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10 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in Summer

Switzerland in summer is a spectacular mix of snow-capped mountains, turquoise lakes, charming villages and scenic rail journeys. Discover 10 of the best places to visit, from Zermatt and Interlaken to Lucerne, Lauterbrunnen and Montreux, with practical tips to help you plan an unforgettable Swiss adventure.

4/14/202617 min read

A scenic view of a lake in the mountains

1. Zermatt (Matterhorn Region)

Best for: Iconic mountain scenery, hiking and alpine experiences

If there is one image that immediately comes to mind when people think about Switzerland, it is probably the Matterhorn.

Zermatt sits beneath this instantly recognisable mountain in the canton of Valais and is one of Switzerland's most famous mountain destinations.

Switzerland Tourism describes Zermatt as a major summer destination, with hiking, climbing, mountain biking, paragliding and excursions such as the Gornergrat Railway.

What to do in Zermatt

Take the Gornergrat Railway

The railway climbs high above Zermatt and provides spectacular views towards the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.

Explore the hiking trails

Summer opens up a huge range of mountain paths, from relatively gentle walks to demanding alpine routes.

Visit Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

At high altitude, you can experience a very different landscape from the green valleys below.

Explore Zermatt village

Allow some time simply to walk around the village, browse shops and restaurants and enjoy the traditional alpine atmosphere.

How long should you stay?

2–3 days

Two nights is enough for a taste of Zermatt, while three days gives you more flexibility for hiking and mountain excursions.

Who is Zermatt best for?

Couples
Hikers
Photographers
Mountain lovers
Active travellers
Luxury travellers

A practical tip

Don't plan every mountain excursion too tightly.

Weather can change quickly in the Alps, and cloud can completely transform the view from a mountain summit. Keeping one flexible day can make your trip considerably more enjoyable.

In summer, Zermatt transforms into a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. You can take the Gornergrat railway for panoramic views, ride cable cars up to glaciers, or explore scenic trails surrounded by wildflowers and mountain lakes. The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise offers year-round snow experiences, even in July. Beyond adventure, the town itself is full of cosy cafés, boutique shops and relaxing spas.

Best hotels: Mont Cervin Palace (luxury), Hotel Alpenblick (mid-range)
Price: £200–£800 per night
How to get there: Train from Zurich (3.5 hours)
Ideal stay: 2–3 days

2. Interlaken (Adventure Capital)

a building on a hill with a lake and mountains in the background

Best for: First-time visitors, adventure and exploring the Bernese Oberland

Interlaken is located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and is one of Switzerland's most convenient bases for exploring the surrounding mountains and villages.

Switzerland Tourism describes Interlaken as a starting point for excursions throughout the Bernese Oberland, with access to lakes, mountain villages and the Alps by rail and mountain transport.

What to do

Lake Thun and Lake Brienz

Both lakes offer opportunities for boat trips and lakeside sightseeing.

Paragliding

Interlaken is particularly well known for adventure activities, including tandem paragliding.

Visit Harder Kulm

The viewpoint above Interlaken provides a panoramic perspective over the town, lakes and mountains.

Use Interlaken as your base

This may actually be the biggest advantage of staying here.

From Interlaken, you can make excursions to Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, Mürren, Wengen and other parts of the Bernese Oberland.

How long should you stay?

2–3 days

If this is your first trip to Switzerland, I'd favour three nights here rather than constantly changing hotels.

Who is Interlaken best for?

First-time visitors
Families
Adventure travellers
Couples
People who want an efficient base

Why we like it

Interlaken isn't necessarily the most beautiful town on this list.

Its strength is location.

It allows you to experience several of Switzerland's most spectacular mountain areas without changing accommodation every night.

Best hotels: Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel, Hotel Interlaken
Price: £180–£500 per night
How to get there: Train from Zurich (2 hours)
Ideal stay: 2–3 days

3. Jungfraujoch

Best for: High-altitude scenery and a memorable mountain excursion

Jungfraujoch is one of Switzerland's most famous high-altitude attractions and is often marketed as the “Top of Europe”.

The journey itself is part of the experience.

Rather than thinking of Jungfraujoch as a normal town where you spend several nights, think of it as a mountain excursion that can be reached from the surrounding Bernese Oberland.

What can you experience?

