Discover What Canadians Love to Do in Switzerland: A Seasonal Guide

Switzerland is a dream destination for Canadian travelers, offering many unique experiences that perfectly blend nature, culture, and adventure. Whether it’s the stunning alpine landscapes, the rich traditions, or the plenty of activities available year-round, Canadians are captivated by the diversity that Switzerland has to offer. From vibrant cities to serene mountain escapes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a look at what Canadians love to do in Switzerland, broken down by season.

Winter:

1. Hockey and the Spengler Cup

Winter in Switzerland is a magical time for Canadians, many of whom are no strangers to cold weather and snowy landscapes. A top activity that resonates with hockey-loving Canadians is attending a National League A game. The atmosphere at Swiss hockey games is truly unique and different from the NHL. A must-see during the holiday season is the Spengler Cup in Davos, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious invitational ice hockey tournaments in the world. This is the perfect way for Canadian travelers to soak up the electric atmosphere while embracing their love for the sport.

2. Christmas Markets

Beyond hockey, the Christmas Markets in cities like Bern, Basel, or Zurich offer an incredible holiday experience. Canadians adore the festive spirit, twinkling lights, and the smell of mulled wine, reminding them of Christmas back home but with a Swiss twist. In St. Gallen, for example, over 700 stars light up the charming old town during Christmas, creating a magical ambiance that’s hard to resist.

Spring:

3. Exploring Blooming Meadows and Spring Hikes

As spring rolls in, Switzerland transforms into a lush, green wonderland. For Canadians, springtime in Switzerland is a breath of fresh air—quite literally. While many parts of Canada are still shaking off the winter chill, Switzerland blooms with flowers and greenery. Hiking is a popular activity in spring, with areas like Interlaken and Zermatt offering trails that take visitors through scenic valleys, up towering peaks, and past picturesque villages.

4. Cultural City Tours

Spring also brings Swiss cities to life, making it an excellent time for Canadians to explore places like Bern, Zurich, and Lucerne. The mild weather is ideal for wandering through old towns, admiring the stunning architecture, and visiting cultural landmarks such as museums, galleries, and historic churches. Enjoy outdoor cafés, stroll along picturesque rivers, and experience the rich cultural heritage each Swiss city has to offer as everything blooms around you.

Summer:

5. Rafting and Water Sports

Summer is a season of outdoor adventure for Canadians, and Switzerland delivers in spades. One of the highlights is rafting down the Aare River from Thun to Bern, a thrilling activity that allows visitors to admire the beautiful scenery while enjoying a quintessential Canadian pastime—water sports. Whether it’s rafting, canoeing, or kayaking, Canadians love spending time on the water, and Switzerland’s pristine lakes and rivers provide the perfect playground for these activities.

6. Relaxing by the Lakes

Canadians are also drawn to relaxing by the water, whether it’s swimming in Lake Geneva, taking a boat ride on Lake Zurich, or simply lounging in the sun at one of Switzerland’s many lakefront resorts. For Canadians seeking to escape the long winters back home, the Swiss summer offers a warm, inviting contrast, making it the ideal time to kick back and enjoy the sunny side of life.

Fall:

7. Festivals

Canadians enjoy experiencing the rich Swiss cultural traditions, which are represented in some of the best festivals in Switzerland. These include fairs like the Onion Market (Zibelemärit) in Bern, the dairy-dependent Chestnut Festival in Ticino, the Cattle Shows in Appenzell, and various cheese festivals. One of the unique traditional events is the Alpabzüge, where cows adorned with flowers make their way down the mountains after a summer spent grazing in the high pastures. This celebration of agriculture and heritage resonates with Canadians, who often have a deep appreciation for embracing and understanding different cultures.

8. Culinary Adventures: Cheese and Chocolate

Food also plays a significant role in Canadians’ Swiss adventures. No visit is complete without indulging in a traditional fondue or visiting a chocolate factory to sample world-famous Swiss chocolate. Canadians, who share a love of cheese and chocolate, revel in the opportunity to discover Switzerland’s culinary delights. A charming town such as Gruyères can give the perfect culinary experience of cheese and chocolate tasting.

Switzerland: A Year-Round Destination

For every traveler, Switzerland offers something unique in every season. Whether you’re coming for the winter sports, the spring hikes, the summer lakes, or the fall festivals, Switzerland is the perfect destination for Canadians seeking a blend of adventure, relaxation, and culture.

Let AlpExcursion help you make the most of your Swiss journey by offering reliable, luxurious transportation between all the iconic Swiss destinations. Whether you’re heading to a hockey game in Davos, a hike in Zermatt, or a visit to the historic sites of Bern, we’ll ensure that your travels are comfortable and stress-free. With so much to explore in every season, Switzerland is waiting to welcome you—just pack your bags and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime!