Want to Visit Switzerland? Here is the best time travel guidance

White Swiss alps, glistening snow and shimmering nights; Switzerland is a wondrous fairy-tale waiting to be explored. The best time to visit Switzerland is from June to August. Although, as you explore this snowy heaven further, you’ll realise that Switzerland can be seen in different shades and colours as each season changes, so the best time depends on your plans. Which shade to witness in Switzerland is totally your choice. Each season in Switzerland has something different to offer. The best time to plan your trip is now.

Peak Season – June to August

Shoulder Season – May to June 

Low Season – October to March 

Peak Season: Summer (June To August)

Temperature – The air temperature during the season of summer fluctuates between 19°C and 32°C.

Weather – Switzerland in summer is a love affair with the sun; summer winds and hidden lakesides that make you want to take a dip to cool off. Be it on foot, in the air, on water or in the mountains; the magic of Switzerland sweeps into every nook and corner. This time of the year is bustling with activities and tourists flock in from all over the globe to enjoy their summer holiday. This is also a good time to head outdoors and acquaint yourselves with the surroundings. You can trek your way to Via Alpina through the northern Alps of Switzerland. This is also a good time to head to Gurten and marvel at the views over the Berne and Alps. This season is also a good time to stroll along Lake Zurich and come across street artists in the evening. This is considered to be the best time to visit Switzerland if you wish to go out there and explore what this country has in store for you.

Significant events  – The mighty mountains glisten with snow under the light of the sun as turquoise blue waters seem to reflect the beauty of the entire region. Apart from Switzerland’s fields of striking alpine flowers and inviting roads there are also a number of activities and festivals that give you a taste of its culture. The main highlight of this time of the year is the Ascona Music Festival which is a Swiss Chamber Music Festival that brings together renowned music artists from all over the world. This festival takes place next to the magnificent Lake Maggiore. A treat for all the music enthusiasts out there, Ascona Music Festival celebrates the very existence of this art. If you are a fan of jazz music, you must visit the medieval town of Lugano, where 17 jazz concerts are held free of cost for people from all over the world. Zurich in July fills your senses with melodious and larger than life tunes. Opera, concerts, dance theatre and art along with mouth-watering dishes attract people from all walks of life. Another festival that takes place in the month of July is the Gauklerfest Interlaken street festival when the streets of the city are brought to life by artists from all over the world. Prepare to be entertained by acts of various kinds such as acrobatics, juggling, musicals and so on. This festival is indeed the complete family entertainment package!

Why you should visit now – This time of the year is marked with a constant spur of excitement in the air. Since it is the peak season; festivals, celebrations and colours light up the roads and streets of Switzerland and there is never a dull moment during this time of the year. You may either be keen on just lazing around and soaking in the sun by the lake or wish to trudge along ridges and hike intensive trails. This is a good time to unwind with a cold beverage that is soothing your senses. 

Things to know before the visit– Since this is gradually becoming a preferred holiday destination by people from all over the globe, the summer season invites a high number of tourists to this region. Hence make sure that you book your tickets and accommodation well in advance. Keep in mind that travelling within Switzerland is hassle-free and you can easily traverse around various areas via public transport. 

Tips – Since this is the peak season, be mindful of the fact that discounts may not be available and hence weigh your options carefully before booking your accommodation. Plan your activities and itinerary according to the weather. While you pack, make sure you include cool and warm clothes. Carry a sunscreen and stay hydrated lest the heat gets the better of you. Also, book an accommodation that is centrally located and accessible. 

Autumn (September To December):

Temperature – The air temperature during the season of autumn ranges between 8°C and 15°C.

Weather – Switzerland in autumn is a comfortable affair. The summer season is just bidding goodbye as misty mornings knock on the door suggesting the onset of winter. This time of the year is sprinkled with hues of yellow turning to orange and then gold. The days have a constant chill in the air while temperatures drop in the night. This is also a good time to head to the Rhine Falls and participate in some boating. If you are a water baby, you are in for a treat; for you will be drenched by the time your boat ride comes to an end! 

