Switzerland in December is a snowy wonderland like the pages of a storybook. Think cozy Alpine villages, iconic snow-capped peaks, and sparkling Christmas markets where spiced mulled wine warms the crisp winter air.
Whether you dream of gliding down the slopes in St. Moritz, boarding the Glacier Express train for a scenic adventure, or gazing at the frozen beauty of various lakes, Switzerland in December offers a bit of all things wintery and wonderful.
From festive fun to thrilling winter sports, and fairytale towns to once-in-a-lifetime experiences, let’s look at what makes Switzerland a great destination to explore in December.
Ready to go? Pack your warmest coat and a sense of adventure, then dive into all our Switzerland tours.
Zermatt, for the Matterhorn
Home to the iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt is the ideal base for mountain fun. This charming car-free village is a true skier’s paradise with gorgeous Alpine scenery and plenty of winter sports activities. From the postcard-worthy town of Zermatt you can see the famous Matterhorn and 28 other mega peaks – all soaring over 4,000 metres above. In December the snow transform the landscape into something special, and even if you’re not a skier you can ride the cable car and drink hot chocolate at the top of the Matterhorn, or rid ea helicopter around the iconic peak.
St. Moritz, a luxury ski resort
This luxury ski resort town is known for its glamorous vibe, frozen lakes, and world-class slopes. In December, St. Moritz – the birthplace of alpine tourism – blends adventure with sophistication as families and friends gathering at opulent hotels for a few festive days on the slopes before or after Christmas. Here you can go skiing and snowboarding on pristine slopes, or the frozen lakes are perfect for ice skating and even horse racing on ice. The boutique-lined streets are twinkling with Christmas lights, and you can soak in mineral springs after an active day.
Bern, Christmas markets in the capital
Bern’s UNESCO-listed Old Town sparkles in December with festive lights and fun Christmas markets in Waisenhausplatz and Münsterplatz. Stroll along the cobblestone streets of the petite Swiss capital, sipping mulled wine and shopping for handcrafted treasures. Each winter the city sets up a 600-square-metre illuminated rink in front of the Bundeshaus (Parliament Building), so lace up your skates and reward your efforts with an indulgent Swiss hot chocolate!
Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe”
Perched at an altitude of 3,454 meters (11,332 feet), Jungfraujoch is a must-visit destination in Switzerland in December. Board one of the most scenic train rides in the world, passing through snow-draped landscapes, until you reach Jungfraujoch. You can explore the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, or marvel at the panoramic views from the Sphinx Observatory, one of Europe’s highest-altitude observation decks.
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Lucerne, winter lake magic
Set alongside Lake Lucerne and surrounded by snowy peaks, Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s most charming towns – and it turns it up a notch during the holidays. The famous Chapel Bridge gets draped in seasonal lights, and Christmas markets fill the air with the smell of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. Ice skating rinks pop up across town, and the alpine scenery pops with a fresh coat of snow.
Grindelwald, a charming village
If you’ve ever picked up a snow globe with a village inside, chances are that it looked like Grindelwald. This picturesque Alpine village, surrounded by towering peaks, is a dream destination for anyone visiting Switzerland in December. Grindelwald is filled with charming chalets and festive holiday lights, set against a backdrop of iconic mountains like the Eiger.
Geneva, for icy lake swims
Sophisticated and French-speaking Geneva transforms into a cozy winter destination with saunas right on the lake! Yes, you can heat up in a hammam then go for an icy dip, framed by snow-dusted mountains. Then there’s Geneva’s lakeside Christmas markets, where you can savor mulled wine, shop for unique gifts, and soak up the holiday atmosphere of this illuminated village.
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Gruyères, for the cheese
Gruyère, that nutty, semi-hard cow’s cheese, is named after a small medieval town in Switzerland. WHile big Christmas markets are good fun, it’s the small villages that truly charm with lights, live music, and wooden stalls taking over the main square. Gruyères turns on the festive fun in December, and it’s the perfect place to buy foodie souvenirs!
Interlaken, between two lakes
Nestled between Lake Brienz and Lake Thun and surrounded by snow-capped peaks, Interlaken looks like a fairytale in December. Here in the Swiss Alps region of Bernese Oberland you’ll find the holiday spirit in full swing and snow sports just a short hop away. For those iconic Swiss holiday vibes, Interlaken is the perfect stop.
Lauterbrunnen, frozen waterfalls
This quaint town is famously wedged between towering cliffs in a stunning Swiss valley, famous for its frozen waterfalls and close access to ski resorts like Mürren. In December, the first snow blankets the valley, creating a winter wonderland worthy of a postcard. Near here you can go skiing, snowboarding and sledding, or enjoy alpine trails.
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Zürich, the biggest city
Switzerland’s largest city is a blend of historic charm and modern living, and in December festive fun brings the streets to life. The Christkindlimarkt at Zürich Hauptbahnhof is one of the largest indoor Christmas markets in Europe. Here you’ll find everything from handcrafted gifts to mulled wine and seasonal treats. Or go skating at the picturesque Dolder Ice Rink, open of the largest open-air rinks in Europe.
Montreux, for lakeside markets
On the shores of Lake Geneva, Montreux hosts one of the best Christmas markets in the country. Here on the lakefront locals and visitors gather to sing carols, drink mulled wine or hot chocolate, and buy handmade gifts all to the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Nearby, on Trafalgar’s Best of Switzerland you’ll explore the beautiful medieval fortress of Chillon Castle too. Set on a rocky lake islet, the roof is often dusted by snow!
Rochers-de-Naye, for the Santa Claus village
Venture inland from Montreux to find Rochers-de-Naye, a mountain spot that hosts a Santa Claus village. You can take a scenic cogwheel train ride to this snowy destination where you can meet the real Santa Claus … at the summit of the Rochers-de-Naye, 2,042 meters altitude.
Gstaad, for luxe ski vibes
Gstaad is a luxurious Swiss village that shines in the winter months. Here, in the heart of the Swiss Alps, the glamorous village transforms into a snowy paradise. The exclusive ski resort attracts celebrities and keen skiers! Between the cozy chalets and the festive lights, you’ll fall for Gstaad’s charms. After a day on the mountains, unwind at one of the luxe spas. Or warm up with a cheesy Swiss fondue at a cozy mountain restaurant.
Glacier Express, a scenic rail journey
There’s something extra romantic about rail travel, and from mid December the famous Glacier Express runs for a winter season special. You’ll experience the glamour of a bygone era, soaking up insane alpine scenery aboard one of the world’s most unforgettable rail journeys. This time of year you’ll be taking in snowy scenery as you cross hundreds of bridges and the Oberalp Pass at 6,700 feet (2,044 m) above sea level. The train ride eventually reaches charming Zermatt, at the foothills of the towering Matterhorn, on our Contrasts of Switzerland.
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Is it worth going to Switzerland in December?
Yes, it’s definitely worth visiting Switzerland in December. This time of year it starts transforming into a winter wonderland, blending snowy alpine landscapes with festive Christmas markets and lights. You can go skiing, ice skating, enjoy winter activities and soak up the beauty of its cities.
Is Switzerland a good place to go for Christmas?
Yes, Switzerland is an excellent destination for Christmas. Between cozy chalets adorned with festive lights, charming little villages dusted with snow, and bigger cities with huge Christmas markets in cobbled squares, Switzerland is a great destination for Christmas. The best cities for Christmas are Zurich, Lucerne, and Bern. Cute alpine villages like Zermatt and Grindelwald are worth visiting in December too.
Those are the best places to visit in Switzerland in December. Are you interested in a Swiss winter escape? Leave us a comment…