Autumn Holidays In Switzerland

Autumn walks in Switzerland offer a stunning way to experience the country’s natural beauty as the landscapes transform into vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold. The crisp air and cool temperatures make it the perfect time for hiking, with scenic trails winding through forests, meadows, and alongside shimmering lakes.

Popular regions for autumn walks include along the shores of Lake Geneva, where vineyards and hillsides glow with seasonal colours. The region of Engadin is also ideal, offering picturesque villages and panoramic views of the Swiss Alps. In the Lucerne area, the Rigi mountain offers unforgettable views as autumn sets in. For a more leisurely stroll, the wooded trails around Interlaken provide a peaceful atmosphere, while autumn’s golden foliage enhances the beauty of the area.

Recommended villages for a picturesque autumn stay

Lake Lucerne: Weggis | Bernese mountains: Kandersteg

One of the best ways to experience the Swiss autumn is with a scenic rail holiday. The Glacier Express runs until early October and showcases a route where snow-capped peaks contrast with the rich golden tones of the season. The Bernina Express is another unforgettable autumn journey, winding through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bernina landscape. During autumn, the scenery transforms with forests in fiery shades of red and orange, while glaciers and lakes glisten in the crisp air.

The GoldenPass Express connects Montreux with Interlaken and is perfect for autumn foliage. Relax abord the new trains and enjoy the views of vineyards, Lake Geneva, and the Swiss countryside all bathed in the golden light of autumn. 

Recommended scenic rail holiday

GoldenPass Express two centre holiday, staying in Interlaken and Montreux

The weather really depends on where you are staying. In the mountains, temperatures are cooler with the fresh air a real tonic as you enjoy the fantastic scenery. The autumn colours will arrive in early September here - and if you raise your gaze to the highest peaks, you will see snow beginning to blanket the summits. By the central lakes, temperatures are warmer and it is joy to watch the morning mists burn off to reveal a lovely autumn day. In the Ticino region which borders Italy, the weather is balmy in September and enjoys a pleasant gentle sun late into October. 

Recommend resorts for Ticino autumn sunshine

Locarno | Ascona | Lugano

This is a season rich in culinary delights and lively festivals. As the harvest season arrives, Swiss tables are filled with seasonal specialties like hearty stews, fondue, and roasted chestnuts. One standout dish is raclette: melted cheese served with potatoes, pickles, and cured meats: just perfect for cosy autumn meals.

Throughout the country, food festivals celebrate local produce such as apples, pumpkins and game. In the wine producing areas, local festivals include wine tastings, live music, and regional delicacies while the grape harvest is celebrated. If you are lucky you may happen across an 'Alpabzug' festival, where the dairy cattle return from high mountain pastures to their farms where they spend the winter. The cows often wear splendid headdresses and villagers don traditional Swiss costumes.