesque market is located in the city and takes place annually from mid-November to late December.

There are hundreds of stalls full of handmade crafts, festive food and drinks, and a huge selection of decorations for sale.

10 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in December

Wondering where to visit in Switzerland in December or what are the best villages in Switzerland ?

Below is a list of where to go in Switzerland in December to make sure you get the best Swiss experience in Winter.

1. Zurich in December

Zurich is a wonderful destination with plenty of winter activities and tours to enjoy in December. Head over to the Old Town for traditional markets, mulled wine stands, and a festive atmosphere that really puts you in the holiday spirit.

Get in the holiday spirit with a festive, private Christmas tour. Explore Zurich’s wintertime charm on the Magical White Christmas in Zurich Walking Tour

Finally, don’t forget to visit the Swiss National Museum where you can learn about Swiss history and culture.

2. Davos in December

With its crisp white snow and top-notch winter activities Davos is a great place to visit in December.

One of the best things to do in Davos during the winter months is to Explore the city or hit one of the many ski slopes with a private lesson for some winter fun. You may also want to check out the nearby Chalet Oberland for stunning views of Davos and further outdoor adventures.

Be sure to take out travel insurance for Switzerland especially if you will be enjoying the winter sports options!

3. Saint Moritz in December

December in St. Moritz is an amazing time of year. The snow-covered peaks provide some of the best skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the world.

If you’re looking for a unique tour experience, there are several companies that offer a guided walking tour through one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods .

The tour takes visitors along narrow cobblestone streets with stunning views over Lake Saint Moritz and lets visitors discover why this area has been famed as a winter holiday destination for centuries!

4. Zermatt in December

Zermatt is a charming alpine village nestled at the base of the Matterhorn and it’s a great place to visit in December!

The crisp, white snow makes for a beautiful winter wonderland. There are plenty of activities in Zermatt that are perfect for the cold months. One activity you won’t want to miss is skiing on one of four ski areas, with 200km of groomed pistes including beginner slopes and challenging black runs.

If skiing is not your activity of choice, you can take the cable cars to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and enjoy the spectacular views from the viewing platform.

5. Lucerne in December

Lucerne is a beautiful city at any time of the year, but in December it is particularly picturesque. With winter snow blanketing the famous bridges and churches, coupled with the warm glow of holiday lights, this Swiss city takes on a magical atmosphere.

For those looking for fun activities to do while in Lucerne during December, there are plenty of options.

The Christmas market sits nestled between the lakeside promenade and the old town walls and provides great shopping opportunities for souvenirs or decorations for your home.

If you are in Lucerne for a few days be sure to check out our 4-day itinerary from Lucerne .

6. Bern in December

One of the best experiences to have in Bern is a tour of the old town of Bern , taking visitors through centuries-old cobblestone streets and historic buildings.

Other popular attractions include exploring the Swiss Alps for skiing or snowshoeing, visiting world-class museums like Kunstmuseum Bern, or simply strolling through major squares like Bundesplatz.

No matter what you choose to do in Bern during December, you’ll be sure to find plenty of festive fun!

7. Geneva in December

Geneva in December is an amazing destination for those who want to experience all the winter wonder that the city has to offer. Other great things to do include taking a boat ride on Lake Geneva or visiting some of the city’s impressive museums, such as The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum.

For chocolate lovers, be sure to book the Chocolate Flavors Walking Tour of Geneva and taste your way through award-winning chocolates and pastries!

Looking for more ideas? Here is a 5-day itinerary from Geneva for longer stays!

8. Basel in December

Basel is one of the most exciting and beautiful cities to visit in December.

With its incredible art scene, charming old town, and stunning views of the Alps, it’s easy to see why this city is such a popular destination.

One of the best things to do in Basel during winter is explore the Christmas markets with a guided tour . The Christmas markets here are full of unique decorations, tasty treats, and handmade gifts that make for an unforgettable experience. Many tours will also include stops at local bakeries and historic churches like Grossmunster.

9. The Jungfrau Region in December

In the Jungfrau region of Switzerland, December is an ideal time to explore the magical winter wonderland and its numerous activities.

Take a cable car ride to Schilthorn and enjoy the stunning views of the Swiss Alps. For those looking for something more adventurous, try snowshoeing from Interlaken to explore the peaks and valleys of the Swiss Alps or on a snow sled Winter Alpine adventure in the nearby mountains.

10. Engelberg in December

Engelberg is an amazing destination for winter adventurers. In December, visitors can enjoy a range of activities in the Swiss Alps, including skiing and snowboarding down the slopes of Mount Titlis.

For those looking for a unique experience, there are organized tours that provide a chance to explore Engelberg’s crystal-clear mountain lakes and stunning views.

The town also boasts plenty of cozy restaurants and cafés with traditional Swiss dishes.

There are so many beautiful places in Switzerland to visit and if you want as many as possible we recommend that you rent a car in Switzerland to get around!

What to Wear in Switzerland in December

When traveling to Switzerland in December, make sure to bring warm layers that you can easily mix and match.

Men and women should pack sweaters, a good coat or heavy jacket, and some long trousers or jeans.

If you are heading to the slopes to ski, a good ski jacket, trousers and gloves is a must.

Make sure to also pack in comfortable shoes for navigating the hilly cities when you are out and about exploring.

For women, if you pack dresses or skirts, a good pair of thick tights is definitely one item you should not travel without!

Don’t forget your scarf and hat as temperatures can drop quite low! A good pair of gloves is also great for keep the hands warm.

FAQs About Visiting Switzerland in December: FAQs

Here are some answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about Switzerland in December

Yes, December is a great time to visit Switzerland for anyone looking for outdoor fun or cozy winter vibes! It also features as one of the best cities to visit in Europe in December . Known for its breathtaking mountain views, crisp air, and winter activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding, it’s the perfect time of year for adventure seekers. Plus, as the holiday season approaches, there are plenty of charming Christmas markets to explore.

In Switzerland, the lowest temperatures typically happen in December to February, with January being the coldest month. It’s also the time when Switzerland experiences the highest snowfall levels.

In Zurich, December is winter with an average temperature of 2°C (35F). The highest temperature is 4°C (39F) and the lowest is -1°C (30F). Zurich receives one hour of sunshine per day in December with a constant 60% cloud cover throughout the month.

Yes, Zurich can have snow in December. The city sees an average of 3 inches during the month. It typically starts to snow in November and continues until April.

Absolutely! A Swiss Christmas has its unique charm. With stunning alpine views and the scent of glühwein (mulled wine) filling the air, there’s plenty to do and see in Switzerland during the holiday season. Many cities are decorated with festive lights and markets selling local handmade crafts, so be sure to explore some of them if you visit during this time. There are also a variety of winter activities such as skiing, sledding, ice skating, or snowshoeing that you can enjoy! No matter what you decide to do, Switzerland is a beautiful place to visit in December.

Switzerland temperature in December can certainly be cold, but there are plenty of activities that you can enjoy despite the weather! If you are looking for a winter wonderland, consider skiing or snowshoeing through the snowy mountains. In addition, many cities have beautiful Christmas markets to explore and enjoy the festivities of the season. No matter what your plans are, make sure to pack warm clothing and accessories – temperatures can drop well into the single digits (Celsius) in some areas!

Christmas in Switzerland is a magical experience. While Zurich and Geneva may come to mind, consider heading to the Alps for an extraordinary holiday season! The mountain towns and villages in the Swiss Alps offer stunning holiday scenes. Explore the iconic alpine peaks, covered in snow, and adorned with sparkling lights and decorations. The small village of Zermatt is especially popular for its festive atmosphere and Christmas markets featuring handmade crafts, local food, and caroling performances. You’ll find plenty of fun activities here like skiing, sledding, ice skating, and more!

Switzerland is not a particularly cheap destination in December. Prices are generally higher during the winter months due to increased tourism, ski season, and other winter activities. However, it can still be a budget-friendly destination if you plan ahead and take advantage of deals on flights and accommodation. Many cities have discounted rates during the off-season, so you can find some great discounts if you look around. Additionally, if you plan your trip carefully and avoid the more expensive regions like Zurich or Basel, you can save money on meals and sightseeing too.

One of the most beautiful towns in Switzerland during Christmas time is Zurich. The city’s annual Christmas market, known as Christkindlimarkt, is a must-see event hosted in the city center. With over 200 stalls, visitors can enjoy traditional Swiss dishes such as fondue and raclette, while browsing through market stalls selling handmade gifts and decorations. Stroll along the streets of the old town to take in the festive atmosphere and admire Zurich’s snow-covered rooftops. Explore the charming cobblestone alleyways and shop at some of Zurich’s best boutiques for unique gifts.

The answer is yes! Switzerland is a great winter holiday destination in December. The ski season has already started, giving you plenty of options for skiing and snowboarding. You can also enjoy cozy mountain villages, Christmas markets, lake boat rides, and tobogganing. With its stunning natural scenery, it’s no wonder that Switzerland is such a popular December destination!

Final Thoughts: Traveling to Switzerland in December

As you can see, Switzerland is a great place for a winter getaway in December.

Not only is it beautiful and the perfect place to take in snowy scenes, but it also has plenty of activities and sightseeing opportunities.

From Davos with its skiing and snowboarding activities to Lucerne’s lakeside Christmas market to Basel’s stunning views of the Alps, you won’t be disappointed with whatever you choose to do!

So if you are looking for a winter holiday destination this December, make sure Switzerland is on your list!

Jolene Ejmont

2024 - Wanderlust Storytellers. All Rights Reserved.

About Us  |  Contact Us  | Work with Us  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer

* Disclaimer: Wanderluststorytellers.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and other Amazon sites.

Europe Chevron

Switzerland Chevron

The 14 Most Magical Places to Visit in Switzerland This Winter

By Caitlin Morton

With an enticing combination of cities, charming villages, and stunning natural landscapes (hello, Alps), Switzerland is easily one of the most beautiful countries in the world. But come wintertime, those aforementioned sights become downright magical: Think city squares dusted with snow, and mountainsides transformed into the best ski slopes on the planet.

Whether you want to cozy up in a luxurious hotel or spend your entire trip in the great outdoors, there are plenty of travel-worthy reasons to plan a Switzerland winter vacation. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best seasonal activities across the country, all guaranteed to make any traveler suddenly embrace the coldest season.

This article has been updated since its original publish date.

Most European countries are known for their  Christmas markets , and Switzerland is no exception. You can find seasonal cheer in nearly every city and town, though Basel earns a few extra points for having  two markets: one in Barfüsserplatz, and one in Münsterplatz. Here you can find hundreds of vendors selling handmade goods and treats from their stands, as well as plenty of twinkling lights and decorations to really get you in the proper spirit.

The Glacier Express

If you really want to maximize the magic of your wintry vacation, consider booking a train ride to get from town to town. There are several cross-country options available, but we’re big fans of the  Glacier Express this time of year. Not only does the train connect two of Switzerland’s biggest mountain resorts (Zermatt and St. Moritz), but it traverses some of the most beautiful sites in the central Swiss Alps and offers onboard perks like panoramic viewing windows and three-course meals.

Visiting  Switzerland during ski season is hardly a question, but most snow bunnies won’t venture outside their respective resort towns. This year, make your Swiss vacation more interesting and book a trip to  Lucerne . The gorgeous city features activities you won’t find on the slopes—like museum tours and ferry rides on Lake Lucerne—while still offering easy access (via train and bus) to dozens of  winter sport resorts .

Of course, if you  do want a purely on-piste Switzerland winter vacation, the village of Zermatt will mark all the boxes. Fresh powder? Check. Heli-skiing? Check. Great après-ski venues? Double check. It even boasts a few added bonuses, like a city-wide ban on cars (i.e. the freshest air imaginable) and views of the Matterhorn.

Interlaken is the unofficial adventure capital of Switzerland, and its  winter activities are much more varied and unique than in other major cities. Sure, you can go skiing and snowshoeing here. But you can also go paragliding (or skydiving) down snowy mountains, book an hour at a curling rink, or take a winter kayaking tour on Lake Brienz.

Jura Vaudois Nature Park

Just a few miles north of Lake Geneva’s coastline, Jura Vaudois Nature Park occupies roughly 131,213 acres of prime Swiss real estate. Here you can find dense spruce forests and native wildlife, as well as a few hotels, restaurants, and cheesemongers set up in traditional mountain huts. The park becomes even more peaceful during the winter months, though you can still enjoy some cross-country skiing and snowshoeing if you simply must stay busy.

St. Moritz is typically associated with glitz and glam, and for good reason. The sky-high resort features some of the best slopes and accommodations in the country—just check out  Badrutt’s Palace , a Readers’ Choice Award winner for six years running. With luxurious guestrooms and Michelin-starred dining venues (not to mention the most glorious indoor pool imaginable), the resort encompasses the extravagance that makes St. Moritz pop off the map.

Glacier 3000

Glacier 3000 is a sports complex located high in the Swiss Alps, easy to reach via bus or cable car from Gstaad. The resort offers every winter sport imaginable, including skiing, dog sledding, mountain climbing, and glacier hikes. Brave travelers are also welcome to walk across the Peak Walk by Tissot, a gravity-defying suspension bridge that connects two mountain peaks.

Château-d’Oex

It’s a scientific fact that places get infinitely more magical when viewed from a hot air balloon. So you can imagine the proverbial sparks that fly during the  Festival International de Ballons , an annual event held in the tiny town of Château-d’Oex. During the nine-day festival (the next one takes place from January 19-29), visitors can watch the horizon fill up with some 60 colorful balloons, take rides in the balloons, enjoy live music and airplane shows, and participate in plenty of other kid-friendly activities.

Though there are plenty of reasons to visit the upscale resort town of Gstaad during the winter, we’re here for one primary reason:  Gstaad Palace . This award-winning hotel looks like a fairytale castle in the mountains (complete with towers and turrets), and it encourages guests to cozy up with spa treatments, truffle fondue, and pasta cooking classes. If you do decide to venture out, ski slopes and toboggan runs are just outside the door.

Lake Oeschinen

Lake Oeschinen (or Oeschinensee) is a dazzling body of water tucked away in the Bernese Alps. The lake is a popular winter destination thanks to a wealth of outdoor activities like ice fishing, tobogganing, skiing, and snowboarding—all enjoyed while surrounded by snow-capped mountains and evergreen trees. There are even some cafes scattered around the area so you can enjoy a nice mug of hot chocolate between excursions.

For an action-packed winter vacation without the blinding glamour of the major ski resorts, consider a trip to Arosa. The picturesque mountain village offers access to some 140 miles of slopes, as well as the well-respected Arosa Ski School. It’s also home to the Tschuggen Grand Hotel , a five-star property famous for its sprawling spa with metal-and-glass skylights jutting out of the mountainside.

The Stoosbahn

In late 2017, Switzerland made headlines for opening the  world’s steepest funicular in the alpine resort of Stoos. The so-called Stoosbahn, or Schwyz-Stoos funicular, remains impressive to this day, for both its superlative maximum gradient (110 percent, no big deal) and abundance of fun winter activities. Once you get to the top of Stoos, you can enjoy an abundance of pristine ski slopes, toboggan runs, cross-country trails, and more.

Looking to go off-grid? You can’t do much better than the highest official town in Europe, sitting at an altitude of more than 5,000 feet. Davos is a relatively popular ski destination but has far fewer crowds than other towns, so you can take advantage of those slopes without bumping into the “see and be seen” crowd along the way. 

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Arzo Travels

Solo Female Travel – Switzerland, Europe and Beyond

EPIC TRIP TO SWITZERLAND IN DECEMBER – WHAT TO DO + TIPS

THINGS TO DO IN DECEMBER IN SWITZERLAND

Table of Contents

Are you planning a winter trip to Switzerland and wondering what Switzerland in December will be like? Do you want to find out about the best things to do in December?

Well, let me tell you that every month in Switzerland has its own unique charm! As a confessed Switzerland enthusiast, I can assure you there is never a bad time to visit this beautiful country. 

So, is December a good month to visit Switzerland? Yes, December is a great month to visit Switzerland.  There are some amazing activities you can enjoy in Switzerland – aka Winter Wonderland! From winter sports to Christmas Markets, Lights Festivals, and more – here are the best December activities in Switzerland for your itinerary.

Travel Tips For a Switzerland December Trip – FAQ

In this post, you´ll find out about the best things to do in December in Switzerland and get more travel tips for your trip.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I might earn a small commission when you buy a product (at no extra cost to you) after clicking on my link. More about it  here .

How to Get Around in Switzerland December

Switzerland is a great country for road trips and train travel. But which mode of transportation is the best for a December trip? Here are my thoughts.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION : For December, I recommend traveling by trains/buses – even in the winter months,  they run regularly. Overall, public transportation is safe, reliable, and superb! You can sit back – in the warmth of the train – and enjoy some fantastic winter scenery while the train gets you to every destination – regardless of the weather conditions. 

SWISS TRAVEL PASS : If you opt for public transportation, then consider getting a Swiss Travel Pass. I visit Switzerland often, and most of the time, I get one (even when I road trip). Trail travel in December was STUNNING! Here is why I suggest a Swiss Travel Pass.

• It allows you to use trains and buses without any extra costs.
• You can also do boat cruises without additional costs.
• Also, quite some attractions (like museums) are included.
• 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 there are even some mountain excursions, like Mount Rigi, which I will talk about later in more detail, that are free with a Swiss Travel Pass.
• 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. You can find out more about the pass here .

ROAD TRIP :  Should you road trip Switzerland in December? I love driving in Switzerland and I road trip the country several times a year. You can also explore Switzerland by car in December. However, driving in the mountains, especially with all the snow, might be challenging in the winter months . Many streets and roads are cleared from the snow, but this is not always the case. If you decide to drive yourself, make sure your cars have winter tires (and maybe even snow chains).

CHECK OUT RENTAL PRICES IN SWITZERLAND HERE

• Check out my Switzerland road trip itinerary.
• Here are some driving tips for Switzerland.

Where to Stay in Switzerland in December  

The way to choose your accommodation in December depends on what you are interested in doing and seeing.

• If Christmas markets are your main point of interest, then Zurich , Basel, or Lucerne would be the best choices, as you can get around easily and hop from one city to the other while visiting the main Christmas Markets.
• If you want to stay in a snow-capped town that also offers fun winter activities, then Zermatt would probably be the best choice.
• And if you are into winter sports activities, then the region of Interlaken/Jungfrau, Zermatt, Verbier, or St. Moritz are my suggestions.

What to Pack For Your Trip in December

Even if December is not the coldest month in Switzerland, it can get very, very cold. Especially if you head to the mountain peaks. But if you are well prepared and pack – and dress – accordingly, you will not mind the cold because it is the special Swiss winter trip you were expecting.

These are just a few items to pack.

✔️ A warm, waterproof jacket should be one of the first items you think to pack. Avoid choosing a bulky jacket that takes up a lot of space. This can make you feel uncomfortable when you have layers underneath. Instead, opt for a lightweight trench raincoat that will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable. 

✔️ A knitted beanie is a perfect solution for keeping the warmth in while you venture out. A hat will keep you toasty warm wherever you are.

✔️ A pair of gloves can do wonders for your mobility and comfort. When selecting your options, it’s worth investing in a pair that can dry quickly and are touch-screen compatible.

✔️ A warm scarf and/or turtleneck sweater are key items for keeping your neck covered. A turtleneck sweater is perfect as a garment to wear underneath your jacket, while the scarf can be removed easily. 

✔️ Leggings  are an essential item to pack as you can dress them up or down. You can even wear them underneath your denim as an extra layer of warmth. 

✔️ When it comes to packing socks for your Austria winter trip – the thicker, the better. The chances are that you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors in the snow, and you’ll want your feet to be warm and cozy. 

✔️ My favorite winter clothes are thermals .  A quality set of thermals is your key to enjoying the winter weather in Austria . You have to wear them on a cold day to believe what a wonderful invention it is!

✔️ Make sure you have a trusty pair of warm shoes . You’ll want your shoes to be as versatile as possible. Shoes that allow you to enjoy a variety of activities while keeping your feet warm and dry. 

If you go skiing/snowboarding , you will need all your ski equipment, including ski pants and thermal underwear (seriously, I just discovered them, and they are amazing and keep you so warm). If you want to do winter sports but do not/cannot bring your own equipment, then you can rent ski equipment in all ski destinations.

I have a detailed post with “Things to pack for Switzerland” where you will also find tips on what to bring.

PLACES TO VISIT IN SWITZERLAND IN WINTER + THINGS TO DO

Okay, here we go – find out about what to do and see in December.

Visit Christmas Markets

If you plan your vacation to Switzerland in December, you are probably here for the Christmas Markets . 

As winter cloaks Switzerland, its towns and cities come alive with the magic of Christmas markets. Nestled among the breathtaking vistas of the snow-clad Alps , these markets are a cherished tradition, weaving through cobblestone streets and grand squares.

Get lured by the scent of mulled wine, gingerbread, and raclette, as artisans display an array of handcrafted goods. The jingle of bells and chorus of local choirs add to the festive atmosphere.

Each market, from Zurich’s Christkindlimarkt to the historic charm of Basel’s market, is a unique celebration of holiday cheer. Here, the essence of Christmas can be felt in the joyful hearts and warm gatherings, offering a picturesque retreat into the festive spirit of the season.

So, there are a couple of well-known places for their Christmas Markets.

Basel , the most northern city in the country, is known as the art capital, but also for its Christmas Markets. It probably has the most beautiful markets, and the good news is that there is more than one market.  

