What To Do In Switzerland? 5 Offbeat Ideas For Your Holiday

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What to do in Switzerland: 5 Tips For Offbeat Adventures

Question “What to do in Switzerland” is not so hard to answer. While the country is famous for its picturesque scenery and chocolate, it offers a plethora of unique activities that go beyond the typical tourist itinerary.

Here are five tips for offbeat adventures in Switzerland that will make your trip unforgettable.

Buckle up; we’re going on a ride to the Swiss backcountry.

Discover Helvetic hidden wonders

Nestled in the heart of Europe, Switzerland has long held a special place in the hearts of travelers, seeking awe-inspiring landscapes and charming cities.

To answer your question ‘what to do in Switzerland’, we would say, what better way to fully explore Switzerland than to immerse yourself in its nature? Hiking is the number one activity that attracts millions of tourists every year.
Depending on your level of fitness, Switzerland hosts some of the best hiking trails you could ever imagine.

Switzerland’s hiking trails range from easy, leisurely walks to challenging, high-altitude treks. For those looking for a relaxed experience, the Aletsch Glacier Panorama Trail is a must-visit. This trail offers a relatively easy hike with breathtaking views of the Great Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps. It’s an excellent choice for families and those who want to experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps without strenuous effort.

For intermediate hikers, the Eiger Trail in the Bernese Oberland provides a perfect mix of challenge and stunning scenery. As you hike, you’ll be treated to magnificent views of the Eiger North Face, one of the most iconic and treacherous peaks in the Alps. This hike is ideal for those with moderate fitness levels who seek to experience the dramatic landscapes that Switzerland is famous for.

Another gem is the Via Alpina, which stretches across the entire length of Switzerland from Liechtenstein to Montreux on Lake Geneva.

The Via Alpina is divided into manageable stages, so you can choose to hike a section or the entire route, depending on your time and fitness level.

So lace up your hiking boots, pack your backpack, and get ready to discover the hidden wonders of Helvetia. Each step you take will bring you closer to the heart of this beautiful country, leaving you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for its natural and cultural treasures.

Explore Winter Wonderlands

Are you wondering what to do in Switzerland in wintertime? Well, nothing can beat an amazing ski trip in the Swiss Alps. During this time of the year, the country transforms into a magical winter wonderland, offering some of the best skiing experiences in the world.

Switzerland is home to some of the most famous ski resorts in the world, such as Zermatt, Verbier, and St. Moritz.

Zermatt, situated at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, offers an extensive ski area with well-groomed slopes catering to all skill levels. The resort’s high altitude ensures excellent snow conditions throughout the season, and the charming car-free village adds to its unique appeal.

Verbier, known for its vibrant après-ski scene and challenging terrain, is a paradise for advanced skiers and snowboarders. The resort offers a vast ski area with numerous off-piste opportunities, making it a top destination for thrill-seekers.

St. Moritz, with its glamorous reputation, combines world-class skiing with luxury. The resort boasts a variety of slopes, from gentle beginner runs to steep expert trails, and hosts numerous international events, adding to its allure.

Switzerland’s ski season typically runs from late November to April, with the best conditions from December to March. During this time, the resorts are bustling with activity, offering not just skiing but a host of other winter sports. Snowboarding, snowshoeing, and sledging are popular alternatives for those looking to mix things up. Many resorts also have ice-skating rinks and even horse-drawn sleigh rides, providing plenty of options for non-skiers.

Après-ski is an integral part of the Swiss skiing experience, with numerous cozy mountain huts and lively bars where you can unwind after a day on the slopes.

When planning your Swiss winter getaway, it’s essential to consider the logistics. Switzerland’s efficient transport system makes it easy to reach the ski resorts, with trains and buses connecting major cities to the mountains. At My-Mountains we offer all-inclusive ski packages with all the ski passes, making it convenient to explore different areas.

So pack your ski gear, embrace the winter chill, and get ready to discover the enchanting winter wonderland of Switzerland.

“Every season is a good season to travel.”

