Overview

It isn’t hard to guess what comes to mind when someone mentions Switzerland. You might dream of alpine train rides, Swiss chocolate at a charming café by Lake Lucerne, or a leisurely walk around a pretty village like Zermatt. Perhaps you picture skiing in Gstaad or admiring the rushing Rhine Falls up close.

Whatever draws you to Switzerland, this picture-perfect European destination delivers. Adventure-seekers can glide across snow-covered slopes, while history buffs can explore old towns filled with fascinating stories. Shopaholics can hunt for authentic Swiss watches and handcrafted treasures.

Despite its modest size, Switzerland packs in diverse landscapes, quaint countryside, cultural riches and a distinctive culinary scene. It is also well-connected, safe and welcoming.

At White Trails, we tailor Switzerland tour packages to your interests and travel preferences. From iconic attractions to local experiences, you can explore Switzerland your way without worrying about the planning.

Places to Visit

From dreamy alpine villages and posh cityscapes to panoramic mountain views and idyllic lakeside entertainment, Switzerland’s unique appeal becomes evident wherever you go. Pick your favourites with White Trails’ curated Switzerland tour packages.

In Switzerland’s biggest city, old-world charm meets modern energy. Stroll through the cobbled streets of Old Town to admire cosy cafés, historic guild houses and medieval churches. Enjoy upscale retail therapy along Bahnhofstrasse or take a boat ride on Lake Zurich.

From Lindenhof, take in views across the Old Town and Limmat River that are sure to linger. Later, savour hot chocolate and try Confiserie Sprüngli’s famous Luxemburgerli macarons. You can also explore museums and art galleries, along with murals and quirky sculptures. Chocolate lovers can visit the Lindt Home of Chocolate in nearby Kilchberg, famous for its chocolate fountain.  

There’s something magical about watching swans glide across the turquoise waters of Lake Lucerne, with Mount Pilatus rising in the background. Stroll across the historic Chapel Bridge and browse craft shops in the city before treating yourself to some ice cream. 

White Trails can personalise your Lucerne tour to include mountain hikes around Pilatus or Rigi, as well as heart-pounding toboggan runs on Pilatus. The Lion Monument in the Old Town is another must-see, commemorating the Swiss Guards who were killed during the French Revolution.

If you’re chasing those fairy-tale vibes on your trip, Interlaken is the place to be. Set between the emerald waters of Lakes Brienz and Thun, the resort town offers scenic views and grand hiking trails. White Trails can tailor your Interlaken tour to blend thrills and serenity seamlessly.

Hike up Harder Kulm, ride the cogwheel train to Schynige Platte or enjoy a refreshing swim in Lake Brienz. Nature lovers often make the trip to the breathtaking Aare Gorge. If you’re partial to active adventures, go kayaking on Lake Thun or try paragliding over Interlaken for a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding landscape.

Heading up to the “Top of Europe” on a spectacular railway journey is an experience you won’t have every day. Prepare for sweeping views of pristine glaciers, dramatic Alpine landscapes and snow-covered peaks.

On your Jungfraujoch tour, take in the scenery from the Sphinx Observatory, wander through the Ice Palace with its intricate ice sculptures and explore the Alpine Sensation experience. When it’s time for a break, savour Swiss and international dishes at the restaurants or browse the gift shops for souvenirs.

Nestled at the foot of the dramatic Matterhorn, Zermatt is a favourite for luxe Swiss holidays. And there’s plenty to do beyond skiing and sledding. Hike to a Matterhorn viewpoint, enjoy lunch in an igloo or head up to Sunnegga for a scenic fondue experience.

Browse boutique stores for charming souvenirs, enjoy a cable car ride, sample local beer or take to the skies on a helicopter flight. For an unforgettable rail journey, you can also ride part of the Glacier Express route that runs between Zermatt and St. Moritz.

Visiting Berner Oberland is a dream for many travellers with a passion for majestic mountain vistas. And there’s plenty more to discover, from picture-perfect alpine meadows and photogenic villages to gushing waterfalls. You can click away with your camera or simply take your time exploring.

Nearby Grindelwald is known for its old-world charm. It also serves as a gateway to high-altitude excursions, with opportunities for hiking, skiing, mountain climbing and snowboarding.

Being face-to-face with Europe’s biggest waterfall is an experience that words can hardly describe. While the viewing platforms delight photographers, you can also hop on a boat to get really close to the falls. Walking around the Rhine Falls basin is fun too, or you can enjoy a scenic meal at Laufen Castle’s clifftop restaurant.

Explore the best of the Swiss landscape with curated Swiss Alps Tours by White Trails.

Exploring the resort towns around Lake Geneva can be an amazing experience, whether you love vineyards, castles, museums or boat cruises. Include Montreux in your itinerary for Chillon Castle, jazz festivals and quaint coffee shops. Its lakeside promenade also draws visitors with its sculptures and flowers. 

Many of our travellers also visit Lausanne to admire its Gothic cathedral and wander through medieval streets.

