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These 10 best things to do in Switzerland in November are a dive into the heart of its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and world-famous indulgences. November in Switzerland is a magical time, as crisp air and breathtaking views set the stage for memorable experiences. Explore panoramic mountain viewpoints and enjoy the serene beauty of the Alps. For adventure seekers, hiking trails lead to scenic wonders, offering a true taste of Swiss nature. And no trip is complete without savouring Switzerland’s delectable chocolates, with hands-on workshops offering a unique, delicious experience. Get ready for an unforgettable November getaway.
10 Best Things To Do In Switzerland In November
Make the most of your winter escapade with these 10 best things to do in Switzerland in November:
1. Visit Mount Rigi
Photo: Maxim Berman / Wikimedia Commons
Experience panoramic views of the Swiss Alps from Mount Rigi, known as the ‘Queen of the Mountains.’ The cable car ride offers breathtaking vistas of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding peaks. Once at the summit, you can enjoy scenic hikes and take in the stunning landscapes. On clear days, the views stretch to Mount Pilatus, the Jura Mountains, and even as far as the Black Forest in Germany. Mountain viewpoints such as these are among the best things to see in Switzerland in November.
Location: Mount Rigi, Lucerne Region
Major Attractions: Lake Lucerne, Mount Pilatus, Swiss Alps
Ideal For: Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, scenic travellers
2. Hike Around Lakes And Rivers
Photo: Kabelleger / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
November is perfect for a tranquil hike along Switzerland’s beautiful lakes and rivers, such as Lake Geneva and the Aare River. The cooler weather makes for a refreshing experience. Popular routes, such as the Lake Geneva trail, offer picturesque views of vineyards, charming villages, and the Alps. The Aare River trail takes you through lush forests and offers great bird-watching opportunities. The trails are well-marked, and the routes are suitable for all levels of hikers.
Location: Lake Geneva, Aare River, and others across Switzerland
Major Attractions: Scenic trails, peaceful lakesides, local villages
Ideal For: Hikers, nature enthusiasts, outdoor lovers
3. Participate In the Lindt Chocolate Workshop
Photo: Anonymous / Pxhere / Image For Representation Only
Dive into Switzerland’s famous chocolate culture by taking a workshop at the Lindt Home of Chocolate in Kilchberg. Learn the secrets behind Swiss chocolate-making and create your own treats. During the workshop, professional chocolatiers will guide you, and you’ll get hands-on experience moulding your own chocolate creations. The Lindt Museum also offers a deep dive into the history of chocolate, from its origins to its global significance.
Location: Lindt Home of Chocolate, Kilchberg
Major Attractions: Chocolate-making experience, museum exhibits, chocolate tasting
Ideal For: Foodies, families, chocolate lovers
4. Watch The Zurich Opera House Light Show
Photo: Torbjorn Toby Jorgensen / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Witness a spectacular light show at the Zurich Opera House, where artistic displays and illuminating projections enhance the building’s grandeur. This iconic venue hosts special light installations, usually coinciding with seasonal events. In November, captivating visual arts often adorn the building’s architecture, blending classical music and modern technology. The light show is typically free to watch from the outside, but you can also catch a performance at the Opera House.
Location: Zurich Opera House, Zurich
Major Attractions: Light installations, live opera performances, city views
Ideal For: Art lovers, culture seekers, evening explorers
5. Participate In The Turnip Lantern Festival
Photo: Mina D / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
This quirky November festival in Richterswil celebrates the harvest season with lanterns carved from turnips, creating a magical atmosphere. People have celebrated this festival, which is deeply rooted in Swiss tradition, for over a century. Processions of lanterns light up the streets, adding to the festive mood. The highlight of the festival is a grand parade where children and adults carry these illuminated turnips through the streets, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Location: Richterswil, near Lake Zurich
Major Attractions: Turnip lantern displays, traditional music, local foods
Ideal For: Families, festival goers, cultural explorers
6. Shop Local At Christmas Markets
Photo: Albinfo / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Get into the festive spirit by visiting Switzerland’s Christmas markets, where local crafts, treats, and gifts await. Zurich and Basel are famous for their holiday markets, offering a mix of artisanal goods, handcrafted decorations, and regional delicacies. Lights decorate the markets, creating a cosy atmosphere. You can shop for unique gifts, such as wooden toys, wool scarves, and Swiss cheeses.
Location: Zurich, Basel, Geneva
Major Attractions: Handmade goods, festive decorations, Swiss cuisine
Ideal For: Shoppers, holiday enthusiasts, families
7. Bernina Express
Photo: Kabelleger / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Take the iconic Bernina Express train for a scenic journey through the Alps, crossing viaducts and offering views of snow-capped peaks and glaciers. This 4-hour journey connects Chur and Tirano, passing through spectacular landscapes, including the world-famous Landwasser Viaduct. As you pass the Engadine region, you’ll see alpine meadows, deep valleys, and pristine lakes.
Location: Tirano, Italy to Chur, Switzerland
Major Attractions: Alpine views, Bernina Range, UNESCO World Heritage landscapes
Ideal For: Train lovers, nature enthusiasts, scenic travellers
8. Winter Walks At St. Moritz
Photo: Murdockcrc / Wikimedia Commons
Explore St. Moritz’s winter wonderland with scenic walks around frozen lakes and snowy landscapes, perfect for quiet reflection or strolls. The region boasts marked trails with varying levels of difficulty, ensuring that everyone from beginners to experienced walkers can enjoy the winter beauty. The picturesque town of St. Moritz offers cosy cafés and luxury shopping, making it a great destination for both outdoor activities and relaxation.
Location: St. Moritz, Engadine Valley
Major Attractions: Frozen lakes, alpine vistas, luxury boutiques
Ideal For: Peaceful wanderers, nature lovers, winter explorers
9. Skiing At Zermatt
Photo: Roy Egloff / Wikimedia Commons
When wondering what to do in Switzerland in November, consider visiting Zermatt. Zermatt is one of Switzerland’s premier ski resorts, offering world-class slopes with panoramic views of the Matterhorn, ideal for both beginners and advanced skiers. Zermatt boasts over 360 km of ski slopes, served by high-speed cable cars, making it a skier’s paradise. Aside from skiing, the region offers snowboarding, snowshoeing, and winter hiking trails.
Location: Zermatt, Valais
Major Attractions: Ski slopes, Matterhorn views, mountain hiking
Ideal For: Skiers, adventure seekers, winter sports enthusiasts
10. St. Gallen For Festive Fervor
Photo: Ank Kumar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Visit St. Gallen to experience the Christmas lights, festive decorations, and the renowned St.
Gallen Christmas Market offers a cosy winter atmosphere. The market is popular for its beautiful setting against the backdrop of the Old Town’s medieval architecture. St. Gallen is also famous for its UNESCO-listed Abbey and library, which offer a serene cultural experience. In November, the city begins to transform into a winter wonderland with festive cheer.
Location: St. Gallen
Major Attractions: Christmas market, historical old town, festive lights
Ideal For: Holiday shoppers, history buffs, festive enthusiasts
November in Switzerland offers a unique blend of winter wonderland experiences, from breathtaking mountain views to festive celebrations. You can hike through scenic landscapes, enjoy a chocolate workshop, or immerse yourself in local traditions. There is something for everyone with these 10 things to do in Switzerland in November to showcase the country’s rich culture, natural beauty, and holiday spirit. Therefore don’t wait to make the most of this magical month and explore the best that Switzerland has to offer with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Aleozh / Pxhere / Image For Representation Only
