Winter In Zurich Travel Guide: Things To Do In Zurich In Winter

Have you booked a trip to Zurich in the winter but feel frustrated trying to pinpoint the best things to experience during the colder months? 

As fellow winter trip planners, we understand the struggle.

That’s why we put together this guide to the top wintertime attractions and things to do in Zurich so your trip can be as smooth, fun, and fulfilling as ours was.

We’ll also fill you in on what to expect weather-wise in Zurich during the winter, the tastiest winter foods and drinks to warm yourself up with, ways to easily get around the city, and some easy yet scenic day trip ideas to take in all that beautiful Swiss scenery surrounding Zurich. 

Weather in Zurich During Winter

Zurich gets kind of chilly in winter, with an average temperature of 5.7°C (42.3°F).

The coldest month is usually December, hitting around 3.9°C(39°F), and you’ll catch quite a few days below zero. 

But no biggie; the key here is dressing in layers. Just make sure to pack warm coats, hats, gloves, and scarves to bundle up against the cold. 

But compared to other parts of Europe, winter in Zurich is relatively mild – places like Oymyakon, Norilsk, and Yakutsk experience much more frigid temperatures.

How Long Does the Sun Rise in Zurich During Winter?

Winter in Zurich runs from November to February, and you should know it’s not exactly a sunshine extravaganza. 

Thanks to the city’s position up north, plus being in the Central European Time Zone, you’re looking at pretty short days.

In November, the sun peeks out at 7:30 am and calls it a day by 4:55 pm – that’s about 9 hours and a half of daylight. 

The early sunsets made it tough for us to feel energized, but the city lights at night were gorgeous, with the Christmas markets all aglow.

December’s sunrise hits late at around 8:05 am, but the sunset ends earlier at 4:30 pm, giving you around 8 hours and a half minutes of sun time.

January keeps the pattern going with December, but the sun sets out at 5:05 pm.

Then, in February, the sun starts early at around 7:30 am and ends by 5:50 pm, handing you most of the daylight hours in winter.

Does It Rain In Zurich During Winter?

Zurich’s winter is a bit all over the place, with random bouts of gloomy skies and rain.

It’s not like a constant downpour, but you’ll get your fair share, especially in November and December, hitting around 2.6 inches each month. 

Don’t expect a full-day storm, but be ready for those annoying on-and-off rain showers, especially early in winter. 

So, when you’re hitting Zurich in winter, gear up with waterproof shoes, an umbrella, or a decent rain jacket – you’ll thank yourself for being prepared. 

Also, we greatly advise you to peep at the local weather forecast before heading out unless you want to end up dripping like a sad puppy.

Does It Snow in Zurich?

Zurich in Switzerland gets a fair share of snow from December to February, averaging around 49.3mm(1.9 inches).

The snow doesn’t stick around for too long, though. And it’s not heavy snow territory; it’s more like a rain-snow combo.

The snow tended to get dirty and slushy quickly on the busy streets, so we tried to enjoy the fresh flakes when we could.

The peak snowy period here is from December to January.

But, not bad; it gives Zurich that cozy winter feel, making it cool to bundle up and stroll along the lakeside or join in on some festive activities. 

Winter Temperature in Zurich 

Daytime winter temperatures in Zurich hang around 5.7°C (42.3°F), just above freezing. Nights can be even colder, averaging around 2.9°C (37.2°F).

But don’t let the cold scare you off. You can warm up in a snug cafe with hot chocolate or hit up the Dolder Ice Rink for some cool ice skating vibes. 

Month             Min Temp (°C)       Max Temp (°C)     Average Temp      Precipitation (mm)

November        0°C(32°F)             12.8°C(55°F)         7.8°C(46°F)            66mm(2.6in) 

December      -3.9°C(25°F)          13.9°C(57°F)          3.9°C(39°F)            66mm(2.6in) 

January          -1.1°C(30°F)          13.9°C(57°F)           5°C(41°F)             55.9mm(2.2in) 

February          0°C(32°F)             13.9°C(57°F)         6.1°C(43°F)            53.3mm(2.1in)

Best Things To Do In Zurich In Winter 

Winter in Zurich is simply stunning. There are plenty of activities for you to enjoy – from ice skating to visiting awesome museums.

No matter how you spend your time here, it’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable winter trip.

Here are the best things to do in Zurich in winter:

Take a Spin Around the City By Tour

If you’re looking for an easy way to experience the city’s highlights without all the hassle of planning every detail yourself, go on a tour.

