Your ultimate guide to exploring Switzerland in winter from Lucerne to Leukerbad

Here’s how you can spend a #Swisstainable winter time in Switzerland — from places of interest to activities to try!

Growing up here in Malaysia, many of us who have never been to Switzerland have an idea of how the country looks like. Whether it’s from films, videos on social media or from postcards, Switzerland’s beauty is a perception that lingers within our minds — and bucket lists, of course. It’s white, it’s green and charmingly diverse. Most recently, there has been newfound interest in the Central European nation when South Korean series ‘Crash Landing On You’ portrayed scenes filmed there; including the extremely popular piano moment on Lake Brienz.

The thing about Switzerland is that there’s more than meets the eye. Spanning the Jura mountains, Central Plateau and the Swiss Alps, the entire country comprises a landscape unlike any other with something extraordinary to offer wherever you go. Massive mountains and idyllic lakes take centre stage alongside charming towns and exceptional infrastructure. Speaking about infrastructure, Switzerland is home to top-of-the-class transportation, amenities and hospitality — with ease of travel throughout the nation facilitated by the Swiss Travel System (or SBB). And that… we love!

Earlier this year, we had the opportunity to fly to Switzerland (via Swiss Air with a layover in Singapore). Landing in the gorgeous Zurich Airport, we finally had the pleasure of experiencing it in all its glory. We visited during winter, which usually occurs from December to March; and coming from a tropical country that’s warm all year round; we had to go prepared. That includes bringing the right apparel and footwear appropriate for all the activities you’re about to embark on.

Wondering where to go when you’re in Switzerland? We’ve curated a little itinerary that might help you plan for your next trip to “the Playground of Europe”. The programme — spanning eight days or more — includes mountain ascensions, winter sports, delicious meals, transportations and more. So, are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime across some of the best spots in Switzerland?

Here’s a look at our Switzerland itinerary:

Stop #1 – LUCERNE

Lucerne, here we come! Upon landing in Zurich Airport (Flughafen Zuerich), we took the rail to Lucerne along the direction of Genève-Aéroport and that brought us to the Main Railway Station. To get to Lucerne from Zurich, all we had to do was hop onto another train — which took us on a 40-minute scenic ride; offering a first glance of the white winter beauty and tranquil lakes that are about to be welcoming staples throughout our trip.

Lucerne, one of 26 cantons in Switzerland, is known for many things. From Lake Lucerne to the medieval architecture, the city’s charm comes in abundance. It is also the starting point for many before they continue on their respective journeys. But, while you’re here, take the chance to explore Lucerne’s picturesque spots including the iconic Chapel Bridge (a wooden structure from the 14th century), the mysterious Water Tower, the Lucerne Culture and Congress Centre as well as Jesuit Church.

Restaurants, cafes and good vibes fill the streets of Lucerne. Step back in time as you walk in the city’s Old Town with historical murals and captivating buildings. You can also find Li Tai Pe, built in 1734 and said to be the first ever Chinese restaurant in all of Switzerland. At the Lucerne Tourism Centre housed within the Lucerne Railway Station, you can also enquire for more information about the city — especially if you want to learn more with the help of a guide.

Also in Lucerne is the Swiss Transport of Museum. The popular museum is the most-visited in Switzerland and is home to the nation’s mobility story — past, present and future. That includes space, air, water, rail and road. Remember to check out actual Formula One vehicles, the Mésoscaphe Submarine by Auguste Piccard and Media World visitor centre for some VR fun among others. Swiss painter Hans Erni’s work can also be seen at a building situated within the museum space. You can easily spend a whole day at the Swiss Museum of Transport.

After that, why not have a meal on Lake Lucerne? Managed by Lake Lucerne Navigation Company, you will be picked up from a pier where you can enjoy a delightful culinary session along the majestic lake. Along the way, you will see some of the most gorgeous views while you munch on specially curated menus. What to try? Consider ordering the Nidwalden meat patties in Tavola-Rosso-Jus and Red curry with Uri alpine lamb. Note that he menus do change with the season!

If you’re in Lucerne in January, you will be able to witness the Lilu Light Festival. The 2024 edition was its fifth and featured 24 intriguing light installations fitted throughout Lucerne. Even the representative railway arch was lit with whimsical and colourful illustrations. The festival is free for all except for selected shows with specific time slots. Happening during the winter season, the Lilu Light Festival is ideal for those looking for something special to do in the city.

Stop #2 – PILATUS

Up next is Pilatus in Central Switzerland. Also called Dragon Mountain, Mount Pilatus is renowned for its exquisite surroundings especially during the winter. Part of both Uri and Emmental Alps, the highest peak (Tomlishorn) stands high in the clouds at 2,128 metres above sea level. To get there from Lucerne, take the bus to Kriens (Pilatus-Bahnen) with a transfer at Kriens (Bussschleife). Upon arriving at the Valley station, get ready to ascent Mount Pilatus via a cable car and be even more prepared for the wondrous sights.

On the way up, take the opportunity to spot hikers, skiers and snow-covered trees. With the gondola, alight when you arrive at Fräkmüntegg where you can indulge in a plethora of fun winter time activities. We had the opportunity to try sledging (or sledding) while we were there and to call that experience fun would be an understatement. The sled rides take you down routes filled with natural snow and are perfect for everyone. Beginners like us? It’s pretty easy to navigate but remember to go according to a pace you’re comfortable with.