Eat your weight in snacks and mulled wine at the Christmas Market at Münsterplatz (just next to the pretty Basel Cathedral), including a Fairy Tale Forest. Or visit the Christmas Market Barfüsserplatz. Both markets have a combined 180 stalls (approximately), and it is all about food, drinks, and Christmas gifts. 

But of course, Basel is not the only city with Christmas Markets. Zurich , the unofficial capital of Switzerland, also has several markets to choose from. One in the Old Town, one on the Sechseläutenplatz near Bellevue, and one at the Zurich Main Train Station.

If you visit the capital of the country, Bern , you´ll find more markets in the old town of the city where you can indulge in gingerbread, roasted almonds, mulled wine, and more. Check out my Bern winter guide for more tips.

There are around 70 stalls in Lucerne that have snacks, drinks, and gifts – and of course, Lucerne is also decorated festively and is another great place to see in December. Check out my Lucerne winter guide for more tips.

Can’t get enough of Christmas Markets? Then head to Montreux  in December and visit one of the most iconic ones in the country and the best one at Lake Geneva – the Marché de Noël à Montreux.

WHERE TO STAY IN LUCERNE

Luxury: Schweizerhof Lucerne  – If you want to book a luxury hotel in Lucerne, I recommend this beautiful 5* hotel.

➡️ Book your stay at Schweizerhof Lucerne here.

Mid-Range: Hotel des Alpes  – On my last Lucerne trip, I stayed at Hotel des Alpes. The room view was amazing (and included views of the Chapel Bridge and Mount Pilatus).

Budget: The Bed + Breakfast  – If you want to stay in a budget hotel,  have a look at this B&B . Some rooms have a shared bathroom, and some have a private one.

➡️ Book your stay at The Bed & Breakfast here.

Click here to read my full post on the best hotels in Lucerne.

WHERE TO STAY IN ZURICH

Luxury: Baur au Lac  –  Zurich has some great luxury hotels that are amazing for getting spoiled and enjoying life. Baur au Lac  is one of the best-rated luxury hotels close to the city center.

➡️ Book your stay at Baur au Lac here .

Mid-Range: The Glärnischhof by TRINITY  – This 4-star hotel  is one of the best-rated mid-range hotels close to the city center, right next to the famous Bahnhofstrasse, 

➡️ Book your stay at The Glärnischhof by TRINITY here .

Budget: Oldtown Hostel Otter  –  Warning, there are not many budget hotels in Zurich. This is a good-rated hostel in Zurich. I stayed here once and for a hostel, it actually was quite good for a hostel – especially because of its great location.

➡️ Book your stay at Oldtown Hostel Otter here .

WHERE TO STAY IN BERN

Luxury – Bellevue Palace  – Bellevue Palace is a 5-star hotel and centrally located – the perfect choice for those who like to indulge in luxury.

➡️ Check out rates, click here.

Mid-Range – Goldener Schlüssel  – I stayed at the 3-star hotel Goldener Schlüssel for 1 night, located in the city center/old town. Though my hotel room was pretty small though, with no direct (and free) parking options and the breakfast was simple, the location was perfect and made up for it.

➡️ Check out rates here.

Budget – Bern Youth Hostel  – Bern Youth Hostel is located in the city center and it offers affordable dorm beds but also private rooms with private bathrooms.

➡️ Check out rates here .

WHERE TO STAY IN BASEL

Luxury – Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois  – For the most luxurious stay, check out rates and prices at Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois ,  which is centrally located and one of the city’s best hotels.

➡️ Find out about the rates here.

Mid-Range – Hyperion Hotel  -I stayed at the Hyperion Hotel , which is very well-known for its great views. It is located in Kleinbasel, and the tram station is just in front of the hotel. The hotel was great: good breakfast, a good location, and a modern style. 

➡️ Find out more about the hotel here.

Budget in Basel

We all know that there are no real bargains when it comes to accommodations in Switzerland. Hostels , where you could also book private rooms are my recommendations in this case.

➡️ There are a few budget hotels and hostels that you can check out here.

Winter Sports in December

Are you a fan of winter sports? The rush of skiing down the slopes or the thrill of snowboarding can be an unforgettable experience. Switzerland boasts some of the best winter sports destinations in the world, with places like Verbier , Grächen, Zermatt , and St. Moritz you have an abundance of places where you can hit the slopes.

Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities or a heart-stopping adventure, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re planning a trip in December, there are plenty of ski resorts to choose from. 

Did you know that even non-winter sports enthusiasts can have a blast on the slopes? I speak from experience – I went on my first (and so far only) winter sports vacation a few years ago.

It all went down in Verbier, a picturesque town located in the canton of Valais. I tried skiing and snow hiking for the first time and it was a thrilling experience. Who knows, maybe you could be the next convert to winter sports!

So, what about winter sports in December? 

Every year is different, and we never know long in advance whether there will be enough snow in December or not. Some ski resorts might not offer every kind of winter activity in the first weeks of December, and the  best time to ski is actually from mid-January onwards. 

However, you should be good to experience a fun winter vacation with many winter sports activities from mid-December. Winter sports in December include – amongst others – skiing, snowboarding, snow hiking, sledding, and ice skating . 

Besides Verbier, Zermatt , and St. Moritz, the Jungfrau Region is ready to welcome you in December for some winter sports.

• Check out my guide on the best places to ski in Switzerland.  

WHERE TO STAY IN VERBIER

Chalet d’Adrien Verbier is a luxurious 5-star property located next to the Savoleyres Ski Lift with a spa and swimming pool that is the perfect choice for those who want to indulge in luxury.

➡️ Click here to book your stay at Chalet d’Adrien Verbier

W Verbier is another luxurious hotel in Verbier that offers a lot of luxury to its guests.

Click here to get the best rates for W Verbier here.

Mirabeau – I stayed at this 3-star property and enjoyed great room views (especially sunrise views). The hotel is quite basic (and so was breakfast), but the view and the fireplace in the lobby made up for the simplicity.

➡️  Click here to find out about the best hotel rates for Mirabeau.

Enjoy Mountain Views

Get ready to be blown away by the breathtaking mountain views and idyllic lakes that make this country truly one of a kind. And here’s the best part – even in December, you can still enjoy the stunning mountain panoramas that Switzerland is famous for.

Don’t miss the opportunity to bask in the beauty of these amazing places!

The country is so well prepared for visitors coming at any time of the year that its cable cars/funiculars/trains etc. run throughout the year (at least most of them) and you can get up many mountains without hiking.

You get amazing mountain views in almost all of Switzerland. However, if you want to have snow-capped mountain peaks, then visit places that are high above sea level. You will find them almost everywhere in the country apart from, I would say, the northern part as the high mountains are more in Central, Southern, and Eastern Switzerland.

BEST MOUNTAIN VIEWS IN SWITZERLAND

So, where to go for amazing mountain views in December? Here are some of my tips:

Rigi Kulm (Rigi Mountain) near Lucerne

Mount Titlis near Lucerne

Mount Pilatus near Lucerne

Corvatsch Mountain near St.Moritz

Grindelwald First in Grindelwald

Jungfraujoch near Interlaken/Grindelwald

Mont Fort near Verbier

Gornergrat in Zermatt

Klein Matterhorn in Zermatt

Schilthorn Mountain near Lauterbrunnen/Muerren

• Some mountain excursions are included in the Swiss Travel Pass – e.g., Mount Rigi.
• But even if you “only” get a discount, getting up there is often well worth the price. Check out the prices for a trip to Jungfraujoch or tickets for getting up Mount Titlis.
• Check out my post with the most beautiful mountain views in Switzerland

Hop on a Train

Let me tell you about my love affair with Switzerland, and it’s not what you’d expect! It’s all (or at least mostly) thanks to their incredible public transportation system and the breathtaking views from the train windows. I’m not kidding – you won’t be able to take your eyes off the scenery!

If you happen to visit Switzerland in December, make sure you take a train ride and witness the magic for yourself. Trust me, it’s worth it!

While Switzerland may not have the most amazing window views every time, don’t worry, because most of the time you’re in for a visual treat. And let’s not forget about the incredible routes you can take, regardless of the season! Speaking of which, December is absolutely enchanting for train sightseeing – picture yourself cozying up in a warm train while taking in the winter wonderland around you. Pure magic!

The most scenic train rides – normally – are the “express” trains . These are: the Glacier Express , Bernina Express, Lucerne-Interlaken Express, GoldenPass Panoramic, Gotthard Panorama Express, and Voralpen Express.

My favorite routes in December are the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express but also the one from Stechelberg (above Lauterbrunnen) to Murren! It is just WOW!

Switzerland might not be completely covered in snow in December, but the chances are good that you will enjoy some nice scenic train rides – especially those in high altitudes in Grisons or Valais.

You can do all the train rides with your Swiss Travel Pass.  You will need to pay a fee for the “reservation” (which can cost up to 30€ in winter) on some express trains, but seriously, riding a train in the winter months can be STUNNING.

Take that ride! You will enjoy it, I‘m sure! 

TIP: Reservations are compulsory for the Glacier Express, the Bernina Express, and the Gotthard Panorama Express. To avoid reservation fees, you can hop on local trains that have the same route, and you get the same views. They might take a bit longer, but you have the option to get out of the train, too.  If you get out of the other 3 express trains, you will lose your reservation.

Do a Helicopter Ride

Are you looking for a unique way to experience the stunning scenery of Switzerland? Look no further than a helicopter ride! Whether it’s summer or winter, Switzerland’s views from above are absolutely breathtaking. While reaching the summit of a mountain offers incredible views, a helicopter ride will take your breath away with a whole new perspective.

If you’re planning a trip in December, be sure to check out helicopter rides in Jungfraujoch – a popular area for experiencing Switzerland’s beauty from above. 

• If you are brave, you can combine a helicopter ride and a skydive! Check out prices here for that unique experience .

Visit Museums  

Discover the magic of Switzerland beyond its picturesque outdoors! Whether you’re dodging summer sun or winter snow, there’s always something fun to do indoors. Experience the country’s rich cultural heritage with visits to museums and galleries that showcase Switzerland’s art, history, and science.

The Transport Museum in Lucerne is the most visited museum in the country, but there are many more museums to visit – yes, Switzerland is not only about stunning outdoor places.

The Foundation Beyeler in Basel is actually the most visited art museum in the country and is known to be one of the world’s best.   Ernst and Hildy Beyeler gathered an art collection that is on display for people from all around the world.

Apart from a permanent collection, there are also contemporary art collections on display. So, even if you have visited Fondation Beyeler before, you might want to revisit it because there is always something new on display.

Lausanne has an interesting indoor museum about the Olympics – I am not into sports or the Olympics, but even I enjoyed my time in that museum. It is interactive and presents the history of the games very well.

If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, many museums (including the Olympic Museum) are included, and you do not need to pay any entrance fees. So, double-check before you pay!

Check out the best museums in Switzerland here.

Spa and Wellness Treatments

Discover Switzerland’s hidden gem: luxurious spas and thermal baths scattered throughout the country. From quaint villages to bustling cities, there are options for every type of traveler. If you’re looking to indulge in some rest and relaxation, look no further than the Zurich Thermal Baths & Spa.

I just recently visited the Zurich Thermal Baths & Spa.  I was not allowed to take any pictures, but I promise you the views from the outdoor thermal pool were beautiful! But even the indoor pools are perfect after a cold day in December.

I mean really, really beautiful views! I could not believe it took me all the years to spoil myself with this visit. Ticket prices are actually not that high and start from around CHF 36. Much less expensive than I had expected. Check out prices here.

Fancy something more luxurious? Then visit the Tamina Therme in Bad Ragaz.  The public thermal baths unite traditional spa culture with a modern range of saunas.

➡️  BOOK YOUR THERMAL BATHS & SPA IN ZURICH

➡️  BOOK YOUR THERMAL BATHS & SPA IN THE CAPITAL, BERN

FINAL THOUGHTS ON A DECEMBER VACATION IN SWITZERLAND

In December, Switzerland transforms into a storybook tableau, with its landscapes wrapped in pristine snow and cities aglow with festive lights. It’s a time where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly, offering enchanting Christmas markets, world-class skiing, and tranquil spa retreats.

The month brims with the promise of warm memories, be it through exhilarating winter sports or the simple joy of a hot chocolate savored by a roaring fire. Switzerland in December is truly a mosaic of winter’s finest offerings, inviting all to indulge in its seasonal splendor.

Visiting Switzerland in December is an awe-inspiring experience. Whether you’re skiing down the slopes, taking a train ride through the snow-covered landscape, or enjoying some rest and relaxation at one of the country’s luxurious spas, Switzerland has something for everyone to enjoy in the month of December.

So don’t hesitate – take the plunge and explore all that this incredible country has to offer! You won’t regret it.

• Read more: Best things to do in the winter in Switzerland

Pin It on Pinterest

Switzerland in December: Everything You Need to Know

December is perhaps the most magical time of year for visiting Switzerland. The country seems to be tailor made for the holiday season and is one of the best at putting on a proper celebration.

A vacation to Switzerland in December must always include a visit to the Christmas Markets, whether you go for the big ones in Bern or Zurich or prefer the quaint festivities in Montreaux or St. Gallen. Skiing is also a must in December and the world-class resorts of Zermatt, St. Moritz and more can accommodate all levels.

If you plan to spend your holidays here or even if you’re making a quick getaway before the ski season is in full swing, you’re in for a real treat vacationing in Switzerland during the month of December.

Switzerland Weather  in December

December in Switzerland is a true Winter wonderland. The snows have begun to fall and have covered most of the country by now, though the countryside will always have more on the ground than the city. The cold has really set in across Switzerland this month, so temperatures will be chilly no matter where you go. 

On average, you can expect December to be cold with occasional snowfall in most locations. The ski resorts will see the coldest weather this month, while there may still be a few mild days left in the Southern or low altitude areas of the country. No matter what, plan to bring some good walking boots for the snow.

Before your trip, prepare yourself by looking into the altitude of the cities you’re visiting, since this will often dictate the expected temperature and weather. Low altitude cities like Zurich will see December lows and highs from 30˚F to 40˚F (-2˚C to 5˚C), while high altitude places such as Zermatt, will see temperatures ranging from 20˚F to 33˚F (-6˚C to 1˚C).

Average December Temperature in Switzerland (By City)

Switzerland affordability & crowds in december.

December is one of the months where Switzerland starts to see a new spurt of visitors due to the holiday season. Tourists will come to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s here, with a big uptick happening toward the end of the month. The beginning of the month may still have a slower pace to it though. 

Switzerland is never going to be a cheap trip when compared to other countries in Europe, but December will allow you to budget a little more easily than you would during peak ski season in January through March. Hotels may be moderate this month, along with lift tickets and touring prices. However, plane tickets, train transport and car rentals may be a bit high especially toward the end of December. 

The very good news is that all accommodations and restaurants have opened back up in time for the holidays and for ski season, so you have plenty of options to choose from for vacation.

Switzerland Snow & Skiing  in December

Snow is pouring down all over Switzerland, with the most falling on the mountain peaks and high altitude ski resorts. The snow quality is also such that skiing in December will be excellent almost anywhere you choose to go. Though December is still not considered peak ski season, all of the resorts should have plenty of open runs this month since snow will have covered a majority of the pistes.

Best Switzerland Ski Resorts in December 

Most all of Switzerland’s ski resorts and public ski areas are open in December. Some may still have a few runs closed or require snow machines to cover the trail, but skiing in December will be a great experience just about anywhere. Here are the best places to choose from for your next Swiss ski trip.

Zermatt is probably the most iconic ski resort in the world, located at the famous Matterhorn mountain. It also happens to claim the highest altitude in the country. The village here is charming, embodying the old world hospitality and feeling of Swiss tradition and culture. Not only does the town itself make a vacation here worth the effort, the skiing is some of the best in the country. 

The slopes at Zermatt are great for all level of skiers, with special accommodations for expert skiers. There are over 200 miles of pistes at Zermatt, including the connecting pathways at Breuil-Cervinia, Italy. You can access this connection point by taking the extensive gondola system all the way to the top of the Klein Matterhorn .

This is perhaps one of the most interesting portions of the resort, since guests can ski into Italy for lunch, then take miles of winding runs back to the base village. There are also at least a dozen great restaurants on the mountain that offer ski-in/ski-out access, including Chez Vrony, which has delicious Swiss comfort food and the most picturesque view of the Matterhorn. 

St. Moritz 

St. Moritz is decidedly one of the ritziest places for a ski vacation, but perfect for those who need a little upscale class for their Winter getaway. The Swiss really do it well in St. Moritz with tons of shopping, dining and relaxation opportunities throughout this luxury alpine town. Apres ski is taken to a whole different level here, so non-skiers will even have a blast.

Known as a two-time host of the Winter Olympics, St. Moritz seems to be tailor made for Winter sports like ice skating, sledding, Nordic skiing and even kite skiing. Any skier can find a sweet spot on St. Mortiz’s slopes since the varied terrain is landscaped with beginners and experts in mind. Aside from the regular pistes at Corvatsch and nearby Diavolezza, you can head to Corviglia Snow Park’s 30 different obstacles for a proper challenge.

Verbier 

Verbier is massive, accommodating multiple levels of skiers with over 240 miles of pistes on it’s sweeping slopes. The sheer number of runs available means that you won’t get bored on a weeklong ski vacation here. The village may be small and quaint, but the very traditional Swiss style of lodging and dining really add the perfect dose of charm to a December ski trip.

Verbier is equipped with loads of off-piste runs that are perfect for tree skiing and experts who are looking for a challenge. Plus, the Tortin – Europe’s steepest descent – is the thrill-seeker’s dream. In addition to the challenging terrain, Verbier is also part of the Four Valleys ski area , which means you can also ski Thyon, Nendaz and Veysonnaz with the same lift pass.

Saas-Fee 

Saas-Fee is a beginner’s haven, featuring a whole separate ski area where newbies are made to feel safe and comfortable without more advanced skiers whizzing by. If you are looking to take ski lessons on your Swiss ski trip, consider Saas-Fee for its world-class ski school and expert care for beginners.

The proximity to glaciers Dom and Allalinhorn guarantee that Saas-Fee will maintain that cold Winter snowpack, no matter the conditions at other ski resorts in the country. In addition to the abundance of beginner slopes, there are another 26 trails set for intermediate skiers, which makes Saas-Fee ideal for families in December. And if you’re looking for the dining adventure of a lifetime, trek up to the world’s highest revolving restaurant Drehrestaurant Allalin on the glacier.

Engelberg 

Engelberg is the perfect option for skiing if you choose to visit Lucerne or Zurich. It’s the closest resort to these popular destinations, so it tends to be quite busy during peak ski season. In the Summer, this area is popular for hiking and sightseeing, but it’s transformed into a Winter playground come December. 

The small town of Engelberg hosts thousands of guests this time of year, seated at the base of Mount Titlis . Titlis is the main ski area and is most suitable for less experienced skiers in the beginner or intermediate category. There are nearly 50 miles of runs that fit this level, with a few expert runs dabbled in. For more of a challenge, you can opt to take some of the off-piste trails through the trees right off the main lift system. 

Grindelwald 

Grindelwald is a beautiful town that’s seemingly made for adventurous family vacations. The Bodmi Arena , in particular, offers great beginner slopes and ski lessons for children to gain confidence before joining their parents on the blues at Grindelwald ski resort. Night skiing is even available on select nights when the weather permits.

This regions is known for its reliable snow and lengthy runs from the top, giving skiers plenty of time on the snow instead of the lift. A great benefit of choosing Grindelwald as your base is the fact that your lift pass includes the connecting Wengen resort , plus you can see the Eiger glacier from the village or travel via cable car to see it up close.

The quaint village of Grindelwald is also filled to the brim with iconic Swiss architecture, Germanic design, stony storefronts and rolling hills, giving you a gorgeous homebase for your travels through the Bernese mountains. From Grindelwald, you also gain access to the Jungfrau region and Lauterbrunnen via train.

Andermatt 

Andermatt is a highly active mountain that appeals to advanced and expert skiers who love the steep slopes and off-piste powder. Though it’s best for highly skilled skiers, there are still plenty of families and intermediate skiers that flock to Andermatt for the season, primarily due to the great snow conditions promised in December. The resort has undergone quite extensive renovations in the last few years, helping it to skyrocket in popularity. 

One of the coolest parts of staying in Andermatt is the fact that the village area remains true to it’s traditional Swiss roots, featuring historic buildings, original woodwork and seemingly unchanged accommodations; while the ski resort prides itself on keeping up to date with state-of-the-art renovations and facilities.

Villars-Sur-Ollon

Villars-Sur-Ollon is a Vaud canton ski resort that overlooks the Rhone valley. It’s an excellent option for a day trip if you’re vacationing near Lake Geneva. Sitting at the top center of the ski area is Bretaye, with nearly 70 miles of terrain that extends from Gryon, Les Diablerets and even over to Glacier 3000 . You can also see the top of Mont Blanc from this ski area. 

There are three different snow parks to explore at Villars-Sur-Ollon and over 25 miles of cross-country skiing here. The snow kindergarten is a great option for tiny beginners, and the adults will enjoy the apres-ski scene which is one of the best in the area.

Crans-Montana

Crans-Montana is closest to Geneva and Lausanne, making it popular with weekend crowds coming in from these areas, but the weekdays should be pretty open and relaxed. This resort is focused on good family fun with loads of activities for children. Some fun experiences to consider Snow Island snow tubing park and the Chalet Alabama indoor action sports center.