Significant events – Switzerland in autumn looks like a fairy tale while the sound of a dead, crunchy leaf crushing as you step on it seems to be oddly satisfying. Visit Switzerland in autumn and myriads of golden hues sprinkled over the country will surely remind you of King Midas’s touch! However, there are quite a few festivals and events that only accentuate the beauty of Switzerland attracting tourists from all over the globe. One of the main highlights of this time of the year is the Grape Harvest Festival held in the month of September. This fruity festival celebrates the beginning of the grape harvest. Head to the streets and you will be greeted with a burst of colours, owing to the spectacular floral parade; with floats ornamented by colourful art and flowers. Every floral procession is unique and jaw dropping. Do head to Neuchatel’s waterfront to witness firelights that illuminate the lake with a burst of colours on Saturday.  

Why you should visit now – Switzerland in autumn sits quiet and pretty; being the low season. Not many tourists visit during this time of the year. Switzerland is in a state of slumber and this is the best time to visit if you are looking to spend some time with your family in isolation. This is also a good time to pick some delicious chestnuts in the forests of Ticino. 

Things to know before the visit – Do not forget to check the weather reports before booking your tickets and accommodation. Book a hotel that is centrally located and accessible. Carry some cash in case you plan to travel to remote areas or villages.  Try booking your tickets in advance as tourists gradually start to flock in. Watch out for discounts on accommodation and hotels since this is low season. 

Tips – Do carry clothes that will keep you warm since it will get colder in the night. Carry sunscreen, sports shoes and mosquito repellents. Do get a Swiss Rail Pass if you wish to travel extensively in Switzerland. 

Winter (December To February):

Temperature – The air temperature during the season of winter fluctuates between -1°C and 4°C.

Weather – Switzerland in winter is in a dreamy state. Take a trip to the slopes and you will surely want to dash through the snow, maybe not in a one-horse open sleigh but skis! This is also a good time to head to the countryside and visit some Swiss towns to get a taste of its culture. Head to places such as Grindelwald, Zermatt, Engelberg and Andermatt to get the real Swiss experience! However, always carry a sunblock and some glasses with you for protection. 

Significant events – The dreary winter does not manage to kill the spirit of Switzerland. A plethora of festivals and events breathe life into Switzerland during this time of the year. Plenty of heart-warming festivals are in store for you if you are planning to head to Switzerland in the winter season. This time of the year is filled with festivals that will certainly engage, educate and inform both young and old. One of the main highlights of this time of the year is the Lugano Festival held in the month of October, celebrating the arrival of the autumn season. This three-day-long festival is one of the most joyous and exciting festivals in Switzerland. This is a good time to get a taste of Switzerland’s cuisine and interact with its locals. Another festival during this time of the year is the Grindelwald World Snow Festival held in the month of January. This is a good time to explore all things snow! From ice sculptures to ice lollies; the streets of Grindelwald are filled with things made of ice till they all melt away. 

Why you should visit now – If you would rather take the road less travelled, this is the best time to visit Switzerland. Mostly, crowds interested in skiing and other snow sports will be seen during this time of the year. You will be greeted with low prices and lesser crowds at this time of the year. This is also a good time to indulge in some Christmas shopping. There isn’t just a chill in the air but the spirit of Christmas embraces you and will certainly keep you warm. Head to Zurich to have the authentic Swiss experience! With its traditional huts and houses that offer local Swiss dishes like Rosti, Fondue and Raclette; you will certainly ask for more!

Things to know before the visit – Do check for discounts that may be available at this time of the year since this is not really the peak season. Plan your activities and itinerary keeping the weather in mind. Book a hotel that is centrally located and is accessible. Make sure the hotel you have booked has a central heating system and all the basic amenities to keep you warm.

Tips – Carry woollen clothes. Some routes may be blocked due to heavy snowfall and hence plan your itinerary accordingly. Stay hydrated by sipping on water, tea or a hot beverage. Do carry shawls, mufflers and gloves to keep yourselves warm.

If you are intrigued and tempted to pack your bags right away, visit the Thomas Cook website and go through the Switzerland packages that we offer. If you have any more questions, you will get the answers that you are looking for on our page. Contact us immediately to book your tickets and accommodation!