It gives you a nice taste of what makes the city tick. Don’t miss out on these various city tours in Zurich:

Glide Through the Serene Waters on a Lake Cruise Tour

Zurich is the biggest city in Switzerland, and one of the best ways to explore it is by Lake Cruise.

You’ll get to check out hotspots like the university district, the view of the Alps, the Zürichberg area with its fancy mansions, and the Opera House, which has amazing architecture and hosts top-notch productions and concerts in its fancy neo-baroque hall.

Plus, you can feel the peaceful and relaxing vibes of the water.

What we really appreciate here are the lakeside villas. It’s amazing to think that one can stay near the lake and wake up to such a view.

Tune in to the audio guide on your own gadget for some interesting stories about the city.

Just a heads up – it might get a bit bumpy out there. Try snagging a seat closer to the middle of the boat; that’s what we did, and it was way less wobbly.

Also, the water can mess with your stomach, so pop some nausea medicines if you’re usually feeling queasy. 

As you plan your lake cruise, we greatly advise you to roll out in the afternoon as it tends to be warmer and sunnier.

It beats the chill of the morning or the cool vibes of the evening on the lake. It was perfect for photos, too!

So, book a tour of Lake Zurich now to experience the best that the city has to offer.

> Avail of the Zurich Sightseeing Tour with Lake Cruise

They’ve even got a three-in-one tour that’s gonna make your day. 

> Get This City Tour, Cruise, and Lindt Home of Chocolate Visit

Zip Around the City Streets on a Tuk-Tuk City Tour

If you want a relaxing tour adventure, hop into an electric tuk-tuk.

Don’t let its size fool you; this little ride can hit up all the city’s cool spots without breaking a sweat.

Such spots include the Landesmuseum, which has impressive exhibits on Swiss cultural history. 

Wander around Niederdorf’s old town streets—our favorite spot. They’re all pedestrian-only and have shops, cafes, and restaurants to check out. 

And if you’re into fancy shopping, hit up Bahnhofstrasse and Paradeplatz—they’ve got high-end boutiques with all the big-name brands.

This ride is weatherproof, so no worries about rain messing up the fun.

And one thing to note is that the electric tuk-tuk can usually handle only up to four people. 

> Experience Private eTuk-Tuk City Tour

Soar Above the Winter Landscape With a Cable Car Adventure

Riding a cable car is a unique way to explore the city. This is perfect for anyone who has no fear of heights.

But, if you are scared but feeling adventurous like us, you can still take on this challenge.

You’ll get to enjoy the views of Lake Zurich and the Alps here. We were actually really stunned; they looked like natural paintings up there.

So, don’t miss out on this one, and book a tour now to reserve a spot.

> Snag This City Highlights Tour by Coach, Cable Car, and Ferry

Roll Through the City’s Highlights on a Bus Tour

Hop on a bus tour to explore the awesome city of Zürich, where historical spots and fantastic views are waiting for you. 

Your guide will show you iconic places like St. Peter’s Church, Münsterhof square, Fraumünster church, and the Swiss National Museum.

You’ll get to learn about the interesting history and architecture of each place.

That’s one of the things we really appreciated about this tour: how knowledgeable our guide was.

So, when going on a city bus tour in Zurich in winter, make sure to bundle up. It can get seriously cold and windy.

Also, before you go, check the weather forecast.

If they’re calling for heavy snow or icy conditions, give them a ring to double-check if the tour is still on. Sometimes, they cancel in lousy winter weather.

> Avail of the 2-Hour Sightseeing Bus Tour

Stroll Through the Snow-Kissed Streets With a Winter Walking Tour

If walking is your jam, Zurich is the perfect spot for you. 

The cool thing is, when you walk, you can really check out all those narrow alleys, medieval guild houses, and hidden spots scattered around the city.

Make sure not to miss out on some of the top attractions in Zurich during your trip, including Town Hall, St. Peter’s Church, and Fraumünster Church.

And if you’re a fan of shopping during your travels, you’ll want to wander along Bahnhofstrasse, an upscale shopping street filled with luxury boutiques and department stores.

Pro tip: take it easy on the stroll, and make sure you’ve got some non-slip kicks on. The paths and sidewalks can get a bit dicey with ice, so watch your step. 

Also, we greatly advise you to pack for a potentially soggy day and some snow action.

Toss a compact umbrella in your bag, and slap on some waterproof layers—just in case Mother Nature decides to play games. Better safe than soggy, right?

