When is the best time to visit Switzerland?

Last Updated On December 02, 2022

The best time to visit Switzerland is from months of April to October. July through September are ideal months for trekking and summer vacations. January to mid-March is ideal for winter activities or simply enjoying the snow. You will have a lovely trip regardless of the time of year if you are adequately prepared.

Oeschinensee, Kandersteg, Switzerland

Photo by Patrick Robert Doyle on Unsplash

September is the best month to visit Switzerland. Except for winter sports, the weather is normally good and allows for all activities. It's right after the peak of the summer season, so it's not as crowded.

Switzerland Weather

Switzerland has a mild weather across the country, except for the Alps, where temperatures are typically low or cold. The difference between the four seasons is obvious. Summers are hot and humid, and winters are frigid and snowy. Most of Switzerland's major cities are situated on a plateau, an elevated level environment in geological terms. Temperatures range from near-freezing in the winter to 25°C in the summer and 30°C in sweltering weather. As you climb higher and higher in the mountains, the temperature drops. Because the clouds are lower in the summer, it is usually sunnier in the hills.

Summer (June - August)

Summer is the best time to visit Switzerland, from June through August. The weather is pleasant throughout this season, making it easier to go sightseeing. The mountain passes are open, and you may enjoy the country's beautiful beauty and various colors. This time of year, the most gorgeous and panoramic sights await you.

The crisp Alpine air brings large crowds to Switzerland's mountains in the summer. The dry, south-easterly breeze blowing in the hills makes for a windy summer. The waterfalls are beautiful and make for fantastic photos with family and friends. The weather in Switzerland in July averages around 24 or 25 degrees, making it ideal for swimming. There are numerous swimming locations, but if you need a tip, try Lake Sils or the Aare River.

Autum (September - November)

Autumn brings colder temperatures, but hiking in the Swiss Alps is still an excellent season. The air is cooler, but the scenery is breathtaking. The summits of the mountains almost steal your breath away. You can find excellent prices on hotel rooms because the peak tourist season ends in autumn.

During September, Alpine villages around Switzerland greet the cows as they descend from the mountains to the lowlands in a process known as Almabfahrt or Almabtrieb. The cows are welcomed home with pomp and yodeling by the villagers, who are wearing flower crowns. This is a festival that everyone should attend at least once in their lives.

Winter (December - February)

The official winter months in Switzerland are December through February, when the snow begins to fall, and it is an excellent time for skiing. Prices in the mountains start to climb, and lodges fill up quickly, but there is no better time to visit Switzerland for winter sports.

The weather in Switzerland in December is officially chilly, overcast, and wet, so spend your time on the slopes or at home by a fire, eating substantial meals and warm drinks.