A country lived across two completely different seasons. Here are the best activities for each, where to find them, and what to expect.
Once the snow melts, the Alps turn into an endless playground of trails, turquoise lakes, and rock walls. Mild temperatures (18–28°C in the valleys) make it the most popular season to explore outdoors.
Switzerland has over 65,000 km of marked trails, from family strolls to multi-day treks across the Alps.
Best in: Graubünden, Valais, BernFrom beginner-friendly via ferratas to classic Alpine walls. Many local schools offer introductory courses.
Best in: Valais, GrindelwaldLake Lucerne, Lake Sils, or Lake Lucerne reach pleasant temperatures in high summer. Many spots have free public access.
Best in: Ticino, Graubünden, LucerneTrails for every level, with many resorts offering bike lifts so you only pedal on the way down.
Best in: Verbier, Davos, LenzerheideA middle ground between hiking and climbing: routes equipped with cables and metal rungs on vertical walls, with spectacular views.
Best in: Graubünden, TicinoTandem flights over Alpine valleys are one of the most memorable experiences in the country — Interlaken is the unofficial paragliding capital of Switzerland.
Best in: Interlaken, VerbierThe season Switzerland is world-famous for. Over 200 ski resorts, postcard villages, and a mountain culture that revolves entirely around the snow.
World-class resorts like Zermatt, St. Moritz, or Verbier, with slopes for every level and glacier skiing available nearly year-round.
Best in: Zermatt, Verbier, St. MoritzMany resorts have dedicated snowparks with jumps and rails, plus off-piste freeride terrain for advanced riders.
Best in: Laax, DavosThe most accessible way to explore the winter landscape with no prior experience needed — dedicated marked trails in most resorts.
Best in: Engadin, JuraNatural rinks on frozen lakes and artificial rinks in almost every mountain village — a classic family activity.
Best in: St. Moritz, DavosNatural sled runs stretching several kilometers, some lit up at night — one of the most popular activities for the whole family.
Best in: Grindelwald, Preda-BergünNot a sport, but as Swiss as skiing itself: ending the day in a wooden hut with cheese fondue and mulled wine.
Best in: any ski resortThe personalized quiz suggests cantons based on your profile — many of them are also the best for living close to these activities.
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