Ski resorts, Christmas markets, snowshoeing and snowy villages: the guide to visiting Switzerland in winter, choosing your resort and planning your trip.
Visiting Switzerland in winter means discovering a transformed country: snow-capped peaks, illuminated villages, legendary ski slopes and après-ski pleasures. Whether you are a skier or simply a lover of Alpine scenery, this guide helps you choose your resort, your activities and the right time to go.
The best ski resorts
- Zermatt: at the foot of the Matterhorn, high-altitude skiing possible most of the year.
- Verbier: vast 4 Vallées area, renowned for off-piste.
- St. Moritz: glamorous Engadine resort, sunshine and prestige.
- Grindelwald-Wengen: the Jungfrau region, facing the Eiger.
- Davos-Klosters: one of the largest areas in the Alps.
- Laax: a paradise for snowboarders and freestylers.
Beyond skiing: what to do?
The Swiss winter is not just about the slopes. You can go snowshoeing on marked trails, sledging on runs sometimes several kilometres long, ice skating, or ride a panoramic train up to a snowy summit. Groomed winter hiking paths let you enjoy the mountains without skis.
Christmas markets and festive atmosphere
From late November to late December, the cities come alive with Christmas markets. Basel, Montreux, Lucerne and Zurich are among the finest: wooden chalets, mulled wine, crafts and lights. Montreux Noël, on the shores of Lake Geneva, is one of the most spectacular in French-speaking Switzerland.
When to go in winter?
The ski season generally runs from December to April, depending on snowfall and altitude. The year-end and February holidays are the busiest (and most expensive). January and March often offer fine conditions with fewer crowds. At high altitude (Zermatt, Saas-Fee), the snow is more reliable.
Practical tips
- Book your accommodation early for school holidays.
- Favour car-free villages (Zermatt, Wengen, Mürren), reachable by train.
- Pack warm layered clothing and sun protection (high-altitude sun is intense).
- Check combined ski + transport packages.
Plan your winter with TOP SUISSE
After a day on the slopes, find a cosy table in the dining category (seasonal fondue and raclette), book via the Reservation page and explore businesses by city. For the warm season, also read our guide on what to do in Switzerland in summer and all the categories.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best ski resort in Switzerland?
It depends on your profile: Zermatt for high-altitude skiing and Matterhorn views, Verbier for off-piste, St. Moritz for glamour, Grindelwald-Wengen for Jungfrau panoramas and Davos for the size of its area.
When to go skiing in Switzerland?
The season generally runs from December to April. January and March offer good conditions with fewer crowds. For more reliable snow, choose high-altitude resorts such as Zermatt or Saas-Fee.
What can you do in Switzerland in winter without skiing?
Snowshoeing, sledging, ice skating, winter walks on groomed trails, Christmas markets and panoramic train rides up to snowy summits let you fully enjoy winter without skis.
Where to see Christmas markets in Switzerland?
Basel, Montreux, Lucerne, Zurich and Bern host some of the country's finest Christmas markets, usually from late November to late December.
