Switzerland Walking Guide | Macs Adventure

Walking in Switzerland: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Trails, Seasons & Travel Tips

Switzerland is one of the best walking destinations in Europe, renowned for its dramatic Alpine scenery, crystal-clear lakes and exceptionally well-maintained trail network. From classic mountain passes to panoramic ridge walks, walking in Switzerland offers unforgettable experiences for walkers of all levels. With reliable public transport, clear trail signage and welcoming mountain villages, it’s an ideal choice for a self-guided walking holiday.

Two women walking in Bernese Oberland

Read on to discover everything you need to know about walking in Switzerland - from the best trails and seasons to travel tips, food and what to expect on the trails.

Best of Switzerland

Travelling to Switzerland

Planning a Switzerland walking Trip

Booking Your Switzerland Walking Holiday

View from Hängebrücke Furi

Best Time to Walk in Switzerland

The best time to walk in Switzerland is from late June to September, when most trails are snow-free, and weather conditions are most reliable. While some lower-altitude alpine walks in other parts of the Alps can begin as early as May, Switzerland’s higher elevations and extensive alpine terrain mean there is often still significant snow cover well into early summer, making spring walking less suitable.

July and August are the peak months for walking in the Swiss Alps, with high-altitude routes fully open, long daylight hours and the widest choice of trails. During this period, daytime temperatures in valleys and lower alpine areas typically range from 15–25°C (59–77°F), while higher elevations are cooler at around 5–15°C (41–59°F).
June and September are excellent shoulder months for walking in Switzerland. These months bring fewer crowds, cooler temperatures and beautiful seasonal scenery - from wildflowers in early summer to golden alpine landscapes in early fall. Snow may still linger on some high mountain passes in June, so lower and mid-altitude walks are often the best choice.

While summer offers the most stable conditions, alpine weather can change quickly. Sunshine, wind and occasional rain showers can all occur in a single day, making layers and waterproof clothing essential for any Swiss walking trip.

Two people hiking in Bernese Oberland

Best walks in Switzerland

Switzerland offers some of the best walking trails in Europe, and Macs Adventure’s self-guided walking holidays showcase the very best of the country’s alpine scenery. Our routes focus on classic Swiss landscapes, combining panoramic mountain trails with charming villages and reliable mountain transport.

Popular regions include:

The Bernese Oberland , where well-maintained paths link villages such as Mürren, Wengen and Grindelwald beneath the iconic Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks.
For more experienced walkers, long-distance alpine routes and high-mountain regions like Valais (the region Walker’s Haute routes goes through) and Graubunden (Swiss Alps ) deliver unforgettable views and dramatic terrain.
We also offer the Glacier Express Rail & walk trip, which goes through Engardin, Graubunden and Valais regions. This itinerary balances walking with scenic rail journeys and cable cars, making it easy to access high viewpoints while enjoying comfortable accommodation each night.

Fun fact: Valais, a stunning Swiss canton, is a land of extremes, boasting 45+ peaks over 4,000m (including the iconic Matterhorn) and Europe’s longest glacier, the Aletsch.

Whether you’re looking for a classic alpine walking holiday or a more challenging mountain adventure, our Switzerland trips highlight the country’s most rewarding trails.

For a complete list, check out our guide to the best walks in Switzerland >

Grindelwald Trail

How to Get to Switzerland

Travelling to Switzerland from the UK is quick and straightforward, with frequent direct flights and excellent rail connections.

Direct Flights to Switzerland

Switzerland’s two main international airports are well served by UK airports:

Zurich Airport (ZRH) – Switzerland’s largest international gateway, with direct flights from London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW), London City (LCY), Manchester (MAN), Edinburgh (EDI) and Birmingham (BHX). Zurich is an excellent starting point for walking holidays across the Swiss Alps.

Geneva Airport (GVA) – Ideal for accessing western Switzerland and alpine regions such as the Valais and Mont Blanc area, with direct flights from London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW), Bristol (BRS), Manchester (MAN) and Edinburgh (EDI).

Travelling to Switzerland by Train

For a more scenic and lower-carbon journey, it’s also possible to travel from the UK to Switzerland entirely by rail. Take the Eurostar from London St Pancras (STP) to Paris, then connect onwards via high-speed trains to cities such as Zurich, Geneva or Basel. – Perfect for a weekend city break pre or post walk!

Travelling by train allows you to enjoy Europe’s excellent rail network while avoiding airport queues and luggage restrictions. Byway can help you arrange a seamless rail journey to Switzerland, including routes, connections and accommodation along the way.

Once in Switzerland, the country’s reliable public transport network makes it easy to reach walking regions without needing a car.

Gondola to Schilthorn

Travel Tips for Switzerland

Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF)
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted
Public transport is extremely efficient, punctual and easy to use
Trains have an easy-to-use app - SBB.ch/en
Walking trails are clearly marked, but maps on the Macs app and weather awareness are essential

Check out our Switzerland travel tips article for lots more info to help plan your trip >

Two women walking in Bernese Oberland village

What to Pack for Walking in Switzerland

Packing correctly is essential for walking holidays in Switzerland, especially in alpine environments.

Essentials include:

Supportive walking boots
Waterproof jacket and trousers
Walking poles
Warm layers for higher elevations (including gloves and a beanie)
Sun protection and reusable water bottle
Comfortable daypack

Mountain weather can change quickly, even in summer, so preparation is key. For a complete checklist, read our guide on what to pack for a self-guided walking holiday >

someone walking over tree roots

Things to Do in Switzerland Besides Walking

While walking is the main attraction, Switzerland offers plenty of additional experiences:

Ride scenic trains like the Glacier Express or Bernina Express
Take cable cars to panoramic viewpoints
Swim in alpine lakes during summer
Explore historic towns and traditional villages
Relax in thermal spas after a great day of walking

For more ideas, head to our Things to Do in Switzerland article >

train in Bernese Oberland

What to Eat and Drink in Switzerland

Swiss food is hearty, comforting and perfectly suited to refuelling after a day on the trails. Traditional dishes are simple but satisfying, often featuring local cheese, potatoes and seasonal ingredients.

Popular Swiss dishes include:

Cheese fondue and raclette, especially in Alpine regions
Rösti, a classic potato dish often served with eggs, cheese or cured meats
Regional specialities influenced by French, Italian and German cuisine, which vary depending on where you’re walking
Swiss wine uses Chablis grapes and is a must-try!
Swiss chocolate and pastries are a highlight. When travelling in and out of Zurich, make sure to go to Sprungli or Laderach for some of the best chocolate.

When walking in Switzerland , accommodation often plays a key role in the food experience. Many mountain huts and alpine inns offer generous, home-cooked meals, typically served communally in the evening. Dinners often include a set menu with soup, a main course and dessert, while breakfasts are simple but filling - ideal for preparing for a day of walking. Dietary requirements are usually catered for when arranged in advance, and the social atmosphere in mountain huts is a memorable part of any Swiss walking holiday.

Woman eating fondu

Why Switzerland Is One of the Best Walking Destinations in Europe

With its iconic Alpine scenery, extensive trail network and excellent travel infrastructure, Switzerland is a top choice for walkers seeking unforgettable landscapes and well-organised adventures. Whether you’re tackling high-altitude mountain routes or enjoying gentler scenic walks, walking in Switzerland offers something for every level.