– My-Mountains –

Experience Switzerland on a Rail Tour

Exploring Switzerland by rail is a unique and enchanting way to experience the country’s breathtaking landscapes. Switzerland’s scenic train routes offer travelers an opportunity to sit back, relax, and enjoy panoramic views of majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and charming villages. Here are some of the most iconic rail journeys you shouldn’t miss.

Glacier Express

Known as the slowest express train in the world, the Glacier Express takes you on an unforgettable journey between Zermatt and St. Moritz. This 8-hour ride traverses 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, showcasing stunning alpine scenery, including the Matterhorn and the Oberalp Pass. The panoramic windows provide uninterrupted views, and the onboard dining service ensures you can savor Swiss cuisine while soaking in the sights.

Bernina Express

The Bernina Express offers one of the most scenic train rides in the world, connecting Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy. This journey crosses the Bernina Range and includes the famous Landwasser Viaduct and the Bernina Pass, reaching elevations of over 2,253 meters/ 7,391 feet. The train’s large windows allow passengers to fully appreciate the dramatic landscapes, including glaciers, alpine meadows, and picturesque villages. The route is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Rhaetian Railway, celebrated for its engineering marvels and natural beauty.

Jungfrau Railway

The Jungfrau Railway takes you to the highest railway station in Europe, located at 3,454 meters/11,332 feet above sea level. Starting from Interlaken, the train ascends through the Kleine Scheidegg before tunneling through the Eiger and Mönch mountains to reach the Jungfraujoch. At the summit, known as the “Top of Europe”, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Aletsch Glacier and the surrounding peaks. The journey combines stunning scenery with a sense of adventure, making it a must-do experience.

GoldenPass Line

The GoldenPass Line connects Lucerne to Montreux, offering a diverse journey through central Switzerland. This route features three different train segments, each showcasing unique landscapes. From the serene lakes and rolling hills around Lucerne to the vineyards and Riviera-style villages near Montreux, the GoldenPass Line provides a comprehensive view of Switzerland’s natural beauty. The panoramic trains and classic Belle Époque carriages add a touch of elegance to the journey.

Gornergrat Cogwheel Train

The Gornergrat Cogwheel Train, departing from Zermatt, takes you up to the Gornergrat summit at 3,089 meters/10,134 feet. The ride offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding alpine peaks. At the summit, you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama that includes 29 mountains over 4,000 meters/13,123 feet. The Gornergrat area also offers excellent hiking and skiing opportunities, making it a perfect year-round destination.

Furka Steam Railway

For a nostalgic journey, the Furka Steam Railway offers a glimpse into the past with its historic steam locomotives. Operating between Realp and Oberwald, this seasonal train traverses the Furka Pass, offering spectacular views of the Rhone Glacier and alpine meadows. The journey includes stops at scenic points, allowing passengers to take in the stunning surroundings and learn about the history of this remarkable railway.

So are you still wondering what to do in Switzerland? Well, just hope on the best Railways in Switzerland with the 13 Day Grand Train Tour and you won’t have a chance to get bored.

Exploring Swiss Cities

While Switzerland’s natural beauty often takes the spotlight, its cities are rich with history, culture, and offbeat attractions.

In Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, visitors can explore a mix of old-world charm and modern sophistication. The quirky Cabaret Voltaire, the birthplace of the Dada movement, offers a unique dive into avant-garde art and history. Zurich also boasts a vibrant nightlife, a thriving culinary scene, and the beautiful shores of Lake Zurich, making it a dynamic destination for travelers.

Lucerne, nestled by the stunning Lake Lucerne and surrounded by majestic mountains, is a city that perfectly encapsulates Swiss beauty and tradition. The Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), with its iconic water tower, is a must-see, as it is one of the oldest covered wooden bridges in Europe and adorned with historical paintings. The Lion Monument, a poignant tribute to Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution, is another significant site. The city’s lakeside setting and close proximity to Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi make it a perfect base for both urban exploration and outdoor adventures.

