Autumn in Switzerland: A Guide to the Best Places to See Fall Foliage

Thinking about escaping to Switzerland in the fall? The good news is that autumn in Switzerland is an enticing, unforgettable experience.

Although many people are fixed on the idea that summer is the only season a getaway to Switzerland is worth it, fall is also a fabulous time to explore this European destination.

Switzerland is a beautiful country to visit during the autumn season. The changing colors of the leaves create stunning landscapes that you won’t want to miss.

Mild weather. smaller crowds, breathtaking scenery, and unique cultural activities make autumn in Switzerland worthy of any Fall itinerary.

Reasons Autumn in Switzerland is Always a Great Idea

Autumn in Switzerland is the perfect time to visit this beautiful country. Here are some reasons why:

• The weather is perfect: The weather in Switzerland during autumn is mild and pleasant. It’s not too hot or too cold, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or sightseeing.
• The foliage is stunning: Switzerland is known for its incredible scenery, and autumn is the best time to see the country’s beautiful foliage. The leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a breathtaking landscape.
• Fewer crowds: Unlike the peak summer season, autumn in Switzerland sees fewer tourists, which means you can enjoy the country’s attractions without the crowds.
• Festivals and events: Switzerland hosts many festivals and events during autumn, including the famous Alpabzug (cow parade) and the Zurich Film Festival. These events offer a unique glimpse into Swiss culture and traditions.
• Great deals: Many hotels and airlines offer great deals during the autumn season, making it an affordable time to visit Switzerland.

How Long Does Autumn in Switzerland Last?

Autumn in Switzerland officially begins in September and lasts for three months until November. During this season, the days become shorter, and the temperatures start to drop gradually.

The autumn season is characterized by a beautiful display of colors as the leaves on trees change from green to yellow, orange, and red.

In the flatlands, temperatures in September can reach nearly 20 degrees Celsius on nice days. As the season progresses, the temperatures continue to drop, and by November, they can reach as low as 5 degrees Celsius.

However, it’s worth noting that the temperatures can vary depending on the location and altitude.

Autumn in Switzerland is a great time to visit because the weather is mild, and the scenery is stunning. It’s the perfect time to go hiking, biking, or take a scenic drive to enjoy the beautiful landscapes.

Don’t forget to get travel insurance for your trip! As always, I recommend Safety Wing for great prices and coverage abroad. It starts at only $45 USD per month and will have you covered with everything you may need during your trip! Check them out here.

Where to see foliage during autumn in Switzerland

Here are some of the best places to see fall foliage in autumn in Switzerland:

The Swiss Alps

The Swiss Alps are a great place to see fall foliage. The trees in the Alps turn a beautiful golden color during the autumn season.

Take a scenic train ride through the Alps to see the changing colors of the leaves. You can also go hiking in the mountains to get a closer look at the leaves.

Zurich

Zurich is a great place to visit during the autumn season. The city has many parks and gardens that are perfect for seeing fall foliage.

The Botanical Garden in Zurich is a great place to see the changing colors of the leaves. You can also take a walk along Lake Zurich to see the leaves.

Geneva

Geneva is another great place to visit during the autumn in Switzerland. The city has many parks and gardens that are perfect for seeing fall foliage.

The Parc des Bastions is a great place to see the changing colors of the leaves. You can also take a walk along Lake Geneva to see the leaves.

Bern

Bern is the capital city of Switzerland and is a great place to visit during the autumn season. The city has many parks and gardens that are perfect for seeing fall foliage.

The Rosengarten is a great place to see the changing colors of the leaves. You can also take a walk along the Aare River to see the leaves.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a small town located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. The town is surrounded by mountains and is a great place to visit during the autumn season.

Take a walk through the town to see the changing colors of the leaves. You can also take a scenic train ride through the mountains to see the leaves.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a small town located in the Swiss Alps. The town is known for its skiing and hiking, but it’s also a great place to visit during the autumn season.

Take a cable car ride up the mountain to see the changing colors of the leaves. You can also go hiking in the mountains to get a closer look at the leaves.

Vaud Region

The Vaud region is located in western Switzerland and is a great place to visit during the autumn season. The region has many vineyards and is known for its wine.

Basel

Basel is a city located in northwestern Switzerland. The city has many parks and gardens that are perfect for seeing fall foliage.

The Botanical Garden in Basel is a great place to see the changing colors of the leaves. You can also take a walk along the Rhine River to see the leaves.

Incredible Scenic Train Rides for Autumn in Switzerland

Autumn in Switzerland is a magical time when the mountains are painted with vibrant hues of orange, yellow, and red.

The crisp air and stunning scenery make it the perfect season to take a scenic train ride through the Swiss Alps.