> Zurich Old Town Walking Tour: 2-Hours

Explore Fascinating Museums

Visiting museums is a perfect way to dodge the winter chill in Zurich.

They’ve got a bit of everything – fine art, history, and science. 

So, wrap up, head indoors, and spend an afternoon exploring the collections that these Zurich museum spots have to offer.

Immerse Yourself in the Vibrant Art Scene at Kunsthaus Zürich

If you’re into art like us, you gotta check out Kunsthaus Zürich. It’s right by the Lake Zurich.

The place is not just an art museum; it’s like an architectural spot with a slick facade.

Inside, they’ve got this killer collection with works by big names like Picasso, Monet, Munch, and our Swiss buddy Alberto Giacometti.

You can’t miss “The Scream” by Edvard Munch – it’s a showstopper. 

And they’ve got all sorts of art, from medieval pieces to fancy impressionist stuff and even some trippy surrealism.

But it’s not just about the art – they’ve got a sweet café to chill at, an art library (for nerds like us), and even an auditorium. 

The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm. Then, Thursdays are the late shift, closing at 8 pm.

So, if you’re thinking of a visit, plan it around these hours. 

One thing to note is that they are closed on Mondays. Entry is about 23 Swiss francs (around 26 USD).

Before visiting, make sure to double-check their website in case they decide to shut down for a day.

Visit the Fifa Museum

Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just curious, a trip to the FIFA Museum is a must.

It is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm. Keep in mind that it is closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.

The museum spills the beans on FIFA’s history, some of its best moments, and fascinating stories.

You can even check out the original FIFA World Cup Trophy and football items here. We really geeked out seeing all the jerseys used in iconic games.

So, if you’re even a bit of a football fanatic like us, book your ticket now before they sell out.

> Get This FIFA Museum Entry Ticket

See Wonders of Science at the Swiss Science Center Technorama

You’ve gotta check out the Swiss Science Center Technorama in Zurich – it’s the ultimate playground for science nerds like us, no matter your age.

There are over 500 interactive exhibits covering physics, chemistry, biology, math, and tech.

In the physics section, you can mess around with gravity. Then, Chemistry has cool exhibits on molecular structures and stuff that go boom (safely, of course). 

Math is not boring here – they’ve got logic puzzles and geometric models that’ll give your brain a workout.

But it’s not just about exhibits – they host science shows, too. You can visit the museum every day from 10 am to 5 pm.

Word of advice: snag your tickets online, especially on weekends. This place gets packed pretty quickly.

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth at the Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum

Visit the sweet world of chocolate at the Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum in Zurich this winter.

When you step in, you can’t miss the massive 9-meter-high chocolate fountain in the entrance hall. That’s one of the things we love here.

As you explore the museum, you’ll get to check out how the tasty treats have evolved from cocoa beans to delicious delights.

You can take an audio-guided tour that walks you through the entire chocolate-making process.

Aside from the chocolate-making process, you can also learn here about the global journey of chocolates.

For the highlight, there’s an unlimited tasting of delicious Swiss chocolate goodies to end your visit on a sweet note.

One tip if you’re bringing little ones: If they’re under 7, just stick with them throughout the visit.

So, grab your tickets online to skip the on-site lines.

> Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum Entry Ticket

Engage in Winter Activities

Spending winter in Zurich offers loads of cool outdoor activities.

Think ice skating and building snowmen—total fun vibes. Toss on some warm layers, and you’re all set for some awesome adventures in the snow. 

Check out these cool winter activities to get into:

Glide Across the Dolder Ice Rink

Dolder Ice Rink is huge, about 6,000 square meters, making it one of the biggest natural ice rinks in Europe. 

So, if you’re planning to hit up the Dolder Ice Rink in Zurich, they’re open Tuesday to Saturday, and you can lace up those skates from 9 am to 10:30 pm.

On Sundays, they wrap things up a bit earlier, calling it a day at 7 pm. Then, every Monday, they start opening late at 11 am and close at 5:45 pm.

When the sun goes down, the place transforms into this festive paradise, all thanks to some top-notch floodlights. 

They’ve even got you covered with skate rentals, whether you’re into hockey or figure skating. The staff is super friendly and helpful, too.

Dolder Ice Rink is an exceptional place to enjoy ice skating, and we highly recommend checking out.

Go Skiing at Ski Hoch-Ybrig

Head over to Ski Hoch-Ybrig, just over an hour away from Zurich, to experience skiing this winter.

If you’re new to this activity, don’t worry! They’ve got smooth slopes for newbies and special help if you need it. 

