Here are 10 fun activities to try in Switzerland during the winter season.

Nora Jinton

28 Dec, 2023

Switzerland, though small, captivates visitors year-round, particularly as a top summer and winter destination in Central Europe. In winter, it draws global and European tourists, notably from neighboring countries like Germany, offering outstanding winter activities, with skiing being just one highlight.

Throughout the year, Switzerland's beauty is undeniable, but in winter, when the mountains glisten white and the air is refreshingly crisp, the charm intensifies. The extensive ski slopes, picturesque train journeys through white valleys, and the breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks, enjoyed from hot tubs in natural mineral springs, create unforgettable experiences.

Beyond nature, winter in Switzerland buzzes with events, Christmas markets, and winter sports, ensuring a delightful holiday. Here are some enjoyable activities to consider when visiting Switzerland in winter.

1. Glacier Express from Zermatt to St Moritz

Experience the renowned Glacier Express connecting Switzerland's top winter spots: St. Moritz and Zermatt. Aptly called the "Slowest Express" and the "Window to the Alps," this scenic 8-hour journey crosses mountains, valleys, tunnels, and 291 bridges.

Unwind, relishing panoramic vistas through expansive windows, while enjoying a delightful 3-course meal, immersing yourself in the beauty of nature. For an even more luxurious adventure, consider the Excellence Class, ensuring every seat is a window seat. This premium class offers a decadent 7-course meal, champagne, and personalized concierge service. Treat yourself to opulence!

2. Explore Jungfrau

Jungfraujoch, the "Top of Europe," is a beloved Alpine destination, drawing visitors in both summer and winter. The Jungfrau is a year-round haven, adorned in white, with winter bringing a layer of pristine snow, enhancing its beauty.

Explore the Ice Palace, enjoy sledding, and savor a delightful meal at this breathtaking mountaintop locale.

3. Christmas Markets

Switzerland welcomes an early Christmas celebration! From mid-November, towns, big and small, host enchanting Christmas markets, attracting tourists for good reason.

These markets, adorned with Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and festive music, add a magical touch to the already beautiful surroundings. Explore stalls offering local delights like cheese, dairy products, preserves, gingerbread, and wines.

Discover an array of Christmas-themed items, from buntings to clothing, artifacts, and jewelry. Kids can enjoy skating rinks and various entertainment rides. Popular winter markets include those in Basel, Bern, Montreux, and Zurich. Don't overlook the charm of smaller towns like Rapperswil, Murten, and Stein Am Rhein, hosting equally beautiful Christmas markets.

4. Thermal Spas

Even in winter, pack your swim gear! Switzerland's mountains offer abundant mineral-rich healing waters, transformed into incredible thermal spas.

These spas, popular year-round, offer a unique experience—picture yourself immersed in an outdoor pool with temperatures ranging from 23 to 43 degrees Celsius, surrounded by white landscapes and snowy peaks. True to Swiss style, these spas are located in stunning scenic spots.

Explore renowned options like Leukerbad Thermal Spa, Europe's largest Alpine Thermal Spa, Mineralbad, Spa Rigi Kaltbad, and the Thermalbad and Spa Zurich. Embrace the warmth amidst Switzerland's winter beauty!

5. Fondue in the Alps - Gstaad

Make your way to Gstaad in the Bernese Oberland, renowned as a hub for the jet-setting crowd. It stands out for its small, exclusive pedestrian town center, hosting high-end luxury outlets.

Gstaad and its neighboring villages offer an array of winter activities, catering to diverse interests such as skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and winter walking trails. Additionally, there's a special trail leading hikers to a mountain summit for a high-altitude fondue experience—imagine indulging in hot cheese with toasty flavors against a picturesque winter backdrop.

Don't miss a visit to Glacier 3000 from Gstaad. A short bus ride to Col Du Pillon and a cableway ascent take you to this snow-clad mountain, featuring a unique summit station designed by architect Mario Botta. From the peak, enjoy breathtaking views of 24 snow-capped mountains, including the iconic Jungfrau and Mont Blanc. Glacier 3000 proudly boasts the world's highest toboggan run and the first suspension footbridge spanning two mountains.

