5 Reasons Switzerland Is the Perfect Winter Getaway for Every Adventurer

With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty, Switzerland truly shines in winter, as its picturesque villages and enchanting ski resorts awaken across the Alps. This is your destination for pristine snow, towering peaks, and exhilarating off-piste experiences. At its core, the Playground of Europe welcomes all, boasting stunning views and thrills at every mountain turn.

From indulging in a Michelin-star meal in Zermatt to taking a VIP gondola ride to the Top of Europe, Switzerland offers a wealth of winter adventures. Here’s how to kick off your journey.

Experience family fun in the Valais Region

Searching for an exciting family vacation? Nendaz, a picturesque village located in Switzerland’s largest ski area, offers top-notch winter sports, a relaxed atmosphere, and activities for everyone. When you’re not on the slopes, experience the Alps with The Mont-Fort Zipline, one of Europe's highest ziplines, savor raclette cooked over an open fire during a guided Raclette and Raquette snowshoe trek, and take a cable car ride to Mont Fort for breathtaking views of legendary peaks, including the famous Matterhorn.

To learn more, check out The Family Getaway of Your Dreams Awaits in the Valais Region of Switzerland.

Bask in the stunning Alpine scenery from the Top of Europe.

As one of the prominent peaks in the Bernese Alps and home to Europe’s highest railway station, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world in the Jungfrau Region—especially if you get the chance to ride the opulent Eiger Express gondola, featuring a champagne bar and rotating red leather seats that offer 360-degree views of the breathtaking, icy scenery. Close by, the charming town of Interlaken, elegant hotels, and a collection of historic castles add to the majestic winter experience.

To read more, explore Why “The Top of Europe” is the Stylish Adventure You Need.

Experience the sights aboard a legendary train.

Known as “the window to the Swiss Alps,” the Glacier Express is the country’s most iconic scenic train, linking Zermatt at the base of the Matterhorn with St Moritz in the Engadin ski region. The journey is not only stunning but also an engineering feat, with many passengers choosing to enjoy the full eight-hour ride that showcases breathtaking landmarks like the magnificent Oberalp Pass as you navigate the Rhaetian Railway in the Albula/Bernina Landscapes—a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has stood for over a century.

To discover more, read How to Enjoy an Eye-Popping Journey Aboard the Glacier Express.

Soar to new heights in Engelberg.

For exhilarating thrills and exquisite snow, few places rival Engelberg. Seasoned skiers can delve into the excitement of guided backcountry adventures with new off-piste terrain. Here, skiing presents both a challenge and a rewarding experience. But it’s not just about the slopes—anticipate chic accommodations like the Kempinski Palace Engelberg, housed in a historic 1904 building, alongside modern cable cars and inviting après-ski lounges.

To learn more, read This Swiss Destination is a Skier’s Paradise.

Indulge in Alpine classics in Zermatt.

Renowned for its upscale village and vibrant après-ski scene, Zermatt is a perfect spot for those eager to savor regional delicacies. The town boasts around 100 restaurants, featuring Michelin-starred gems like Ristorante Capri and After Seven. Many of these eateries have been family-run for generations and prioritize Swiss-made ingredients—you can even visit local cheese makers who supply the finest for raclette and fondue. Be sure to embrace the cherished après-ski tradition: Cervo offers one of the top atmospheres with live music and a cozy fireplace.

To explore further, read Why Zermatt is an Incredible Winter Sports Destination for Food Fans.