Switzerland in November | Travel Tips, Things to Do, & More
When you visit Switzerland in November it feels like you’re stepping into one of those screensavers or postcards with the most epic landscapes.
In November, Switzerland starts to transition from the colorful orange and red leaves of fall to the chillier and dreamy winter wonderland. The Swiss Alps start to receive snowfall creating a dreamland in the distance. It’s the perfect time to enjoy peaceful hikes, cozy up by a fire, and savor the beauty of Switzerland as it gently shifts from fall to winter.
One of my favorite parts about visiting Switzerland in November is the special charm. Let’s get into the best things to do, weather, tips, and more!
My Favorite Travel Resources
– Cozy Accommodations: Vrbo
– Affordable Flights: CheapOair
– Easy Rental Cars: Rentalcars.com
Best Things to Do in Switzerland in November
Visiting Switzerland in November is a great time to explore the vibrant city life, hike in the mountains, ski in the Alps, or get a head start on holiday shopping. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cozy urban experiences, you won’t regret it if book your flight today. 😎
Traveler’s Tip: A flight to Switzerland may be a little long if you are in the States. These are my favorite noise-canceling headphones for listening to music, watching movies, or winding down on my flight.
Visit the Swiss Alps
November in the Swiss Alps offers a peaceful, pre-winter escape with stunning mountain landscapes and a blend of outdoor activities, making it a great time to visit before ski season kicks into full swing.
Note: If you aren’t a skier, November is still a fun time and there are plenty of other activities and tours.
- Hiking: With snow beginning to fall at higher altitudes, many lower-altitude trails remain accessible. Hiking in November means crisp air, scenic paths, and fewer crowds. *Wear waterproof hiking boots as some trails might be wet or muddy, cold feet and soggy socks are not a good time.*
- Skiing: While the main ski resorts may not be fully open yet, certain high-altitude areas begin to offer early-season skiing. If you’re eager to hit the slopes, check for specific resorts offering limited skiing opportunities in November.
- Mountain views: November offers dramatic views of the snow-dusted peaks. The cooler weather brings a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for capturing stunning photos or simply enjoying the beauty of the Alps in a quieter season.
Scenic Train Rides
In all honesty, I wasn’t sure if I would like the train rides in Switzerland. I have seen how beautiful they are on social media, but it was never something I had on my itinerary. Let me tell you, they are worth the hype.
The accessibility of trains is exceptionally easy and convenient. If the weather is sunny or rainy, the panoramic views are endless. The days that are a bit too cold to be outside and you don’t want to spend time in the hotel, this is a great option to take in Switzerland’s landscapes.
The Golden Pass Line and Bernina Express are two of the most beautiful train rides throughout Switzerland. Reservations are recommended ahead of time!
Chocolate, Chocolate, and More Chocolate
As my other post about the 9 best Swiss chocolates says…”Switzerland is known for being the best in the world. If you haven’t tried it, you will understand the moment you do.
The flavor profile will ignite your world and the creamy melt-in-your-mouth chocolate will make you want more.”
AKA, don’t skip out of Switzerland’s chocolatey goodness. 🍫
Festivals
The streets start to sparkle with festive lights and seasonal markets begin to pop up, offering everything from hot cocoa to unique local crafts.
Cities such as Bern, Lucerne, Lausanne, Geneva, and Zurich are the top places to visit for festivals and events. Stay up to date with Switzerland’s autumn festivals & markets, here!
Most Loved Festivals in November:
- Geneva International Film Festival
- Mt. Pilatus Christmas Market
- Zurich Exponiva Wine Ships
- Basel Herbstmesse
Outdoor Winter Sports
Winter sports in Switzerland in November are seriously awesome!
Whether you’re skiing on those early-season slopes or skating on frozen lakes, there’s so much to do. You can also try snowshoeing or even sledding if you’re looking for something different.
Note: Many ski resorts offer guided ski tours, which are great if you’re new to the sport.