Depending on conditions and the operating facilities available during your visit, attractions can include:

High-altitude viewpoints
Glacier scenery
Ice Palace
Snow experiences
Alpine exhibitions
Views towards the Aletsch region

How long do you need?

Usually:

Half a day to a full day

You don't need to stay overnight at Jungfraujoch.

Is it worth the cost?

This is one of the places where you should check the current price before committing.

Mountain railways in Switzerland can be expensive, and the weather can affect whether you get the spectacular views you hoped for.

If the forecast is poor, consider whether you want to spend a significant amount on an excursion when visibility may be limited.

Our advice

Check the mountain weather and visibility forecast on the day of travel if possible.

A sunny day can make the experience extraordinary.

Best Hotel; Grand Hotel Belvedere Price: £170–£210 for return ticket
How to get there: Train via Interlaken
Ideal stay: Day trip

4. Lucerne

Best for: Lakes, history, culture and a relaxed city break

Lucerne offers something different from the mountain villages.

It combines a historic old town with Lake Lucerne and easy access to surrounding mountains.

Switzerland Tourism specifically highlights Lucerne's summer combination of lake activities, mountain excursions such as Mount Pilatus and its historic centre.

What to see

Chapel Bridge

The famous covered wooden bridge is one of Lucerne's best-known landmarks.

Lucerne Old Town

Allow time to walk through the historic centre rather than simply photographing the bridge and leaving.

Lake Lucerne

A boat trip can provide an entirely different perspective of the city and mountains.

Mount Pilatus

One of the region's most popular mountain excursions.

How long should you stay?

2 days

Lucerne also works very well as part of a longer Switzerland itinerary.

Who is Lucerne best for?

Couples
Families
First-time visitors
Culture lovers
Travellers who don't want an entirely mountain-focused holiday

Why visit?

If you want to combine Swiss scenery with cafés, architecture, museums and history, Lucerne is one of the strongest choices on this list.

Best hotels: Hotel des Balances, Ameron Lucerne
Price: £150–£400 per night
How to get there: Train from Zurich (1 hour)
Ideal stay: 2 days

5. Lauterbrunnen Valley

houses on green grass field near mountain under blue sky during daytime

Best for: Waterfalls, hiking and classic Swiss landscapes

Lauterbrunnen is one of those places where the landscape is almost the attraction itself.

The valley is surrounded by steep cliffs and waterfalls, with the famous Staubbach Falls among its best-known sights.

Switzerland Tourism highlights Lauterbrunnen's summer hiking opportunities, waterfalls and routes towards destinations such as Mürren and Wengen.

What to do

Walk through the valley

One of the simplest ways to experience Lauterbrunnen is to slow down and walk.

See Staubbach Falls

The waterfall is one of the valley's defining sights.

Visit Trümmelbach Falls

These waterfalls inside the mountain are a very different experience.

Continue towards Mürren or Wengen

The surrounding mountain villages offer spectacular views and additional hiking opportunities.

How long should you stay?

1–2 days

You can visit as a day trip from Interlaken, but staying overnight gives you more time to experience the valley before the busiest periods of the day.

Who is it best for?

Nature lovers
Photographers
Hikers
Families
Couples

Summer tip

Don't underestimate the valley simply because the main village is easy to reach.

The real experience comes from exploring beyond the central tourist areas.

Best hotels: Hotel Staubbach, Valley Hostel
Price: £120–£300 per night
How to get there: Train via Interlaken
Ideal stay: 2 days

6. Grindelwald

a group of people on a cable car above a mountain

Best for: Hiking, mountain views and outdoor activities

Grindelwald is another standout destination in the Bernese Oberland. The village is surrounded by impressive mountain scenery and provides access to numerous summer hiking and mountain experiences.

Switzerland Tourism highlights Grindelwald's summer hiking and climbing opportunities, the First Cliff Walk and activities around the surrounding mountains and lake areas.

Things to do

First Cliff Walk

A popular attraction offering dramatic mountain views.

Hiking

There are routes for different levels of experience.

Mountain excursions

Gondolas and other mountain transport make it possible to reach higher viewpoints without completing the entire ascent on foot.

Enjoy the village

Grindelwald itself is worth exploring rather than treating it only as a transport stop.

How long should you stay?

2 days

Three nights may be better for serious hikers.

Who is it best for?

Hikers
Families
Couples
Outdoor enthusiasts
Photographers

Grindelwald vs Lauterbrunnen

If you're short on time:

Choose Grindelwald for mountain activities and viewpoints.

