If you have a vacation coming up, look no further than Switzerland in April. The biggest reason for this is the spring season. April is the beginning of spring season and the weather is quickly shifting gears to becoming warmer and more welcoming. April is also the month where you can indulge in a lot of outdoor fun, including attending Switzerland’s many festivals and events. Therefore, if you choose to visit Switzerland in April, you are going to have one of the most amazing vacations of your life.
Is April a good time to visit Switzerland?
Because the weather in Switzerland is getting warmer, and the lack of tourists, it can be successfully argued that April is not just a good time, but the best time to visit Switzerland. The main tourist season actually starts in the month of May and that’s when many tourists come into the country. But in preparation for the upcoming season, many hotels, resorts, and tourist attractions offer deals and discounts, so you can take advantage and save up a decent amount of money that you can splurge on more things in Switzerland.
Weather in Switzerland in April
By the time April comes, the bone-chilling winter season is over. Spring is starting to make its presence felt, especially in the low-lying regions of Switzerland. The outside actually feels like a comfortable air-conditioned room, so Switzerland weather in April will be quite enjoyable irrespective of the type of weather you come from.
- Temperature: Low – 5°C, High –15°C
- Humidity: 67%
- Chance of Rain/Snow: 33%
- Daylight: 12 to 13 hours
- Sunrise: 7:00 am
- Sunset: 7:53 pm
Things to do in Switzerland in April
Since the tourist season is approaching, there are many amazing things to do in Switzerland in April. So, make a plan that includes the following in your itinerary:
Take a Scenic Train Ride
Grab your camera as you are about to go on some of the most scenic train rides in the world. Switzerland is known for its trains. But some scenic routes are seasonal. These seasonal routes open up in April and you can buy a ticket for these train rides. And the best part of an April train ride is that the train goes through the mountains for some crazy panoramic views, and it also goes through low-lying pastures full of greenery and blooming flowers. One such train is the Gotthard Railway. It has a 200-km route and will even take close to international borders. You can also check out the Gotthard Panorama Express. Book your ticket in advance as there is a rush for trains like these.
Hike to Beautiful Lakes
Though the melting snow prevents hikers from accessing the mountains, there are some other places where you can hike and enjoy great scenery and peace. Switzerland’s lakes like Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and Lake Lucerne are at their natural best in April and the hiking trails nearby are teeming with beautiful fauna. So, grab your backpack and hike through Switzerland’s most picturesque lakes. Some lakes offer boating adventures, so do try them as well.
Indulge in Off-season Skiing
Skiing in April? You’d be surprised that there are still many skiing options despite the end of the winter season. Of course, the best skiing slopes are shut during spring as the snow melts, but places like Zermatt are still open because of the great height it is located at and the presence of Matterhorn Glacier. Here, the temperatures do not drop too much. St Moritz ski resort is another place where skiing is available. Some excellent skiing slopes will leave you feeling excited. So yes, skiing in some areas will still be available.
Premium Shopping in Switzerland
Switzerland is not one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe, so this is a good opportunity to do some premium shopping here. Zurich is the fashion capital of the country and is also home to the best brands from around the world. All the rich and famous celebs, when in Switzerland, come here to shop, and one place they all head to is Bahnhofstrasse. Located by the Limmat River, this street is known for its ware of luxury products. This is a good place to grab exclusive stuff that you won’t get anywhere else.
Places to Visit in Switzerland in April
To get the most out of your vacation, visit the following best places to visit in Switzerland in April. Each of these places is unique and bestows a wonderful experience that you will cherish.
Gruyeres
Of the few things Switzerland is famous for, Gruyeres has two of them – cheese and chocolates. This beautiful idyllic town is located between Zurich and Geneva and is a stop for many people touring Switzerland. This is a hill town so you are guaranteed some of the most fantastic panoramic views. There are many homes here that still have ancient architecture, so a walk through here feels like going back in time. The charming market square is just too adorable, so a small shopping sojourn here is a must. But the most famous things here are La Maison du Gruyère, the cheese factory, and La Maison Cailler, the chocolate factory. Tour them both and sample the best cheeses and chocolates to your heart’s content.
Interlaken
The city gets its name from the fact that it is located between two beautiful lakes – Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. And this amazing and unique geographical position has resulted in the city being one of the most picturesque towns, not just in Switzerland, but in all of Europe. And what better way to enjoy the views and the great outdoors than by indulging in adventure sports. Yes, Interlaken has some adrenaline-pumping sports like paragliding from the surrounding Apls, and speed boating in the lakes. Other sports like canyon swinging and bungee jumping are also catching on. So, if you want to get your heart racing to the max, head to Interlaken.
Lauterbrunnen
If you love nature, you cannot afford to miss the lovely town of Lauterbrunnen. It’s almost like nature reserved her best and most stunning side just for this town. There are some lush meadows here but they are beautifully juxtaposed by the rocky cliffs around the town. Lauterbrunnen is also known for its waterfalls. There are more than 72 waterfalls located in the nearby hills and many people come here just to see these waterfalls and take a swim in the cold waters. The town itself is also quite beautiful as it is full of homes and architecture that is quintessentially Swiss. All in all, this is a wonderful place that should be a part of your Swiss tour.
Geneva
Though Switzerland’s towns and villages are some of the best you’ll see, its cities are also a great place to stop during your vacation. So, for the cosmopolitan part of your trip, stop in Geneva. This gorgeous city is home to the Victoria Hall where you can get your fix of music and culture by catching a live performance of the bands or orchestras playing there. Another must-see sight here is the Jet d’Eau Fountain. Shooting waters to an impressive height of 460-feet, this fountain is quite a crowd-pleaser.