Plus, November’s perfect because you get all the fun without the big holiday crowds. It’s like having the mountains to yourself!
Mouth Watering Restaurants
Switzerland isn’t just about epic views and winter sports—the food scene here is just as worth it. Whether you’re craving fondue or chocolate, the restaurants in Switzerland serve up some seriously mouthwatering dishes.
From cozy mountain chalets offering classic Swiss cuisine to Michelin-starred spots with a modern twist, you’ll find something for every craving.
If you’re curious about the must-try dishes, check out this post for all the tasty details: Swiss Cuisine.
Explore the Cities
November is a great time to explore Switzerland’s cities before the holiday rush kicks in. If you enjoy small alpine villages or more of the urban vibe, there is something for everyone.
Where to go:
📍 Zurich: Lively with plenty of museums, shopping, and restaurants. Don’t miss the Old Town for some history and culture.
📍 Lucerne: Picture-perfect, with its medieval architecture and views of the lake. Great for a more laid-back vibe.
📍 Geneva: A mix of international flair and classic Swiss charm. You’ll find cool spots like the UN headquarters and some beautiful parks.
📍 Zermatt: Quaint and nestled in the Alps, perfect for mountain lovers. Even if you’re not skiing, you’ll love exploring this cute town.
Switzerland in November: Travel Tips
1. Book Your Stay Early
November is quieter than the busy summer or ski seasons, but popular spots might still get a bit crowded. Snagging your accommodation early will help you get the best deals and locations. Find great deals on Swiss hotels here.
2. Crowds & Costs
November is a bit of a sweet spot for visiting Switzerland if you want to avoid crowds and save some money.
Since it’s right between the fall hiking season and the winter ski rush, you’ll find fewer tourists in both the cities and the mountains. This means shorter lines at popular attractions and a more peaceful vibe in the cities and towns.
When it comes to costs, November tends to be more budget-friendly compared to the high season. Flights, hotels, and even tours are often cheaper, so you can explore Switzerland without breaking the bank. Many places offer off-season discounts, making it a great time for those looking to experience Swiss charm at a lower price.
3. Layer Up
The weather can go from a sunny, warmer day to cool and moody pretty fast.
My Go-To Packing List Items:
⭐ Packable Waterproof & Windproof Rain Jacket
⭐ Swimsuit
4. Check Openings & Schedules
Some attractions might have limited hours or be closed in November. Double-check the hours of any museums, festivals, or gondolas to avoid surprises.
Here’s a handy travel site with apps to download to help you keep track of snow and transportation.
Switzerland in November: Weather
Expect moderate daytime temperatures between 41°F to 50°F in towns and cities at lower elevations.
At higher elevations, temperatures can range as low as 28°F. Snow is likely not heavy, but some ski resorts will be open (every season is different, check ahead of time what the expected snowfall is during your visit).
Switzerland in November: FAQ
Is November a good time to visit Switzerland?
In my personal opinion, YES! If cooler weather, hiking, skiing in the Alps, or a drizzly day drinking coffee in a cozy cabin sounds good – book your flight now!
Is Interlaken worth visiting in November?
Out of every city in Switzerland, Interlaken is my favorite and is worth the visit during any season. The perfect city for adrenaline lovers.
(It’s actually one of my favorite places in the world.)
What is the best resource for booking public transportation?
The Swiss Travel Pass is the most versatile pass for using public transportation around Switzerland.
It’s not only good for transportation, but you can also get into some museums for free with it!
Switzerland in November Wrapped Up
If you’re looking for a trip that mixes stunning landscapes, epic winter sports, and cozy city vibes, Switzerland in November is calling your name. You’ll beat the crowds, enjoy cheaper travel costs, and experience the beauty of this country in a way that’s both peaceful and awe-inspiring.
November has it all. So, why wait? Book that flight, plan your adventure, and gear up for an unforgettable Swiss getaway.
Happy Trails,
Mindful PNW Travels