Choose Lauterbrunnen for waterfalls and valley scenery.

If your schedule allows, visit both.

Best hotels: Bergwelt Grindelwald, Sunstar Hotel
Price: £150–£400 per night
Ideal stay: 2 days

7. Montreux & Lake Geneva

A large boat in the middle of a body of water

Best for: Lakeside relaxation, culture, vineyards and summer atmosphere

Montreux gives you a completely different version of Switzerland.Instead of being surrounded entirely by dramatic alpine scenery, you have Lake Geneva, vineyards, mountains and a lakeside promenade.

Switzerland Tourism highlights Montreux's lake, mountains, cultural attractions, vineyards and summer events.

What to do

Walk the lakeside promenade

It's one of the easiest ways to experience Montreux.

Visit Chillon Castle

This historic castle sits beside Lake Geneva and is one of the area's major attractions.

Explore Lavaux vineyards

The vineyard landscapes around Lake Geneva provide a beautiful contrast to the mountain destinations.

Take a boat trip

A lake cruise gives you a different perspective of Montreux and the surrounding mountains.

How long should you stay?

1–2 days

Who is it best for?

Couples
Wine lovers
Culture travellers
Families
People wanting a slower pace

Summer highlight

Montreux is also associated with major summer cultural events, including the famous Montreux Jazz Festival.

If you're travelling during a major event, book accommodation well ahead.

Best hotels: Fairmont Le Montreux Palace
Price: £200–£600 per night
How to get there: Train from Geneva (1 hour)
Ideal stay: 2 days

8. Rhine Falls

person in red jacket standing on rock formation in front of green trees during daytime

Best for: A short nature excursion

Rhine Falls is different from the other destinations on this list because you don't need several days to experience it.

The waterfall is one of Switzerland's most spectacular natural attractions and makes a particularly convenient excursion from the Zurich region.

What to do

Walk to the viewpoints

There are several ways to experience the falls from different perspectives.

Take a boat excursion

When operating, boat trips provide a closer view of the waterfall.

Combine it with another destination

Because you don't need to spend several days here, Rhine Falls works well as part of a wider itinerary.

How long should you stay?

Half a day

Allow more time if you want to explore the surrounding area.

Who is it best for?

Families
First-time visitors
Photographers
Travellers with limited time

Our advice

Don't build an entire Switzerland holiday around Rhine Falls.

Instead, treat it as an excellent half-day addition to a wider itinerary.

Price: £5–£20
How to get there: Train from Zurich (1 hour)
Ideal stay: Half-day

9. Lugano

white and brown concrete building near body of water during daytime

Best for: Lakeside relaxation and a taste of Italian-speaking Switzerland

Lugano sits in Switzerland's Italian-speaking canton of Ticino and feels markedly different from destinations such as Zermatt or Grindelwald.

The city combines Swiss infrastructure with an Italian-influenced atmosphere, lakeside promenades and Mediterranean-style vegetation.

What to do

Explore Lake Lugano

The lake is central to the city's identity.

Visit Monte Brè

The mountain provides impressive views across the region.

Walk through the city centre

Allow time for cafés, squares and the waterfront rather than treating Lugano purely as a sightseeing stop.

Explore Ticino

If you have additional time, use Lugano as a starting point for exploring other parts of Ticino.

Switzerland Tourism lists numerous Ticino destinations among its summer regions, including Ascona, Bellinzona and the Blenio Valley.

How long should you stay?

2 days

Who is it best for?

Couples
Food lovers
Lakeside travellers
People wanting warmer summer scenery
Travellers looking for a different side of Switzerland

Why include Lugano?

Because Switzerland isn't just the Alps.

Lugano demonstrates how dramatically the country's landscape and culture can change from one region to another.

Best hotel: Hotel Splendide Royal
Price: £180–£500 per night
Ideal stay: 2 days

10. Bern

a bridge over a river with buildings on either side of it

Best for: History, architecture and authentic city atmosphere

Bern, Switzerland's capital, is sometimes overlooked by travellers who immediately head for the mountains.

That's a mistake if you enjoy historic cities.

The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with arcaded streets, historic buildings, fountains and landmarks.

What to see

Bern Old Town

Give yourself time to wander rather than following a strict checklist.

Zytglogge

The historic clock tower is one of Bern's best-known landmarks.

Federal Palace

The seat of Switzerland's federal government.

Aare River

During warm weather, the river becomes part of local summer life.

How long should you stay?

1–2 days

Who is Bern best for?

History lovers
Couples
Culture travellers
Families
Travellers wanting a city break

Our advice

Bern works particularly well near the beginning or end of a Switzerland itinerary because of its rail connections.

Best hotel: Hotel Schweizerhof Bern
Price: £150–£350 per night
How to get there: Train from Zurich (1 hour)
Ideal stay: 1–2 days

Switzerland for different types of travellers

Best for couples - Zermatt, Montreux and Lucerne

These destinations combine scenery with restaurants, walks and memorable experiences.

Best for families - Lucerne, Interlaken and Grindelwald

They provide a mixture of sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Best for hikers - Grindelwald, Zermatt and Lauterbrunnen

These destinations provide access to extensive mountain landscapes and hiking routes.

Best for first-time visitors - Lucerne, Interlaken and Zermatt

Together they provide a good introduction to lakes, cities and the Alps.

Best for photographers- Zermatt, Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald

All three offer dramatic landscapes, particularly when weather and light cooperate.

Best for a slower holiday - Montreux or Lugano

Both offer lake scenery and a more relaxed atmosphere than the major alpine adventure bases.

A practical 10-day Switzerland summer itinerary

You don't need to visit all ten destinations.

Trying to do so can make your holiday feel like a race between railway stations.

Instead, this itinerary concentrates on several of the strongest destinations while using day trips efficiently.

Day 1 — Arrive in Zurich and continue to Lucerne

Arrive in Zurich and travel onwards to Lucerne.

Spend the afternoon exploring the old town and lakeside.

Overnight: Lucerne

Day 2 — Lucerne and Mount Pilatus

Spend the morning exploring Lucerne.

In the afternoon, take a mountain excursion if weather conditions are suitable.

Overnight: Lucerne

Day 3 — Lucerne to Interlaken

Travel to Interlaken.

Spend the afternoon around the lakes or exploring the town.

Overnight: Interlaken

Day 4 — Lauterbrunnen and Mürren

Take a day trip into the Lauterbrunnen Valley.

Explore the waterfalls and consider continuing towards Mürren or Wengen.

Overnight: Interlaken

Day 5 — Grindelwald

Spend the day exploring Grindelwald and its surrounding mountain attractions.

If you're interested in hiking, this is a good day to dedicate to a longer route.

Overnight: Interlaken

Day 6 — Jungfraujoch

Take the mountain excursion to Jungfraujoch.

Check weather and visibility before committing to the trip.

Return to Interlaken.

Overnight: Interlaken

Day 7 — Interlaken to Zermatt

Travel towards Zermatt.

Spend the afternoon exploring the village.

Overnight: Zermatt

Day 8 — Zermatt and the Matterhorn

Take the Gornergrat Railway or another mountain excursion depending on weather.

Allow time for a village walk and a relaxed dinner.

Overnight: Zermatt

Day 9 — Zermatt to Montreux

Travel towards Montreux.

Spend the afternoon beside Lake Geneva and explore the town.

Overnight: Montreux

Day 10 — Montreux and departure

Depending on your departure arrangements, visit Chillon Castle or explore the lakeside before continuing to the airport or your next destination.

How much does a summer holiday in Switzerland cost?

This is one area where travellers should be careful with fixed online estimates. The cost of a Switzerland holiday varies enormously depending on:

Travel dates
Hotel category
Whether you travel during major events
Mountain excursions
Rail passes
Restaurants
Number of destinations
How far in advance you book
Whether you travel independently or as part of a tour

Instead of assuming that every traveller will spend the same amount, build your budget around four major categories.

1. Accommodation

Hotels in popular destinations such as Zermatt, Interlaken and Montreux can become expensive during busy periods.

Compare several accommodation options before booking.

2. Transport

Switzerland's rail network is extensive, but mountain railways, cable cars and special excursions can add significantly to your spending.

3. Food

Restaurants can be expensive compared with many European destinations.

Mixing restaurant meals with supermarkets, bakeries and casual cafés can help control costs.

4. Mountain excursions

This is the category that first-time visitors sometimes underestimate.

A holiday may look affordable until you add several mountain railways, cable cars and organised activities.