The 86 miles of terrain here are primarily geared toward intermediate skiers, but beginners and experts can find runs suitable for them among the pistes. While the snow quality is not quite on par with others mentioned on this list, it’s helpful to know that Crans-Montana places a high priority on snow making capabilities and covers nearly a third of their runs with snow machines. 

Best Things to Do in Switzerland in December

December is the most magical time of year for visiting Switzerland and you won’t want to miss out on all the Christmas-y, festive fun. Almost every city in the country turns into a Winter wonderland, with sparkling lights and delicious comfort foods, but we’ve got some of the best experiences listed here.

Celebrate in Basel 

Basel is the embodiment of a traditional Swiss Christmas. Though it’s busiest this time of year, it’s certainly worth the effort sorting through the crowds in order to experience the pure bliss of festive joy and activity leading up to the holidays. The Christmas Market cannot be missed and is one of the biggest and longest lasting markets in the country. Imagine sipping gluhwein, dining on baked goods and shopping for locally crafted Christmas decorations and ornaments in a wintery, festive setting.

Basel is an art and culture hub, which conveniently sits on the Swiss border near France and Germany – making their Christmas markets readily accessible, too. Basel also has great museums, art galleries and Medieval buildings that glisten in the twinkling holiday lights. The art-nouveau St. Paul’s Church, along with the gothic Basel Minster are incredibly relaxing and beautiful for touring while here. Plus a stroll down the Rhine River will complete your Basel experience.

Visit Geneva

Geneva is a well known city and the home of Europe’s United Nations. This French-influenced city is rich in history and culture and has lots of great activities to experience any time of year; like boat cruises, cultural museums, and even chocolate tasting tours. But nothing compares to the magic of Christmas in Geneva during the month of December.

Geneva has some of the best Christmas Markets in Switzerland and cannot be missed if you plan to travel here. One of the unique things about Geneva’s markets are that they are spread in pockets throughout the city and have different themes for patrons to enjoy, complete with glittering lights and stalls. Open air ice skating rinks, hot mugs of spiced wine, and a citywide icy plunge into Lake Geneva on Christmas Eve are all part of the festivities you can take part in at Geneva.

Explore Lucerne

Lucerne, like all Swiss cities, is a sight to behold in the month of December. It’s beautifully decorated for the holidays and is warm and welcoming to all visitors. Lucerne has some of the most charming Christmas decorations, including sparkling streets and a large Advent calendar-inspired Medieval building. The markets are teeming with shoppers, the ice rink is glowing with illuminations, fondue is in abundance, and you’ll want to slow down to take in each experience.

In December, the cold weather make this historic town feel even cozier and more delightful. The Old Town’s intricately painted architecture, the Medieval Chapel Bridge, and walks through the nine towers at Musegg Wall have a whole new look and feel with soft flurries and chilly winds. A stroll through the Glacier Garden and a stop at the Lion Monument should be on your list of things to see, as well as nearby Mount Pilatus.

Tour Abbey of St. Gall

The Abbey of Saint Gall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest, most historic sites in all of Switzerland. It’s most especially beautiful at Christmastime when the entire city is illuminated by 700 stars and a tree that’s strung with 18,000 lights. The city of St. Gallen also hosts a Christmas market in true Swiss tradition.

The Abbey, the star of the city, is a Carolingian cathedral which has been impressively preserved since its construction in 719 AD. The interior of the Abbey also has some of the highest revered collections of Baroque artistry in Switzerland. 

Certainly a sight to behold, most visitors take a day trip from Zurich or Appenzell just to see the Abbey. The monastery has changed hands over the centuries, but it’s maintained a pristine exterior and strong Catholic influence. Not only is the architecture impressive, but the Abbey boasts one of the oldest and best preserved libraries in the world.

Christmas Markets

Christmas Markets are a European tradition that extends into Switzerland. American tourists especially will marvel at the excited effort and festive flourishes that cities put into their nightly Christmas markets which draw hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Bern, the capital city of Switzerland, is the most obvious choice for this experience. But there are several other cities in particular that you should add to your list for this special experience. 

Zurich’s Christkindlimarkt is one of the largest and longest Christmas markets in the country, covering six different city sections and lasting a full month from November 24 to December 24. The magic of the season is felt at every street corner, where different vendors and light displays highlight the walkways. A glamorous Swarovski Christmas tree is showcased at the center of the market.

Montreaux Noel does not reach such a grand scale, but the historic nature and charming scenery of this glittering town. The snowy peaks in the background and the charming stalls on cobblestoned streets really set the tone for a perfect holiday. You can take your experience to the next level by sipping on a hot mug of gluhwein as you walk under the sparkling night sky. This market lasts a little longer, beginning November 18 and ending on Christmas Eve.

Lausanne’s Marche de Noel is the longest market yet, starting November 17 and going through New Year’s Eve. Lausanne has a more modern approach to the traditional Christmas market, incorporating Christmas light sculptures and pop culture references into their decor. The food scene gets a little cultural twist, as well, serving up interesting comfort foods alongside traditional Christmas fare.

December Events in Switzerland

St. Nikolaus Day

The entire country celebrates St. Nicholas Day on December 6, and while businesses are still operating this day, the people are in a very festive mood. The day seeks to recognize St. Nicholas’ good deeds and memory by sharing small gifts like chocolate and gingerbread with friends and family. Big cities tend to have a parade and Swiss families tend to have smaller celebrations with their children in their homes.

Fete de l’Escalade

Geneva uses this festival to commemorate the victory against Savoy. History says the fight began when Mere Royaume tossed a cauldron of hot soup on the invaders as they climbed the ramparts of Geneva. The festival now uses cauldrons of chocolate fondue to celebrate. The entire city is in celebratory merriment on this long weekend, with festivities ending in a bonfire in front of St. Peter’s Cathedral.

Christmas is celebrated all over Switzerland for the entire month of December. Some cities even begin their festivities as early as the end of November. In addition to the Christmas Markets highlighted above, towns will host other family events and activities. On Christmas Eve, you’ll notice most businesses shutting down with the intention of reopening after Christmas Day. Keep this in mind when celebrating the holiday while on vacation, and stock up on good food or plan to eat inside your hotel.

New Year’s Eve

Fireworks light the midnight sky all over Switzerland and several cities are best for big celebrations. Bern, the capital, will have the largest celebration, but Geneva, Zurich and Basel are also great places to be. The general population celebrates with parties, drinking and live music, and ringing the cathedral bells in town.

The entire month of December is filled with festive delight and holiday cheer in the Wintery villages of Switzerland. Visitors from all over the world come to see the magic of the snowy mountains, marvel at the glistening lights on the decorated streets and indulge on that famous cheese and chocolate fondue.

No matter if you’ve come to celebrate the holidays in all their glory or revel in a ski trip with excellent snow conditions, December is a great month for a vacation to Switzerland.

This article is part of Roundtript’s series of expert Switzerland travel guides for every month of the year.

For a summary of each Switzerland month & season all in one place, check out our big guide to the Best Times of the Year to Visit Switzerland .

Switzerland in October: Everything You Need to Know

Switzerland in July: Everything You Need to Know

© 2024 by Roundtript

• Switzerland Tours
• Switzerland Travel Guide
• When to Visit Switzerland

Switzerland in December: Travel Tips for Christmas Holiday

• 3.37K views
• ~ mins read

As an Alpine country, Switzerland is known for its stunning scenery, magnificent snowy slopes, and excellent ski resorts. It is home to some of the world's most beautiful winter destinations, such as Zurich, Davos, and Saint Moritz. So, naturally, many people dream of visiting Switzerland in December to experience the charm of a European white Christmas. With its magical wintry landscapes and centuries-old traditions, celebrating Christmas in Switzerland is indeed a special treat.

Switzerland Weather in December

December is the official start of winter in Switzerland , although the snow will start falling in the Alps in November. Thus, the weather in Switzerland in December is very cold, and temperatures range from -1°C to 4°C.

In lowland cities like Lugano, Zurich, and Geneva, the average temperature fluctuates between -1.6°C and 5.4°C. Higher elevation areas, such as the Alps, are much colder during this time. For instance, the average temperature in Zermatt varies between -3.5°C and -12°C.

Switzerland experiences several days of snow during December, so pack plenty of layers and winter clothes. To increase your chances of experiencing a perfect Christmas in Switzerland, visit an Alpine location, such as the Jungfrau Region and Zermatt.

Check out our seasonal overview for the best time to visit Switzerland .

Weather in Switzerland in December - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit switzerland in december.

Many tourists avoid Switzerland in the winter due to the extremely cold weather. But there are great reasons why you should visit Switzerland in December . Here are some:

• Beautiful Christmas markets: Visiting Switzerland in December also means enjoying its many pop-up Christmas markets in various towns and villages. Montreux's Christmas market is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland. It is the time of year when this resort town on Lake Geneva transforms into a magical winter wonderland.
• Winter playground: Winter in Switzerland is synonymous with winter sports like skiing. In fact, skiing is one of the best things to do in Switzerland. Most tourists head straight to the spectacular ski resorts in the Swiss Alps to play on the magical, snowy playground during winter.
• Stunning mountains: Switzerland is home to many natural wonders, such as the iconic Matterhorn, dubbed the ‘Toblerone Mountain’, which looks even more beautiful when covered in snow. The winter season also adds charm to Switzerland's many beautiful lakes, such as Oeschinen Lake, which glows like a mirror reflecting the snowy surrounding peaks.
• Fewer crowds: December is a low tourist season in Switzerland, which frees up the main cities of Zurich and Geneva, leaving them less crowded for you to explore in a more relaxed way. Take advantage of this opportunity to visit the Swiss National Museum , The Grossmünster Cathedral, and the Saint Pierre Cathedral of Geneva, among other attractions.
• Great hotel deals: There are many awesome hotel deals to take advantage of when you visit Switzerland during the off-season. Except in the Swiss Alps, a hotspot for skiers in December, you will find many great hotel deals during the winter season in Switzerland. Here are our best deals for a Switzerland vacation .

Where to Go and What to Do

On your winter trip to Switzerland, marvel at historic churches and guild houses in Zurich's Old Town. Since the streets are quiet, you will be able to explore this historic part of the town without having loads of tourists blocking your way or photobombing your snaps. The quiet streets of Zurich are what make the city worth visiting in December. Have a look at our tours to Zurich.

In Lucerne, spend your days hunting down its postcard-worthy structures dating back to the Middle Ages. The city is also home to some of Switzerland's most beautiful Christmas markets, so be sure to check them out. After a day of exploring, the best way to relax is to soak in the thermal baths of Switzerland. You will find the best thermal baths in Zurich, but if you want to unwind while being surrounded by spectacular mountain views, head to The Therme Vals in Graubunden Canton.

When you visit Switzerland in December, sleeping in an igloo is one of the fun things you can do. For this experience, head to the Igloo Village in Zermatt. Spend a night or two there depending on how many days you will spend in Switzerland .

Given its cold weather, some might argue that December might not be the greatest time to travel to Switzerland. But with its incredible wintry landscapes that seem straight out of a fairytale, a holiday to Switzerland in December is always a good idea. This is the time of year when the Swiss Alps create a magical and romantic atmosphere that makes for a truly unforgettable holiday experience. From visiting Christmas markets to soaking in the thermal baths and sleeping in an igloo hotel, a trip to Switzerland in December is one you will never forget.

Plan a customized trip to Switzerland with the help of our local travel specialists.

Related articles: Switzerland in November Switzerland in January

Related Articles

Best Time To Visit Switzerland

Switzerland has been one of the most popular ... read more

Switzerland in January: Travel Tips for Festive Time

Winter in Switzerland is a magical time. It i... read more

Switzerland in February: Winter Holiday Travel Tips

Thinking about visiting Switzerland in Februa... read more

Switzerland in March: Witness Fun Festivals and Events

A holiday in Switzerland in March marks the p... read more

Switzerland in April: Weather, Jazz and Easter

The spring season casts its spell all over Sw... read more

Switzerland in May: Spring Travel Tips

Switzerland in May means the spring season, a... read more

Switzerland in June: Head Outdoors and Enjoy Festivities

Summer temperatures rise in Switzerland in Ju... read more

Switzerland in July: Tips for Summer Activities

You will love visiting Switzerland in July. I... read more

Switzerland in August: Travel Tips for Summer

It is summer in Switzerland in August. The we... read more

Switzerland in September: Weather and Travel Tips

If you hate crowded vacation spots and wish t... read more

Switzerland in October: Travel Tips for the Fall

Known for its ski resorts, stunning natural v... read more

Switzerland in November: Traditions and Travel Tips

Switzerland in November cools down and autumn... read more

Switzerland in Summer: High Season Tips and Weather Advice

As the busiest season of the year, Switzerlan... read more

Switzerland in Winter: Weather Tips and Travel Advice

Switzerland in winter is a snow-filled wonder... read more

Related Categories

• How Long To Stay In Switzerland
• Switzerland Travel Advice
• What To Do In Switzerland
• When To Visit Switzerland
• Where To Go In Switzerland
• Previous Post

Popular Destinations

• Europe Tours
• Everest Base Camp Trek
• Italy Tours
• Spain Tours
• Argentina Tours
• Canada Tours
• Sri Lanka Tours
• Chile Tours
• Antarctica Tours

• South Korea
• Indonesia (Bali)
• Central Asia
• African Safari
• South Africa
• Itinerary Ideas
• Switzerland Weather in December: Travel Tips for First-Timers

In Switzerland's low elevations, December is cold, it usually freezes at night, and there is moderate rainfall. In the high elevations, it is freezing. Swiss ski resorts reopen, and travel prices peak during Christmas. You can enjoy touring Swiss cities, the ski resorts, and Christmas events.

Read on for our weather information and travel advice including average temperatures and rainfall, places to go, and travel tips…

Content Preview

• 1. Weather Overview
• 2. Best Places to Visit
• 3. Crowds and Costs
• 4. What to Wear

Switzerland Weather in December: Overview

• Temperature range : -1–5°C (30–41°F)
• Total rain/snow : 9 cm (3 inches)
• Days with rain/snow : 11
• Humidity : 84%
• Sunshine hours/day : 2 hours

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

December Climate Comparison (Averages) for Switzerland's Top Tourism Areas

Switzerland's weather is usually cold during the day in December at the low elevations where the biggest cities are. There are only an average of 2 hours of sunlight and 9½ hours of daylight. It might feel gloomy. It is low tourism season with relatively smaller crowds and lower prices.

Lower altitude: The big cities such as Zürich, Geneva, and Lausanne are below about 500 meters (1,600 feet), and the highs only reach an average of 5°C (41°F). The average nightly low is -1°C (30°F). There is moderate rainfall/snowfall.

Higher altitude: Above 1,600 meters (5,200 feet) where the ski resort towns such as Zermatt are, the average daily highs are about 2°C (35°F). The lows are -6 (21°F). There is low rainfall or snowfall and a daily average of 2½ hours of sunshine.

The Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in December

Touring in December features low tourism at the beginning of the month, and skiing and Christmas festivities in the second half of the month. Though it is freezing, you could tour the cities or see the snowy countryside.

If you want to tour Switzerland or other countries in Europe or even have a world tour, consider Global Highlights. Our customized trips are highly-rated on Trust Pilot . Let us know your goals for your tour, and we'll make the best of the local resources and weather. Contact us to begin a tour inquiry .

1. Zürich — See the Historic Sites in Beautiful Winter Scenery

Zürich is in high tourism season in December. Many tourists arrive to transfer to other places since it is the main travel hub with the biggest international airport. The daily average highs are 8°C (47°F), and the average lows are just above freezing.

You could sightsee the Old City area or shop. The big highlights are the Christmas markets and festivities with traditional Swiss food, crafts, and entertainment. These rev up after about the middle of the month. You could watch the New Year's Eve fireworks over the lake.

Since there is an average of 2 hours of sunshine daily, 12 days of rain or snow, and 85% humidity, expect freezing, damp, and gloomy weather. When the weather is inclement, you could enjoy some of the country's best museums, shopping, and gourmet restaurants.

For more things to do, see visiting Switzerland in March .

2. Zermatt — For Snow, Winter Sports, and Holiday Festivities

Zermatt is Europe's winter sports capital because it has the Switzerland's best ski slopes. The highest ski slope reaches up to altitude 3,899 meters (12,792 feet). Zermatt's average high is 2°C (35°F). The nightly lows are around -6°C (21°F). There are 2½ hours of sunshine and low rainfall and snowfall on average.

For skiing and snowboarding, the high-elevation slopes around Zermatt are among the best in Switzerland in December. The snow quality is good and the crowds are relatively light. The town is beautifully decorated. During Christmas, there are large crowds.

On New Year's Eve, there is a spectacular fireworks display, and the spectacle of colorful lights sparkling off the shiny white cliffs and slopes. A ban on cars keeps the sky pristine and makes for better walking and shopping experiences.

3. Basel — See the Holiday Artwork and Enjoy a Less Touristy City

Basel is a multicultural city near the border of Germany and France. It is called the 'Arts Capital' in Switzerland, and the Christmas decorations are artsy.

The average highs are slightly warmer than Switzerland's average at 6°C (°F), and the lows are 32°C (0°F). There is moderate rainfall about half the days of December. When the weather is good, you could explore the cobbled streets of the Old Town, one of the most intact and beautiful in Europe with unparalleled architectural diversity from the 15th century to the present. The museums are good.

One Christmas Market is next to the Basler Münster Cathedral with a Fairy Tale Forest. Another is near the Barfüsserplatz. Both are open all of December until the 23rd when they close.

For more about things to do in Basel, see visiting Switzerland in September .

4. Interlaken — Enjoy Another Winter Sports Capital

December is generally thought to be the best month to visit Interlaken and the nearby Lauterbrunnen and Lütschental areas due to the rich local culture and traditions for the Christmas holidays. The towns are beautifully decorated.

You can experience the festivities, the Christmas markets, and the holiday events. However, Interlaken may be crowded with holiday tourists. Interlaken is the travel hub for the area that has the train and tram stations. You could go up to the ski resorts to ski.

The average high in December is 4°C (39°F), and the average nightly low is -2°C (28°F). There is moderate rainfall, and on average, it rains about 10 days in December. You can use it as a base for excursions since there are a variety of accommodations.

For information about Grindelwald that is a town above Interlaken, see visiting Switzerland in July .

For information about Lauterbrunnen Valley, see visiting Switzerland in June .

For information about Interlaken and travel there, see visiting Switzerland in January .

Crowds and Costs for Traveling in December

Early December is generally low tourism season similar to November. As the month progresses, the temperatures fall. The beginning of ski season brings in more tourists, and the end of the month is the peak tourism season of the Christmas and New Year holidays.

To save some money, you might want to tour in the beginning of the month. You may find discounted accommodations, flights, and activities with fewer other tourists.

Around the middle of the month, the popular Christmas festivals and markets are in high gear. By staying in a city for a day or two, you can experience the festivities and shop.

Expect to pay peak-season prices in late December. Arrange accommodations and transportation tickets well in advance. The last two weeks of December are among Switzerland's busiest.

Each canton sets its own holidays and observances.

Public holidays in December:

• Immaculate Conception is December 8 annually. It is a Catholic holiday in 12 of the 26 cantons, and is a day off from work. Most businesses and schools might close in those cantons. It celebrates when Jesus was conceived by the virgin Mary through the Holy Spirit.
• Christmas Day is December 25. It is a public holiday in all cantons, and is a day off from work. Schools, government offices, and most businesses close. It celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. The Swiss tend to give gifts on December 24, Christmas Eve.
• St. Stephen's Day is December 26 annually. It is a public holiday in 23 cantons. Most businesses and schools close in those cantons. It celebrates Stephen who was the first Christian martyr.
• New Year's Eve is December 31. It isn't a public holiday except in Geneva, where many businesses and schools close because it is Restoration Day there.

What to Wear in December

For comfort, dress in layers with a winter/mountain outer coat. A warm coat and rain gear will help you to be prepared for every circumstance.

Here is a packing list for a few essentials in Switzerland:

• Comfortable shoes with good traction
• Warm waterproof boots with good traction. You might wear them in-flight to travel lightly.
• Winter coat
• Swimwear for hot springs and spas
• Cardigans or thermals
• Polarized glasses to reduce the glare

Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Switzerland

Previous month: Switzerland in November

Next month: Switzerland in January

Why Global Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)

• Save Your Time:
• Less research, more enjoyment!
• Real-time 1V1 expert planning
• Maximize Your Flexibility:
• Personal local guide and ride
• Explore at your own pace
• Celebrate Your Journeys:
• Specially-crafted family adventures
• Celebrate milestones with style!
• 14-Day Best of Italy and Switzerland Tour
• 14-Day Italy and Switzerland Family Tour
• 10-Day Private Egypt Active Family Expedition Tour
• 9-Day Kenya Active Family Private Safari Tour
• How to Plan a Trip to Switzerland and Italy 2024
• How to Plan a Trip to Italy and Greece: 6 Tips (2024)
• How to Plan a Trip to Turkey and Greece in 2024
• How to Plan a Trip to Italy and France 2024: 5 Easy Steps
• Switzerland Weather in January: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Switzerland Weather in February: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Switzerland Weather in March: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Switzerland Weather in April: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Switzerland Weather in May 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Switzerland Weather in June 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Switzerland Weather in July 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Switzerland Weather in August 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Switzerland Weather in September 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Switzerland Weather in October 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Switzerland Weather in November 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

More travel ideas and inspiration, sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why Global Highlights

Where can we take you today.