Switzerland Festivals & Events in April
Owing to the changing weather, there are multiple events & festivals in Switzerland in April that you can be a part of to better your vacation. They are fun and amazing, and you are guaranteed to enjoy them all.
April Festivals in Switzerland
There are many festivals in Switzerland in April and this is one of the main reasons why this month is such a great month to holiday in Switzerland. Be sure to check out these festivals:Easter Monday
Switzerland is a Christian country with Catholics being a majority, followed by Protestants. So, unsurprisingly, Easter is celebrated with fervour and fanfare. Special services are being held in churches, parades are happening in different towns, and there are also fun Easter egg hunts for the kids. These celebrations spill over into Easter Monday with many businesses and offices being shut on Monday. People get out of their homes and enjoy the day with fellow citizens.
When: 1st April, 2024
Location: All over Switzerland
Tulip Festival
This is an annual festival that is much awaited by everyone. Close to 150,000 colourful and fragrant tulips, belonging to more than 350 varieties, are planted near Lake Geneva for the annual tulip festival. Don’t mistake this festival for a mere garden festival because each day is filled with a unique event including dance, music, and kid’s shows. The tulip festival is huge and attracts many people from Switzerland and other Schengen area countries.
When: 29th March to 12th May, 2024
Location: Lake Geneva
International Jazz Festival
If you love tapping your foot to funky jazz music, you are in for a treat when you vacation in Switzerland. The International Jazz Festival Bern will be held in the country. The festival is one of top April festivals around the world, features some of the biggest names in the music industry, and will have more than 200 amazing concerts. The venue of the festival also serves great food and drinks, so you can rest assured, the event is going to be amazing.
When: 19th March to 25th May, 2024
Location: Engestrasse, Bern
April Events in Switzerland
Take part in the following events in Switzerland in April and experience a cultural and fun side of Switzerland like never before:
Sechseläuten
Image Credit: news.cgtn.com
Every year in April, Sechseläuten is celebrated in the city of Zurich. This is a spring event that ends with the burning of the Boögg right after the Zünfte parade. The Boögg is an effigy made of rags and its burning symbolises many things, including the coming of the summer season. This is a fun event held exclusively in Zurich.
When: 3rd April, 2024
Location: Zurich
Original Street Food Festival Tour
Don’t miss your chance to get a taste of international cuisines at this wonderful culinary world tour that will feature amazing food and drinks from all around the world. The tour has been steadily growing and will feature 45 food stalls serving crazy cuisines. It’s a free entry event and you can even sample many of the foods for free. It promises to be a fun event.
When: 26th to 28th April, 2024
Location: Basel
Travel Tips to Visit Switzerland in April
- No doubt Switzerland is one of the best places to visit in Europe but if you get a Schengen visa, you can also visit nearby countries like Italy.
- Since April is the start of spring, some winter activities and resorts may be closed, so check beforehand.
- Take advantage of the off-season and score some good deals on hotel stays, travel, and even tourist attractions.
- If you are planning to visit the mountain regions then be ready for some light snowfall, as this goes on until the full onset of summer.
- Carry adaptive chargers because European electrical systems are vastly different. So, get the right adapters for your phones and laptops.
Things to Know Before Visit Switzerland in April
What to Pack for Switzerland in April?
It is a good idea to pack some warm clothes and heavy-duty shoes and socks. Other accessories like gloves, hats, and mufflers can also help with the cold. In your toiletries, include a good moisturiser because the air can dry your skin out.
What to Wear in Switzerland in April?
Yes, even though spring is a lot more pleasant, it is still quite chill. So, always wear layers and cover your extremities. Wear good shoes, especially when you are hiking or indulging in adventure activities. Also, keep a pair of walking shoes. Make sure all the shoes you wear are waterproof.
Getting Around Switzerland in April
Switzerland has excellent road and railway connectivity, so you can easily get around by bus and train. Do some research on the right tickets to buy, and you can travel around easily. Cabs are also available inside the city areas but most people prefer walking.
Where to Stay in Switzerland in April?
Switzerland has many hotels, resorts, homestays, lodges, and even hostels. So, you can choose whatever stay fits into your budget. Some hotels and resorts located in the mountains may shut for the season, so check beforehand on their availability.
What to eat in Switzerland in April?
It is highly recommended that you indulge in a few hearty meals to beat the cold. Fondue is something you have to try. It is very tasty. Another famous dish worth trying is the Papet Vaudois. This is quite hearty and healthy. And of course, Swiss cheeses and chocolates are a must.
You might be interested – Switzerland in MayFAQs About Switzerland in April
The following FAQs about Switzerland in April showcase what tourists are most curious and concerned about. Find more information on the subject in the answers given below.
1. Is the Switzerlan’s April weather bearable?
Yes, very much so. Spring and summer are around the corner so the weather, though chill, is quite bearable, especially if you have warm clothing. Plus, the flowers all over the country are in full bloom, so the country looks gorgeous.
2. Will it rain or snow in April?
Yes, there are chances of this happening but the snow will be quite light, enjoyable even. The low-lying areas most likely won’t see this, but this might happen in the mountain regions.
3. What are some must-visit events in Switzerland in April?
The International Jazz Festival is one of the biggest events in the country, and many tourists also come just for this festival. Also, do not miss the tulip festival as it has become an iconic cultural event for the Swiss people.
4. Any advantages of visiting Switzerland in April?
Yes, apart from the spring season, some scenic railways start operating that you can try out. Many wonderful events are happening all over the country, and there are few tourists resulting in no crowding and good prices for all to enjoy.
Many tourists are now considering visiting Switzerland in April owing to the many advantages and events and festivals that are happening. So, you should also make the smart choice and enjoy this amazing European country that has so much to offer for a great vacation.