Is a Swiss Travel Pass worth it?

It depends on your itinerary.

If you're planning to travel extensively by train, bus and boat, a Swiss Travel Pass or another rail option may be worth investigating.

However, don't automatically buy one simply because you are visiting Switzerland.

Compare:

Your individual tickets + mountain excursions

against

The relevant pass + any additional mountain costs

before purchasing.

The best option depends on the exact route and number of travel days.

Always check current Swiss Federal Railways and Swiss Travel System information before booking.

How to get around Switzerland in summer

One of the best things about travelling in Switzerland is that you don't necessarily need a car.

The country has an extensive public transport system connecting major cities, towns and mountain regions.

For many visitors, trains are the simplest option.

Why use trains?

No need to drive mountain roads
Comfortable
Scenic
Convenient connections
Useful for multi-city itineraries

When might a car be useful?

A car can make sense if you're visiting smaller rural areas or want greater flexibility away from the main rail routes.

But for a first trip focused on destinations such as Lucerne, Interlaken, Zermatt and Montreux, public transport can be a very practical choice.

What should you pack for Switzerland in summer?

Don't assume that “summer” means warm everywhere.

Switzerland has considerable differences in temperature depending on altitude.

Pack layers rather than relying entirely on shorts and T-shirts.

Essentials

Comfortable walking shoes
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Warm layer
T-shirts
Trousers
Sunglasses
Sun protection
Reusable water bottle
Small backpack
Portable charger
Comfortable day bag

For mountain excursions

Bring an additional warm layer even if it feels hot in the valley.

Mountain weather can be very different from conditions in cities and lower-altitude areas.

Is Switzerland suitable for children?

Absolutely.

Switzerland can work extremely well for families because you can combine:

Scenic train journeys
Boat trips
Mountain excursions
Waterfalls
Lakes
Cable cars
Easy walks
Museums
Historic towns

The key is not to schedule too many activities in one day.

Children may enjoy the journey itself as much as the destination.

A boat ride across a lake or a mountain railway can become one of the highlights of the holiday.

Is Switzerland good for a summer honeymoon?

Yes.

For couples, a good Switzerland itinerary doesn't have to be packed with activities.

Consider combining:

Lucerne → Zermatt → Montreux

This provides:

Lakes
Mountains
Scenic train journeys
Romantic walks
Restaurants
Historic towns
Relaxed evenings

For a honeymoon, fewer destinations and more time in each place will often be more enjoyable than trying to see everything.

The best time to visit Switzerland in summer

June

A good option for travellers who want early summer scenery, although higher-altitude hiking routes can still be affected by snow and conditions.

July

A popular summer month with generally good access to mountain activities, but also one of the busiest periods.

August

Another busy month, particularly around popular holiday periods.

September

An attractive option for travellers who want a quieter atmosphere and early signs of autumn, although weather and mountain conditions can vary.

The important point is that altitude matters.

A warm day in Lucerne doesn't necessarily mean warm conditions at a high mountain viewpoint.

7 mistakes to avoid when visiting Switzerland

1. Trying to see everything

Switzerland looks small on a map.

The mountains change that calculation.

2. Booking every excursion in advance

Some flexibility can be useful because weather affects mountain experiences.

3. Underestimating transport costs

The trains are convenient, but mountain transport can add considerably to the budget.

4. Packing only summer clothes

Mountain conditions can be considerably colder.

5. Changing hotels every night

This wastes valuable holiday time.

Choose two or three bases instead.

6. Ignoring the weather

A beautiful mountain excursion can become a very different experience when clouds cover the summit.

7. Assuming the most expensive experience is always the best

Some of Switzerland's best moments cost little or nothing.

A walk beside a lake, exploring an old town or watching the mountains change colour at sunset can be more memorable than an expensive attraction.

What makes Switzerland worth visiting in summer?

The biggest attraction isn't necessarily one particular mountain or city.

It's the variety.

You can spend the morning beside a lake, take a train through the mountains, walk through a medieval town in the afternoon and finish the day surrounded by Alpine peaks.

And you don't have to choose between a city holiday and a nature holiday.

You can have both.

That is why Switzerland works particularly well for travellers who want a holiday that combines scenery, culture, food, outdoor activities and relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Switzerland in summer?