• Southeast Asia
• Japan, South Korea
• India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri lanka
• Travel Agents
• Loyalty Program
• Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

15 Top Things to Do in Winter in Switzerland

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Nov 26, 2021

Winter is one of the best times to visit Switzerland. While summer offers beautiful flowering valleys and great hiking trails , winter brings on the magic of snow-covered peaks, charming Christmas markets, and the best skiing you'll find in Europe.

There are plenty of things to do in Switzerland for non-skiers, too. The snow fun continues off the pistes, with trails for snowshoeing, ice-skating on frozen lakes, and great dining and shopping when you're ready for a break from the cold weather. Plus, unless you're staying at a ski resort, winter means smaller crowds at the most popular attractions and much better prices for flights and accommodations – a big plus in one of Europe's most expensive countries.

Need some inspiration? Plan your trip with our list of the top things to do in winter in Switzerland.

1. Discover World-Class Skiing

2. ride the bernina express, 3. shop at christmas markets, 4. ice-skate on natural rinks, 5. explore alpine fairy-tale towns, 6. relax in a thermal bath, 7. go dogsledding, 8. spend the night in an igloo, 9. have a chocolate experience, 10. enjoy the views from up top, 11. try other snow sports, 12. get your heart pumping at the titlis cliff walk, 13. take a winter walk with st. bernards in champex-lac, 14. go glacier climbing at interlaken, 15. paraglide over grindelwald, map of things to do in winter in switzerland.

There's perhaps no better reason to visit Switzerland than the amazing skiing – no matter if you're a snow expert or just a beginner.

St. Moritz , home to 87 pistes and host to two Winter Olympic Games, is the place to visit for both skiing and snowboarding, while Zermatt offers 360 kilometers of runs at the highest ski area in Switzerland.

There's also Davos , one of Europe's largest winter sports areas, where multiple ski resorts interconnect to offer groomed runs, beginner slopes, and off-piste terrain for the advanced skiers.

If you're after a more relaxed vibe or gentler runs, Switzerland has plenty of smaller resorts that will satisfy you. Saas-Fee in the Valais region offers 37 kilometers of beginner trails plus areas for kids and learners, while the less-known Arosa Lenzerheide resort area offers lots of winter sunshine and plenty of groomed runs for intermediate skiers.

Even better, skiing in Switzerland is a social adventure, not just a sport. At the end of a day-long skiing session, head to a mountaintop restaurant for a cup of hot chocolate or a hot meal by a crackling fireplace.

No other winter train ride in the world can beat the Glacier Express route between Zermatt and St. Moritz . The eight-hour-long ride takes you through the snow-covered Alps and over 291 bridges, as well as glacier lakes, and narrow valleys that seem to go on forever. It's one of the most stunning ways to enjoy the winter scenery while sipping a cup of hot chocolate.

Because this is Switzerland, your choice of stunning train rides doesn't end there. The Bernina Express between Chur and Tirano is another incredible route that goes through snow-covered fir trees and rolling mountainsides covered in clouds.

This particular Bernina Express even offers a full moon excursion on the line between St. Moritz and Alp Grüm, with classical music playing and lights out to enjoy the beauty of the sky in all its splendor.

One of the highlights of visiting Switzerland in winter is shopping at some of Europe's best Christmas markets .

Zurich is home to many holiday markets, including Christkindlimarkt, the largest indoor Christmas market in Europe, inside the main train station. In Basel , the main city square becomes home to almost 200 artisans selling their wares from inside tiny wooden chalets, while Bern's Waisenhausplatz Christmas market offers not only Christmas decorations and gifts, but also souvenirs.

Geneva has several Christmas markets known for their old-school carrousels, live caroling, and a focus on artisans' work. And in Montreux , you can visit an authentic-looking medieval market at the Chateau de Chillon Castle.

In addition to great shopping, Swiss Christmas markets are also a feast for your taste buds, offering things like cheese fondue and rösti (potato pancakes).

You'll find plenty of ice-skating rinks in Swiss cities, but the true experience here is to jump on a natural rink. Surrounded by forests, deep inside valleys, and sometimes only accessible via a chairlift ride, natural rinks are everywhere in Switzerland.

Europe's largest natural ice rink is in Switzerland, in the winter resort town of Davos . It covers 18,000 square meters, and it's used by professionals (ice hockey players and speed skater champions), as well as beginners just wanting to have some fun.

In the Jura area of Switzerland , a number of lakes freeze over in winter, transforming into giant ice rinks. Lac (lake) de Joux, sitting at an altitude of 1,004 meters, is a stunning icy display. Lac des Rousses and the Lac des Tailleres in La Brevine area are also popular destinations.

For those keeping their trip urban, Katzensee Lake just outside Zurich also attracts ice-skaters during winter.

Switzerland is beautiful in winter no matter what city you're visiting, but it's the small charming villages and towns that truly pack on the magic when it comes to places to visit.

The ski resort towns of Zermatt and St. Moritz are favorites, but Grindelwald and Gstaad are equally stunning, with smaller crowds. As the highest town in the Alps, Davos attracts plenty of winter sports enthusiasts, but the town is also a good shopping destination and offers great dining in beautiful mountain surroundings.

St. Gallen is a different kind of destination, home to a car-free Old Town Center; the old-world charm of centuries-old houses; and the historical Abbey of St. Gallen, which becomes the background to the Christmas market in December.

Gruyères (world-famous for its namesake cheese) is another stunning medieval town full of cobblestone streets that take on a festive atmosphere during the holidays.

Set against a backdrop of dramatic mountains and sitting right on a lake, Lugano is another great winter destination, with Christmas markets that start in November and last until early January.

Thermal spas have a long history in Switzerland, and for centuries even royals enjoyed the mineral-rich, healing waters from the local springs. Whether at a small, cozy wellness center or an impressive massive health resort, the experience of relaxing in a 40-degree outdoor pool while snowflakes fall on your face is a must-try while in Switzerland.

One of the most famous thermal baths in Switzerland is the Mineralbad & Spa Rigi Kaltbad , which overlooks Lake Lucerne from the top of Mt. Rigi. There are indoor and outdoor pool options here, plus herbal steam baths and an outdoor lounging area.

Another great waterfront location is the Termali Salini & Spa on Lake Locarno, with outdoor saltwater lakes that look right over the lake.

The largest spa resort in the Alps, Leukerbad-Therme uses water from its own private mineral-rich spring to fill 10 thermal baths with temperatures as high as 43 degrees Celsius.

For something different, Switzerland offers lots of husky runs. Many depart from ski resorts as part of their non-skier offerings. But there are also run options at the Jungfraujoch near Interlaken , at the Les Rosées-Dessous (where the polar-like environment is perfect for days out in the snow), and in the Lake Geneva region.

If you want to spend time with dogs without having them do the heavy pulling, try the Barry Foundation in Champex-Lac. The foundation organizes animal-assisted therapy and in winter offers guided walks on the snow in the company of friendly St. Bernards.

For a completely different experience, tuck in for the night in an igloo. A number of Alpine ski resorts build their own igloos to double as ice rooms during winter. Each place offers its own package, but igloo rooms come packed with their own sleeping bags, welcome hot drink, and either lamps or battery-charged lights.

Located in the Engstligenalp plateau in the western Alps, the popular Berghotel Engstligenalp igloos are set 2,000 meters above sea level. Guests receive a hot water bottle to keep warm inside the sleeping bag, access to toilets and showers in the nearby chalet, and a three-course dinner and buffet breakfast as part of their stay. Plus, they get to take home homemade Nidletäfeli (Swissmilk caramel candy) as a farewell gift.

A stay at the also popular Iglu-Dorf in Gstaad in the Bernese Oberland comes with a guided snowshoe trip in the dark, a heated Jacuzzi under the stars, and your own cheese fondue.

You can eat lots of chocolate while in Switzerland, but for a true experience, nothing beats a factory tour, where you can see it being made and get plenty of free samples along the way.

At the Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory in Broc, you can learn about the history of chocolate all the way back to the Aztecs through their interactive museum tour, while the Läderach Chocolate Experience in Bilten allows you to create your very own chocolate while tasting artisan samples along the way.

If you have no time in your schedule for a chocolate tour, you can always find a cozy café and try one of the many chocolate-based delicacies the country has to offer. Order a Coupe Danemark (ice-cream sundae covered in thick melted chocolate) or a Belle Helene (chocolate sundae with pears poached in syrup) along with your coffee. Or just grab a few Swiss chocolate truffles to snack on the go. Aside from the traditional milk chocolate ones, you can try flavors like coffee, hazelnut, and toffee.

Sometimes the best way to enjoy the beauty of Switzerland is from up high. And what better way to do it than from a helicopter. A number of outfitters offer sightseeing flights over the snowcapped Alps, with jaw-dropping rides that last anywhere from 20 minutes to several hours.

From Zermatt, you can catch a helicopter tour all around the world-famous Matterhorn mountain, or head to Lauterbrunnen for a flight over the impressive glaciers of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, where scenes for James Bond movies were filmed.

For something a bit less heart-stopping, you can also take a cable car or funicular ride to the top of Switzerland's most famous mountains. You don't have to be a skier to get the million-dollar view. Just head up to enjoy a hot meal at the resort's restaurant or soak up the views over the Alpine peaks.

The gondola ride up the Grindelwald mountain offers colossal views over the Alps, while the Chaumont Mountain offers a funicular that rides up 1,087 meters to the top of the mountain, where you'll find a great little restaurant to warm up with a cheese fondue.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Jungfrau Region

If sliding down the side of a massive mountain is a bit too exciting for you, don't worry - Switzerland offers plenty of snow fun even if you don't ski. You can always try cross-country skiing, winter walking, or snowshoeing on trails and mountain paths. There are guided winter hikes in almost every town, often with stops at Alpine huts or cozy cafés along the way, so you can warm up and try some local delicacies.

The Grindelwald area is particularly popular for snowshoeing. You can take advantage of a number of trails near towns, or take the lift up the mountain for off-trail snowshoeing through Alpine forests.

While snowmobiles are not usually available for private rental, there are several outfitters that offer guided tours that are both stunning and exhilarating. The snowXpark in Engelberg offers cordoned-off trails you can explore on your own after renting a snowmobile, while visitors to the St. Moritz/Engadine Valley will find plenty of travel outfitters offering organized tours.

Sitting 3,041 meters above sea level and 500 meters above the snow-covered cliffs, the barely one-meter-wide Cliff Walk is a suspension bridge not for the faint of heart. As Europe's highest suspension bridge , though, it does offer some stunning mountain views.

Getting to the bridge itself, which runs along the cliff of Mount Titlis, starts with a Rotair gondola ride up Mount Titlis , which offers rotating, 360-degree panoramas over the stunning glaciers. Once here, you'll have to walk through a glacier cave that reaches to a viewing platform. From here, the 100-meter-long bridge takes you to the Ice Flyer glacier chairlift station on the other side.

Saint Bernards were first bred for rescue work in the 1600s by monks at the Great St. Bernard Hospice on the Switzerland border. Today, the Barry Foundation continues that tradition as the world's oldest breeding kennels for St. Bernards.

In addition to working as a center for animal-assisted therapy and education, the foundation also offers a number of activities, including their very popular winter walks.

The 45-minute walks take place around the Champex-Lac area, surrounded by stunning mountain peaks, throughout the entire winter, and include the companionship of a few St. Bernards –usually one of them pulling a small sled, which children can ride.

Surprisingly, no previous experience is necessary to climb up sheets of ice, abseil into a frozen crevasse, or rappel deep into a glacier. Under the guidance of a certified mountain guide, it's possible to experience the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of climbing on the icy mountains outside Interlaken.

Ice climbing adventures usually combine a glacier hike to reach a crevasse, from where you'll secure yourself to the wall to start your climbing adventure. For more traditional climbing, there are also routes at the foot of the Eiger Mountain's North Face. No ice climbing here, but instead a route of iron ladders, wires, and cables to get you up the rock walls to reach stunning views over the Matterhorn and the town of Grindelwald.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Interlaken

Tandem paragliding is exhilarating in any season, but jumping off the side of a mountain in winter adds an entirely new layer to the experience. Switzerland has perfected the art of winter paragliding, and the best place to try it is over the village of Grindelwald.

Here, you can catch a ride up Grindlewald First in a cable car before you strap on to your instructor and get ready to soar over the snow-covered valley, with gorgeous views of the mighty Eiger mountain all around.

There are also winter flights at Interlaken for a great view over the Lakes of Thun and Brienz, as well as flights over the ski slopes down the cliffs to the mountain village of Stechelberg.

More on Switzerland

Everything Dee

Petite Travel Blogger

Incredible 7 Day Switzerland Itinerary – How to Spend December in Switzerland

Switzerland has been on my bucket list for awhile now. It’s filled with so many beautiful cities and it’s a country you can visit during anytime of the year. We wanted to go away on vacation in December and thought Switzerland was the ultimate winter wonderland getaway. We spent seven incredible days in Switzerland and got to explore the cities of Zermatt, Grindelwald, Interlaken, and Zurich. In this guide, I will be sharing a 7 day Switzerland itinerary in these four cities and all the details on how you can spend a week in December in Switzerland.

7 Days in Switzerland Itinerary: Overview

• Day 1 – Zermatt
• Day 2 – Zermatt
• Day 3 – Zermatt
• Day 4 – Interlaken
• Day 5 – Grindelwald
• Day 6 – Zurich
• Day 7 – Zurich

How to Get to Switzerland

There are two major airports in Switzerland: Zurich and Geneva. You can choose either one depending on the first spot in your itinerary. In this 7 Day Switzerland Itinerary, our first stop will be Zermatt. Each airport is about a 3 hour train ride to Zermatt. If Zermatt will also be your first stop, you can book whichever flight is the cheapest. I landed in Geneva and departed from Zurich.

How to Travel Around Switzerland

For getting around Switzerland, you can either rent a car or take public transportation. I recommend using public transportation. Public transportation like trains and buses in Switzerland is so easy to use and super convenient. And the train rides in Switzerland are some of the most beautiful train rides in the world. The scenery is absolutely incredible.

Switzerland offers the Swiss Travel Pass and Half Fare Card that I highly recommend getting if you are visiting multiple cities in Switzerland.

What is the Swiss Travel Pass? It is an all access ticket that allows unlimited use of Switzerland’s public transportation. This includes trains, buses, and boats. You even get free entrance to more than 500 museums and up to a 50% discount on most mountain excursions. Purchase the pass here! You just have to select the number of days. They have 3, 4, 6, 8, and 15 day options. And please note that this is unlimited travel on fixed and consecutive days.

What is the Swiss Half Fare Card? The Swiss Half Fare Card provides unlimited half price tickets on trains, buses, and boats. You also get up to 50% discounts on most mountain excursions. This card has a validity of one month. You can purchase the Swiss Half Fare Card here!

If you are deciding between the Swiss Travel Pass and the Swiss Half Fare Card, the best way to decide is to look up prices of all the transportation you will be doing in Switzerland. I recommend getting the Swiss Travel Pass if the total amount is more than the Swiss Travel Pass. If half the total amount of transportation is more than the Swiss Half Fare Card, I recommend getting the Swiss Half Fare Card.

For this itinerary, I recommend using the Half Fare Card. If you plan on taking longer and more expensive train rides, the Swiss Travel Pass might be best for you!

Language in Switzerland

Even though Switzerland is a small country, did you know it has four official languages!!

• German – most of the country speaks Swiss-German (north, east and central Switzerland)
• Italian – this is spoken in some parts of South Switzerland
• French – this is spoken in the west and south (including Zermatt and Geneva)
• Romansh – spoken by few but still an official language that you will find in the southeast
• English – not an official language but most people speak English!

It was cool exploring Switzerland and noticing the official language changing depending on the city we were in! But we never had a hard time communicating since almost everyone we spoke with knew English.

7 Day Switzerland Itinerary: Details

Day 1: arrive in geneva / take train to zermatt.

Transportation Info: 2 hours 55 minute train from Geneva to Zermatt

If you arrive in Zermatt in the afternoon, you may have time for a few activities! You can explore Zermatt village and check out the different shops. I recommend grabbing hot chocolate at Petit Royal . It is the best hot chocolate I’ve ever had!

Right before sunset, you can walk to Zermatt Matterhorn Viewpoint (you can put that exact name in Google Maps). It’s about a twenty minute walk from downtown. You will have to walk up a bunch of stairs, but you will get to see the most amazing view of Zermatt and the Matterhorn.

Day 2: Spend the Day in Zermatt

Matterhorn glacier paradise + gornegrat.

One of the best things to do in Zermatt is to see two incredible vantage points – the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and the view from the Gornegrat ridge. The PEAK2PEAK Ticket ticket allows you to see both in one day!

We started with a gondola ride to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. It takes you to 3,883 meters above sea level and then you take a lift to a 360 degree viewing platform. It is a beautiful glacier paradise. At the peak, you can also find a cinema lounge, food, ski slopes and even hiking trails on the way to the top.

The advantage of the PEAK2PEAK ticket is you don’t have to go all the way back down to go back up to the Gornegrat. You can take the cable car to Riffelberg and then change there to go up the Gornegrat railway.

Please note that the the Peak2Peak Ticket is available in July and August and from November to April. And if you are going in the winter, I recommend wearing layers because it is freezing up there!

Try Swiss Fondue

After spending a day in the mountains, when you get back to Zermatt, I recommend trying Swiss fondue! The traditional way is a mix of Swiss cheese and white wine. It is mainly served with bread, but you can also pair it with potatoes, charcuterie, mushrooms, and cornichons (pickles). I wasn’t the biggest fan because it has an alcohol after taste. It might have been the restaurant we went to so I didn’t have anything to compare it to. But it was a cool experience and a must-try in Switzerland!

Hotel in Zermatt

The hotel we stayed at in Zermatt was BEAUSiTE Zermatt . This boutique hotel is beautiful and has an amazing view of the Matterhorn. The staff is super nice and friendly. The breakfast and lunch is so good and I highly recommend visiting their spa! We went to the spa in the morning and had the pool to ourselves!

Day 3: Morning in Zermatt / Take Train to Interlaken

Transportation Info: 2 hour train from Zermatt to Interlaken

On your last morning in Zermatt, you can sleep in, have a late breakfast, and relax at your hotel spa! The spa is usually less crowded in the mornings and sometimes you can have the whole place to yourself. Carl and I love busy itineraries, but we also love making time to relax throughout our vacations. We spent our last morning in Zermatt hanging out at the hot tub and taking in the view of Zermatt and the Matterhorn one last time before we left.

Now it is time to visit the next city in Switzerland, Interlaken. Interlaken is nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps and lies between two lakes, Thun and Brienz – hence the name! Interlaken is also a great home base for exploring the central region of Switzerland.

Once you arrive in Interlaken, you can walk around the city, explore, and grab dinner.

Day 4: Spend the Day in Interlaken

Interlaken is filled with so many things to do. There are amazing hiking trails to explore. You can take a day trip to Jungfraujoch , which is known as the Top of Europe. If you are up for an adventure, paragliding is also a very popular activity in Interlaken!

Chocolate Making Class in Interlaken

A fun activity Carl and I did in Interlaken was making our own chocolate! We took a chocolate making workshop class with the Funky Chocolate Club . It was so much fun!

The class is 90 minutes and started off with talking about the history of chocolate and how it’s made. We got to try all different types of chocolate – cocoa bean, cacao nibs, various percentages of dark chocolate, milk chocolate, white chocolate, and even red chocolate made from ruby cacao beans!

We got to make three chocolate bars and chose either milk or dark chocolate. Carl and I made ours with dark chocolate! After selecting the chocolate, the first step is tempering the chocolate. We have to stir it until reaches 30 degrees Celsius. Then, you pour the chocolate into a funnel that you use to fill three chocolate bar molds. After filling the chocolate molds, you get to decorate! You have the option to decorate with icing and an array of different toppings.

After you are done decorating, the chocolate bars take about an hour to cool. You can either walk around the city or hang out at the Funky Chocolate Club’s cafe and try something from their menu. I recommend their hot chocolate or chocolate covered strawberries!

Day 5: Day Trip from Interlaken to Grindelwald

Transportation Info: 45 minute train from Interlaken to Grindelwald

On your second day in Interlaken, you will be taking a day trip to Grindelwald. Grindelwald is a beautiful mountain town in the Jungfrau region. It is the perfect city to visit for all the awesome outdoor activities.

We stayed one night in Grindelwald, but found the town to be quite small and not enough things to do at night. I recommend staying in Interlaken and just visiting Grindelwald for the day.

Sledging in Grindelwald

Today, we will be going sledging! Carl and I are not snowboarders or skiers, but we still wanted to do a fun snow activity. Sledding in Switzerland is totally different from the sledding we are used to doing as kids! It’s enjoyed by both adults and children. It is so much fun and really gets your adrenalin going!

There is a sled run in Grindelwald called the Jungfrau Eiger Run. It’s a 2 mile trail that takes about 30 minutes to complete (can take longer if there are more people). And you are surrounded by the most incredible views!

The season starts end of November and ends mid-April depending on the snow conditions. It is 58 CHF for a one day sledding pass. You can buy your pass here! They also have options for multiple days. This pass will give you unlimited access for the day to hike and sled in the Jungfrau region.