As beginners, we really appreciated the nice wide slopes to practice on without embarrassing ourselves too much.

And the ski instructors here were super helpful in getting us started.

Opening hours are from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm – not bad if you want to get a full day of skiing in. The ticket here starts at CHF 57 (65 USD) for a full day of adult fun.

Stroll Through Zurich’s Enchanting Christmas Markets

Discover the holiday magic in Zurich by taking a leisurely stroll through its enchanting Christmas markets. 

One of the best Christmas Markets here that you shouldn’t miss is the Christkindlimarkt.

It is right between Zurich Hauptbahnhof and the Lake Zurich. This market has over 100 wooden stalls, selling everything from quirky gifts to mulled wine. 

You’ll surely experience the holiday spirit here with its Christmas tunes and twinkling lights everywhere.

Also, don’t miss out on other Christmas Markets that are just hanging out in different spots like Zürcher Weihnachtsallee, Wienachtsdorf beim Bellevue, and Zurich Werdmühleplatz.

Before you head out, here are a few tips: Bundle up in winter gear and pick a weekday afternoon for a more relaxed experience.

Zurich’s Christmas markets are a celebration of the season’s sights, sounds, and flavors.

So, take your time strolling from one market to another, soaking in the festive spirit of the city.

Winter Season In Zurich 

The days get shorter during winter in Zurich, but the city still has charm in the colder months.

Twinkling holiday lights everywhere, people sipping hot chocolates, special festivities overflow – it feels so cozy. 

Simply layer up, breathe in the fresh air, and soak up the season of the winter months.

Zurich in November 

November is a great time to swing by Zurich – not too hot, not too cold, just around 7.8°C(46°F).

Plus, it has a solid 9 hours of daylight, and it’s not swarming with tourists like the summer hustle.

As fall ends and winter vibes come in, Zurich gears up for the holiday season with some cool stuff going on.

Here’s what you can expect in Zurich this November:

Zurich Jazz Festival

If you’re a jazz enthusiast looking for classic or cutting-edge performances, there’s a top-notch jazz event this November in Zurich that you won’t want to miss.

As fellow jazz lovers, we didn’t let this one pass. The event takes place in the first week of November at Gessnerallee Zürich.

You can expect many international jazz big shots and Swiss talents here.

Christmas Markets

Rolling into late November, it’s time to visit Christmas Markets in Zurich. They usually run for a solid four weeks until late December.

This is one of our favorite activities to do during winter in Zurich. Christmas markets here are unbeatable, with the Alps framing the scene.

You can browse for gifts, sip some mulled wine, treat yourself to winter foods, or just feel the Christmas spirit.

Kunst Zürich Art Fair

Visit the International Kunst Zürich Art Fair at Halle 550 in Oerlikon every first week of November. 

They will showcase modern and contemporary paintings and photos from artists across the globe. 

So, whether you’re an art buff or just want to check out something cool, this fair’s got you covered.

Zurich in December 

In December, Zurich brings chilly winter days and a festive vibe.

Temperatures hover around freezing, and there’s a chance of snow, making it a cool time to check out the Swiss city. 

Here are the special events in Zurich in December:

Lichterschwimmen

The Lichterschwimmen event turns the river in Limmat Zurich into a glittery view every December 21st.

We bundled up and joined locals watching as hundreds of candles floated along the river.

It was really magical to stand together and observe this stunning holiday tradition that fills the Limmat with luminous beauty.

New Year’s Eve Celebration

As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, spectacular fireworks shot up on Lake Zurich.

We once camped out along the promenade for hours to score the perfect spot to watch the show – it was all worth it.

And we can definitely say Zurich knows how to throw a party. 

The city hosts free Silvesterzauber celebrations with live music performances that you’ll surely enjoy. This is a solid way to start the new year.

Zurich in January

Zurich in January can get pretty cold, with an average temperature of 5°C(41°F) and dipping down to -1.1°C(30°F). 

But that doesn’t stop the city from throwing some cool events.

There’s this Lauberhorn Ski Race in mid-January that’s like a magnet for ski fans, bringing the world’s best to compete on the slopes of Eiger Mountain over in the Canton of Bern. 

Zurich in February 

February’s a great time to check out Zurich—winter’s easing up, making it great for outdoor festivals.

Don’t miss out on the Winter Carnival vibes with ZüriCarneval, going from February 16 to 18.

This festival features folks parading in funky costumes, hitting up lots of spots across Zurich.

