10 ACTIVITIES FOR YOUR Switzerland Summer Bucket List

Written By Cameron Cooper

Switzerland in the summer is straight out of a dream. Think turquoise lakes, wildflower-covered mountains, scenic trains, glacier views, adorable sheep, and bucket list adventures that will have you questioning your life choices in the best way.

If you’re planning a Switzerland summer itinerary, these are the experiences worth building your trip around.

1. Canyon Swing in Grindelwald

  • If you want the biggest adrenaline rush of your Switzerland trip, this is it. With Outdoor Interlaken, you jump from a 90-meter platform into a narrow gorge, free fall over the rushing Lütschine River, and then swing through the canyon at around 120 km/h. Book this far in advance because it is popular, and just know the scariest part is the moment right before you jump.

2. Hang Gliding Over Interlaken

  • Hang gliding is one of the most epic ways to see the Swiss Alps from above. You’ll take flight with an instructor for about 10 to 20 minutes, soaring over mountains, lakes, and the postcard-worthy scenery Switzerland is known for. If you want adventure without physically jumping off something alone, this is a perfect pick.

3. Meet the Valais Blacknose Sheep in Zermatt

  • These fluffy sheep are basically local celebrities in Zermatt, and seeing them with the Matterhorn in the background is such a unique Switzerland experience. From July to September, they roam the Gornergrat area, and you can take the Gornergrat Bahn railway to look for them. The best part is that some wear GPS collars, so you can actually track where they are.

4. Ride the Gelmerbahn

  • Add the steepest open passenger funicular railway in Europe to your Switzerland bucket list ASAP. Located in the Bernese Alps, the Gelmerbahn reaches a wild 47-degree incline and feels part scenic ride, part roller coaster (although in reality it moves VERY slow). You’ll need tickets for the ride up and down, or you can ride one direction and hike the other if you’re feeling adventurous. It runs seasonally, so check dates before planning your route.

5. Go Summer Skiing by the Matterhorn

  • If skiing in the Swiss Alps is on your bucket list, Zermatt lets you do it with a summer twist. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is Europe’s highest ski resort and has summer skiing available in the mornings, typically until noon. The views next to the Matterhorn are unreal, and it is one of the coolest ways to say you skied in Switzerland.

6. Visit the Top of Europe

  • Jungfraujoch is one of the most iconic places to visit in Switzerland. You’ll take a scenic mountain railway up to year-round snow, glacier views, observation decks, and the famous Ice Palace. It is touristy, but it is also one of those experiences that feels worth it, especially if it is your first trip to Switzerland.

7. Ride the Glacier Express to Zermatt

  • The Glacier Express is one of the most famous train rides in the world and an incredible way to see Switzerland without having to drive. The route takes you through mountains, valleys, bridges, and alpine villages, with Zermatt being one of the most iconic stops. Book seats in advance, especially during peak summer travel.

8. Take the Gornergrat Bahn for Matterhorn Views

  • Even if you are not tracking down the sheep, this scenic railway is a must in Zermatt. The ride takes you up to some of the best views of the Matterhorn and surrounding glaciers, including the Gorner Glacier, which is one of the longest glaciers in the Alps. Go on a clear day if you can, as well as the iconic Toblerone mountain.

9. Walk the Handeckfall Suspension Bridge

  • If you are already heading to the Gelmerbahn, add this nearby suspension bridge to your itinerary. It stretches over the dramatic Handeck Gorge and gives you incredible views of waterfalls and mountain scenery. It is a quick stop, but absolutely worth adding.

10. Stroll Through Iseltwald

  • his tiny lakeside village is one of the most picturesque places in Switzerland. Walk along Lake Brienz, see the Castello di Iseltwald, and stop by the famous pier for one of the prettiest views in the region. It is a great slower-paced stop between bigger adventure days.

Tips for Your Switzerland Summer Trip

  • Book adventure activities early: Experiences like canyon swinging, hang gliding, and scenic trains can sell out quickly in summer.

  • Check seasonal openings: Some mountain rides, hikes, and funiculars only operate during certain months, so double-check before you build your itinerary.

  • Pack layers: Summer in Switzerland can still feel chilly in the mountains, especially at glacier viewpoints or early morning activities.

  • Use trains when possible: Switzerland’s train system is one of the best in the world and makes it easy to connect major towns, mountain villages, and bucket list experiences.

Switzerland in the summer is made for bucket list travelers. Whether you want to jump into a canyon, ski beside the Matterhorn, ride scenic trains, or meet the cutest sheep in the Alps, this is one of those destinations that completely lives up to the hype.

Ready to plan your trip? Fill out my trip inquiry form and we can start planning today!

Cameron Cooper
Next

MUST-DOS FOR YOUR New Orleans Itinerary