Switzerland is often thought of as one of Europe’s best winter destinations. Even though this Central European nation has a lot to offer during the colder months, it’s also worth visiting in the summer. If you can’t decide between traveling to Europe in the summer or the winter, keep reading to find out why the warmer months might be the best choice for your Swiss trip.

You Can Swap Skiing For Hiking

Everyone knows that Switzerland is one of the best destinations, not only in Europe but in the world, for winter activities like skiing and snowboarding. But that doesn’t mean you can’t make the most of the spectacular landscape if you visit in the warmer months. By visiting Switzerland in summer, you have the opportunity to swap skiing for hiking.

Switzerland is a land of outstanding natural beauty with an abundance of mountains, rivers, and gorging. Hiking isn’t always possible in the winter months due to bad weather, so make the most of the terrific greenery and stellar views by visiting in summer and exploring the countryside. Even in the summertime, you’ll notice that the mountains that always seem to be in the background in Switzerland are still capped with snow, which makes for a truly glorious sight during your hike.

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The Summer Festivals And Celebrations

One of the best reasons to visit Switzerland this summer is you’ll get to experience the festivals and celebration days that don’t take place during the winter. Among the most popular is the Jazz Festival in Montreux, which is a must for anyone who likes popular music. The world’s biggest musicians have played at the festival in the past, including David Bowie and Prince, and more recently, Dua Lipa, along with rock and jazz musicians. The festival lasts for two weeks and is set next to the idyllic Lake Geneva. Music fans also love visiting Montreux to pose next to the statue of Queen frontman Freddie Mercury, who spent a lot of time in the Swiss city before his death.

Another summer festivity to look out for is Swiss National Day which takes place on the first day of August. If you’re there for the celebration, you’ll get to be part of a massive party that includes fireworks, bonfires, folklore games and entertainment, illuminating paper anthems, and singing the Swiss national anthem.

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You Can Make The Most Of The Country’s Spectacular Lakes

Another reason why Switzerland is better in the summer is visitors can make the most of the country’s spectacular lakes. There are about 7,000 of them altogether in the country and offer a completely different experience in the warmer months than they do in winter.

While in winter lakes are frozen over or too cold to swim in, in summer you can actually take a dip while still admiring the stunning mountainous scenery behind them. There’s also the opportunity to partake in many water sports in Switzerland, which makes the country a perfect summer destination for lovers of the great outdoors.

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The Weather Is Perfect For City-Hopping

Switzerland experiences much more pleasant weather during the summer than it does during the winter. These mild temperatures are ideal for city-hopping. If visitors are interested in seeing quite a few Swiss cities during their trip, then summer is the most convenient time to go. It’s just easier to stroll through the streets of Zurich or Geneva when the sun is shining. The average summer daytime temperature in Switzerland is between 65 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit, making the country a great choice for those travelers who want to avoid the soaring summer heats of the Mediterranean.

When in Zurich, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, from shopping to sailing to swimming to exploring museums and historic buildings. Other destinations you should definitely consider during your trip to Switzerland are Basel, Lugano, Bern, and Geneva.

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