What To Eat In Zurich In Winter 

Winter in Zurich brings cold temperatures but also some serious comfort food to warm you up.

Here are the food in Zurich that you shouldn’t miss this winter:

Fondue

You can’t hit Zurich in winter without trying some fondue.

It has gooey Emmental and Gruyere cheese, a splash of white wine, and a dash of cornstarch, all melted into a warm, cheesy pot.

Dunk in chunks of crusty bread, maybe some veggies or potatoes if you’re feeling fancy. 

You’ll find this goodness not just in restaurants but also at Christmas markets, where you can chill outdoors with your melted cheese fix.

Raclette

If you’re up for more cheese (which, who isn’t?), give Raclette a go. 

It’s a DIY cheese melter situation – you heat up Raclette cheese slices under a grill, let it get all gooey, then scrape it onto plates. 

We had it paired with small potatoes, pickled onions, gherkins, and cured meats – a perfect combination.

Do it the Swiss way: keep your hot cheese and potatoes on a small plate and reserve a bigger one for the cold cuts to avoid a mess. 

You’ll spot this at Christmas markets and Raclette specialty joints like Raclette Factory and Raclette-Stube.

Rösti

Rösti is the Swiss answer to comfort food. It’s a potato pancake, grated and fried till it’s golden and crispy outside but soft inside. 

This goes with pretty much anything – sausages, bacon, cheese, eggs, and even veggies.

Some places get all fancy with Rösti towers and toppings, but the plain version is a winner, too.

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

For some hearty winter vibes, try Zürcher Geschnetzeltes.

It has thin veal slices cooked in creamy white wine and mushroom sauce, served over a bed of Rösti or linguine. 

Every Zurich restaurant’s got its own take on this classic, so you can’t really go wrong.

Glühwein (Mulled Wine)

Christmas in Zurich won’t be complete without Glühwein. It’s undoubtedly everyone’s warm hug in a cup during winter.

Head to any Christmas market, and you’ll find this steaming cup of red wine mixed with citrus, cinnamon, star anise, and cloves. 

They might even throw in a shot of fruity liqueur for good measure. Just a heads up – it’s hot, and it’s got booze, so sip slowly.

Öpfelchüechli (Apple Fritters)

You gotta try these deep-fried sweet dough balls with apple bits inside. Covered in powdered sugar or cinnamon, they’re a solid winter snack.

Hit up the Christmas markets or local bakeries – they’re everywhere. 

Chestnut Soup

Warm up with a bowl of chestnut soup – our favorite winter food. It is creamy with pureed chestnuts and a hint of vanilla, sugar, and cream. 

You can top it off with more chestnut bits. This is a perfect starter before diving into a hearty winter feast.

Basler Läckerli 

These spice cookies from Basel are great winter snacks.

Honey, nuts, candied peel, and a touch of cherry brandy – that’s the recipe for this goodness. 

Make sure not to miss out on these Swiss goodies this winter. 

Getting Around Zurich in Winter 

Zurich is a beautiful city to explore in winter. But moving around without any idea can be a bit tricky. 

So, here are some ways to make getting around Zurich easier and more enjoyable during the colder months:

Take Public Transportation

Zurich’s got this solid public transport scene, especially in winter. S-Bahn, U-Bahn, and trams keep things moving. 

For those off-the-beaten-path destinations, Zurich’s extensive bus network fills in the gaps left by trains and trams. 

Map out your route using the transit authority’s network maps, and you’ll find yourself comfortably exploring the city.

Just expect delays when there’s heavy snow in the city.

Go for a Walk

If you’re hanging in central Zurich, walking is where it’s at. Old town, lakefront vibes, Bahnhofstrasse shopping – all good strolling spots, even in snow. 

Also, Zurich keeps sidewalks in check, so you won’t be slipping around. With the right winter gear, it’s an easy, chill way to explore. 

Hail a Taxi

When you’re not feeling the walk or public transport isn’t cutting it, taxis got your back. They’re everywhere; just flag one down or hit up a stand. 

They may cost more than trains, though, but they’re your express ticket to anywhere.

Super handy if you’re lugging bags or just want to get door-to-door without the fuss. 

Keep in mind that winter roads can slow things down, so plan accordingly.

Day Trips From Zurich in Winter

Though the cold weather sets in in Zurich during winter, there are still plenty of enjoyable day trips you can take from Zurich. 

Here are some spots you can visit just outside of Zurich for a day:

Mount Titlis Day Trip

If you’re looking for a memorable day trip from Zurich, we greatly suggest going to Mount Titlis.