6. Zermatt and Matterhorn

Discover Zermatt, a car-free town nestled at the foothills of the Matterhorn, Switzerland's winter paradise. Winter sports enthusiasts flock to this charming destination.

Zermatt boasts 200kms of pistes, creating a skiing heaven. Yet, that's not all—sledding, paragliding, and more await.

For a romantic experience, consider staying at the Igloo Village (December to mid-April) at 2727 meters above sea level, offering spectacular views of the Matterhorn. Each igloo, lined with lambskin, ensures warmth while snow falls outside. A cheese fondue and mulled wine make this an unforgettable winter highlight.

A trip to Zermatt is incomplete without witnessing the Matterhorn. Take a cable car to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise or a cogwheel train to the Gornergrat for stunning views of this iconic triangular peak, often touted as the world's most photographed mountain. Experience it yourself, and you'll understand why.

7. St Moritz

St. Moritz, a two-time host of the Winter Olympics, stands out as the ultimate winter sports destination, attracting tourists from around the globe. Beyond its renowned skiing facilities, St. Moritz offers a diverse range of activities including ice skating, bob sledding, curling, and tobogganing—ensuring there's something for everyone, even non-skiers.

Adding to its allure, St. Moritz boasts natural springs that were discovered over 3000 years ago. Today, these springs are a sought-after attraction, with visitors indulging in their therapeutic benefits at the town's luxurious spas. St. Moritz, with its rich history and diverse offerings, remains a must-visit destination for winter enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike.

8. Lucerne

Lucerne, one of Switzerland's most beloved towns, charms visitors with its beauty and the allure of nearby mountains, a popular destination in both summer and winter.

Exploring the lakeside town is a treat, with attractions like the iconic wooden Chapel Bridge, the poignant Lion Monument, and the picturesque Old Town.

Just a short bus or train ride from Lucerne, you can access the many mountains of Central Switzerland. Mount Titlis, reachable from Engelberg, stands out as a year-round snowbound marvel. Winter, in particular, reveals its astonishing beauty as you ascend in the ROTAIR, a revolving cable car providing breathtaking 360-degree views of the snowy fairytale landscape.

Other nearby peaks, including Mount Pilatus, Mt. Rigi with its spa at Rigi Kaltbad, and Stanserhorn, offer additional opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.

9. Ice Rinks in Interlaken

From mid-December to February, experience the "Top of Europe Ice Magic" in the heart of Interlaken, featuring five interconnected ice skating rinks. Connective ice paths allow seamless transitions between the rinks.

Indulge in delicious food stalls to satisfy post-skating hunger. Contrary to popular belief, you don't need prior ice-skating skills; many rinks provide skating aids, making it accessible for beginners.

Interlaken, nestled between Lakes Thun and Brienz, earns its name—meaning "between two lakes." Renowned for its scenic beauty, Interlaken offers not only a winter wonderland but also a picturesque setting.

10. Montreux Noel

Especially tailored for families with kids (though adults love it too), between November 24th and December 24th, don't miss visiting Rochers De Naye mountain alongside the fantastic Montreux Christmas market. Experience the real Santa Claus at his home and workshop.

Hop on a cogwheel train to Rochers De Naye, perched at 2032m above sea level, offering stunning views of Montreux and Lake Geneva. Upon reaching the top, stroll through a beautifully decorated tunnel leading to Father Christmas's house. Kids can chat with him, snap a photo, and receive a visit certificate. With the certificate, head to his office, where a helper presents a gift bag.

Trains run hourly from 9 am to 3 pm, Wednesday through Sunday, so plan accordingly. Due to limited seats, booking in advance is recommended. Make this a part of your "amazing holiday memories." Ho Ho Ho!

These are just a few winter delights; Switzerland offers much more. Plan wisely to make the most of your winter visit.

Here are 10 fun activities to try in Switzerland during the winter season.