How to get to the Jungfrau Eiger Run? From Grindelwald, you can take a taxi or bus to the Grindelwald Terminal. From the terminal, you will take the Eiger Express to Eigergletscher, where you will begin the sled run.

Where to rent sleds? You can rent sleds at the shop, Intersport. One is located at the Grindelwald Terminal. It costs about CHF10 for one day’s use.

Day 6 + 7: Take Train to Zurich / Explore the City

Transportation Info: One hour and 33 minutes train from Interlaken to Zurich

It is time to travel to your final destination in Switzerland….Zurich! Zurich is such a beautiful city with so much history and things to see! It is one of the most popular places to visit in Switzerland. You will find luxury shops, historic streets, and a beautiful waterfront. I recommend spending at least two days on your 7 day Switzerland itinerary in Zurich to explore the city

Here are the top things that you can do in Zurich, Switzerland :

Walk the Historic Street of Augustinergasse

Augustinergasse is one Zurich’s most beautiful historical street. I love the colorful buildings and how it feels like you are in a fairytale. You will find a mix of local boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.

Visit a Chocolate Shop: Laderach + Confiserie Sprungli

You can’t visit Switzerland without buying their famous Swiss chocolate! The two most popular chocolate shops are Laderach and Confiserie Spruengli . We got a sample from both to compare! They were both really good but Spruengli was my favorite!

Explore Altstadt (Old Town)

One of the main things to do in Zurich is to explore Altstadt, also known as Old Town. It’s filled with picturesque buildings and charming cobblestone streets.

Explore Bahnhofstrasse

Bahnhofstrasse is Zurich’s main downtown street and one of the world’s expensive shopping avenues.

Church of St. Peter

The Church of St. Peter in Zurich has the oldest church clock face in Europe!

Grossmünster

Grossmünster is an iconic church in Zurich to visit. It sits along the Limmat River. I love the medieval architecture design.

For the best photo, I recommend walking across the river.

Fraumunster Church

Fraumunster Church is another stunning historic church to visit that is located in Zurich’s old town.

Check out the views at Lindenhof Hill

Lindenhof Hill is a nice quiet park that overlooks the city. You will get great views of Zurich and the river.

Zurich Christmas Markets

If you are planning this trip in December like I did, I highly recommend checking out Zurich’s Christmas markets! Here is a list of the ones you can visit:

• Zurich Train Station – Christkindlimarkt
• Werdmuhleplatz Christmas Market
• Niederdorf Christmas Market

Currency and Credit Cards

Since Switzerland is not part of the EU, they use the Swiss Franc. Credit cards are widely accepted so we actually never used cash which was super convenient.

Packing Tips

Check out my Winter Vacation Packing Guide to get a list of items to pack for your trip and tips on what to pack for a cold weather trip.

Hope you enjoyed my 7 Days in Switzerland Itinerary!

Related posts

How to Spend 5 days in Greece : Mykonos and Santorini

Our Babymoon at St Lucia Sugar Beach Viceroy Resort

W Maldives Resort Review – What to Expect on Your Stay

12 comments.

Thanks for sharing your experience of Swiss visit during December !!! Did u visit any christmas market? How’s night life there on christmas eve? Total budget? Thanks for sharing your experience of Swiss visit during December !!!

I’m glad you enjoyed reading about my experience! My favorite Christmas market I visited in Zurich was Christkindlimarkt at the Zurich Train Station. We weren’t there for Christmas Eve so I’m not sure how the night life would be on that night, but Zurich is magical during the holidays! This was our honeymoon so we did splurge a little bit on this trip 🙂

Sorry I missed it, but where did you stay in Interlaken and Zurich? Recommend? Ty!

For the hotels in Interlaken and Zurich, we only stayed at each hotel for one night. In Interlaken, we stayed at the Boutique Hotel Bellevue. It was a nice hotel and we loved the location since we were able to walk everywhere. In Zurich, we stayed at the Sorell Hotel St. Peter. This was also a nice hotel! We enjoyed our stays at both of these!

Hello Deanna!

Thank you for sharing your experience and all these info. I wonder, how expensive is it? i am thinking of going there for my 35th birthday. I was wondering what would be my budget if i went for those exact 7 days.

Hi! I’m so glad you enjoyed my post! Visiting Switzerland for your birthday will be amazing! Depending on which hotels you book, your budget will probably be between $3,000-$5,000.

• Pingback: The Ultimate Guide to Sledding in Grindelwald - Everything Dee

Hi Deanna – just wanted to let you know I used your article for so much inspiration (with a few changes). My first stop was Montreaux, but then went to Zermatt. Stopped at the coffee shop you recommended as well as got a spa pass for the day at Beausite (the rate was a bit too high to stay there). Then went to. Interlaken – we LOVED the chocolate making class. Then on to Zurich. Thanks for all the inspiration!

Hi Kelly! I am so happy to hear that!! I’m so glad you had an amazing trip!

I am so happy I stumbled across your blog! I’m currently planning a trip to Switzerland in December. This gave me so really good ideas and the confidence I can do this on my own without the expense of a travel agent.

My concern is luggage. Is luggage allowed on the trains?

That makes me so happy to hear! I’m so glad you found my post helpful! Luggage is allowed on the trains. There are luggage racks on the train that you can put your luggage on or you can just have them next to you. My husband and I each had a large suitcase and a backpack and it was always easy bringing them on the trains. Feel free to ask me any other questions while planning your trip!

• Pingback: The Ultimate Guide to Sledding in Grindelwald - EverythingDee

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Discover more from everything dee.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

20 Absolute Best Places to visit in Switzerland in Winter

Love it? Share it!

What is MOST amazing in this world:  imagine being surrounded by mesmerizing Alps, views of sparkling winter wonderland everywhere you see, with Christmas festive mood and cheer. Well, let’s take you to the best places to visit in Switzerland in winter to experience a fairytale getaway! 

There are so many reasons to visit Switzerland in winter. It is an off-season for cities, yes expect fewer crowds at attractions. Ski resorts are busy, but for good reasons and they have plenty of things to keep skiers and non-skiers happy and delighted! 

Yes, it is a perfect winter getaway for romantic couples, skiers and outdoor lovers, festive cheer, and family adventures. Switzerland gives Canada such a competition, that it’s hard for us to choose which one we love more – winter at home (Banff, Canada) or Switzerland.

20 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in Winter

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Preparing for your trip to Switzerland winter getaways

As a country Switzerland is compact. It is easy to get from an international airport to a ski resort or Alpine town using their train network. You can buy a Swiss Pass to save money on your commute.  

You can explore a city/town and then head to the mountains for a weekend or more – so whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an adrenaline-filled winter sports getaway, Switzerland has you covered. 

What are the Winter Months in Switzerland? 

The winter months in Switzerland are from December to February. Starting from November the weather becomes chilly and crowds are fewer. December pulls crowds to pretty Christmas markets and towns .

January and February are the coldest months in the country, and they are perfect for winter sports and festivals. They are also considered peak seasons for winter activities. 

JANUARY is the cheapest month to fly to Switzerland! And it is also the coldest!

Temperatures:

• Zurich: High: 2 C/35.6 F  Low: 0 C/32 F
• Lucerne : High: 4 C/39.2 F  Low: – 2 C/28.3 F
• St Moritz: High: – 2 C/28.4 F  Low: – 16 C/3.2 F
• Zermatt : High: 2 C/35.6 F  Low: – 7 C/19.4 F

READ : Our post on 7 days in Switzerland Itinerary , combines multiple destinations in one winter trip

Does Switzerland have snow all year?

Switzerland is not covered in snow all year long, and that’s why winter is special if you wish to see snow. Overall it experiences a mild climate. Trust me, their winters are milder than in Canada! 

Mountains or high altitude areas are different, they are mostly covered in snow in winter time. But cities and towns are milder, you will see snow and it will be cold, but not severe cold (temperatures don’t drop below – 15 degrees Celcius for 5 degrees F, for prime destinations).

Read : When is the best time to visit Switzerland?

Switzerland winter packing list

Here is a packing list for Switzerland in winter, you can grab a printable copy here

• Warm Boots – 1 or 2. Wear them in-flight to travel light. Click to buy this warm boot from Sorel
• Sneakers or comfortable shoes – For all the walking and wandering in the old town and transiting through different cities
• Warm socks – Carry a few (depending on your stay) 
• Warm Parka Jacket – Temperatures in the winter in Switzerland are below the freezing point for most places listed in this article. It will be colder and chillier when you go to observation platforms on the mountain top
• Cardigan/thermals – Carry 2 cardigans to wear as a layer inside the jacket. If you are skiing or not used to minus temperatures, then add thermals to the list as well. 
• Tops/thermals –  Long sleeves tops or thermal wear to keep you warm. 
• Pants/Jeans
• Sweater Dress – For Christmas markets. You can pair them with leggings 
• Leggings or long johns
• Warm cap or beanie – Carry 1 or 2. Get something with a pop of color for your photos
• Scarf – Travel scarf for in-flight, and outdoor
• Warm Gloves – My hands get zapped the most in the winter. And Switzerland is no different. Carry gloves to stay warm and toasted. 
• Sleepwear or loungewear
• Undergarments 

20 Best Places to visit in Switzerland in winter

1. zurich: festive cheer in zurich, shop & dine.

How much I LOVE Zurich! Zurich is one of the prettiest cities in Switzerland . The medieval old town or Altstadt is absolutely stunning in the winter. Festive lights are lit up everywhere, from streets, shops, and sightseeing attractions. Read our 2 days in Zurich itinerary

Located in the old town are prime tourist attractions like the Fraumünster, Grossmünster, Lindenhof Hill, and of course Bahnhofstrasse.

One of my favorite things to do in Zurich in winter is to wander the Bahnhofstrasse with hot chocolate in hand, whilst soaking in the festive cheer. There is a small Christmas culinary market set here for the season (Werdmühleplatz), which is a must visit. 

Read : One day in Zurich itinerary

In the Old Town, visit the Fraumünster. This 11th century church is stunning inside with stained glass windows and outside, as it is wrapped in the festive spirit. 

Christmas Markets in Zurich is one of the finest in Europe. The largest market is located at the main train station, so definitely stop by here before making your way to other places in Switzerland. The crowd puller is the giant Swarovski Christmas tree, adorned with twinkling lights. 

Zurich is an excellent starting point to explore more of Switzerland. Zurich Airport is the largest in the country and the principal hub of Swiss International Air Lines. Read our guide on accommodation in Zurich

2. Bern: UNESCO World Heritage Site for an epic Switzerland winter vacation

Bern, the capital of Switzerland is just as magical in winter, as it is during the other months of the year. Bern Old Town is a UNESCO world heritage site and is filled with beautiful architecture including the iconic Zytglogge Clock Tower.  

During Christmas time, the city’s old town transforms into a festive winter wonderland. Here you will find beautiful decorations adorning every corner and plenty of Christmas markets to explore.

The largest market in Bern takes place at Waisenhausplatz Square. Here you will find a lovely traditional market selling local handicrafts, decorations, and festive treats like mulled wine, sausages, and hot chocolate. Don’t miss the illuminated Christmas tree standing tall in the middle of the square.

Berner Münster Weihnachtsmarkt is a wonderful sight with views of the Bern Cathedral and colorful stalls. 

Bundesplatz or Parliament Square offers ice skating opportunities from December to February. Here you can lace up your skates and take a spin around on the ice rink for an hour or two. Popular with locals as well as tourists, this is a great place to soak in some winter cheer.

To get into the festive spirit further, attend one of the many Christmas concerts in Bern or enjoy a lovely fondue dinner. 

If you are looking to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city, there are tons of ski slopes nearby. 

Read: One day in Bern itinerary

3. Basel: For Christmas Markets in Switzerland and nearby

Basel, located in the northwestern corner of Switzerland, is another city bustling with Christmas cheer. 

In Basel’s medieval Old Town (Altstadt), you will find plenty of activities happening during winter including carol-singing performances around Marktplatz – located in front of Basel’s beautiful Town Hall (Rathaus), old-fashioned Christmas markets with local art and crafts, classic carousel rides, and live music concerts.

Basel’s winter festival and Weihnachtsmarkt takes place around Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz Squares. Here you will find Christmas decorations, fun activities, and a fairground. 

The city’s traditional Christmas Market is also located in these two squares – Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz. There are plenty of stalls selling festive treats like gingerbread cookies, traditional Swiss sweets, and warm drinks to keep you cozy and entertained throughout your stay.

Don’t miss the Christmas Parade where locals gather to enjoy the festivities with live music, dancing, and traditional masks.

When it is warm take a leisurely stroll along the Rhine riverfront and soak in the views of Basel’s Gothic architecture that are truly breathtaking.

If you still have time on your Basel itinerary , take a day trip to Colmar in France and enjoy Christmas markets. Or embark on winter hiking by crossing the border to Germany!

Read: One day in Basel itinerary

4. Engelberg: For cross country skiing in winter

Just an hour away from Zurich by train, Engelberg is the perfect winter escape. The village nestles amongst snow-capped peaks and offers excellent skiing conditions. 

There are a variety of ski areas nearby, catering for all levels – beginners can enjoy gentle slopes at Gerschnialp; more advanced skiers should head to Titlis Glacier Ski Resort (Engelberg-TITLIS ski area). 

You will be spoilt for choice in Engelberg, where there is plenty to do after a day of skiing and snowboarding. 

There are several restaurants and cafes serving warm dishes as well as local specialties like Swiss cheese fondue and rosti (potato pancakes). Spend some time exploring the old village or visit the famous Engelberg Abbey, which is particularly picturesque in winter.

Engelberg will be a memorable experience for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, combined with quaint Swiss mountain charm and plenty of festive cheer!

5. Rapperswil: Visiting Christmas Markets in Switzerland

Located 30 minutes outside of Zurich, and adorned by Lake Zurich is another medieval town of Rapperswil. It is home to one of the most popular Christmas markets in Switzerland.

The entire town is decorated with beautiful lights and the old town area is like a fairytale Christmas village with around 250 market stalls. Shop here for Christmassy decor, gifts, and souvenirs to take back home. 

Read : Most beautiful towns in Switzerland

The market area has fun activities for children, including musical events, choirs, carousel rides, and concerts. 

Other than the Christmas markets, ensure you visit Rapperswil Castle. It is the landmark attraction in the city. During summer the castle has a beautiful rose garden, which is worth visiting. Rightly called, the “City of Roses”, the views of Lake Zurich make it very romantic and serene.  

6. Zermatt: A Fairytale Resort Town

The quaint town of Zermatt looks straight out of a fairytale. With the backdrop of the Matterhorn, the stunning peak in the Alps, and cute lanes and cafes, Zermatt will melt your heart.

You can easily reach Zermatt from Zurich (4 hour train ride, one way), and stay there to enjoy winter sports. That is one of the major reasons why mountaineers love Zermatt so much. It is quick and easy access to the mountains and world-class skiing! 

If you are not into skiing, don’t worry. How about embarking on a cable car ride in the Swiss Alps to soak in the mountain views, up close and personal? Cable cars take you to the surrounding mountains, maybe plan that with your loved one. And enjoy a relaxing romantic winter getaway in the mountain. 

7. Saas – Fee: Winter Sports Adventures

Saas-Fee is a ski village located in the Saastal or the Saas Valley. It falls within the jurisdiction of the canton of Valais in Switzerland. You can reach Saas-Fee from Zermatt. The road distance between the two places is 50.9 km (36.6 miles).

Why you must visit Saas Fee in winter because it is as iconic as a traditional ski resort town gets – pretty accommodations, mountain views, ice rinks, and sports. BUT… it is still a hidden gem, and not super crowded like Zermatt. 

In Saas-Fee, you can enjoy prime winter activities like skiing, cross-country skiing, and tobogganing, and also get into the body of the glacier at the Ice Pavilion. The town has a car-free city centre, and is known for its stunning views of mountains in Europe.  

8. Aarau: Small town, offbeat, and great for a snowy getaway

Aarau is a small city located in northern Switzerland in Aargau, just a stone’s throw away from Zurich. It has become increasingly popular during the winter season due to its picturesque scenery, Jura mountain views, and spectacular Christmas markets. 

Aarau’s old town retains its charm despite modern development. A notable characteristic of Aarau is the abundance of what is known as “Dachhimmel” – the exquisitely painted undersides of the eaves found in the charming old town centre. 

Make sure to take a stroll through Aarau’s cobblestoned streets, explore the old city centre and visit some of its historical attractions such as the Hallwyl Castle, and Art Gallery

The central square of the old town is home to the Weihnachtsmarkt Aarau, where you will find colorful and lively Christmas markets. 

Aarau is also renowned for its stunning natural beauty, so why not go for a winter hike through one of the nearby forests or take advantage of skiing opportunities in the local area? With plenty to do and see, Aarau is a great winter escape.

9. Grindelwald: For a charming snowy getaway

Grindelwald in winter is a fantastic place to visit. Nestled at the foot of the Swiss Alps, Grindelwald is known for its breathtaking mountain scenery and world-class ski resorts. 

Take a cable car up to the stunning First Cliff Walk, where you can take in the magnificent views of the valley and mountains. The view from here is especially beautiful during winter when it’s all covered in snow. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, try skiing at nearby resorts like Grindelwald and Kleine Scheidegg/Männlichen – Grindelwald/Wengen. There are also plenty of opportunities for snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tobogganing here.

Christmas in Grindelwald is truly a magical experience. The town centre is full of festive lights and decorations that turn it into a winter wonderland. There’s also an annual Christmas market in the village square which attracts tourists from all over the world. 

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure in the mountains, Grindelwald in winter is sure to be a memorable experience! 

10. Wengen: Charming mountain town, and winter activities

Wengen is a picturesque village that lies in the Jungfrau region of Switzerland.

From Zurich, it takes 3-4 hours to reach Wengen by train. And your Swiss Travel Pass will include a ride there! 

In winter, the small Swiss town offers a ton of activities such as skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and more. In fact, it is very popular with visitors from December to March when snow accumulates at the slopes making it excellent for skiing.  

The snow-covered landscape of Wengen, above the Lauterbrunnen valley , makes for some of the most beautiful views in Switzerland. From here, you can also head to Kleine Scheidegg and enjoy the fresh powder in the ski resort of Männlichen, one of the largest in the region.  

Not into skiing? No problem. The village of Wengen is the perfect winter destination for those who want a sense of peace and relaxation, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Take a leisurely stroll through its narrow streets, admire the traditional chalets, and enjoy some traditional Swiss cuisine.

If you’re looking for a romantic weekend away, Wengen also offers plenty of cozy accommodation options such as beautiful mountain lodges and boutique hotels. What better way to end an adventurous day in the Alps than curling up in a warm chalet with breathtaking views over the snow-covered valley?

11. Bernina Express: Embark on a scenic train ride in the winter in Switzerland 

Train rides in Switzerland are super scenic. And in the winter it is even more gorgeous. Imagine tucked in a blanket (in a train with huge glass windows) and drooling at the snow-dusted landscape and the light rays of the sun. 

For those seeking a relaxing romantic getaway, this experience is a must. There are many train routes in Switzerland, each connecting different touristy points.

The most popular and favorite is the Bernina Express. This train route connects St. Moritz in Switzerland with the town of Tirano Italy, via the Bernina Pass.

The entire ride is completed in 4-hours, one way. You can make reservations for the Bernina Express trains in winter for CHF10 per seat.

12. Chur in Winter: Oldest city in Switzerland

Chur is the oldest city in Switzerland and one of the country’s most fascinating destinations. Located in the Graubünden region, Chur is an ideal winter getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of a big city.

The old town of Chur is filled with captivating buildings, including Gothic churches, Renaissance-style palaces, and quaint cobbled alleyways.

Chur is also known for its lively nightlife and excellent culinary scene, making it a great destination for foodies. The city’s restaurants offer a variety of local specialties, and you can also join food tours to sample nut tart, dried meat, capuns, and röteli (delicious cherry liqueur). 

No visit to Chur would be complete without trying the local wine.

If you’re looking for some winter fun, Chur also offers plenty of activities for all ages and abilities. You can hit the local mountain slopes or visit the nearby ski resorts of Furggabüel and the Dreibündenstein for skiing and snowboarding.

Chur is an ideal winter destination for those who want to experience the best of Swiss culture and architecture, as well as enjoy some exciting winter sports. Many bucket list panoramic train rides (Glacier Express and Bernina Express) have a stop at the Chur Station making it an amazing Swiss winter hotspot for non skiers as well!

13. Glacier Express: Soak in gorgeous views of the Alps

Glacier Express is another popular scenic train route to enjoy in Switzerland. And this one takes you from Zermatt to St. Moritz. You can enjoy skiing and a romantic getaway and then continue on to St. Moritz for some more outdoorsy fun.

While onboard, the train route welcomes you with gorgeous views of the Alps as they travel bridges, snowy valleys, tunnels, and the iconic Oberalp Pass. The Swiss Pass covers the famous Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and Golden Pass scenic routes (seat reservation is extra). 

Buy : Buy your Swiss Travel Pass here

14. St. Moritz: More Winter Adventures in a picture-perfect Christmas town

St. Moritz is one of the stunning places to visit in winter in Switzerland. The nearest airport to reach St-Moritz is Lugano (LUG) Airport which is 90.4 km away. What makes this town unique is that it hosted the Winter Olympics twice, once in 1928 and 1948. 

During winters, St. Moritz turns into a snowy wonderland, and with added festive illuminations the entire town transforms into a picture perfect Christmas town. It is okay if you don’t ski, there are still amazing things to do in St Moritz.