Travellers keen on opulence, outdoor adventures, high-end shopping and fine dining often choose Switzerland holiday packages that include these resort destinations. Besides alpine scenery that leaves you speechless, you can enjoy golf, hiking, skiing and cycling. These towns also offer premium wellness experiences.

In St. Moritz, you can catch plenty of events too, from horse racing and polo to even cricket on ice. Gstaad offers chalet-village charm and a vehicle-free promenade, perfect for a leisurely trip.

Best Time to Visit Switzerland

Every season, Switzerland transforms to offer travellers something distinct yet striking. The air is cooled by the mountain breeze, while the scenery remains beautiful year-round. White Trails can help you plan your trip with customisable Switzerland holiday packages tailored to your preferred time of travel.

Spring

Mar - May 8 to 15°C

Mild days, blooming meadows

Spring is a lovely time to explore Switzerland as meadows turn green and flowers begin to bloom. Crowds are generally lighter than in summer, making it a good time to explore cities such as Zurich and Lucerne, as well as destinations like Lauterbrunnen, Bern and the Rhine Falls.

Summer

Jun - Aug 18 to 28°C

Warm, peak tourist season

Summer is the busiest time to visit Switzerland. It is ideal for hiking, cycling, boat rides, mountain excursions and scenic train journeys, while open-air festivals add to the atmosphere. St. Moritz, Interlaken, Jungfraujoch, Lucerne and Geneva are popular choices during this season.

Autumn

Sep - Nov 8 to 15°C

Crisp days, colourful foliage

The mild temperatures during Switzerland’s autumn make it a pleasant time for scenic hikes, while panoramic train journeys offer beautiful views of the changing foliage. You can also explore flea markets, attend village fairs, watch cattle descend from Alpine pastures or join wildlife-watching tours.

Winter

Dec - Feb -2 to 7°C

Cold, snowy in the mountains

Winter transforms Switzerland's mountain resorts into a haven for skiing, snowboarding and other snow activities. Cities and historic squares come alive with Christmas markets, while thermal spas, cosy restaurants and traditional fondue offer a warmer way to enjoy the season.

Top Things to Do in Switzerland

If you’re holidaying amidst the Swiss Alps, there’s always something wondrous to do. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the choices, White Trails offers specialised Switzerland tour packages to help you explore the highlights with ease.

Embark on a Road Trip

Road trips are the best way to absorb local culture (and do it at your pace). Here are some road trip ideas for Switzerland: Bernese Oberland: Follow gentle passes and valley roads to discover wooden chalets, lush meadows and cascading waterfalls. You’ll also find famous peaks such as the Eiger and Mönch, with the Jungfraujoch within reach. Furka Pass Loop: If you are confident handling hairpin bends, take this route for spectacular views of glaciers, ice caves, steam trains and sunlit mountain peaks. Emmental Cheese Route: Gourmands will enjoy this route, with the medieval town of Burgdorf among its key stops. Follow country roads through rolling hills, admire wooden bridges and stop at farm shops to sample carefully aged cheese.

Embark on a Road Trip

Undertake Postcard-Perfect Rail Journeys

Thanks to a thoughtfully planned, highly efficient rail network, Switzerland makes train journeys smooth and comfortable. Here are the best of Switzerland’s railway trips: Bernina Express (Chur to Tirano): From the snow-covered peaks of Switzerland to the Italian town of Tirano, this scenic train journey takes you through some of the Alps’ most spectacular landscapes. GoldenPass Belle Époque (Montreux to Zweisimmen): Sink into the glamour of a bygone era as you admire shimmering lakes and majestic peaks from the comfort of this elegant train, reminiscent of the Orient Express. We recommend undertaking this journey in autumn. Cogwheel Train to Mount Pilatus’s Top: This journey stands out because the cogwheel train you ride is one of the steepest in the world. The ascent may test your nerves, but the spectacular views make up for it.

Undertake Postcard-Perfect Rail Journeys

Glide Across Tranquil Lakes

There’s nothing like a scenic boat ride to admire Switzerland’s beautiful surroundings while enjoying a refreshing breeze. You can choose from gorgeous lakes such as Geneva, Lucerne, Lugano, Brienz, Thun, Zurich, and Maggiore. You can also opt for a leisurely lunch or dinner cruise, pairing delicious meals with memorable views. Or bring a picnic to complement the scenic experience.

Glide Across Tranquil Lakes

Indulge in Outdoor Fun

From skiing, hiking and glacier walks to paragliding, zip-lining and snowboarding, Switzerland offers plenty of outdoor activities with spectacular views. And that’s not limited to Interlaken, Lucerne, St. Moritz or Gstaad. At Trift, try crossing the wobbly suspension bridge. In Elm, sledding down an entire mountain can be thrilling. If you are up for it, consider mountain biking in Corviglia or hiking to the Diavolezza Glacier. An afternoon swim in Lake Staz can also leave you feeling refreshed.

Indulge in Outdoor Fun

Visit Historic Swiss Towns and Museums

The Swiss countryside is dotted with towns and ruins that take you back in time and museums that showcase Swiss heritage, culture, and treasured customs in style. Check out: Old Towns: Sion, Baden, Bellinzona, Solothurn, Olten, Montreux, and Geneva Museums: Swiss National Museum (Zurich), Paul Klee Centre (Bern), Mamco (Geneva), Kunstmuseum (Basel) Medieval Castles: Located across Aigle, Gruyères, Neuchâtel, Thun, Sion, and Lausanne.

