Switzerland in May: Best Time to Visit, Top Things to Do & Travel Guide

​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍ Switzerland in may totally changing from snow to sunshine — mountains still have snow, but valleys are green and lakes are shining. It doesn't happen very often, and it looks like a photograph from a postcard.

• Fewer crowds: Discover Lucerne and Lauterbrunnen without the summer crowd.
• Saving: May is the best time to visit Switzerland because Hotels, trains and mountain passes are usually cheaper before the summer season.
• Two seasons in one trip: You can walk through meadows full of flowers during the day and see the snow by the time it gets dark.

Tip: The weather in May can be unpredictable, so take layers with you and always check MeteoSwiss (the official Swiss national weather service) before leaving.

• Lucerne​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ & Mount Rigi: Lucerne truly is the centre of Switzerland in spring. Admire it from the lake, and take the cogwheel train to the top of Mount Rigi to get the stunning views of the sunlit valleys that meet the snowy peaks. The lakeside here is home to some of the best beaches in Switzerland, ideal for a lazy afternoon by the water.
• Interlaken & Lauterbrunnen Valley: This adventure base is no doubt among the best places to visit in Switzerland. Go to see the waterfalls and how they thunder down Lauterbrunnen’s cliffs, trek the flowered trails, and at length, take in the valley’s serene atmosphere.
• Zermatt & the Matterhorn: Zermatt is still very much an Alpine fairy tale wrapped in snow. Make the trip with the Gornergrat Railway for stunning views of the Matterhorn, and walk along the picturesque valley surrounded by flowering meadows.
• Bernese Oberland Villages: Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren are as close to a fairytale as it gets – silent, verdant, and encircled by the Eiger and Jungfrau peaks. Carriages stop and go, and late May finds all trails looking like works of art.
• St Moritz & the Engadine Valley: Go here if you want to see far and wide and have calm walks. Among the last stops on your May escape, the Bernina Express trip to St. Moritz glides past glaciers, lakes, and slopes stunning with spring ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌colour.

May marks the start of hiking season in Switzerland — the valleys glow green, the air feels fresh, and the trails are wonderfully peaceful before summer’s rush begins.

• Lauterbrunnen Valley Trail: This flat, scenic walk takes you past 72 cascading waterfalls surrounded by wildflowers and meadows. It’s a gentle trail perfect for beginners who still want those classic Alpine views.
• Bachalpsee Hike (Grindelwald): A 2–3 hour hike where a shimmering blue lake reflects snow-capped peaks — easily one of the top things to do in Switzerland in May. The blend of serenity and spectacle makes it unforgettable.
• Schynige Platte Loop: Ride the charming historic cogwheel railway up to the ridge, then follow trails overlooking Lakes Thun and Brienz. Every step offers postcard-worthy views of the Jungfrau region.
• Ebenalp to Seealpsee (Appenzell): Wander through rolling pastures and past wooden chalets before arriving at the turquoise Seealpsee. The peaceful setting feels like stepping straight into a storybook.

Tip: Download your hiking route and check local conditions — May weather can still surprise you with a dusting of snow on higher trails!

Switzerland's​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ magical power is none other than its scenic trains. In May, the routes are operational, there are fewer people, and they are full of the alpine colour — absolutely the best way to see the country without hurrying.

Between Zermatt and St. Moritz, this "slowest express train in the world" method of travel is changed in a cinematic view. With the panoramic windows, see how the canyons, bridges and valleys of the glaciers appear one after the other.

• Seat reservation: CHF 39 (INR3,700) — It is more comfortable to book in May before the summer crowd.

The highly dramatic route recorded by UNESCO goes up to more than 2000 metres, and the journey leads through the glistening glaciers and the iconic Landwasser Viaduct. Take the train at Alp Grüm after a short walk in the Alps, and then board your next train there.

• Seat reservation: CHF 30–35 (INR2,850–INR3,300), which is determined by the route and class.

This path has linked Lucerne, Interlaken, and Montreux, which leads one through lakes, meadows, and charming towns which seem to be taken out of a fairy tale. With every curve of the road, a new masterpiece of Swiss nature is unveiled.

• Seat reservation: CHF 20–25 (INR1,900–INR2,400) for an optional but highly beneficial panoramic ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌seat.

Tip: Weekend prices increase when residents leave for their spring breaks — be sure to reserve your spot in advance if you want to keep your good deals and have a room with a view of the lake!

• Pack layers like T-shirts, a fleece, and a waterproof jacket since the weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains.
• Bring comfortable hiking shoes to explore valleys, towns, and scenic trails without worry.
• Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat — the Alpine sun can be bright even when the air feels cool.
• Keep a reusable water bottle and power bank handy to stay refreshed and connected throughout the day.
• If you plan to visit higher mountain areas, carry light gloves and a cosy scarf for chilly moments.
• An​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ individual can go around the country with the Swiss Travel Pass, as it is a very convenient means of transportation by train, bus, and boat. Moreover, the museums are available for free. The 4-day pass is priced at CHF 295 (INR 27,000) per person.

Switzerland in May is that sweet​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ spot when the snow still glistens on the peaks and the flowers grow in the valleys. It is a peaceful, inexpensive, and naturally beautiful trip — the kind of experience that stays with you for a long time after your departure. Whatever you do, be it hiking, taking the scenic trains, or simply observing the sunlit lake reflections, play. Switzerland during May is most enchanting. To have an experience of a lifetime! Pickyourtrail is here for you. Plan your trip hassle-free and book your personalised Switzerland tour package now.