What's there to do in Switzerland in winter?
Switzerland is worldwide famous as the quintessential winter destination. Davos, St. Moritz, Verbier - anyone and everyone outside of Switzerland surely knows these glamorous ski resorts. Of course, this image of Switzerland as a paradise for winter sports is well deserved - the Swiss have impeccable infrastructure, a great transport network and numerous winter resorts throughout this small country.
What's there to do in Switzerland if you don't ski?
Loads, and so many amazing outdoor activities so you can still enjoy your winter holiday without too much corona panic. Winter hikes on amazingly prepared slopes, ice skating on lakes (although some ice skating rinks should also be opened), sledging on astounding mountain slopes, sleeping in an igloo or a winter POD and simply enjoying the snow and having a snowball fight.
Most spas are also opened and we have some great suggestions for beautiful spas and thermal baths.
Here are our top tips for amazing winter activities in Switzerland
Spas, Wellness centers & Thermal baths
One of the pools at the luxurious Ermitage Wellness-&Spa-Hotel © Gstaad Tourism
From family friendly wellness centers to exclusive architectural gems, here are our main suggestions.
Pick a spa9 ideas for ski-shy folks
Soaking in the jacuzzi at Engelberg Igloo Village © Engelberg Titlis/ Christian Perret
From amazing winter hikes to driving dog pulled sleds, here are some great ideas to spend your winter.
Skiing is not my thing, so tell me more...International Hot Air Balloon Festival at Château-d'Oex
It's a special sight to see so many balloons taking to the skies.
Tell me moreEnjoying Fondue like the Swiss
To the Swiss, fondue isn't just about dunking a bit of bread into a pot of melted cheese; it's also a kind of festive ritual with its own customs and rules of etiquette.
And because it seems fondue is not a corona hazard - sigh of relief from Swiss people everywhere - you'd better learn some fondue etiquette.
Become a fondue connoisseurThe complete guide to skiing in Switzerland
Enjoying the humbling view in Zinal, Valais, with Matterhorn to the right and Obergabelhorn to the left. Just stunning © Switzerland Tourism/ Silvano Zeiter
This detailed guide to Swiss ski resorts provides links to opening times, pass prices, and special offers at over 50 resorts across 9 regions.
Show meSome snowshoe walking trail suggestions
Snowshoe walking checks all the right boxes this year (it's outdoors so you can also meet some friends, it does not really require traveling by cable car and it allows you to explore up close beautiful scenery). Here are some tips from the archives for winter walks around 1 hour's drive from Geneva.
Snowshoe walking around GenevaMust see and do this winter in Zermatt
Zermatt Winter Wonderland © Zermatt Tourism
The charming village of Zermatt, lies at the foot of the Matterhorn and it's one of the most beloved winter destinations in Switzerland. Care to find out why?
Tell me more about ZermattYour perfect ski holiday in Arosa
Skiing on Weisshorn mountain © Arosa Tourism
Guaranteed snow is simply music to any winter sports fan, but Arosa has much more than that. Make sure to check out the special offers for skiers!
Tell me more about Arosa
Top Christmas markets in Switzerland
Switzerland offers a variety of Christmas markets throughout the festive season, where you can grab a glass of mulled wine and enjoy the smell of roasted 'marroni'.
Let's goThe Ultimate Swiss Gift Guide ❄︎ Christmas 2021 Edition
Welcome to a wonderful place where inspiration for the holidays runs plenty! We’ll help you go beyond Swiss chocolate and find some exciting gifts for Christmas that are typically Swiss as well as unique.
Let's goNew Year's Celebrations
Some New Year's Eve public celebrations and fireworks have been canceled this year, but if you're in the mood for a party, a few hotels and restaurants do offer New Year's dinners, subject to current regulations. Check out our suggestions.
Show meFree 'Discover Switzerland' Welcome Pack
Order your free 'Discover Switzerland' Welcome Pack from Switzerland Tourism. It contains essential travel information so you can enjoy exploring the best of Switzerland.
Order nowNeed more inspiration?
Spring is just around the corner or maybe you'd like to be extra prepared and check out our tips for summer and autumn. No one yould blame you for doing that in Switzerland - quite the contrary.