When you imagine skiing in Europe or a stunning alpine village, Switzerland will no doubt pop into your mind. More than just a winter playground for the rich and famous, Switzerland holds a magical status for everyone who loves winter sports, apres-ski entertainment, and a sprinkle of snow-filled festive charm.
With picturesque resort towns, historic attractions, and unforgettable natural beauty, Switzerland is one of Europe’s top destinations.
Plus, while this charming country has an idyllic appeal of its own, it also neighbors four fantastic destinations making it a great base for a more in-depth trip. Here, we’ll explore why Switzerland should top your European wish-list this winter.
Skiing and Other Winter Sports
Switzerland borders Germany, France, Italy and Austria, so it’s a great destination if your travel plans involve exploring nearby cities and towns. It’s famous Swiss Alps cover about 60% of the country’s total area and include some of the highest peaks to explore in Europe, such as the Matterhorn and the Jungfrau.
In fact, the country is so synonymous with the Alps that there’s even a mountain-shaped chocolate, the festive-favourite Toblerone, shaped like a range of snow-capped peaks that honors it.
Thanks to its place in the Alps, Switzerland is renowned for its world-class skiing, and the winter months are the prime time to hit the slopes. The country boasts an impressive array of ski resorts, each offering its own unique runs and views. From the iconic Matterhorn in Zermatt to the picturesque slopes of Davos, this is the ultimate winter wonderland for skiers and snowboarders.
One standout ski destination is the Jungfrau region, home to the famous Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. This area is a prime spot for both downhill and cross-country skiing, with well-groomed pistes and breathtaking views.
The ski resorts of Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren are particularly popular, offering a range of slopes for all skill levels.
If you’re traveling solo or as part of a small group tour, there’s plenty to do beyond skiing. Switzerland has a wealth of other sporting activities and clubs if you’re a beginner golfer traveling with friends, or a couple keen to find cold water swimming opportunities on your European tour.
During winter, ice skating is very popular and many Swiss towns have pretty rinks with the largest at Dolder Sports in Zurich.
Venturing Beyond the Resort Towns
For many travelers, a Swiss winter getaway is the perfect opportunity to combine a love of winter sports with the opportunity to explore the country’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural attractions. One popular option is to base your trip in a ski resort town, such as Zermatt or Davos, to plan further adventures and off-slope group tours.
Some of the must-visit alpine villages in Switzerland include Zermatt, visit iconic sights like the Matterhorn or head to Grindelwald in the heart of the Jungfrau region.
Thun, meanwhile, is a medieval beauty and Appenzell is known for its colorful, traditional architecture if you’re after an authentic Swiss journey. Switzerland’s alpine villages are quaint and epitomize European charm thanks to their narrow cobblestone streets and Swiss custom.
In the winter, the villages take on an enchanting quality with Christmas lights, festive decorations, and the warm welcome from local cafes, bars, and restaurants.
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Appreciating Natural Gems
While skiing and snowboarding may be the first activities that come to mind when thinking of a Swiss winter getaway, the country also offers ample opportunities for those who prefer a more leisurely pace.
A visit to gorgeous Interlaken in winter is perhaps one of the most incredible places to try cross-country skiing or plan a snowshoe trek on the Lombachalp, one of the largest and most impressive moorland landscapes as well as a protected area of national importance with natural firs and mountain pines.
For one of the best Europe travel plans, try not to overlook Bern in favor of top Swiss destinations like Geneva, Zurich, Lucerne, and Interlaken.
While Switzerland does revolve around its mountains, ski slopes, and cheese, this landlocked country has much more to offer and few places in Switzerland are better suited for discovering the nation’s natural beauty than Bern.
If you arrive in Bern before Christmas, there are some great shopping opportunities and markets in Bern to get you in the festive mood. Bern, like other top destinations in Switzerland, can be enjoyed on foot if you’d prefer a walking vacation.
No Swiss winter getaway would be complete without a visit to the country’s enchanting Christmas markets. These open-air markets are a true highlight of the winter season and a special opportunity to enjoy local Swiss culture and their festive traditions. Many Christmas markets also feature live music, traditional dances, and other entertainment.
Meanwhile, in Basel, in addition to their festive market, the historic cathedral is one of the most beautiful squares to wander around in, and is exquisitely decorated during Christmas.
Visiting Glaciers and Cable Car Rides
One of the must-do activities for any winter visitor to Switzerland is a journey to the country’s stunning glaciers. These massive, slow-moving rivers of ice are a testament to the raw power of nature while showing an unique feature of the Swiss Alps.
In the winter, many of Switzerland’s glaciers are accessible via cable car or cogwheel train, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with these natural wonders.
The Jungfraujoch, for example, is home to the highest railway station that is a must-see on any Europe tour. It is the access point through to the Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps. Visitors can explore the glacial landscapes, marvel at the stunning vistas, and even venture into the heart of the glacier via a network of tunnels and pathways.
Another popular glacier destination is the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise in Zermatt, which boasts the highest cable car station in Europe. From here, visitors can take in panoramic views of the iconic Matterhorn peak and explore the glacier’s icy landscapes.
Winter Sightseeing Attractions
While Switzerland is undoubtedly a winter sports paradise, the country also offers a wealth of opportunities for those who prefer a more relaxed pace. One of the most enchanting ways to experience the Swiss Alps in the winter is through a series of carefully curated winter walks.
These well-marked trails, often groomed and maintained for easy navigation, wind through snow-covered forests, past frozen lakes, and along the edges of towering peaks.
The Jungfrau region, as mentioned earlier, is a particularly popular destination for winter walking or traditional snowshoeing as it’s better known, with the Eiger Trail and the Panorama Trail offering stunning views.
In addition to winter walking experiences, Switzerland also boasts a wealth of sightseeing attractions that are well worth exploring in the colder months, including the lakeside city of Lucerne, with its iconic Chapel Bridge or the Château de Chillon, a medieval castle perched on the shores of Lake Geneva.
In the winter, the castle and its surrounding landscapes take on an ethereal quality, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring Europe and hoping to experience the magic of Switzerland.
Embrace the Magic of a Swiss Winter Adventure
Switzerland in the winter is a true wonderland, offering a wealth of enchanting experiences for travelers of all interests and activity levels. From world-class skiing and thrilling winter sports to charming alpine villages, stunning glaciers, and festive Christmas markets, this alpine nation is a veritable treasure trove of winter delights.
If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland this winter or beyond, we can help create your perfect itinerary.
Jack Baumann
President of Guidester
Jack Baumann has lived and traveled throughout Europe for over 15 years, creating Guidester in 2014. Over the years Guidester has developed into a unique travel concierge and tour company helping travelers make the most of their trip to Europe.
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