At the 3,000-meter-high summit of the mountain, there’s a Panorama Restaurant with 360-degree views of the Swiss Alps – you’ll surely appreciate the spot.

For a closer look at the high alpine glaciers, you can hop on the Ice Flyer chairlift. 

This ride was pretty scary for us as we were all afraid of heights, but we pushed through, and the views of the bright blue glacier ice were worth it.

And if the weather’s good, make sure to walk along the Titlis Cliff Walk – a suspension bridge with awesome views of the Swiss Alps.

We were able to get plenty of Instagram-worthy pictures here.

To go there, you can hop on a train from Zurich main station to Engelberg, and it’s about a 2-hour ride – no biggie. 

When you roll into Engelberg, you won’t need a GPS – the cable car station to Mount Titlis is right there, across the street from the train station.

But, for a stress-free journey, we suggest to go for a tour. It makes things easy and keeps you chill throughout the trip.

> From Zurich: Mount Titlis Day Tour

Day Trip to Grindelwald

Take a chill day trip from Zurich to Grindelwald in the Swiss Alps. It is known as the “Glacier Village,” and it’s got some nice mountain views.

What’s great about this trip is that you’ll see views of Jungfrau peaks, Eiger, and more along the way while riding a train.

Make sure to visit the sunny terrace at Mt. First when you go there. It is the perfect place to chill and appreciate the views.

So, forget bus schedules and train times; you can book a tour for a hassle-free trip.

You can even visit Interlaken if you’re up for it – a haven for shopping fans. It is just practically a stone’s throw away from Grindelwald.

> From Zurich: Day Trip to Grindelwald & Interlaken by Bus & Train

Lucerne & Mount Pilatus Day Trip

There are tons of charming spots in Lucerne to check out. 

You’ll get to have a relaxing experience here by cruising across Lake Lucerne by boat. We really loved the peaceful vibe of the calm waters.

Also, make sure to snap some pictures as you ride a cable car going up to Mount Pilatus. You’ll surely be in awe with the views of the Swiss Alps.

But the fun doesn’t stop there; get your adrenaline pumping on one of the steepest funicular rides down to Alpnachstad. 

With so many unique activities and breathtaking sights to see, this is an adventure not to be missed!

So, book a tour now to get your hands on these activities.

> From Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus Day Tour

Day Trip to Heidiland and Liechtenstein

A Trip to Heidiland and Liechtenstein is a trip you shouldn’t miss. 

One of our favorite spots to visit is Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein.

You’ll get to see the iconic post office for cool stamps here and the medieval castle up on a hill.

You can even hike up there for some sweet views. But here’s the catch – the castle itself isn’t open to the public. Still, it’s a solid landmark worth checking out.

Then, there’s Heidi’s village, where you can see a bunch of goats and mountain houses.

Note that Heidiland is big in Switzerland for making wine and cheese.

So, make sure to swing by some local wineries and farms there to experience the delicious flavors of the region.

> From Zurich: Bus Day Trip to Heidiland and Liechtenstein

Berne Capital and Countryside Day Trip

If you’re looking for a countryside vibe, this trip is for you. The Entlebuch Valley and Emmental Valley are must-visits for that traditional Swiss charm.

Expect some traditional farms and Alpine pastures here – it’s like a postcard come to life.

Then, take a stroll through the Old Town to check out the big shots, like the late Gothic cathedral from the 15th century. We were really impressed by its intricate details.

Also, you can’t miss the iconic Zytglogge – the clock tower that’s got the ornate astronomical clock.

Speaking of big shots, bears are like Berne’s mascot. Swing by Bear Park by the Aare River, where live bears do their thing in pits.

And for all the cheese lovers out there, you’ll get to see huge cheese displays in the cellar and get to learn the backstory of the world’s most famous cheese.

Then, wrap up your day with Swiss goodies from different shops there. We couldn’t resist picking up some chocolate and other tasty souvenirs before we left.

> From Zurich: Berne Capital and Countryside Day-Trip

Are You Ready to Embrace the Zurich Chill?

Despite the chilly temperatures in Zurich, there are still abundant activities, sights, festivals, food, and day trips to fill a trip to the Swiss city. 

You can wander through the cozy Christmas markets, glide around the massive Dolder Ice Rink, and even hit the mountains for some skiing or stunning views. You won’t be bored here for a second.

Just layer up, bring that adventurous spirit, and get ready to embrace the chill during your winter break in the city.