The best time to visit Switzerland in summer is from June to September. June offers blooming alpine meadows, July and August are ideal for hiking and lake activities, while September brings pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful autumn colours in many mountain regions.

Which is the most beautiful place in Switzerland during summer?

Beauty is subjective, but destinations such as Zermatt, Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen Valley, Lucerne, and the Jungfrau Region are consistently ranked among Switzerland's most scenic summer destinations.

Is Switzerland expensive to visit?

Switzerland is one of Europe's more expensive destinations. However, travellers can save money by purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass, staying in guesthouses or apartments, travelling during the shoulder season, and taking advantage of free hiking trails and public lakes.

How many days do you need to explore Switzerland?

A 7 to 10-day itinerary allows you to visit several regions, including cities, lakes, and mountain destinations. If you plan to explore multiple alpine villages and scenic train routes, consider spending 10 to 14 days.

What is the best way to travel around Switzerland?

Switzerland has one of the world's most efficient public transport networks. Trains, buses, boats, and mountain railways connect most tourist destinations, making it easy to travel without a car.

Do I need a car to explore Switzerland?

Not necessarily. Most popular attractions are easily accessible by train and public transport. In fact, many visitors prefer travelling by rail because of the scenic routes and reliable schedules.

What should I pack for a summer trip to Switzerland?

Even during summer, mountain weather can change quickly. Pack:

Comfortable walking shoes
A waterproof jacket
Layers for cooler evenings
Sunglasses and sunscreen
A reusable water bottle
A power adapter (Switzerland uses Type J plugs)

Is Switzerland suitable for families?

Yes. Switzerland is one of Europe's most family-friendly destinations, offering scenic train rides, mountain playgrounds, lakes, cable cars, easy hiking trails, wildlife parks, and museums suitable for all ages.

Which Swiss mountain is best to visit in summer?

Popular summer mountain excursions include:

Jungfraujoch
Mount Pilatus
Mount Titlis
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Schilthorn
Gornergrat

Each offers spectacular views, hiking opportunities, and unforgettable alpine scenery.

Can you swim in Swiss lakes during summer?

Yes. During the summer months, lakes such as Lake Geneva, Lake Lucerne, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and Lake Zurich are popular for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and boat cruises.

Helpful Resources

These official websites can help readers plan their trip with confidence.

Switzerland Tourism (Official Visitor Guide)
https://www.myswitzerland.com
Destination guides, attractions, seasonal events, hiking trails, and travel inspiration.
Summer Holidays in Switzerland
https://www.myswitzerland.com/en/destinations/holiday-destinations/summer-destinations/
Explore the country's top summer destinations and activities.
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB)
https://www.sbb.ch/en
Book train tickets, check timetables, and plan journeys across Switzerland.
Swiss Travel Pass Information
https://www.myswitzerland.com/en/planning/transport-accommodation/tickets-public-transport/swiss-travel-pass/
Learn how the Swiss Travel Pass can save money on trains, buses, boats, and many attractions.
Entry Requirements for Switzerland
https://www.fdfa.admin.ch/en/travel-to-switzerland
Official information on visas, passports, and travel requirements.
Switzerland Travel Centre
https://switzerlandtravelcentre.com
Holiday packages, accommodation, scenic rail journeys, and practical travel advice.

Quick Travel Tips

Consider adding a small "Travel Tips" box before your conclusion.

Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)

Language: German, French, Italian, and Romansh

Time Zone: Central European Time (CET)

Electricity: Type J plug, 230V

Emergency Number: 112 (Europe-wide), 144 (Medical)

Best Summer Months: June–September

Getting Around: Trains are often the fastest and most scenic option.

Have you visited Switzerland in summer?

Share your favourite destination or hidden gem in the comments below. If you're planning your first Swiss adventure, save this guide for inspiration and share it with fellow travellers.

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Switzerland in summer at a glance

Best for: Mountains, hiking, lakes, scenic trains, photography, food, culture and outdoor activities

Typical summer months: June to September

Best months for hiking: July to September, although conditions vary considerably by altitude

Best for warmer lakeside weather: June to September

Ideal first trip: 7–10 days

Transport: Switzerland's extensive rail and public transport network makes it possible to travel without hiring a car.

Currency: Swiss franc (CHF)

Languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh

This guide covers the 10 best places to visit in Switzerland in summer, including what to see and do, where to stay, how to get there, estimated costs, and how many days to spend.