12

Snow Places to Visit in Switzerland This Winter

Located at the foot of the Matterhorn mountain, Zermatt in Canton Valais is a true winter wonder. Here you can spend countless mornings watching the sunrise while hitting those sharp peaks to experience the real magic. The village is car-free, the air crisp, and the snow often guaranteed due to its high-altitude glacier terrain. Zermatt provides both skiers and tourists with an immersive winter experience thanks to its more than 300 km of prepared runs and high-altitude cable cars.

Top Experiences:

• Take the Gornergrat railway for panoramic Matterhorn views.

• Explore the Glacier Paradise through thrilling cable car rides.

• Stroll through the snow-covered village and quaint chalets.

Best Time to Visit: December to April for skiing and snow adventures.

How to Reach: Accessible by train from Visp or Täsch; private vehicles are not allowed inside the village.

Practical Tips:

• Book accommodation early, especially for peak winter months.

• Dress in layers as temperatures can drop below freezing.

• Use trains and electric taxis for local travel within the car-free zone.

The Jungfrau Region captures Switzerland’s winter beauty at its best, with its dramatic peaks, deep valleys, and fairy-tale villages. Situated between the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains, it’s a heaven for skiers, hikers, and sightseers alike. From glacier treks to scenic train rides, making it one of the most beautiful snowy places in Switzerland, you must visit this winter.

Top Experiences:

• Get the Jungfrau - Top of Europe tour for breathtaking views

• Go skiing or snowboarding on the Grindelwald-Wengen slopes

• Explore ice sculptures inside the Jungfraujoch Ice Palace

Best Time to Visit: December to March for snow activities; April to May for milder weather and clear views

How to Reach: Regular trains connect Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, and Grindelwald

Highlights: Snow-covered peaks, panoramic train journeys, and scenic mountain villages

Practical Tips:

• Carry sunglasses, as the snow glare at high altitude is strong.

• Buy the Jungfrau Travel Pass for easy regional transport.

• Arrive early for Jungfraujoch excursions to avoid afternoon fog.

Grindelwald is a charming alpine village in the Jungfrau Region, famous for its vast skiing terrain and glacier vistas. It’s a lively hub for outdoor lovers, offering everything from cable car rides to winter hiking and sledging. The picturesque wooden chalets, set against snow-draped peaks, make it rank among the most scenic snowy villages in Switzerland.

Top Experiences:

• Ride the First Cliff Walk for sweeping mountain views.

• Go skiing or snowboarding on the First and Kleine Scheidegg slopes.

• Try night sledging and warm up at mountain lodges afterward.

Best Time to Visit: Late December to February for peak snow conditions

How to Reach: Connected by train from Interlaken via the Bernese Oberland line

Highlights: Thrilling winter sports, panoramic cable cars, charming village atmosphere

Practical Tips:

• Reserve lift passes online for better deals.

• Carry waterproof boots for exploring snow paths.

• Public trains are faster than driving due to winter road conditions.

Lauterbrunnen is often called the “Valley of 72 Waterfalls”, and its winter version looks straight out of a storybook. Snow blankets the valley while frozen waterfalls shimmer along cliff sides. Surrounded by towering peaks, this quiet haven is perfect for travellers, and its proximity to Wengen and Mürren makes it a wonderful base for mountain excursions.

Top Experiences:

• Visit Staubbach Falls and Trümmelbach Falls frozen in winter.

• Take the cable car to Mürren for panoramic snow views.

• Enjoy winter hikes through the Lauterbrunnen Valley Trail.

Best Time to Visit: December to February for snowy landscapes and frozen falls

How to Reach: Easily accessible from Interlaken by train (around 20 minutes)

Highlights: Frozen waterfalls, tranquil valley scenery, easy access to ski villages

Practical Tips:

• Stay in Lauterbrunnen for quiet nights and easy day trips.

• Pack insulated shoes for walking in the valley.

• Check cable car schedules; weather may affect timings.

Perched high above Lauterbrunnen, Wengen is a traffic-free alpine village with postcard views of snow-covered peaks. It's known for its cosy chalets, family-friendly ski slopes, and the annual Lauberhorn Ski Races. The peaceful setting and traditional Swiss charm make it a favourite among winter travellers looking for both adventure and tranquilly.

Top Experiences:

• Ride the cable car to Männlichen for stunning views.

• Go skiing on beginner and intermediate slopes.

• Take scenic walks overlooking the Lauterbrunnen Valley.

Best Time to Visit: January to March for the best snow and skiing conditions.

How to Reach: Accessible only by train from Lauterbrunnen; cars are not permitted.

Highlights: Family ski resorts, alpine charm, Lauberhorn Ski Races.

Practical Tips:

• Carry cash for small local cafés (some don’t accept cards).

• Dress warmly as Wengen can get windy at night.

• Pre-book train tickets to save time during busy season.

Saas-Fee, often called the “Pearl of the Alps”, offers reliable snow and glacier skiing nearly all year. Located in the Valais region, this resort village is known for its car-free atmosphere, pristine beauty, and wide range of winter sports. With 13 majestic peaks surrounding it, Saas-Fee is ideal for both thrill-seekers and travellers who want to experience serene alpine life.

Top Experiences:

• Take the Metro Alpin to enjoy views from the world’s highest revolving restaurant.

• Go skiing or snowboarding on glacier slopes.

• Stroll through the village’s snow-dusted streets and shops.