First off, stay at a (ski) resort surrounded by jaw dropping mountain views. The beautiful alpine landscape with mountain lakes, glaciers, and slowly dusted snow makes it a dream-like winter destination.

Make time to wander the village, and learn about its history and architecture. Looking to shop? St Moritz is home to luxurious brands and pretty stores. While you are wandering, stop by to try delicious cheese fondue! 

Now, for the outdoorsy buddies. St Moritz is a skiers, tobogganers, and snowboarders paradise. From world-class skiing resorts, ice skating rinks, and infrastructure to Nature Almighty the ground is set for winter sports in St Moritz. 

Ski resorts and hotels have everything you need (from ski rentals, and instructors to transportation) to make your dream winter vacation, a reality! 

15. Jungfrau region: Head to the Top of Europe

Jungfrau region is located in the Bernese Oberland region in Switzerland. It is known for one of the most stunning peaks in Europe –  the Jungfraujoch. Even more popular is the highest railway station on the continent, called the ‘Top of Europe’; which pulls crowds to the region.

Being a touristy site, you can expect bustling activities in the winter time too. Primarily visitors flock there for winter sports (skiing, snowboarding) and scenic mountain views.

At 3454 metres high, this is an EPIC spot to take in all of what Switzerland stands for – alps, snow and ice, and jaw-dropping landscape, as far as your eyes can go. 

Other than the views and skiing, you can also embark on winter hikes in and around Jungfrau. 

16. Château-d’Oex: Best Balloon Festival in Switzerland winter bucket list

One of the best balloon festivals worldwide is located in the cute town of Château-d’Oex in Switzerland. And this lovely festival happens every year at the end of January and lasts for nine days. So here’s another great item to check off in Switzerland in winter!

Many countries around the world participate in the festival, and each country shows off its beautiful colorful balloons. The balloons fly around the town, surrounded by tall standing magnificent mountains (I mean it is the Alps!).

There is also a lot of food and drinks, so you can drink while you watch the colorful balloons light up the sky. One of the best things to do at this festival is to ride a balloon. When on top, it is one of the most beautiful views you will ever see!

This festival tradition has been going on since 1979 and is a must add to your Swizterland bucket list . On one Wednesday, there is even a day when the festival is dedicated to the children. It is an especially great time to bring the family on this day. 

Zurich to the town of Château-d’Oex is 3 hours by car or train.

17. Lucerne: Explore the city with a chapel bridge and stunning views

Lucerne is one of the best places to visit Switzerland in winter. For one, the city is not super crowded as it is off-season, and secondly, the hotels and Airbnbs are super affordable around this time.

BONUS? You ask. Lucerne is stunning, and when you look up or wander a bit outside of the city, the mesmerizing snow capped mountains are not far off. 

According to us, Christmas is the BEST time to visit this charming city. So plan your trip for December and January to enjoy festive lights ( and accommodation fares ). The iconic Chapel Bridge is a must visit, and imagine how beautiful it looks with all the twinkling lights under the crisp winter nights.

Just outside of the Lucerne Old Town is the popular Mount Pilatus. If you are staying in Lucerne, use this time to reach the top of the mountain, and enjoy breathtaking views. 

Another option is to head to Mount Rigi from Lucerne by train. The views from Mount Rigi are also beautiful, although it is not as high as Mount Pilatus, it is worth a visit. 

Read: One day in Lucerne itinerary

18. Locarno: For a warmer winter vacation

Locarno, situated on the banks of Lake Maggiore in Switzerland, is known for being the warmest place in the country. Here you’ll find warmer temperatures of around 1 degree to 5 degrees Celcius (33 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit) even in the winter months. 

So if you are ready to leave layers of clothing to soak in the warm winter sun then Locarno is the place to be! You can comfortably walk the town centre, hang out on an outdoor patio and hop through markets.

The cableway located at the centre of Locarno takes you to a snow-covered local mountaintop where you can admire the views over Lake Maggiore and the Ascona-Locarno region (Passerelle observation platform). If you like some winter sports, you can enjoy snowshoeing at the slopes here. 

Back in the town centre, you can relish delicious local specialties, like fruity mulled wine and freshly baked Swiss pastries. 

If you’re lucky enough to be here during the festive season, you can also enjoy Locarno’s annual Christmas market. Stalls are set up in the central square offering traditional crafts, handmade decorations, and gifts. 

The streets of Locarno are adorned with colorful lights and decorations this time of year, making it even more beautiful. 

Read : Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary

19. Piz Gloria: Dine at the world’s highest revolving restaurant

Would you like to celebrate Christmas and New Years at the world’s highest revolving restaurant? Then look no further than the Piz Gloria. It is located at a height of 2,970 metres (9,740 feet) at the summit of the Schilthorn near Mürren.

Murren is in the Bernese Oberland region in Switzerland.

You can reach Schilthorn by cable car from Mürren. Head there for celebrations, while you soak in mountain views. Apart from the restaurant, there is a viewing platform to enjoy the panoramic views. 

The nearest airport to Mürren is located in Berne which is 49.5 km or 30.7 miles away. 

20. Geneva: Winter outdoor and indoor fun

Geneva is a fun city to visit in Switzerland. Geneva in the winter is perfect for those who love to spend time outdoors as well indoors. There are skating rinks, and skiing opportunities in the nearby Jura Mountains, home to three Alpine Ski Areas.

If this is your first time skiing, ensure you opt for a beginner class they are totally worth it.

Geneva’s fountain Jet d’eau is a must visit. Dress warm as it is quite cold and chilly near the waters. 

If the cold is too much for you, head to the museums. First off, the United Nations site at the Palais des Nations building. For those who love History (like me), visit the Musee d’ Art et d’Histoire – learn all about prehistoric cultures here. 

Geneva is also an amazing Swiss destination to explore Christmas markets in the winter. They have not one, but several markets sprinkled all across the city, where you can enjoy mulled wine and other typical Christmas treats.

The most traditional-style Christmas market is on Rue du Mont-Blanc, which is held from late November to early January. Food is an important part of Christmas celebrations. Head to Café du Soleil to try their delicious fondue. 

If you are in Geneva, the Sunday before Christmas ensures you don’t miss the Coupe de Noël, which is Geneva’s annual Christmas swimming race. In this race about 2,000 swimmers dive into the icy waters of Lake Geneva, wearing fancy dresses and wetsuits. 

Is it worth visiting Switzerland in winter?

The winter months are one of the best times to visit Switzerland. Wintertime can be especially magical, with the snow-capped mountains and sparkling lights in the city streets. 

If you enjoy winter activities such as skiing or snowboarding, then Switzerland is definitely a great place to visit during the colder months. There are plenty of things to do in Switzerland for non-skiers too from visiting Christmas markets to soaking in the views of the snowy landscapes! 

Additional Travels Tips for Switzerland Winter Trip

Travel documents and visa

Switzerland is not part of the European Union, but they follow the Schengen agreement for non-visa-exempt countries. Read our detailed guide to applying to the Schengen visa.

When visiting Switzerland with an Indian passport, a Schengen Visa will be required.

Visitors with US and Canadian passports do not require a visa to enter the country and stay for 90 days; however, from 2025, an online authorization – ETIAS – is required prior to travel. 

There are tons of direct flight options available from both the United States and Canada to Zurich, Switzerland.

A week’s itinerary is enough to explore the prime highlights in Switzerland. Start in Zurich or Geneva, and then from there explore Zermatt, Montreux, Jungfraujoch, and many other destinations like Berne, Lucerne, and Lausanne in Switzerland. If short on time, you can read and follow one of our 5 days in Switzerland itinerary

There are lots of things to do in Switzerland for the non skier from taking a scenic train ride, to visiting Christmas & food markets. One can also enjoy the snow without skiing – by staying in a resort, soaking in a hot pool, spa, or shopping!

It is cold in Switzerland during the winter months. At high altitudes, it will be colder, as compared to cities. Snow is definitely common.  In the mountainous areas are coldest temperatures are around -10°C or 14°F. In the central part of the country, expect temperatures to be about 0°C or 32°F. Southern areas are warmer as compared to the rest, averaging around 4°C or 39°F. During January and February, expect only a few hours of sunlight.

Winter, overall is a great time to visit Switzerland. In December the snow starts to fall, making everything pretty at the mountain ski resorts. In various cities and small towns, Switzerland gears up for the festive season, and you will find stunning Christmas markets, and seasonal decorations and fests pop up everywhere in the country!

January is the coldest month in Switzerland.

January is the coldest month in Switzerland, making it a good time to visit for those who love to ski and all things related to snow sports. Cities are not really crowded but the ski resorts of Valais and St. Moritz are especially busy around this time!

Located on the southern border of Switzerland is Locarno, which is known to be one of the warmest places in the country. It boasts 2300 hours of sunshine annually.

There is no legal requirement for getting winter tires, but it is recommended when you are driving in the colder months in Switzerland.

When visiting Switzerland in winter, it’s important to dress for the cold temperatures. Layering is key – starting with a base layer of lightweight wool, followed by an insulating mid layer and topped with a wind-resistant outer layer.  A good hat and scarf are essential accessories that will keep you warm while exploring the outdoors. Waterproof boots are essential for keeping your feet dry in the snow. If you need to go skiing, make sure to invest in a good pair of ski pants and jacket.  A winter trip to Switzerland is an amazing experience – with the right clothing, it’s easy to stay warm and enjoy the beauty of this stunning country even during colder months. Here is a list of items to pack for your trip to Switzerland,  – Winter (waterproof) parka or jacket – Sweaters – Thermal tops and bottoms – Snow boots – Warm socks – Warm gloves, scarves, beanie

More Switzerland travel guides:

• Where to stay in Switzerland
• 2 day Switzerland itinerary

Pin: Switzerland in winter for non skiers & skiers

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 40+ countries.

Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world particularly Europe, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. 

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

Similar Posts

Best Time to Visit Switzerland: By season & festivals

Wondering when is the best time to visit Switzerland? Switzerland is gorgeous at all times of the year and depending on what you wish to explore, and where you want to go – one particular season might work out better for you, than the other. In this detailed guide, we will go over the 4…

Best Switzerland Itinerary 7 days – Spend 7 days in Switzerland

Switzerland is one of the most stunning places on earth. With a high quality of life, gorgeous mountain views, clear lakes, and modern amenities, the Swiss landscape will surely win you over. In this best Switzerland Itinerary 7 days, we will discover some of the most beautiful places to explore in 7 days in Switzerland….

35+ Fun Things to do in Edmonton in Winter: Activities, Events & More

Looking for all the fun things to do in Edmonton in winter? You have come to the right place! We have the most comprehensive list of Edmonton winter activities, festivals, events, and more! Edmonton is the northernmost metropolis and the capital city of the Canadian province of Alberta. Edmonton is often called the “City of…

13 Best Boots for European Winter (2023-2024)

If you are heading to a snowy getaway in Europe, and wondering what to wear, we got you covered. In this post, we will share some of the best boots for European winter, that you must pack for your trip. This post is packed with useful tips about different types of boots, colors, and how…

27 Best Fall Vacations in the US for 2023

Looking for the best fall vacations in the US? You are in the right spot. Autumn or fall months are the transitional periods from summer to winter. Typically they are the months of September, October, and November. The USA experiences 4 distinct seasons, and fall is characterized by crisp mornings, shorter days, Halloween events, (my…

Switzerland Bucket List: 25 Things to do in Switzerland 

Dreaming of the Swiss Alps, rolling hills, meadows, cheese, and stunning views, here is an epic Switzerland bucket list to get you started.  Switzerland is a beautiful country in Europe. And there are amazing things to do in Switzerland for everyone, from skiing and river rafting to scenic train rides and unique festivals.  The country…

Hey Mayuri, thanks for putting this together. Any thoughts on how to travel to all of these places? For instance, we are looking at public transportation but can’t figure out if Swiss pass is the best deal. We will be there for 7 days in December and wondering if we should be looking at more than just Swiss pass or pay per ride for all of these places so we are not in a rush to cover everything. I would love to hear your thoughts on transportation.

The Swiss Travel Pass is definitely the best option out there to save on transportation. It is available and sold for 3,4, 8, or 15 days. To cover 7 days, you will need the 8-day pass.

An alternate option is to buy the 4-day pass, and then use day tours or walking tours on the remainder of the days to explore (keeping one city as a base). On the 4 days when you have the pass, you can check off the museums and special trains from your list.

From a cost perspective, if you are using trains to get to various places in Switzerland, the Swiss Pass will be the way to go!

Hope this helps!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Simple Luxe Living

Welcome to Simple Luxe Living. Here you can find topics related to travel and luxury lifestyle. Enjoy!

Switzerland In December 2023: Things To Do, Weather & Temperature

What are the best things to do in Switzerland in December? What is the weather like in Switzerland in December? What are some tips for traveling to Switzerland in December?

A winter vacation in Switzerland is usually a wise choice because of the breathtaking winter scenery that seems like it belongs in a storybook.

Despite its tiny size, Switzerland has a lot to offer travelers, particularly in the cold months like December.

Due to its great winter sports, mostly skiing, Switzerland attracts tourists from all over the world as well as a sizable number of domestic and European visitors in December, particularly from its neighbors like Germany.

Switzerland is stunning throughout the year, but in the winter when the mountains turn snowy and the air is crisp and clean, the beauty is only enhanced.

It’s hard to believe how many kilometers of slopes there are, how many white valleys you pass through on train rides, and how many snowy peaks you can see from a hot tub filled with natural mineral springs.

In addition to its stunning natural surroundings, Switzerland in December is a hive of activities, Christmas markets, and winter sports, so visiting this country this month will make you delighted.

Table of Contents

Get to know Switzerland

Switzerland is a country located in the center of western Europe, and its capital city is Bern.

It shares borders with Germany to the north, Austria, and Liechtenstein to the east, Italy to the south, France to the west, and Germany.

The Jura, Alps, and Swiss Plateau make up Switzerland’s three main geographical regions.

While the Alps make up the majority of the country, the Swiss population is mostly centered on the plateau, which is home to the country’s greatest towns and economic hubs, including Zürich, Geneva, and Basel.

The high Alps peaks and countless lakes may be found in Switzerland.

The nation is renowned for its ski resorts and hiking routes, and its towns include historical sites and medieval districts.

One of the most well-liked travel locations in Europe is Switzerland, particularly during the winter when there are so many activities to choose from.

In general, everyone who travels to this country will have a fantastic time because it is so well-arranged and beautiful.

Places to visit and things to do in Switzerland in December

Switzerland is a wonderful place to visit in the winter.

It’s hardly surprising that there are a ton of incredible things to do during this time as Switzerland transforms into a winter paradise while other nations curl up and hibernate throughout the colder months.

There is plenty for everyone to do in this incredible country, from every snowsport you want to name and serene Alpine treks to top-notch Christmas shopping and attractive, snow-covered villages to visit.

Here is a list of the best places to visit and things to do during your visit to Switzerland in December:

TRAIN RIDES

There is no better way to see this small but very beautiful nation than by train.

The finest natural attractions in the country, including lush valleys, and towering mountain peaks, are all reachable by rail, and some of these routes are regarded as some of the most beautiful in the whole world.

The Bernina Express will be the first one to mention.

By traversing the Swiss Engadin Alps, this railway connects Chur with Poschiavo in Switzerland and Tirano in Italy.

From the panoramic crimson carriages of the Bernina Express, you can enjoy breathtaking vistas.

The second one to mention will be the popular, Glacier Express .

This train runs between the Swiss Alpine ski resorts of St. Moritz and Matterhorn, which are close to Zermatt.

Just after leaving Brig, the Glacier Express offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, the Matter Valley, and the glistening Rhone.

And the third one to mention is called Jungfrau Railway .

Jungfrau Railway transports passengers to Europe’s highest train station.

A portion of the Jungfrau railway line tunnels through the Monch and Eiger Mountains, which are surrounded by the snow-capped Jungfrau Mountain.

Some other train journeys also worth mentioning are Cogwheel Railway and Gornergrat Cog Railway.

SHOPPING AT CHRISTMAS MARKETS

The opportunity to shop at some of Europe’s top Christmas markets is one of the joys of visiting Switzerland in the winter.

During the holidays The Christmas markets of Basel, Bern, Zürich, Baden, Lausanne, and Lucerne are among the best, and the winter beauty in various locations radiates its Christmas ambiance with its glittering lights.

Christmas markets abound in Zürich, notably Christkindlimarkt , the biggest indoor market in Europe, which is located within the main railway station.

In Basel, a large number of craftsmen set up shop in the central city center to sell their products, whilst Bern’s Waisenhausplatz Christmas market sells souvenirs in addition to Christmas decorations and presents.

WINTER HIKING

For many individuals, going on a winter walk in Switzerland is a dream come true.

The breathtaking peaks, a profusion of snow, and the captivatingly quiet landscape produce a scene from a fairy tale.

When you combine the excellent location for enjoying the coldest season with the warm and inviting tiny eateries you come across when winter trekking in Switzerland.

The finest places to go snow hiking in Switzerland are at higher elevations.

The mountains have more snow than the lowlands and lower areas.

Easy snow pathways are ideal in high-altitude valleys.

The Upper Engadine, Lower Engadine , Upper Rhone valley , and Matter valley have some of the best locations for this kind of activity.

ICE-SKATING RINKS

There are several ice skating rinks in Switzerland’s cities, but the best experience is to skate on a natural rink.

In Switzerland, several natural rinks are surrounded by woods or located deep within valleys, and ice skating on these rinks is a lot of pleasure.

Europe’s largest natural ice rink is located in the Swiss winter sports destination Davos, and other lakes in the Jura region of Switzerland freeze over in the winter and convert into enormous ice rinks also ideal for enjoying this sport.

There are also some other noteworthy locations for ice skating in Switzerland, such as Katzensee Lake , Lac de Joux , Lac des Rousses , and Lac des Tailleres .

THERMAL SPAS

It’s a must-try while visiting Switzerland to unwind in a heated outdoor pool as snowflakes fall on your face, whether it’s at a modest spa center or a grand health resort.

Leukerbad-Therme , the biggest spa destination in the Alps, draws water from a private spring that is rich in minerals.

There is also The Mineralbad & Spa Rigi Kaltbad , which has a view of Lake Lucerne and is one of the most well-known thermal baths in Switzerland.

Here, you may choose between an indoor pool and an outdoor pool, as well as herbal steam rooms and a patio for relaxing.

And one more to mention will be The Termali Salini & Spa on Lake Locarno, which has outdoor saltwater lakes that overlook the lake, is another fantastic thermal spa resort.

TITLIS CLIFF WALK

The narrow, one-meter-wide Cliff Walk suspension bridge, which is located three thousand meters above sea level and five hundred meters above the snow-covered cliffs, is not for someone who has a weak heart.

It does, however, provide some breathtaking mountain vistas as Europe’s tallest suspension bridge.

Starting with a Rotair gondola trip up Mount Titlis, which gives rotating vistas over the beautiful glaciers, you may reach the bridge itself, which runs along the face of the mountain.

The lengthy bridge connects this location with the Ice Flyer glacier chairlift station on the opposite side, and you must pass through a glacier cave to get to an observation platform once you arrive.

STAYING IN AN IGLOO

When going to Switzerland in December, you can spend the night in an igloo for a unique experience.

The igloos at many Alpine ski resorts are designed to double as ice chambers in the winter. Each location has its offerings, but igloo rooms include sleeping bags, welcoming hot beverages, and either lamps or battery-operated lighting.

The well-known Berghotel Engstligenalp igloos are situated two thousand meters above sea level on the Engstligenalp plateau in the western Alps.

A hot water bottle to keep warm in the sleeping bag, use of the restrooms and showers in the adjoining chalet, a three-course meal, and a buffet breakfast are all included in the price of the stay.

Deciding to go to a museum when visiting Switzerland in December could be a fantastic way to learn more about this country.

The most popular museum in the country is the Transport Museum in Lucerne, but there are a ton of other museums to explore.

Also one of the most popular art museums in the country is the Foundation Beyeler in Basel, and the art collection that Ernst and Hildy Beyeler assembled is on exhibit for visitors from all around the world.

There is also a fascinating indoor Olympic museum that is located in Lausanne, It is interactive and does a great job of explaining the history of the games.

Skiing in Switzerland in December

Every skier dreams of taking to the slopes in the Swiss Alps, and everyone may do so, regardless of their level of experience.

Both types of skiers will be content skiing in the Swiss Alps, whether they like groomed paths or first tracks in fresh snow.

Everyone enjoys beautiful scenery, reliable snow conditions, and an efficient lift system, and Switzerland has all three as well as a variety of destinations to suit every preference.

If you’re planning on engaging in this type of activity while visiting Switzerland, then find the best slopes for your upcoming winter trip with our list of the top five ski resorts in Switzerland, and learn more about those locations before you go.

Europe’s most recognizable mountain is located near Zermatt, the highest winter sports destination in the Alps with extensive ski terrain and more than two thousand meters of vertical drop.

A large portion of the mountain’s path network, which links two nations and three ski resorts, provides views of the imposing Matterhorn, which rises just behind the town, and which other side lies in Italy.

Skiing over the Theodul Pass and descending into the Italian trail network is one of the most memorable experiences in a skier’s lifetime.

The average temperature in Zermatt in December is from -6°C to 2°C.

Saint Moritz

With around twenty-five lifts, Saint Moritz offers terrain for skiers of all abilities.