Visit Historic Swiss Towns and Museums

Discover Switzerland’s Local Culture

Indigenous traditions, regional identities and centuries of cultural influences have shaped Switzerland into a country with distinct cuisines, customs and celebrations across its 26 cantons. White Trails can help you plan the perfect escape with curated Switzerland tour packages.
Food

Swiss cheese and chocolate hold a special place in the country’s culinary scene, with different regions producing their own varieties. Share traditional dishes with your loved ones, and visit chocolate factories and eateries to learn more about food history.

Festivals

Switzerland hosts cultural events throughout the year. In late September, catch cattle descent festivals, while October brings chestnut festivals celebrating the harvest. Time your visit around Swiss National Day (1st August) for paper lanterns and fireworks, or attend the Swiss Yodelling Festival in June.

Shopping

From precision timepieces and luxury watches to gourmet chocolates and Swiss Army knives, Switzerland offers plenty of distinctive souvenirs. Geneva, Zurich, and Montreux are ideal for designer shopping, while flea markets in Bern, Basel, Zurich, and Lugano are great for finding local crafts, vintage pieces and quirky treasures.

Travel Essentials for Your Switzerland Trip

While Switzerland is undoubtedly one of the easiest European countries to explore, being aware of a few practical details can make your journey even smoother. White Trails can help you plan your itinerary with Switzerland holiday packages that bring all your bookings together in one place.

To travel to Switzerland as a tourist, you generally need a Schengen visa. This also allows you to visit other countries within the Schengen Area, subject to the visa’s conditions. The application typically involves:

  1. Completing and submitting the application form
  2. Scheduling an appointment at an authorised visa centre
  3. Providing biometric details
  4. Submitting your passport, flight itinerary, travel insurance, accommodation details, employment documents (if applicable), proof of sufficient funds and photographs

Apply well ahead of your intended travel dates. Appointments can be harder to secure during busy holiday periods, so plan accordingly. Your travel insurance should also provide adequate coverage for the entire duration of your trip.

The Swiss Franc (CHF) is the currency in Switzerland. Though shops and restaurants in touristy places might accept Euros, you will generally receive change in CHF.

  • Across hotels, public transport systems, stores, cafes, and attractions, you can easily use credit or debit cards or make contactless payments. 
  • When heading to mountain villages, local markets, or eateries in offbeat or remote places, carry a modest amount of cash.  

There are multiple hassle-free ways to explore Switzerland. The Swiss rail network connects key cities, mountain resorts and even small towns, offering comfort, punctuality and memorable views along the way. The Swiss Travel Pass lets you travel on most trains, boats and buses, while also offering complimentary entry to numerous museums. For mountain adventures, a vast network of cable cars, gondolas and mountain railways provides easy access to ski resorts, viewpoints, hiking trails and glaciers. You can also hire a car and enjoy the flexibility of driving through vineyards, remote villages and scenic country roads.

Before packing, consider your destinations and travel season. Here’s what to generally pack for a trip to Switzerland:

  • Layered clothing to brace against temperature fluctuations 
  • Warm outerwear for high-altitude excursions  
  • Waterproof jacket to prepare for sudden spells of rain
  • Clothes you can layer in case of temperature fluctuations
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses, especially when high up in the mountains
  • Copies of vital documents and prescription medicines 
  • Universal adapter that works with electrical outlets in Switzerland 
  • Light backpack for day trips or extended sightseeing.

Locals in Switzerland expect you to stay clean, be punctual, and behave respectfully in public areas.

  • Avoid tardiness for restaurant reservations, train departures, and planned excursions. 
  • Speak softly and control noise levels on public transport. 
  • Be patient in queues and avoid cutting. 
  • Be responsible by reducing waste and following any specific recycling rules. 
  • Walk along designated paths and follow navigation rules in protected natural reserves. 
  • Greeting people politely when entering cafes or shops is appreciated.

To stay connected with family or friends while travelling in Switzerland, pick from the following:

  • International roaming plans that Indian mobile service companies offer
  • Local SIM cards you can purchase after landing in Switzerland 
  • International eSIM plans that you can activate prior to departure 
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi available at public spaces, railway stations, airports, hotels, cafes, etc.  

FAQs

Quick answers to the most common queries about travelling in Switzerland.

A 10- to 12-day Switzerland holiday is ideal for exploring major Swiss cities, taking scenic rail journeys and experiencing alpine destinations without feeling rushed. This duration also leaves room to enjoy cultural events along the way.

Yes, Switzerland is an excellent winter honeymoon destination. Couples can enjoy skiing, sledding and snowboarding, stay at upscale resorts, savour fondue with snowy views, take scenic railway journeys and explore festive Christmas markets.

If you plan to visit Switzerland in spring, which begins in March, start planning by November or December. Booking early can make it easier to secure convenient flights, accommodation, visa appointments and rail passes.