Summer in Switzerland: 8 great ways to enjoy the season

While Switzerland may be known as a country of snow-topped mountains, bubbling fondue and bustling ski resorts, some would argue that summer is really the alpine nation’s best season. To help you enjoy all that the hottest months have to offer, here are some traditional ways to enjoy summer in Switzerland.

When does summer start in Switzerland?

Summer in Switzerland officially starts at the summer solstice in June and ends at the autumnal equinox in September, though hot weather can often start as early as mid-May and last all the way to October. The longest season also features the hottest temperatures and the shortest nights.

The weather in Switzerland in the summer is characterised by long periods of hot temperatures and clear skies, broken by sudden thunderstorms and rain that cool conditions down and start the cycle anew. Average temperatures from July to August range between 18 and 28 degrees celsius, though the mercury typically peaks around 38 degrees on the hottest days.

8 top summer activities in Switzerland

Though not the season the country is known for, Switzerland is a dark horse when it comes to summer activities. To help make the most of the season, here are some of the best ways to spend summer in Switzerland.

1. Take a dip in a Swiss lake

Is the summer heat already making you wish for a long winter? Not to worry, Switzerland presents a great number of ways to cool off, chief of which is to take a refreshing swim.

While the country is awash with swimming pools of all sizes, from public pools to water parks and tropical swimming paradises, most prefer to simply leap into the local lake or river. All Swiss lakes are considered swimmable unless stated otherwise and offer a fun and affordable way to spend an afternoon when the summer is at its hottest.

The larger lakes near and in Swiss cities like those in Zurich, Lausanne and Geneva often take a while to heat up, but when they do swimmers can expect temperatures of above 24 degrees. Still too cold? Some of the smaller lakes in Switzerland can warm to a near bath-like 29 degrees by the time the season is done.

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2. Go for a hike in the mountains

It may not be the season to strap skis to your feet, but the Swiss mountains and their resorts still offer a wealth of activities to enjoy in the summertime. After taking a cable car or mountain railway to the top, most Swiss ski resorts offer a series of hiking paths to suit all abilities, ranging from flat panoramic walks to steep alpine hikes.

The Swiss Alps are home to many great places to visit during the summer. Some of the highlights include the Engadine Valley and St. Moritz, Verbier, Zermatt, Interlaken and Grindelwald - though this writer’s favourite hiking place has to be Lenk in Simmental in Canton Bern.

Situated at higher altitudes, the Alps are also the coldest places in the country, making a walk in the mountains a picturesque way to cool off. With the sun at your back and the majesty of one of the world’s best vistas ahead, you’d be forgiven for thinking that you’d stumbled into a postcard.

3. Catch a blockbuster at a Swiss open-air cinema

While most cinemas in Switzerland are air-conditioned, summer presents a great opportunity to take in the latest blockbuster outside. Situated across Swiss cities, outdoor cinemas are a great way to spend the evening enjoying warm temperatures and the best films of the day.

Alongside new movies, the largest venues also offer classic films and even some Swiss-made masterpieces. Grab your popcorn, hope for good weather and enjoy the film!

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4. Enjoy the best of al fresco at a Swiss barbecue

Take full advantage of the clear weather by planning a barbecue with friends and family. The alpine nation is awash with grilling areas (Grillplatz) that are free to use, ranging from the side of lakes and rivers to up mountains and in forests. Some local councils even construct grilling huts which can be booked in advance.

Be sure to check the local conditions, especially rules around lighting fires, grab some wood, drinks and grill items, and enjoy! For those not familiar with creating log fires, Swiss supermarkets sell handy disposable grills during the summer, allowing everyone to join in the fun!

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5. Go fruit-picking at a farm in Switzerland

One of the best activities for kids in Switzerland has to be fruit-picking experiences. When the weather gets hot and the harvest beckons, many local farms dedicate part of their land to a self-service area, where families and individuals can pick the fruit and vegetables they want.

Some of the most common fruits offered include strawberries, cherries and apples. If you want to take your pies to the next level, then visiting a fruit-picking experience is a must.

6. Go boating down a Swiss river

Are you bored of the tranquil lakes and want to experience something both relaxing and exciting? Then an inflatable boat ride down a Swiss river is for you. From the Limmat and Thur to the Aare, summertime sees groups of friends blow up their rafts and head for the streams.

Often you will see huge flotillas of people and inflatables making their way down the river. However, at the same time, it’s very important to respect the rules that are imposed. For more information, check out our guide to inflatable boating down Swiss rivers.

Just want a swim? It is possible to swim directly in a number of major rivers. Some of the best places to do this in cities are the Limmat in Zurich (Obere / Untere Letten), the Rhine in Basel and the Aare in Bern - an old wives' tale has it that some people in Bern commute to work by swimming down the Aare.

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7. Hurtle down the hill on a Swiss mountain coaster (Rodelbahn)

Switzerland may not be home to many theme parks, but that doesn’t stop residents from letting loose and enjoying some adrenaline-fuelled activities. If you don’t want to wake up in the early hours and head to Europa Park, then a Swiss mountain coaster (Rodelbahn) is a great substitute.

Typically situated up in the mountains, Rodelbahns are choose-your-own speed roller coasters where you can brake and accelerate as much or as little as you want. They also offer a great opportunity to see the natural landscape in all its majesty - or as a blur, depending on how fast you go!

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8. Enjoy the fun of the Swiss Dorffäscht

Finally, why not indulge in one of the Swissest events to take place every year? On a weekend in August, villages, towns and cities of every size put on their annual town festival or Dorffäscht. These events tend to include a market selling local products, food stalls, marches, musical acts and other performances.

One of the most common complaints from expats in Switzerland is that they often feel cut off. By visiting a Dorffäscht, you will immerse yourself in all that your local area has to offer. What’s more, the local knowledge and connections could come in handy should you apply for citizenship.

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Come enjoy summer in Switzerland!

From hikes in the Alps to letting your hair down and dancing at your local town festival, Switzerland is anything but dull during the summer. Have a favourite summer activity we’ve missed? Let us know in the comments below! 

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