Here are some of the most incredible scenic train rides for autumn in Switzerland:

Glacier Express

The Glacier Express is a panoramic train that takes you through the heart of the Swiss Alps, from Zermatt to St. Moritz.

The journey takes around 8 hours, and you’ll pass through stunning landscapes of snow-capped peaks, deep gorges, and picturesque villages.

The train is equipped with large windows that provide an unobstructed view of the breathtaking scenery.

Bernina Express

The Bernina Express is another scenic train that takes you through the Swiss Alps, from Chur to Tirano.

The journey takes around 4 hours, and you’ll pass through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Rhaetian Railway.

The train crosses the Bernina Pass, which is the highest point on the railway, at an elevation of 2,253 meters. The views of the glaciers and mountain peaks are simply breathtaking.

Golden Pass Line

The Golden Pass Line is a scenic train that takes you from Montreux to Lucerne, passing through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Switzerland.

The journey takes around 5 hours, and you’ll pass through charming villages, rolling hills, and sparkling lakes.

The train is equipped with large panoramic windows and comfortable seats, so you can sit back and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Gotthard Panorama Express

The Gotthard Panorama Express is a scenic train that takes you from Lucerne to Lugano, passing through the heart of the Swiss Alps.

The journey takes around 5 hours, and you’ll pass through the Gotthard Tunnel, which is the longest railway tunnel in the world.

The train is equipped with large panoramic windows and comfortable seats, so you can enjoy the stunning scenery in style.

Voralpen-Express

The Voralpen-Express is a scenic train that takes you from St. Gallen to Lucerne, passing through the rolling hills and charming villages of eastern Switzerland.

The journey takes around 2.5 hours, and you’ll pass through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Switzerland.

The train is equipped with large panoramic windows and comfortable seats, so you can sit back and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Autumn Festivals in Switzerland

Switzerland is known for its beautiful autumn festivals, which are based on different regional traditions.

Here are some of the most popular autumn festivals in Switzerland:

Alpabzug

Alpabzug, also known as the “homecoming of the cows,” is a festival that celebrates the return of the cows from the high alpine pastures. It usually takes place in late September or early October.

During this festival, the cows are decorated with flowers and bells, and paraded through the streets of the villages. There are also food stalls, music, and traditional Swiss folk dancing.

Chestnut Picking in Ticino

Ticino is a region in southern Switzerland known for its beautiful autumn colors and its chestnut trees. In October, the region celebrates the chestnut harvest with festivals and markets.

During these festivals, you can taste roasted chestnuts, chestnut cake, and other chestnut-based dishes. You can also participate in chestnut-picking tours and learn about the history of chestnut cultivation in Ticino.

Autumn Fair Basel

The Autumn Fair Basel, also known as “Herbschtmäss,” is one of the largest and oldest fairs in Switzerland.

It takes place in late October and early November and features over 500 attractions, including rides, games, and food stalls.

The fair also has a long history of showcasing Swiss culture and traditions, including traditional Swiss costumes, music, and dance.

Goats’ Tour in Zermatt

Zermatt is a popular ski resort town in Switzerland, but during autumn, it’s also known for its Goats’ Tour festival.

This festival takes place in late September and early October and involves a parade of goats through the town.

The goats are decorated with flowers and bells, and there are also food stalls, music, and traditional Swiss folk dancing.

You may also like:

• The Best Things to Do on a Trip to Switzerland

Swiss Autumn Cuisine

When it comes to Swiss cuisine during autumn, you can expect hearty and comforting dishes that are perfect for the cooler weather.

From game dishes to traditional desserts, here are some of the must-try Swiss autumn foods:

Game dishes

Autumn is the season for hunting in Switzerland, and game dishes are a staple on menus across the country. Some popular game meats include venison, wild boar, and hare.

These meats are often served with rich sauces and sides like spaetzli (a type of pasta), red cabbage, and sweet chestnuts.

Traditional desserts

Swiss autumn is also the season for indulging in sweet treats.

One popular dessert is the traditional Swiss plum tart, made with juicy plums and a buttery crust.

Another classic is the apple tart, which features thinly sliced apples arranged in a beautiful pattern on top of a sweet pastry crust.

Soups

As the weather gets colder, Swiss people start to enjoy warm and comforting soups. In fact, autumn is known as the start of the “Suppeziit” (soup season) in Switzerland.

Some traditional Swiss soups to try include:

• Älplermagronen: A hearty pasta dish made with macaroni, potatoes, cheese, and onions.
• Kürbissuppe: A creamy pumpkin soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
• Rahmsuppe: A rich cream soup made with mushrooms and cream.

Cheese

Switzerland is known for its cheese, and autumn is the perfect time to enjoy it.

Many cheese makers produce special autumn cheeses that are made with milk from cows that have been grazing on the lush mountain pastures.

Some popular autumn cheeses include Vacherin Mont d’Or and Tête de Moine.

