27 Mar Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in The Spring
How many of us can say we’ve been to the top of Europe or seen the May Queen Parade? These are some of the amazing sights you can witness in Switzerland during the spring!
It’s the most magical time to visit this snowy country. Spring is the season of celebration as winter’s sub-zero temperatures give way to sunnier and warmer weather that’s perfect for frolicking around flower fields and exploring the Alps without freezing over.
1. Zurich
Kick off your Switzerland spring escapade with a visit to its largest city! The lively town of Zurich is full of fun festivities to get you into the groove of Swiss culture. With the first rays of sunshine, the residents of Zurich bid winter goodbye by burning a snowman during “Sechseläuten.” After which, the spring season officially begins!
In Zurich, people flock to weekly weekend markets and garden terraces to bask in the sun. At night, there are plenty of pubs where you can drink and dine.
Still, if you want to get away from the city for a bit, there’s also the nearby Lake Zurich to hit up. With easy hiking trails and cherry blossoms sprouting around, it’s the best spot to relax and breathe in the fresh air!
2. Zermatt
The Alps is beautiful all year round! In spring, when it’s not too cold nor too hot, you’ll be able to comfortably trek up the famous Mount Matterhorn and see the meadows in full bloom on the way up. Another pit stop in Zermatt is Wolli Park where you can slip, slide, and ski down the slopes — whether you’re a beginner or pro!
3. Interlaken
To see Switzerland in all its spring splendor, a visit to Interlaken is a must! This quaint town looks straight out of a postcard, surrounded by the crystal blue waters of Lake Brienz and the mighty Alps. During spring, the snow slowly melts and the flowers begin to bloom. At the Alpine Garden, you’ll spot the brightly-colored soldanellas, crocuses, and 777 other fragrant floras that scream spring!
As for the adventure junkies, you can try paragliding in Interlaken to get your heart pumping. This activity doesn’t only let you in on the action but also gives you the best views of Switzerland in spring from above.
4. Bern
Looking for a spot that’s rich in history and brimming with nature? Bern’s got you covered on both things. Prepare your cameras for a splendid sightseeing trip around Bern’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’ll wow anyone. With traditional houses made out of stone, quaint alleyways, rose gardens, and an impressive Clock Tower to match, Bern looks straight out of a fairytale book!
While in Bern, make room for desserts too, and figure out why it’s called the ice cream capital of Switzerland!
5. Basel
Basel is close to the borders of France and Germany, so you’d expect the quiet medieval town to be full of charms. True enough, it’s loaded with it! Stroll through cobblestone streets along the scenic Rhine River and get a picture of what life was like back in the 16th century as you encounter magnificent cathedrals and sandstone houses.
Of course, a trip to Basel also means seeing the quirkiest artworks in Europe. This charming city has a long list of art galleries you need to visit. Our fave is the Caricature & Cartoon Museum which houses over 3,400 original storyboards and satirical sketches.
6. Lucerne
Haven’t had the chance to visit Germany yet? If you’re in Switzerland in spring, there’s always Lucerne. Among the top places that have a touch of Germany, Lucerne stuns with its medieval spires, riverside cafes, a Water Tower, and plenty of lakeside views. In spring, both locals and tourists flock to Lake Lucerne to get a clear scenery of the snow-capped Mount Pilatus and its surrounding hills.
7. Geneva
In Geneva, the return of spring is welcomed by children, adorned in floral crowns, singing their way through the streets to make way for the May Queen. Often, the festival is celebrated at the end of May, attracting visitors from all over the globe.
Though if you missed the date, fret not! There are still heaps to see in Geneva in spring, including the six million flowers that decorate the Geneva Botanical Gardens and Observatory. Experience a colorful springtime in Geneva, and while there, try to spot wild narcissus blooms by Lake Geneva!
8. Lugano
Trade cozy inns with the glitz and glamour of Lugano! Called the “Monte Carlo of Switzerland,” this lakeside city is famous for its gorgeous quasi-Mediterranean landscape, art-deco buildings, and Hollywood star spottings. Popular activities include swanky yacht rides at Lake Lugano and laidback treks to Monte Brè.
9. Montreux
Besides nature and good food, there’s also a sweet jazz music festival in Switzerland! From July 1 to 16, Montreux locals gather for nights of fun and festivity. The Montreux Jazz Festival celebrates the season with outstanding performances and live stages on the shores of Lake Geneva.
Though, if you miss the festival, you can always visit these Montreux attractions instead. The Pléiades Narcissus Field hosts the most spectacular collection of wild blooms from mid-March to mid-June, while the Chateau de Chillon is the perfect castle to go on for an adventure. Inside, there are several medieval frescoes and spooky Gothic dungeons to explore.
10. Lausanne
Sports fans, are you ready to rumble? Lace up your trainers, ‘cos we’re sprinting over to the “Olympic Capital,” Lausanne. Where the International Olympic Committee Headquarters stands, Lausanne houses the famous Olympic Museum, laden with athlete sculptures, interactive displays, and giant screens playing the most iconic moments in Olympic history. But wait ‘til you hear the best part about Lausanne! It’s got an awesome view of Lake Geneva and its surroundings in full spring bloom!