What time of year is it best to visit Switzerland? It all depends on what you want to do! Late spring and early fall offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds at the must-visit sites in Switzerland, which can make for a more authentic experience. If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland in the winter, you can enjoy a festive atmosphere on special Christmas market and New Year’s Eve tours. Summer is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, because the mountains are clear of snow, and is a popular time of year for trips to Switzerland.

Our Switzerland tours are the best way to see the most popular sites. You’ll get to know idyllic Alpine towns firsthand, with the expertise of your local guides, and skip the lines at attractions that draw lots of visitors. Some of the highlights include:

• Lake Lucerne and the famous Kapellbrücke
• Interlaken, the gateway to the Alps
• A scenic trip on the Bernina Express
• Views of the Matterhorn from Gornergrat

On special trips to Switzerland, you can enjoy seasonal charms by visiting the country in winter. Shop for souvenirs and try local holiday treats at Christmas markets in Alpine towns or raise a toast on New Year’s Eve in Lucerne.

Switzerland is probably most famous for its chocolate and cheeses like gruyere and Emmental (which are definitely out of this world). The country’s regional cuisine also draws influences from France, German, and Italian cooking. Rösti is a dish that’s famous around the country, especially among Swiss-Germans. Rösti is made with grated potato and fried, so it’s a lot like hash browns—making it a popular breakfast option. Other favorites include fondue and raclette, two cheesy and melty dishes, and quiche.

On all our Switzerland tour packages, you’ll have included meals that introduce you to regional eats, as well as free time where you can seek out local favorites on your own. You can always count on your Tour Director to point you toward the best spots—each of our Switzerland escorted tours is led by an expert who knows the region in and out.

Our trips to Switzerland cover all seasons, which mean you can encounter everything from summer sunshine to snow. No matter what, on any Switzerland tours, you’ll want comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing, and packing layers is always a good idea. If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland in the winter, you’ll want cold-weather gear so you’re ready for spending time outdoors. We recommend having waterproof boots, a warm coat, and a hat and gloves.

Once you’ve reserved one of our Switzerland guided tours, we’ll give you more detailed packing tips, as well as all the other info you need to know before you know! Plus, you can download our Tour Companion app before you depart, so you’ll have all the info you need right in your pocket.