Swimming, Alpine hikes, cruises and festivals: the complete guide to what to do in Switzerland in summer and plan a successful trip.
Summer in Switzerland is arguably the most beautiful season to enjoy nature: lakes perfect for swimming, endless hiking trails, flower-filled Alpine meadows and open-air festivals. Here is everything you need to know to plan a great summer trip, from the mountains to the cities.
Summer must-dos
- Swimming in the lakes: Lake Geneva, Lake Zurich, Lake Lugano, the turquoise waters of Brienz.
- Hiking: over 65,000 km of marked trails across the country.
- Cruises: boats on the large lakes, often included with transport passes.
- Trains and cable cars: easy access to summits and Alpine panoramas.
- Festivals: music, film and traditional festivals all summer long.
Hiking and mountains
Switzerland is a hiking paradise, with routes for all levels. The Jungfrau region (Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen), Zermatt and the Engadine offer exceptional panoramas. For occasional walkers, many cable cars let you gain altitude and walk back down. Also see our guide on what to do in Switzerland for the must-sees.
Lakes and swimming
In summer, the Swiss lakes turn into real beaches. Public baths (the famous Badi) are set up in cities and countryside alike, with excellent water quality. Lake Zurich, Lake Geneva, Lake Lugano and the turquoise lakes of the Bernese Oberland are among the most popular.
Cities and culture in summer
Summer is ideal for strolling through Switzerland's cities: waterside terraces, urban swimming, lively old towns. The evenings are long and mild, perfect for the quays and markets.
The big summer festivals
- Montreux Jazz Festival (July): one of the most famous music festivals in the world.
- Paléo Festival in Nyon: open-air music near Lake Geneva.
- Locarno Film Festival (August): cinema on the Piazza Grande, in Ticino.
- Traditional festivals: Alpine wrestling, cattle descents and village markets.
When to go and practical tips
The best period runs from June to September. July and August are the warmest and busiest; June and September offer quieter trails and fine conditions. At altitude, pack warm layers even in summer, and good walking shoes.
Plan your summer with TOP SUISSE
For a tasty break between activities, explore the dining category, book a table via the Reservation page and browse businesses by city. Plan the other season with our guide on visiting Switzerland in winter, or discover all the categories.
Frequently asked questions
What to do in Switzerland in summer?
Summer is ideal for hiking, swimming in the lakes, boat cruises, cable car ascents to the summits and open-air festivals such as Montreux Jazz or the Locarno Film Festival.
When is the best time to visit Switzerland in summer?
From June to September. July and August are the warmest and busiest; June and September offer quieter trails and fine conditions for hiking.
Can you swim in Swiss lakes in summer?
Yes. Many lakes have beaches and public baths (the Badi) with excellent water quality. Lake Zurich, Lake Geneva and Lake Lugano are especially popular.
Which festivals can you see in Switzerland in summer?
The Montreux Jazz Festival and Paléo in Nyon in July, the Locarno Film Festival in August, plus many traditional festivals such as the cattle descents, are among the summer highlights.