It is renowned for having some of Switzerland’s greatest intermediate terrain, including some extremely lengthy intermediate lines.

Saint Moritz continues to be renowned for its sophisticated and expensive party scene, despite the town center losing some of its old attractions.

In this ski resort, you may discover family-friendly lodgings in Silvaplana, which is close to the Corvatsch ski area and has a kid-friendly slope and many more.

The average temperature in St. Moritz in December is from -14°C to -2°C.

The three peaks of the Jungfrau massif, which are all close to four thousand meters high, offer a scenic landscape for the two hundred kilometers of slopes and runs, many of which include many intermediate cruisers.

Take one of the hundreds of lifts and cableways to get runs, or take the Jungfraubahn railway, which can be easily accessible from Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald.

This is the highest railroad station in all of Europe, and the ski slopes in The Jungfrau are renowned for their lengthy courses and consistently heavy snow.

Beginners and novice skiers should aim toward the slopes close to Wengen, while experienced skiers can go to Mürren’s routes because they are known to be the most difficult in the area.

The average temperature in Jungfrau in December is from -18°C to -13°C.

Davos, Klosters and Parsenn

Davos is a collection of ski resorts that stretch for kilometers in the valley of the Landwasser River in eastern Switzerland.

It is one of the largest and highest-altitude winter sports destinations in Europe.

Davos and Klosters, two very different towns, serve as the two primary hubs.

Davos’ cross-country ski paths, some of which are lit up for night skiing, are also well-liked by Nordic skiers.

Choose Klosters as your base to experience the feel of an Alpine community, yet because the several ski areas are connected, it’s simple to ski any combination.

The main region, Parsenn, which connects Davos and Klosters, has some of the most difficult terrains in the Alps.

The average temperature in Davos and Parsenn in December is from -7 to 0, and in Klosters from -5°C to 2°C.

Verbier is one of the top resorts in the world for off-piste skiing because it has a wealth of backcountry terrain, well-designed slopes for long-distance skiing, and both.

The ski area in Verbier known as Torin is the most recommended for experienced skiers since it has one of the world’s most hazardous and deadly ski lines.

Advanced free riders go to Verbier’s snow park for its challenging terrain of chutes and drops, which is where the annual Verbier Ride freestyle competition and Verbier Xtreme free ride contests , both of which are a member of the Freeride World Tour , are held.

The average temperature in Verbier in December is from -9°C to -2°C.

Events in Switzerland in December

Being in Switzerland in December is such a fantastic experience, and there is so much to see and do there because it is the month of Christmas, the New Year, and the Holidays.

Even if the Christmas season is just around the corner, December in Switzerland also has some other events.

We are also going to mention some of the most spectacular festivals that are held this month.

Keep reading and find out some useful pieces of information about each of those happenings before visiting.

Some of the best events in Switzerland in December:

St. Nikolaus Day

St. Nicholas Day is celebrated on the sixth day of December and is often regarded as being an essential part of the holiday season in many European nations.

On St. Nicholas Day, families gather together in Switzerland to celebrate this event and to prepare little, unexpected gifts for one another, especially for the kids.

Other nations also have their traditions around St. Nicholas Day, ranging from more conventional celebrations to more storied rituals.

St. Stephen’s Day

A large part of Switzerland celebrates St. Stephen’s Day, which falls on December 26.

This is a really important event in the country and people all around the country spend St. Stephen’s Day with family and friends.

Some people choose to attend a church service on this day, while others use the last day of the Christmas period to stay at home and relax or to do activities such as walking or skiing.

Fête de l’Escalade

There is a celebration in Geneva that is called Fête de l’Escalade, it is celebrated on December 12 and it is also a popular event among the people there.

It is an occasion to commemorate Geneva’s historical achievements, such as torchlight processions in period attire honoring the city’s evasion of capture in 1602.

This is one of the most significant events in Geneva, Switzerland.

Illuminarium

Illuminarium is a festival that is held in Zürich and it runs from the middle of November until the end of December.

The Swiss National Museum is turned into a light festival for this event, with delicious food kiosks and thousands of lights adorning the courtyard walls.

You may also see a light and music display that is projected on the building walls.

Lausanne Lumières

Approximately twenty artists’ light displays are displayed every evening on buildings in the heart of Lausanne during Lausanne Lumières.

To visit all the structures, make a three-kilometer lap around the town and enjoy the view.

This festival is held throughout the whole month of December and on Saturdays, they often provide no-cost, English-language guided tours, for which registration is not necessary.

Weather & Temperature in Switzerland in December

As in many other countries, December marks the start of the winter season in Switzerland either.

In the mountains, the climate changes with height and slope exposure, and winter winds may also cause unexpected and changing weather.

In this month, Bern has an average temperature of -2°C to 4°C, Zürich 0°C to 4°C, Geneva 0°C to 6°C, Lucern -1°C to 4°C, Lugano 2°C to 8°C, and Davos -1°C to 4°C.

Since the northern side of the Alps has a lower average temperature than the southern side and a lower snowline, the majority of the country is situated there.

Although ski areas reopen in December, the season’s deepest snow doesn’t accumulate until later.

The month of December may be gloomy, chilly, and rainy in Switzerland’s towns, cities, and lower valleys, but it isn’t always snowy.

Lower elevations seldom get significant amounts of snow, and while it’s possible to get a dusting, true white Christmases are uncommon.

With the shortest day of the year occurring in late December, the short days make the already chilly temperatures feel considerably colder.

With December being one of the months with the highest relative humidity, it is possible that rain could turn to snow during this month.

Generally, in December, Switzerland is a lovely place to be.

You may engage in a range of pastimes throughout this month, including skiing, hiking, ice skating, train journeys, and visiting the Christmas markets that give many cities a particularly enchanted atmosphere at this time of year.

If you like to refresh a little in a delightfully chilly and distinctive winter atmosphere, December is often a great time to visit Switzerland.

Tips for visiting Switzerland in December

There may be a variety of queries you have when you plan your vacation to Switzerland, and there is also a lot to discuss, including crowds, pricing, and what to wear in addition to train passes.

We’ve put together this collection of practical travel advice for Switzerland to assist you to get ready for your trip there in December and to aid you with any queries you might have.

You may confidently plan your winter holiday to Switzerland by getting ready with our tips. Keep reading and find out!

What to wear in Switzerland in December

When traveling to Switzerland in December, it’s important to pack the appropriate clothes to be warm and cozy wherever you go.

The ideal strategy is to layer, and that goes for anywhere you go.

Layering your clothing makes it simple to modify it to the current temperature both indoors and outside.

You’ll need warmer gear than you would in town because higher elevations may get significantly cooler.

Bring a particularly thick jacket with you if you intend to explore the high peaks because it is not only extremely cold but also windy there.

Even in cities, you should dress warmly for temperatures below zero by wearing a thick jacket, a scarf, a hat, and gloves.

Winter footwear recommendations include waterproof and warm boots.

If you intend to visit a Christmas market, wearing the appropriate attire is also equally crucial.

The amount of time they’ll be spending outside is frequently underestimated, you could feel absolutely fine for an hour, but after two or three hours, you’ll feel the cold.

Prices in Switzerland in December

Since December is a month of holidays and New Year, many people will go to Switzerland to celebrate, which tends to drive up rates.

Even if there are more affordable alternatives for things like lodging and meals, you will still pay more in Switzerland than in some other countries.

Due to the ski season, December also may be rather pricey, so be aware of that too.

But don’t worry too much, because the good news is that hiking and visiting cities and landscapes on foot are both completely free in Switzerland because their natural beauty contributes significantly to the country’s popularity as a tourist destination.

Crowds in Switzerland in December

Switzerland has its first snowfall in December, which has an impact on the rise in tourism there.

People choose to travel to this nation in the winter months to take advantage of the chance to take in the stunning snowy scenery.

Early December, before many ski areas open, can still be considered low season but in the two weeks before Christmas, Switzerland shifts into the high season when the resort towns come back to life.

When visiting Switzerland in December, stay away from the busiest towns like Basel, Bern, Lucerne, Geneva, and Zürich to escape the crowds.

And finally – A trip to Switzerland!

Whether you are interested in spending your quality time skiing in the Alps or just going through the cities, December will be a great time for you to visit this country.

So, pack all of your necessities and go to Switzerland to see why it is such a magical place in December!

More destinations to discover:

• Switzerland in October
• Switzerland In November

Recent Posts

Dubai In March 2023: Things To Do, Weather & Temperature

Bali In November 2023: Things To Do Weather & Temperature

10 Exciting Things to Do in Switzerland in Winter

Switzerland in the winter is a magical place! From festive Christmas markets to world-class ski resorts and other exciting snow sports, we’ll cover the 10 best things to do in Switzerland in winter.

Whether you are visiting Switzerland in December and would like to find out about Christmas events, or want to know about the best places to visit in Switzerland in winter for sports other than skiing, this guide will help you plan for winter in Switzerland.

[ This post may contain compensated links. Please see my  disclosure policy  for more information. ]

What's in this Article

Winter Weather in Switzerland

Let’s begin by taking a look at the weather in Switzerland during winter. 

Does it snow in Switzerland in December? It certainly can be snowy in December, but the peak season for snow is between January and early March. This is why people from all over Europe often flock to Switzerland after Christmas rather than before.

In mountainous regions, snow can be expected at any time between October and April. You can, of course, expect snow at the ski resorts during winter, as it’s the very reason they exist!

Places with a high altitude will be more snowy than lower-lying areas. The towns and cities of Lucerne, Geneva, Zurich, Basel or Locarno, for example, may not be snow-clad in winter, while some of the loftiest mountain peaks may be snow-capped all year round.

If you’re wondering about visiting Switzerland in November, you should be aware that this is autumn rather than winter, so it may not yet be snowing. By the end of the month, though, you could start to see snow. 

If you’d like to see snow, but feel that it isn’t essential, then late November and early March can be good times to visit as it’s quieter. Do keep in mind, though, that during these months some cable cars and mountain railways may be closed for maintenance.

For more-or-less guaranteed snow, stick to January and February. December, meanwhile, is the best time to visit for all things festive.

Planning a trip to Switzerland? At Holidays to Switzerland we are passionate about sharing our love of Switzerland and helping you to plan the perfect trip. Read our guide to planning a trip to Switzerland to kick start your travel plans and join our free Switzerland Travel Planning group on Facebook to chat with other past and future travellers. Want monthly news and podcast updates, helpful travel tips and special deals sent straight to your inbox? Subscribe to Holidays to Switzerland and we’ll send you a bonus copy of our 10 Useful Things to Know Before You Visit Switzerland guide. 🇨🇭 Check out our exclusive discount offers and save on your Swiss vacation. 🇨🇭

Depending on exactly when and where you visit during your Switzerland winter vacation, temperatures may dip as low as -15℃ (around 5℉). Highs may reach around 6℃ (about 43℉).

You can expect chilly weather in winter, even if it’s not quite cold enough for snow. In general overnight temperatures might be well into the minuses (in celsius) and daytime highs may be in the low pluses only.

Now let’s move onto the topic of how this weather affects the best things to do in Switzerland in winter.

10 of the Best Switzerland Winter Activities

Winter in Switzerland offers the opportunity to ski world-class resorts, go snowshoeing, or try something more adventurous such as sledging, snowkiting or speedriding.

There are also plenty of winter activities in Switzerland for non-skiers, or sporty types who are seeking a change from the slopes. These include kayaking on a Swiss lake or taking in the scenery from a train or mountaintop.

Other Switzerland winter activities include fondue tasting and of course those fabulous, festive Christmas markets!

For many people, the best places to be in Switzerland during winter are the ski slopes. 

Switzerland is one of the planet’s top skiing destinations and many Swiss resorts are world famous for their white, powdery snow, smooth slopes and range of beginners’ to advanced skiers’ pistes.

The evening apres-ski scene also attracts people to some areas.

A Ski World Cup event is held during mid-January every year, firmly placing Switzerland on the global skiing map. The Internationale Lauberhornrennen Wengen isn’t the only reason the country is famous, though.

The resort areas of the Bernese Oberland and the Jungfrau Region offer lots of variety for all levels of skier, making them popular ski destinations for family trips.

The outdoor BodmiARENA in Grindelwald is in fact the biggest beginners’ ski area in the Jungfrau region, and offers plenty of snow-based family fun.

Here are some of the best ski experiences in Switzerland in winter. 

Grindelwald BodmiARENA

If you want a piece of the snowy action, visitors of all ages can ride on the child-friendly slopes at Grindelwald’s BodmiARENA. Inclusive tickets cover use of regular and balancer sleds and snow tubes as well as access to the magic carpet.

> Book your BodmiARENA family tickets

Jungfrau region ski experience

You can take this full-day trip to the slopes of the Jungfrau region from Zurich or Lucerne. This means you don’t have to stay at a ski resort to join in the fun, and it’s a trip designed specially for first-timers. All transport, equipment and tuition is supplied.

> Book your Jungfrai ski experience

Zermatt full day ski instruction

While Zermatt has year round skiing, the most powdery pistes are experienced during the winter. A full day’s tuition should get you started off properly, so you might just be zooming down those slopes in no time.

> Book your Zermatt ski instruction

Davos Ski and Fly

This unique experience takes place at the top of Jakobshorn mountain and combines both skiing and paragliding. As you’re attached to an experienced professional throughout, this ski and fly activity is thrilling yet very safe.

> Book your Davos Fly and Ski ride

Gstaad ski school

Take part in ski school in Gstaad and you’ll be assigned an instructor to match your level of experience. You’ll have around 5 hours of instruction, so you can polish your skills to perfection, all under the trained eye of a professional.

> Book Gstaad ski instruction

3 Chamonix ski resorts

This trip to Chamonix includes transport, clothing, equipment and a ski pass that gives you access to a trio of Chamonix resorts. Departing from Geneva, you’ll cross the border into France for one incredibly memorable day – with views of Mont Blanc throughout.

> Book this full day Chamonix trip

2. Speed riding

If you’re an adrenaline junkie who’s always wanted to fly, this tandem speed riding experience in Lauterbrunnen is one of the most thrilling things to do in Switzerland in winter for non-skiers. You can pick between speed riding and speed flying in tandem.

> Book speed flying or speed riding

3. Snowshoeing

For those seeking things to do in Lucerne Switzerland in winter, snowshoeing makes an exciting day trip. You can book this activity which includes snowshoes and transport, and takes place in the midst of the scenic Swiss Alps.

> Book snowshoeing in Lucerne

4. Sledging (Sledding)

Among the many exciting things to do during winter in Switzerland is this sledging experience in Lausanne. After taking the Diablerets Express ski lift, you’ll go sledging on Switzerland’s longest luge track, which is around 4.5 miles long.

5. Snowkiting

How does snowkiting on the Simplon Pass sound? This is a snow school with a difference: you’ll wear skis or a snowboard, but be pulled along by a kite as you skim over the surface of the slope. Equipment and tuition is provided.

> Book Snowkiting school

6. Scenic Swiss Views

Head to a mountain peak for stunning views of the snowy landscape. Many mountains are accessible during winter for sightseeing including Schilthorn, Jungfraujoch, Titlis, Glacier 3000, Gornergrat and more.

Mount Titlis day trip

This day trip from Zurich to Mount Titlis is the easy way to see the slopes of the mountain in addition to trying out snow tubing and skiing. Departing from Zurich, it includes a tour of Lucerne, cable car tickets and basic ski equipment.

> Book a Mount Titlis trip

Jungfraujoch day trip

Join a fully-guided tour from Zurich, Lucerne or Interlaken for an excursion to one of Switzerland’s most popular attractions, Jungfraujoch Top of Europe.

You’ll see the beauty of the Swiss alps from aboard the Eiger Express cable car and the famous Jungfrau cogwheel train with ample time to enjoy the activities and breathtaking scenery at the Top of Europe.

> Book a Jungfraujoch day trip

7. Winter Kayaking on Lake Brienz

Take part in a winter kayaking tour on the serene waters of Lake Brienz to see another natural geographical feature Switzerland is famous for – its lakes.

This is one of the top things to do in Switzerland in January for those who want to see another side of the country.

> Book a winter kayak on Lake Brienz

8. Scenic Train Ride

Take a trip on the Bernina Express or Glacier Express to experience one or both of Switzerland’s most scenic train routes.

The former connects Switzerland with Italy, while the latter passes through the Swiss Alps between St Moritz and Zermatt, and is widely known as the slowest express train in the world.

9. Sample Swiss Fondue or Raclette

Fondue tuk tuk.

Although it may be eaten all year round, fondue is traditionally a winter dish so there’s no better time to enjoy it than during a winter visit to Switzerland.

This 90-minute tuk tuk tour of Zurich is highly recommended, and includes a fondue tasting accompanied by Swiss wine. Yum!

> Book the Tuk Tuk fondue and wine tour

Raclette Rafting

Enjoy a floating feast of cheese on a Raclette rafting tour in Interlaken! Hop aboard your raft as the sun sinks below the horizon for an experience you’ll never forget.

On this 90-minute trip, you can sit back and enjoy a delicious Raclette feast whilst your professional guide paddles you along the shoreline of the Aare Canal from Bönigen to Interlaken.

The raft is fitted out with warm blankets and comfortable seats so you’ll stay warm despite being outdoors.

The Raclette Rafting experience is available from mid-September to 30 April, depending on weather conditions and water levels.

> Book the Raclette Rafting experience

10. Christmas Activities

One of the top things to do in Switzerland in December is to experience the magic of Christmas – Swiss style. 

December in Switzerland offers festive markets held in many towns and fairy lights illuminating the night skies. Options include shopping at a Christmas market , joining a guided walking tour or even taking the little ones to see Santa’s grotto.

Santa’s Grotto, near Montreux

The house of Father Christmas can be found in Rochers-de-Naye , a lofty point reached via a one-hour cogwheel train ride from Montreux. At over 2,000 metres above sea level, the grotto is full of wonder for younger visitors.

> Book your ticket to Rochers-de-Naye

Basel or Vevey Christmas Magic walking tour

See the city of Basel or the town of Vevey sparkle when you book one of these guided walking tours. You’ll be shown all the best streets and spots for seeing the Christmas lights and decorations. A trip to the Christmas market is also included.

During the tour, your guide will also tell you all about how Christmas is celebrated in the local area.

> Book the Christmas walking tour of Basel

> Book the Christmas Magic tour of Vevey

Lucerne Christmas Edition walking tour

This walking tour of Lucerne takes you to see all the city’s key sights illuminated at night by magical Christmas lights. A delicious hot drink is included to help keep you warm, alongside a gingerbread snack.

During the evening you’ll explore the Old Town, see Chapel Bridge and the River Reuss, and pay a visit to a Swiss Christmas market.

> Book the Christmas tour of Lucerne

Zermatt Christmas walking tour

If you’re seeking things to do in Zermatt in winter, then this two hour walking tour will let you into the city’s festive secrets. These include local seasonal legends and a visit to the Christmas tree of Zermatt.

> Book the Christmas tour of Zermatt

Final Thoughts on Switzerland Winter Activities

Winter is the ideal time to visit Switzerland if you’re into snow sports. It’s fantastic for skiing and the ideal place to try out a new sport such as snowshoeing, snowkiting, sledging, snow tubing or speed riding. 

There are also plenty of things to do in Switzerland in winter besides skiing. Other winter activities include taking Christmas tours, sampling traditional cheese fondue, enjoying a scenic train ride, kayaking on Lake Brienz, or venturing up to a mountain summit to soak up the stunning scenery. Don’t forget that many of the usual historic and cultural attractions are open to visitors then, too.

Unfortunately, sometimes the weather just isn’t suitable for being outside. If you happen to be in the Jungfrau Region and encounter rainy or snowy weather, there are still plenty of rainy day activities in Interlaken to keep you amused.

Switzerland Travel Essentials

Rail passes.

Swiss Travel Pass

Swiss Half Fare Card

Eurail Global Pass

Regional Rail Passes

Berner Oberland Pass

Jungfrau Travel Pass

Rail Packages

Self-Drive Packages

Itinerary Planning

Digital Guides

Carolyn Schönafinger

Carolyn Schönafinger is a frequent visitor to Switzerland, the country she fell in love with more than 30 years ago. She now visits Switzerland every year in her quest to explore every inch of the country. Carolyn is a certified Switzerland Travel Expert and she has achieved the Swiss Travel System Travel Expert diploma. She loves sharing her Switzerland travel expertise and helping others to plan their dream Swiss vacation on this website and the Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast. Read more

Episode 52: Magical places in Switzerland to include in your itinerary

Castle hotels in Switzerland

We travelling to Switzerland.

© Holidays to Switzerland 2024. All Rights Reserved . About • Privacy Policy • Disclaimer/Disclosure • Contact

• All our destinations
• Italy: featured destination
• Ireland: featured destination
• USA: featured destination
• Packing Lists
• Buying Guides
• Booking resources
• Work with me
• Cookies and privacy policy, terms of use

Europe Travel Guides

Geneva in winter: what to do + why you will love geneva in december and the winter months.

A visit to Geneva in winter is a real treat: with cozy restaurants, Christmas markets and snowy slopes nearby, these are the many reasons to plan a winter trip to Geneva, Switzerland. | Updated 202 1

I love visiting Geneva in the winter.

A very close friend of mine lives in this interesting, international city and in the last few years I have made a habit of always going to visit her a couple of times a year, usually in spring and right before Christmas.

While both times are special, my winter visit to Geneva is always my favorite.

