When is the Best Time to Visit Switzerland?

15 Apr 2025

15 April 2025

6 min read

Written by: Abbi Walker Digital Content Writer

Switzerland is a year-round destination bursting with charm, natural beauty, and cultural events. From snow-dusted Alps in winter to wildflower meadows in spring, each season has something unique to offer. Whether you're planning to ski in the mountains, hike along pristine trails, or simply enjoy lakeside relaxation and Swiss cuisine, knowing what to expect each month will help you make the most of your trip.

What to expect from Switzerland in January

January is deep winter in Switzerland, making it one of the best months for snow sports. Temperatures vary depending on elevation but expect lows of -5°C and highs of 3°C in alpine towns. In cities like Zurich and Geneva, days are crisp and cold, with occasional snow.

Switzerland’s famous ski resorts – Zermatt, Verbier, and St. Moritz - are a hive of activity, attracting skiers and snowboarders from around the world. If you're not a skier, you can simply relax fireside in a cosy mountainside chalet or enjoy the magic of winter with sledging and hikes in snowshoes.

Festivals and events in January

International Hot Air Balloon Festival

Takes place in the last week of January
Thanks to its favourable climate, the flying conditions in Château-d'Oex in winter are ideal
It's a week of dazzling colours and spectacle as around 90 hot air balloons float over snowy mountain peaks

Lauberhorn Ski Races

Takes place in mid-January
The longest downhill course in the world
Attracts athletes and spectators who want to witness the adrenaline-fueled action

What to expect from Switzerland in February

Winter continues to paint the landscapes white, creating a snowy wonderland. With similar temperatures and conditions to January, it's peak season for winter sports, and can get especially busy during the school holidays.
Carnival celebrations also begin in February, particularly in the French- and German-speaking regions, with elaborate costumes, parades, and traditional foods.

Festivals and events in February

Basler Fasnacht

Switzerland’s largest and most famous carnival
Part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List
Starts on the Monday after Ash Wednesday at 4.00 am sharp – in total darkness and lasts 72 hours
Expect illuminated, hand-painted lanterns, with thousands of costumed pipers and drummers, and confetti-covered streets

What to expect from Switzerland in March

March is a somewhat transitional month. In higher resorts, there's still plenty of snow for skiing whereas lower altitudes are beginning to thaw and blossom.
Temperatures begin to rise with lows of 1°C and highs of 10°C in the cities. Days are sunnier and longer, and spring slowly makes its way into Switzerland's valleys and lakesides.

Festivals and Events in March

Engadine Ski Marathon (St. Moritz)

Takes place on the second Sunday in March
The second-largest cross-country skiing event in the world

What to expect from Switzerland in April

April marks the true arrival of spring in the lowlands. Cities like Lucerne, Geneva, and Bern come alive with blooming gardens and outdoor cafés. Temperatures continue to rise to between 5°C and 15°C, though unpredictable rain showers are common – pack layers and an umbrella.
It’s a good time for city breaks and lakeside walks, with the Alps still snowy enough for late-season skiing.

Festivals and Events in April

Sechseläuten (Zurich)

Usually takes place on the 3rd Monday of April
A spring festival featuring a parade of historical guilds and the burning of the “Böögg” – a snowman effigy meant to predict summer’s weather

Golden Pass train moving through green countryside, mountains in the background, and blue skies

What to Expect from Switzerland in May

May is a lush and green time to visit. Wildflowers bloom across alpine meadows and hiking trails begin to open up. With temperatures between 8°C and 20°C, it’s perfect for outdoor adventures – without the summer crowds.
Swiss villages celebrate local traditions with markets and flower festivals, and it’s a great month to explore less-touristy regions.

Festivals and Events in May

Ascension and Pentecost Celebrations

Marked by family gatherings, concerts, and rural festivities across the country.

What to Expect from Switzerland in June

Early summer in Switzerland is warm and full of life. Expect highs of 23°C in the lowlands and pleasant temperatures in the mountains, perfect for hiking, cycling, and lake swimming.
June is also ideal for scenic train rides, like the Glacier Express or Bernina Express, as the landscapes are especially green and vibrant.

Festivals and Events in June

Fête de la Musique (Geneva)

Takes place towards the end of June
A day of free concerts and open-air performances celebrating all kinds of music

What to Expect from Switzerland in July

July is one of the busiest months, with tourists arriving to enjoy lakes, mountains, and festivals. The summer heat reaches highs of up to 27°C, it’s ideal for hiking in the Alps, paddleboarding on Lake Lucerne, or sipping wine on a vineyard terrace.
Hotels and mountain railways can get crowded, so booking ahead is advised.

Festivals and Events in July

Montreux Jazz Festival (Lake Geneva)

Takes place in early July
One of Europe’s most prestigious music festivals, attracting world-class performers.

What to Expect from Switzerland in August

In August, summer reaches its zenith – it's hot in the cities and perfect in the mountains. Highs reach 28°C, though alpine areas remain comfortably cool. It’s also Switzerland’s national holiday month.
Expect cultural events, fireworks, and traditional alpine celebrations throughout the country.

Festivals and Events in August

Locarno Film Festival

Typically the beginning of August
An open-air film festival in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland

Swiss National Day

Takes place on the 1st of August
Fireworks, lanterns, and folk music mark the country’s founding

Paléo Festival

Typically during the last week of the month
A major music festival attracting international acts

What to Expect from Switzerland in September

September signals the start of autumn and is considered a golden month. Warm days linger, and the first colours of fall begin to appear in forests and vineyards. Expect highs of around 21°C and fewer crowds than peak summer.
Harvest season begins in many regions, with food and wine festivals celebrating Swiss produce.

Festivals and Events in September

Alpabfahrt (Cattle Descent Festivals)

Takes place in September or early October
Cows are decorated with flower crowns and paraded through mountain villages as they return from alpine pastures

What to Expect from Switzerland in October

October brings spectacular autumn colours, especially in the vineyards of the Lavaux region or along scenic train routes. Temperatures dip to between 5°C and 14°C, making it a great month for hiking, photography, and cheese tastings.

Festivals and Events in October

Autumn Fairs (Basel, Lugano, Sion)

Takes place in late October
Markets filled with chestnuts, artisan goods, and local delicacies

What to Expect from Switzerland in November

November is a quieter time for tourism. Days are shorter and cooler, with cities preparing for the festive season. It’s a great time for cultural pursuits, like museum visits, and warming up with fondue.
Highs are around 8°C in the cities, with misty mornings and cosy evenings.

Festivals and Events in November

Onion Market (Zibelemärit in Bern)

Takes place on the fourth Monday in November
A quirky folk festival with onion-themed crafts, confetti battles, and hearty food

What to Expect from Switzerland in December

December transforms Switzerland into a magical winter landscape. Christmas markets pop up across the country, from Basel and Lucerne to Lausanne and Montreux. Expect snow in the mountains and festive lights in the cities.
Temperatures hover between -2°C and 6°C depending on the region, and it’s a great time for winter hikes, mulled wine, and seasonal pastries.