Bern, the capital city of Switzerland, is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and charming old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Zytglogge clock tower, with its fascinating astronomical clock, and the Bundeshaus (Federal Palace) are key attractions. Bern’s Bear Park, home to the city’s symbol, the bear, and the vibrant weekly markets add to the city’s unique charm. The city’s position along the Aare River provides picturesque views and opportunities for leisurely walks.

Basel, known for its vibrant arts scene, hosts the world-famous Art Basel fair, which attracts art lovers from around the globe. The city is home to numerous museums and galleries, such as the Kunstmuseum, which houses one of the most significant art collections in Switzerland. Basel’s medieval old town, with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings, provides a picturesque backdrop to the city’s cultural offerings. The Tinguely Museum, dedicated to the works of Swiss artist Jean Tinguely, adds to the city’s rich artistic heritage.

Each of these Swiss cities offers a distinct charm, blending traditional and contemporary Swiss experiences. Whether you are exploring avant-garde art, indulging in world-class cuisine, marveling at scientific advancements, or simply soaking in the historical ambiance, Switzerland’s cities promise rich and varied experiences that complement the country’s stunning natural landscapes.

Taste Less-Known Swiss Delicacies

While exploring the new country, you simply need to try local food. It’s one of the most special ways to encounter another culture, one that bonds people better than anything else. So, if you wonder what to do in Switzerland, trying local food will always be a good idea.

You’ve probably already heard of fondue, raclette, and rösti. But Swiss cuisine goes far beyond that. Every region has its local delicacies and specialities, which say a lot about its history and agriculture.

Below, you will find a few recommendations for foodies.

Birchermüesli

Starting with breakfast, when in Switzerland, you need to try Birchermüesli, typically eaten for breakfast. It’s a very healthy Swiss version of typical müesli. It contains rolled oats, raisins, grated apples, berries or other seasonal fruits, cinnamon, and honey. All ingredients are mixed with milk or yogurt and served cooled. Most likely, you will find a big bowl of Birchermüesli at every hotel’s breakfast buffet. While it may not look the most appealing, it’s truly delicious and will keep you full for long.

Älplermagronen

For lunch, we recommend you try Älplermagronen or Alpine macaroni, a Swiss version of mac and cheese. This simple and hearty dish will be perfect after a day of outdoor adventures. It’s a type of pasta gratin mixed with cooked cubed potatoes, and creamy and cheesy sauce, sprinkled with bacon and crispy onion.

Älplermagronen is typically eaten with apple sauce – as original as it may sound, apple sauce truly elevates the taste of pasta and cheese sauce. Try it, and you won’t regret it.

Cholera pie

For dinner, we recommend trying a hearty local dish called cholera. Yes, we got the name right. Cholera is a pastry originating in Canton Valais.

It’s a pie filled with vegetables such as potatoes and leek, with the addition of apples, and, of course, a lot of cheese. The filling is then covered with a sheet of flaky pastry and baked until the crust is golden brown. Yummy!

Crafting a Swiss adventure with My-Mountains, your local tour operator

Switzerland is a fascinating country both in and outside of the beaten path. Choosing what to do in Switzerland, whether in summer or in winter, venture beyond the most renowned places.

With a little help from an inside man, discovering Switzerland’s hidden side will add an extra thrill to your adventures.

At My-Mountains, we will be delighted to share tips on what to do in Switzerland, focusing on local attractions for outdoors lovers, gourmands, and culture aficionados. Our strength lies in our expert knowledge and many years of experience working with local producers and cultural ambassadors.

We collaborate with local English-speaking tour guides, who will help you immerse in the local culture and history. Our outdoor guides know all the hidden gems – under their guidance, you will see a unique side of Switzerland very few travelers get to experience.

Our hiking, ski trip and rail tours cater to all tastes and preferences, and they are fully customizable. If you don’t find a trip that fully meets your expectations, contact us and share your wishlist or ask us what to do in Switzerland. We will create a bespoke itinerary just for you.