Best Time to Visit: November to April for skiing; December to February for peak snow

How to Reach: Reachable by train to Visp, then by bus or taxi to Saas-Fee (cars not allowed inside)

Highlights: Glacier skiing, scenic peaks, cozy winter stays

Practical Tips:

• Book accommodation early during ski season weekends

• Wear sun protection even in winter since UV rays reflect off snow

• Use luggage carts available at the village entrance to transport bags

Set against the serene Lake Lucerne with the snow-dusted Swiss Alps as a backdrop, Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s most captivating winter cities. Its medieval charm blends beautifully with modern culture, offering visitors a mix of lakeside walks, cosy cafés, and festive spirit. The historic Old Town glows under fairy lights, and Mount Pilatus nearby turns into a snow wonderland perfect for winter excursions.

Top Experiences:

• Take a lake cruise surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

• Ride the world’s steepest cogwheel railway to Mount Pilatus.

• Explore the Chapel Bridge and Old Town under winter lights.

Best Time to Visit: December to February for Christmas markets, snow views, and winter festivals

How to Reach: Lucerne is well-connected by train; just 1 hour from Zurich.

Highlights: Old Town charm, Mount Pilatus, Chapel Bridge, Lake Lucerne cruises

Practical Tips:

• Buy a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited local transport.

• Pack warm layers for evening lake winds.

• Visit early mornings to enjoy uncrowded streets.

Surrounded by Lakes Thun and Brienz and framed by the Jungfrau mountains, Interlaken is a dream base for winter adventures. It’s where scenic beauty meets thrill, offering everything from skiing and snowboarding to paragliding above snowy valleys. Even if you’re not into sports, its alpine charm and clear lake reflections make it a postcard-perfect winter escape.

Top Experiences:

• Try skiing or snowboarding at nearby slopes.

• Go winter paragliding for unmatched mountain views.

• Visit Harder Kulm for panoramic sunset views.

Best Time to Visit: December to March for snow sports and adventure activities

How to Reach: Take a direct train from Zurich or Bern to Interlaken Ost.

Highlights: Winter sports hub, Alpine lakes, Jungfrau views, Harder Kulm

Practical Tips:

• Book adventurous activities in advance during the winter peak.

• Wear proper snow boots for lakeside paths.

• Carry cash; some local vendors don’t accept cards.

Zurich turns magical in winter with festive markets, sparkling streets, and easy access to nearby ski regions. Beyond its city lights, Zurich’s old-world charm, riverfront walks, and diverse food scene make it a wonderful place to explore between snow trips. From luxury shopping to cozy cafés, the city perfectly combines urban excitement with alpine serenity.

Top Experiences:

• Explore the Christmas markets at Niederdorf and Bahnhofstrasse.

• Take a day trip to the Flumserberg or Engelberg ski areas.

• Visit the Kunsthaus Zurich for art and culture.

Best Time to Visit: Late November to February for snow and holiday cheer.

How to Reach: Easily accessible via Zurich International Airport and Swiss Rail.

Highlights: Festive markets, city nightlife, skiing access, lake views.

Practical Tips:

• Use trams for quick city travel.

• Try local fondue spots for authentic winter comfort food.

• Pack thermal layers; it gets windy by the lake.

Bern, the capital of Switzerland and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, becomes even more beautiful when blanketed in snow. Its cobblestone lanes, sandstone buildings, and iconic clock tower turn into a winter postcard. The Old Town, perched above the River Aare, offers romantic walks, boutique shopping, and classic Swiss dining in heated arcades.

Top Experiences:

• Wander through the snow-covered Old Town and Zytglogge Tower.

• Skate at the Bundesplatz open-air rink.

• Visit the Bern Historical Museum for cultural insight.

Best Time to Visit: December to February for snow and festive events

How to Reach: Bern is about 1 hour by train from Zurich or Lucerne.

Highlights: Old Town charm, clock tower, skating rinks, museums

Practical Tips:

• Carry snow-resistant shoes for hilly streets.

• Visit early evening for the best city lights.

• Try Bernese Rösti at local cafés.

Situated along Lake Geneva and backed by the Alps, Montreux offers a different kind of Swiss winter- mild, peaceful, and scenic. The city is best known for its beautiful lakeside promenade, world-class jazz heritage, and one of the country’s best Christmas markets. Its gentle climate and views of snowy peaks make it perfect for travellers seeking winter charm without the extreme cold.

Top Experiences:

• Visit the Montreux Christmas Market for festive shopping.

• Take a walk along the Lake Geneva promenade.

• Ride the cogwheel train to Rochers-de-Naye for mountain views.

Best Time to Visit: Late November to January for Christmas festivities and clear skies.

How to Reach: Connected by train from Geneva, Lausanne, or Bern.

Highlights: Lakeside charm, Christmas Market, Rochers-de-Naye, mild winters.

Practical Tips:

• Book lake-view hotels early during December.

• Bring a light jacket; Montreux winters are mild.

• Don’t miss the Chillon Castle nearby for a scenic visit.

Situated at around 1,775 m, high in the Engadine valley, St. Moritz stands out as a luxurious winter retreat with a strong snow record and upscale ambiance. Framed by frozen lakes and snow-draped peaks, this Engadin valley gem has twice hosted the Winter Olympics. From snow polo tournaments and designer boutiques to scenic cable car rides and cosy mountain chalets, St. Moritz's striking scenery makes it one of the best snowy destinations in Switzerland.

Top Experiences:

• Go skiing or snowboarding on the Corviglia slopes.

• Enjoy snow polo or the famous White Turf horse races on the frozen lake.

• Take the Muottas Muragl funicular for panoramic Engadin views.

Best Time to Visit: December to March for snow sports and winter festivals.

How to Reach: Connected via train from Zurich or Chur; the Glacier Express also stops here, offering a breathtaking journey through the Alps.

Highlights: Luxury alpine resorts, scenic winter landscapes, exclusive events, fine dining.

Practical Tips:

• Book well in advance for winter stays and events.

• Dress in warm, layered clothing suitable for high altitudes.

• Use public transport or local taxis, as parking can be limited and costly.