In winter, this austere city dresses up with understated but beautiful Christmas decorations, the smell of hot chocolate and fondue fills the air and the peaks surrounding the city get more than a dusting of snow, creating a beautiful natural backdrop to the city’s medieval center.

It is a wonderful time to visit Geneva with kids but also my favorite to go kids free and make the most of Geneva’s shopping and eating opportunities.

By the end of this article, I believe you will agree with me winter is a magical time to visit Geneva and the best time to visit Switzerland if you love snow and romantic atmospheres!

Always abide travel regulations. Find official travel regulations and updates here

Table of Contents

Top things to do in Geneva Switzerland in winter

Visit Geneva’s Christmas market

One of my favorite things to do in Geneva in December is taking a stroll at the city’s Christmas market.

Geneva does not have a strong tradition of Christmas markets however, it does host some and one of them is in the scenic and central location of parc des bastions.

The market is small but well laid out.

Near the entrance you have a merry go round and Christmas trees and the market is organizes as a series of wooden huts selling Christmas food (think fondue, mulled wine, hot chocolate but also falafel and international food) and the occasional Christmas craft.

The market doesn’t compare with big ones in Germany but is lovely and very easy to visit while sightseeing : during my stay in Geneva last winter, I ended up going every day!

The park also hosts a nice ice-skating rink which, when active, is one of our favorite places in Geneva for kids

Take a stroll in old town Geneva

The most beautiful part of Geneva is the old town.

Dating back to medieval times, the old city center develops on the highest part of town, on top of a hill, and is a delight of small alleys, piazzas, churches and museums.

The best way to enjoy Geneva old town is simply to walk around and take in the views.

In winter, this area is particularly pretty as decorations appear on many of its trees and the night lights make its pointy roofs look remarkably like a nativity scene!

Visit Geneva’s St Pierre cathedral

When in the old town, make sure you do not miss the inside of St Pierre, Geneva’s cathedral.

The church is imposing from the outside but the real gem is its interior. As well as a vast main nave, the church has a stunning side chapel, the Maccabean capel, which has stunning frescoes.

As well as beautiful, St Pierre is also historically significant as this is where Jan Calvin, founder of Calvinism, used to preach.

Explore Geneva’s oldest house, now a museum

Another great place in old town Geneva is the city’s oldest house, now a museum.

The house is easy to visit and it is a great way to learn about the city: here you can see how an old town house used to look like and you also have a reconstruction of Geneva as it used to look, complete with city walls and all!

Go shopping in Carouge

Carouge is a district of Geneva and an absolute delight to visit any time of the year but especially in winter.

This area has small, pretty houses, quiet streets and a plethora of independent boutiques, shops and restaurants that make is exceptionally pleasant for Christmas shopping: if you are looking for one of a kind type of gifts, this is the place to be!

As well as shopping opportunities, Carouge is also generous with cute corners and pretty streets: this is without a doubt one of my favorite places to visit in Geneva in winter!

Indulge in Geneva’s winter foods

How to warm up after sightseeing in Geneva’s cold winter weather? But with warming foods of course, of which the city is generous.

For a traditional Swiss feast, order hot chocolate or dip your bread into cheese fondue but make sure you also taste some of Geneva’s international food (I am partial to their Mexican options).

Also, pay a visit to Chez ma Cousine in the old town: they specialize in roast chicken and their food is not just gorgeous, it is also incredibly cheap, a rarity in this city!

Admire the lights installations of the Geneva’s Lux festival

To brighten up the winter nights, every December Geneva hosts a lights festival, a time when art installations made of light appear all around the city.

The installations are free to enjoy and make the old town look positively magical!

Hit the slopes

Geneva is not just a lovely city for a city break it is also a fantastic base for a day on the slopes.

You have a vast choice of day trips from Geneva .

The city is close to many ski resorts and facilitates day trips out of town with a skibus, offering a package of transport + access to two sky resorts.

This means you can sky during the day and enjoy the city in the evening: the perfect combination!

Take in a view of the lake

Geneva lies along on Lac Leman and no trip to it would be complete without at least a short stroll along its shores.

The lake is easier to enjoy in spring and summer, when it becomes a favorite hang out for local families, but it is beautiful in winter too and worth a stop.

Check out the flower clock, on its shores, take a mouette (the free water taxi) or just sit on a winter terrace while admiring the jet d’eau for an afternoon of guaranteed winter relaxation.

What to pack for Geneva Switzerland winter weather

Geneva in winter is cold and warm clothes are paramount.

Depending on the exact month of your visit and the year, you may or may not find snow in Geneva but in winter you are guaranteed to want to wrap up.

You can find here >>> my complete packing list for Geneva .

Warm, good walking shoes are a must

The style in Geneva reflects the constraints of this mountain city: opt for comfort first and embrace lined boots and warm coats.

Make sure your winter packing list for Geneva includes:

• Warm boots, good for walking and snow-proof (or at least, rain proof).
• Good quality, padded winter coat
• Scarf, hat, gloves
• Good quality sweater
• Thermal underwear (this may or may not be needed, I found a thermal top in particular came in handy)
• If traveling with a baby or toddler, you can find our winter packing list for baby here.

Tours and experiences in and near Geneva Switzerland in winter

If you are looking for an organized activity or tour during your winter trip to Geneva, here are some to consider (all offered by get Your Guide, with instant booking and easy cancellation options. The following are affiliate links)

One for chocolate lovers: a 3 hour chocolate tasting walking tour

Glacier 3000 and Montreaux : Full day excursion to Glacier 3000, a winter wonderland for outdoor lovers with skiing and tobogganing opportunities, a suspension bridge, great restaurants and a stunning views plus a stop in stylish Montreaux on the way back

Dreaming of visiting Chamonix? easily done from Geneva thanks to the several day tours available such as this one

I hope you enjoyed this selection of things to do in Geneva in winter and it inspired you to book a trip soon. Safe travels!

This post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission.

Loved this post? Share it or pin it for later!

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is the creator, writer and creative mind behind Learning Escapes. A travel loving mama of two from Italy, Marta currently lives in Ireland with her husband and two kids, they take frequent trips to European destination, the US and beyond. A professional travel blogger for over a decade, Marta is passionate about traveling with kids and helping others to travel more and better as a family.

Privacy Overview

Home » Winter » Winter Hiking

Where to hike in Switzerland in winter (Dec-Feb)

• Last Updated: 1 Dec 2021
• By Tanya, 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.

Ultimate Winter Guide to Switzerland!

Get our interactive map with all our favorite winter activities +  itineraries and travels tips. Learn more…

You can hike in Switzerland during winter, but it’s a quite different than the green alps you see in summertime. In winter, you have three choices: 

• hiking on winter trails with groomed snow
• snowshoe hiking on unprepared trails through snow
• hiking at lower elevations with little or no snow

Below I give an overview of each winter hiking option and link to other posts for more information.

Winter Hiking (on groomed snow)

Many mountain resorts in Switzerland provide a network of winter hiking trails, where the snow is groomed. This allows hikers to use these trails with regular hiking boots instead of snowshoes. 

Here are some winter hiking resources;

• Winter Hiking in Switzerland 101
• Best winter hikes near Zurich
• Best winter hikes near Lucerne
• Free winter hikes near Zurich (no gondola)
• All winter hiking posts

You can see more winter walking trails on SchweizMobil.ch . In addition, mountain resorts often have more winter walking paths that only appear on their local maps.

Snowshoe Routes

Switzerland has many official snowshoe routes. Snowshoe trails are typically marked by purple poles and trail signs as shown below. In general, these routes are designed to avoid risky terrain. However it’s important to check the avalanche bulletins and safety notices before planning your day.

You can find some snowshoe trails on SchweizMobil.ch . In addition, many mountain resorts will have other snowshoe routes that appear on their local maps.

See our posts below to learn more about snowshoeing in Switzerland and trails we suggest. 

• Snowshoe hiking in Switzerland: Beginner’s Guide
• Swiss Snowshoe Trails for Beginners
• All of our snowshoe posts

Low Elevation Hikes (not on snow)

Not all of Switzerland is covered in snow during winter. Very often the snow at lower elevations (under about 800m) will melt quickly, leaving many trails free of snow most of winter.

See Easy nature walks near Zurich .

Of course, check the conditions and weather forecast before heading out. If we have recently had a snowstorm, these trails might be snow or be wet and muddy as the snow melts.

You might also like

When you book something through our links, it costs you the same but we earn a small commission. This support helps us keep our website free to use. Thanks!

via SkyScanner

via Booking.com

via DiscoverCars

via GetYourGuide

We respect your privacy. Please review our privacy policy to understand how we process and store data submitted through the comment form below. If you submit this form, you explicitly agree to the terms in our privacy policy.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

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…

Interactive Map

Get our “Ultimate Winter Guide to Switzerland” with interactive map and suggested itineraries. Learn more…

via Heymondo

Subscribers may login below. At the moment, membership is by invite only.

Switzerland in Winter: Best places to visit | Get Ready for a Snowy Trip!

If you are looking to plan your trip to Switzerland in winter, don’t worry as you have come to the right place. Switzerland The country begins with few things but ends with many things. Although it is one of the most expensive countries to travel to that sits in the middle of Europe . If you love mountains, chocolates, sweets, lakes, adventures, waterfalls, rolling hills, swiss-trains, cable cars, swiss-cows, and shopping then you should plan a trip to Switzerland for at least 2 days. Here is the list of places that recommend you to visit Switzerland in winter while planning a trip to that country.

Also read: Honeymoon visit in Switzerland

Switzerland Honeymoon Package @ ₹82,287*

Visiting Jungafrau - Top of Europe. Swiss Chocolate Tasting tour. Exploring Stunning Chillon Castle. Visiting Beautiful Chapel Bridge. Boating at Rhine Falls.

Things to Pack for Switzerland Winter Weather:

Its a bitterly cold weather so you have to pack a lot of things to protect yourself from winter. If your travel plans involve more uphill hiking and trekking pack the right items that make you have a more enjoyable trip. Make sure to bring a warm jacket, gloves, hats, scarves, waterproof boots, hiking shoes, ski shirts, and waterproof socks. Ensure everything is waterproof to protect your body.

List of Top-rated places to visit in Switzerland:

• The Jungfrau Region
• Oberalp Pass Via Glacier Express
• Mt. Pilatus
• Lake Geneva

1. The Jungfrau Region

The Jungfrau Region is a place compiled with three famous peaks: Jungfrau, Monch, and Eiger at 4158m, 4099m, and 3970m respectively. These three are the World’s major ski places with splendid natural attractions. Undoubtedly this is the place where you have many different hiking options and ski options. In addition, the Cable car is the biggest attraction here in Jungfrau. Sightseers can easily access mountains and enjoy the views by rattling down the mountainside on a three-wheeled scooter. Jungfraujoch is the place where you can see Europe’s highest train station.

Zermatt has breathtaking views that few places in the world can match and is well known as a great place for skiing, climbing, and hiking. The iconic mountain Matterhorn which is a major visitors’ attraction lies just below the mountain resort. If you are a foodie, Zermatt is the best place you can spend where it offers a wide variety of culinary options, traditional swiss dishes, from little street vendors to starred restaurants. The best thing to do in Zermatt is to stay overnight at Iglu – Dorf, ride the cog train to Rotenboden station, run on Rotenboden Toboggan.

3. St. Moritz

St. Moritz Town is one of the best places to experience the stunning nightlife. Moreover, it gives you an opportunity to indulge in skiing, snowboarding, and snow-shoe trekking. St. Moritz offers you the greatest winter view and is also a hub of happening nightlife. To show time or sequence go for a bob racing, an adrenaline rush is guaranteed. To make the heart of any gourmet beat faster, go shopping in Metropolitan where chic meets old town charm.

4. Oberalp Pass Via Glacier Express

Switzerland trip is incomplete without taking a train in Glacier Express. That is a direct train from Zermatt to St. Moritz, also famously known as the slowest express train in the world which takes approximately 8 hours of destination travel. As the name itself says Oh yes! you will see the Glaciers up in the mountain. In fact, the ride gives you incredible scenery through tight curves, 291 bridges, rock formations, fierce streams, tons of snow, narrow valleys, and 91 tunnels.

5. Mt. Pilatus

One of the most popular and highest peaks in Lucerne , Mt. Pilatus is a 2,120-metre tall mountain. You can easily reach the highest peak via a cable car which gives you a delightful view. You must add this destination to your wishlist to enhance the Swiss vacationing experience to the fullest in winter. Don’t miss out to do the remarkable winter walk on the golden round trip. Also, the place has cable walking, hiking, cogwheel railway.

6. St. Gallen

St. Gallen is a stunning winter destination you will definitely want to bubble up. This place has many indoor activities to offer you such as Abbey Library of Saint Gall, St. Gallen Cathedral, Botanical Garden, and Natural History Museum which is all free of cost to visit. It is home to a UNESCO World Heritage site where it has centuries-old houses with beautiful scenery.

7. Interlaken

This is a Swiss’s cute little stunning city that every visitor should go to. Interlaken is located in between two lakes and is presided by three mighty mountains. It has an adrenaline-filled activities like sky-diving, paragliding, skiing, hiking, cable car, and many more. There are various snow sports in Interlaken than you imagined. Swiss is well known for two things: cheese and chocolate, thus Interlaken is a region that offers mouth-watering tastes.

8. Lake Geneva

The best part of Lake Geneva (surrounded by stunning snow-capped peaks) can be explained only by live experience in winter. Everything will be at a higher price rate when compared with summer times. The very famous celebration in Lake Geneva is Winterfest where the ice castle competition and abominable snow race are both worth watching. A beautiful lake is full of ice boaters, ice coasters, skaters, ice fishers along with all the snow activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding.

With eye-catching snow-capped mountains, white snowy landscapes, ski runs as far as the eye could see: the winter scenery is incredibly impressive over and over again. Arosa is among the coolest places to visit in Switzerland in Winter where you should stay for a little while. Undoubtedly, a home for sports activities such as Skiing, Sledging, Snowboarding, Winter hiking, Cross-culture skiing, Ice Hockey, Curling, Ice Stock Sports, Ice Skating, and many more. Arosa Bear Sanctuary opens all year round and its timing is from 9 am to 5 pm. Thus it offers you to visit the bear mini-golf, the playground at the middle station, the Weisshorn bear photo point, and the experience trail will also be very exciting.

Davos is a winter sports metropolis for skiing and snowboarding lovers. Absolutely worth the nightlife experience! Davos Klosters is conducted during some 100 winter days – the world’s best winter guest program. Tourists can entertain themself in many shopping choices and refined dining. From all the sports activities to shopping, from early morning sunrise to stunning nightlife, from healthy resorts to casinos, bars, and discotheques everything can be found in the town of Davos.

So, are you excited to plan your Switzerland trip right away? Experience the pure magic weather in Switzerland in Winter. Get all the up-to-date information on the Switzerland package tour offered at Pickyourtrail and choose the one that suits you the best or customise your own Switzerland itinerary according to your preference. HAPPY TRAVELLING! 🙂

Book a vacation completely online

Our community is growing fast

Sign up for exclusive PYT Club membership and access jaw-dropping deals before the rest of the world!

• Signup with Email
• Facebook community
• Telegram Community

Access exciting travel deals at best prices

• New Zealand
• South East Asia
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Switzerland
• Travelogues
• Travel News
• Guest Posts
• Write for us

Weather in December in Switzerland

Are you planning a trip a to Switzerland in December and wondering what kind of weather to expect? This page has all the details you need.

What is the weather like in Switzerland in December?

The weather in Switzerland in December can be quite varied, with temperatures that range from very cold to cold and precipitation levels ranging from moderate to heavy. December is a winter month.

Temperatures

Precipitation, average sunshine.

For a closer look at December's conditions in Switzerland, see the map below. For a more detailed look at Switzerland's yearly weather, check out our Switzerland climate page .

Where to go in Switzerland in December

Popular destinations

What is the weather like in December for the 5 most popular destinations in Switzerland?

In December Zermatt generally has very low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around -6°C , minimum nighttime temperatures around -14°C and high monthly snowfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.

Grindelwald

In December Grindelwald generally has very low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around -3°C , minimum nighttime temperatures around -10°C and high monthly snowfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.

In December Nendaz generally has very low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around -3°C , minimum nighttime temperatures around -12°C and high monthly snowfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.

In December Zürich generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 6°C , minimum nighttime temperatures around -0°C and high monthly snow/rainfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.

In December Davos generally has very low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around -3°C , minimum nighttime temperatures around -12°C and high monthly snowfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.

Is your destination not in the list? Have a look at other destinations in Switzerland .

Is December the best time to visit Switzerland?

In our opinion, December may not be the ideal time to visit Switzerland due to the typically poor weather in Zermatt .

On average, the best time to visit Switzerland is in August with generally unpleasant weather in Zermatt .

Interested in more climate information?

• January       
• February       
• March       
• April       
• May       
• June       
• July       
• August       
• September       
• October       
• November       
• December       

Weather and climate has detailed information for every country in the world. Are you going to Switzerland? Get detailed historical weather averages for many cities in Switzerland .

Not sure yet where to go? We now have a tool which recommends destinations that suit your ideal travel conditions. Find out where to go with our weather planner .

Switzerland

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Register to vote Register by 18 June to vote in the General Election on 4 July.

Apply to the EU Settlement Scheme (settled and pre-settled status)

If you’re from the EU , Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, you and your family might be able to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to continue living in the UK. You might also be able to apply if you’re the family member of an eligible person of Northern Ireland.

The deadline for most people to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme was 30 June 2021. This deadline does not apply if you already have pre-settled status and you’re applying for settled status.

If you or your family are from the EU , Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, you can still apply if you or a family member were living in the UK by 31 December 2020. You must also either:

• meet one of the criteria for a later deadline to apply
• have ‘reasonable grounds’ for why you’re applying now, and not by the deadline or in the time since the deadline passed

You may be able to stay in the UK without applying - for example, if you’re an Irish citizen, or you already have indefinite leave to enter or remain.

If your application is successful, you’ll get either settled or pre-settled status.

If you already have pre-settled status

You can usually apply for settled status once you’ve lived in the UK for 5 years in a row. It’s free to apply.

You’ll need to make a new application to the scheme to switch from pre-settled status to settled status. If you do not do this, the Home Office will extend your pre-settled status by 2 years just before it’s due to expire.

They may cancel the extension if they think you no longer meet the requirements for it, for example because you’ve been outside the UK for more than 6 months in a 12 month period. There are some exceptions. Check how long you can spend outside the UK without losing your continuous residence .

Settled status gives you proof that you have the right to live in the UK permanently. You can usually apply for British citizenship once you’ve had settled status for 12 months.

Check what you’ll need to do to apply for settled status .

If you’re coming to the UK from Ukraine

You can apply for the EU Settlement Scheme if you’re eligible. 

The Ukraine Family Scheme visa closed on 19 February 2024.

Criteria for later deadlines and reasonable grounds for the delay in applying

In some cases, you can still apply after 30 June 2021.

For example, if you’re joining a family member who was living in the UK by 31 December 2020, your deadline will be based on when you arrive in the UK, as long as:

• you were their family member by 31 December 2020 (this does not apply to children born or adopted after this date)
• the family relationship still exists when you apply

You can also still apply if you’re eligible and can show ‘reasonable grounds’ for why you could not apply by the deadline or in the time since the deadline passed.

You must give evidence of your reasonable grounds, which both:

• explains the reason or reasons you could not apply
• covers the whole period since the deadline passed, as well as why you could not apply by the deadline

Check who can still apply to the EU Settlement Scheme , including examples of what may count as reasonable grounds for the delay in applying.

If you have not yet applied to the EU Settlement Scheme

Your rights in the UK are not protected unless you have applied to the EU Settlement Scheme and received a certificate of application.

This means you cannot:

• access benefits and services (including free NHS healthcare)
• work or study in the UK
• rent a property in England

How to protect your rights by applying

Once you’ve applied and received your certificate of application to the EU Settlement Scheme, your rights are protected.

This protection will last until you get a decision on your application or the outcome of an appeal.

You can use your certificate of application to prove your rights in the UK, for example the right to work, rent, claim benefits or use NHS services.

You can view your certificate online . You will also receive a copy of your certificate in the post or by email, depending on how you applied.

If you’re a joining family member

If you are a joining family member , your rights will automatically be protected for 90 days from the date of your arrival in the UK.

After 90 days, your automatic temporary protection will end. You’ll need to prove that you’ve submitted an application to continue to access your rights in the UK.

If you arrive in the UK illegally your application will be rejected.

If you’re waiting for a decision

Find out what happens after you’ve applied .

It’s free to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme.

Part of Stay in the UK ('settled status'): step by step

Step 1 : check if you need to apply to the eu settlement scheme.

You may need to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to continue living in the UK.

• Check if you need to apply

Step 2 : Find out what status you’ll get

You’ll get settled or pre-settled status depending on how long you’ve been living in the UK. This might affect when you choose to apply.

• Find out what you’ll get

Step 3 : Check what you’ll need to apply

• What you'll need to apply

Check what you need to do if:

• you’re not a citizen of the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland
• you have ‘indefinite leave to remain’ or ‘permanent residence’
• you're applying for your child

Step 4 : Apply

The deadline for applying for most people was 30 June 2021.

• Apply to the EU Settlement Scheme

Step 5 : After you've applied

• What happens after you’ve applied

Is this page useful?

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. Please fill in this survey (opens in a new tab) .