Wildlife in Swiss Autumn

Switzerland is home to a diverse range of wildlife, and autumn is a great time to observe these animals in their natural habitat.

Here are some of the animals you can expect to see during your autumn visit to Switzerland:

• Ibexes: These majestic creatures are a type of wild goat that can be found in the Swiss Alps. They are known for their impressive horns and can often be seen scaling steep cliffs and mountainsides.
• Bearded Vultures: Also known as lammergeiers, these birds of prey can be spotted soaring above the mountains of Switzerland. They are known for their distinctive beards and can often be seen carrying large bones in their talons.
• Beavers: These industrious animals can be found in many of Switzerland’s rivers and streams. They are known for their impressive dam-building skills and can often be seen carrying branches and other materials to their construction sites.
• Deer: Switzerland is home to several species of deer, including red deer and roe deer. During the autumn months, you may be able to observe these animals as they prepare for the winter by foraging for food and building up their fat reserves.

Climate and Weather during Autumn in Switzerland

Switzerland has a continental climate with four distinct seasons each year.

Autumn in Switzerland typically runs from September to November, with temperatures gradually dropping as the season progresses.

During September, the weather is generally mild with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). However, as autumn progresses, temperatures can drop to as low as 0°C (32°F) in November.

Autumn in Switzerland is also known for its changing colors as the leaves on trees turn from green to shades of yellow, orange, and red.

This makes it a great time to explore the country’s natural beauty, including its mountains, lakes, and forests.

While autumn in Switzerland can be a beautiful time to visit, it’s important to be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Rain is common during this season, so it’s a good idea to bring waterproof clothing and footwear.

Moreover, as temperatures can vary greatly depending on location and altitude, make sure to dress in layers.

Packing Tips for Autumn Visit

When packing for your autumn visit to Switzerland, it’s important to keep in mind the changing weather conditions and the activities you plan on doing.

Here are some tips to help you pack smart and light:

Clothing

Bring a mix of lightweight and warm clothing. For daytime explorations, opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. A light jacket or sweater will come in handy for the cooler evenings.

Don’t forget to pack a waterproof jacket, as autumn in Switzerland can bring some rain.

For footwear, pack a pair of warm boots for cooler days and a pair of flats for indoor activities. Bring a woolen hat or beenie to keep your head warm on cooler days.

Accessories

Packing cubes will help you stay organized and avoid overpacking. Use them to separate your clothing and accessories.

A lipstick-sized portable charger will come in handy for keeping your phone charged while on the go. Don’t forget to pack a universal adapter if you plan on using electronic devices.

Other Essentials

Pack sunscreen and sunglasses for those sunny autumn days. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated on your adventures.

Don’t forget to pack any prescription medication you may need.

By following these packing tips, you’ll be prepared for the changing weather and ready to enjoy all the autumn activities Switzerland has to offer.

Travel Insurance for Autumn in Switzerland

When planning your autumn trip to Switzerland, it’s important to consider travel insurance.

While it’s not mandatory for all visitors, having travel insurance can provide peace of mind and protection in case of unexpected events.

We recommend using Safety Wing for travel insurance.

They offer comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellations, and more for a very affordable price. Check them out here.

Autumn in Switzerland: FAQs

What are the best places to visit in Switzerland during autumn?

Switzerland is a beautiful country with plenty of stunning places to visit during autumn. Some of the best places to visit include Bern, Lucerne, Zurich, Interlaken, and Geneva.

What is the weather like in Switzerland during autumn?

The weather in Switzerland during autumn is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius.

When is the best time to see fall colors in Switzerland?

The best time to see fall colors in Switzerland is from mid-September to mid-October.

During this time, the leaves of the trees turn into beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning landscape that is perfect for photography.

Is October a good time to visit Switzerland?

Yes, October is a good time to visit Switzerland. The crowds have thinned out, and the weather is still mild enough to enjoy outdoor activities.

Where can I find the best autumn foliage in Switzerland?

Some of the best places to find autumn foliage in Switzerland include the Lauterbrunnen Valley, the Rhine Falls, the Lake Geneva region, and the Engadine Valley.

What are some popular things to do during autumn in Switzerland?

Switzerland offers a range of activities to enjoy during autumn, including hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, hot-air ballooning, and wine tasting.

You can also visit local museums, attend fall festivals, and enjoy the local cuisine as part of your itinerary (here’s a great 3 day Switzerland itinerary).

Autumn in Switzerland: Conclusion

Autumn in Switzerland is a truly magical experience. The changing colors of the leaves, the crisp air, and the abundance of seasonal activities make fall one of the best reasons to visit the country.

Whether you’re exploring the countryside, indulging in delicious seasonal treats, or simply taking in the stunning scenery, Switzerland in the fall is a must-see destination.