12 Things to Do During Winter in Switzerland

Who said skip Europe in the winter time? Christmas brings about all sorts of wonders, especially in a country like Switzerland, which sure has its fair share of picturesque, quaint cities. I visited in December, where the muted lighting created the perfect atmosphere and gave the city lights a chance to shine!

For top things to do during winter in Switzerland, make sure not to miss the following…

In Zurich

Take in the city from this lookout

I wandered upon it completely by accident, but turns out the place is a well known spot! I recommend waking up at sunrise, and watching the soft glow of the winter sun bathe the city in gold.

Tip: scroll down to the bottom to see what camera gear I recommend for capturing Zurich’s beauty!

Stop by the Christmas Market

It doesn’t get more Christmassy than the giant Christmas tree, the smell of cinnamon wafting through the air, and Christmas music! Be sure to also check out the abundance of various cuisine around here, and try Switzerland’s native ice cream, Movenpick (p.s. they also have some incredible coffee, too!)

Take a stroll under the lights

One of Zurich’s most charming aspects is the thousands of tiny lights strung up all around the city! Perfect for getting lost in the winding streets as you discover hidden gems with a special someone.

I was so obsessed that I ended up buying some fairy lights of my own to put up at home — definitely gives off that magical atmosphere!

Try some cheese fondue

Especially on a cold summer’s night, this will warm up your belly for sure. I was solo-traveling, and had no choice but to order a pot for myself…beware, they’re huge, and definitely meant for sharing!

If you’re feeling cheesy, recreate this at home with an authentic fondue set.

Eat your heart out at Confiserie Sprungli

Confiserie Sprungli is a luxury confectionery manufacturer, and known for its signature macarons called “Luxemburgerli.” These are absolutely scrumptious, and I recommend trying as many flavors as your stomach will allow you to!

It’s also where I bought a chocolate mousse cake the size of my face.

In Lucerne

Cross the world famous Kapellbrucke

Literally translating to “Chapel Bridge,” Kapellbrucke is a famous wooden footbridge spanning across the Reuss River in central Lucerne. It’s also extremely picturesque and perfect for taking stunning photos!

 

Take a walk around (or sail) Lake Lucerne

Whether you decide to go by foot or by boat, Lake Lucerne provides some of the most photographic opportunities. Stay for a sunset with gorgeous colors. Scroll to the bottom to see what camera gear I recommend that’s perfect for Switzerland!

Visit Mount Pilatus or Mount Titlis

What would winter be without some snowy mountains? These stops are great on a day trip, offering the chance to partake in winter sports, or relax and enjoy the scenic views of the alps that inspired so many poets in the Romantic era.

In Geneva

See the Jet d’Eau

This is Geneva’s symbol — the dramatic landmark water jet on the lake.

Stop by the Palace of Nations

A must see for history buffs! The headquarters of the League of Nations.

Check out a number of Geneva’s famous museums

These include the International Red Cross Museum, Patek Philippe Museum, Museum of Art and History, and the Natural History Museum.

Climb up to the top of Saint Pierre’s Cathedral

This was probably my favorite part of Geneva. Climb the numerous steps to the top, and take in the sprawling city below. Terrific for sunset views!

Camera Gear

I recommend the following camera gear to capture your experience:

Cameras

• Canon EOS 5D Mark III
• Sony A7R II
• Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100

Lenses

• Canon 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM – my go to walkaround lens
• Canon 24mm f/1.4 L II USM – a great prime with really wide open aperture for letting in lots of light
• Canon 16-35mm f/2.8 L II USM – wonderful landscape lens that gives a little more flexibility in framing, while still having great aperture capability
• Sony 24-70mm f/4 – an extremely versatile, wonderful walkaround lens
• Sony 35mm f/2.8 – a SUPER compact, almost pancake-style lens that produces beautiful images
• Moment Lenses – terrific for iPhone photographers

Tripod

• A light carbon fiber tripod like the Gitzo GT1542T for mobility

Filters

• LEE filters (0.6 ND Grad, 0.6 ND, big stopper, polarizer)
• Hoya polarizers

Drones

• DJI Mavic Pro

• DJI Spark

Software

• Adobe Lightroom Classic

And if you have time…why not pop over to the tiny nation of Liechenstein?

Spent winter in Switzerland, or other parts of Europe? Let me know other highlights in the comments section below!