For a scrumptious meal in between the activities, there’s a restaurant serving traditional Swiss cuisine. Restaurant Fräkmüntegg is a self-service spot designed to reflect a mountain cabin. Helmed by Reto Glur, the eatery is popular for its rösti — especially the signature Dragon Rösti with sausage and a tinge of heat. Sit by the window for astonishing views of the excited commotion outside. If you didn’t already know, the Swiss rösti dish is made up of pan-fried potatoes and can be accompanied a variety of sides.

Later, you can head up to Pilatus-Kulm at 2,073 metres above sea level for an immersive experience above the clouds. Travelling in the aerial cableway called Dragon Ride, you will find yourself at the summit in approximately three minutes. Of course, if you find yourself being in awe of the breathtaking views, fret not — it’s completely understandable!

Even on Pilatus-Kulm, there are so many things you can do. Whether you’re checking into either Hotel Bellevue or Hotel Pilatus-Kulm (built in 1890) or just there for the Alpine panorama, here are some ideas to choose from. For starters, there’s Fondue Fun at Pilatus-Kulm Restaurant (available from now until 31 March 2024). You can also head over to the Mythen Foyer to experience Dragon World. The interactive installation really lets you be one with the legend that’s associated with the mountain.

Staying for a night? Don’t miss the spectacular sunset. As golden orange hues seamlessly blends with the blankets of snow, you feel as if that is where you’re supposed to be. Right place, right time — it’s magical. You can find a great viewpoint at Tomlishorn too. And of course, if you’re in the mood for well-crafted culinary creations, check out the Queen Victoria Saal (named after Queen Victoria who stayed at Hotel Bellevue in 1868) inside Hotel Pilatus-Kulm. Start your meal with a complimentary glass of wine and indulge in a hearty meal.

Stop #3 – ENGELBERG & TITLIS

What’s next on our Swiss-tastic adventure? The journey from Pilatus to Engelberg begins with a descent towards Kriens and short walk to Kriens (Zentrum Pilatus). Here, take a bus ride back to the Main Railway Station in Lucerne where the Luzern-Engelberg Express awaits. The route takes approximately 43 minutes, as you travel into the cantons of Nidwalden and then Obwalden.

For many, the alpine village of Engelberg is gateway to Mount Titlis — while that’s true, there’s also so much you can do before or after heading up. You can check out a 12th century monastery called Kloster Engelberg, stroll around the quaint and cosy exclave or relax at Kempinski Palace Engelberg Titlis, said to be Central Switzerland’s only five star resort. The luxury hotel is home to brilliant dining establishments like Cattani and Chalet (during winter only) as well as a top-notch spa and wellness offerings.

When you’re ready to ascend Mount Titlis, you have the choice of taking a shuttle bus or walk and take in the fresh, chilly air. In a revolving cable car, you will be taken to 3,020 metres above sea level to #ThePeakToBe. While unbelievable views are to be expected, you are also about to see for yourself the only publicly accessible glacier in the Lake Lucerne Region. As you climb higher and higher, you will notice people (and lots of people) participating in a variety of winter activities — be it snowshoeing, skiing or sledding. Here’s a little fun fact: Titlis comprises groomed pistes for skiing that spans 82 kilometres.

Not up for winter activities? Why not walk along Europe’s highest suspension bridge? The Titlis Cliff Walk lets you be one with the Swiss Alps as you stand in awe of the white-filled beauty around you. The footbridge measures at 500 metres and is a perfect spot for your Instagram shots. Another must-see attraction is the Glacier Cave. Being 10 metres below the surface, this is where you’ll be a part of the 5,000-year-old ice. Take little strolls — and feel the ice.

If it’s time to feed your cravings, Mount Titlis is home to Titlis Panorama; a restaurant surrounded by glacier panorama. The menu comprises a decadent selection of cuisines, from Homemade Gulash Soup and Veal Cordon-Bleu to pizzas. Pair your meal with a warm and comforting Hot Chocolate (with or without Baileys). Oh, there’s also a Halal menu here, offering options like Lamb Sirloin with Fried Potatoes Ratatouille and Grilled Chicken with Chilli Vinaigrette. If you’re looking for a Prayer Room, there’s one prepared on Titlis.

Now that you’re all fuelled up and bursting with energy, it’s time for a little drive. No, not just any random drives though. At the Trübsee Snow Park, there are lots of fun to get into — including snowmobile. If you’ve never driven a snowmobile, here’s your chance to get the adrenaline pumping as you traverse in laps surrounded by the astounding marvel that is Mount Titlis. There are three different routes with varying difficulty levels.

Stop #4 – INTERLAKEN

All onboard the Lucerne – Interlaken Express! To get to Interlaken, you will have to first head back to Lucerne for a quick transfer. The journey to Interlaken takes approximately two hours and passes by some of the miraculous views of Switzerland. The panoramic route presents sights of steep rock faces at the shore of clear mountain lakes. Another interesting fact about the train ride is the switch to cogwheel drivetrain technology. This occurs at Brünig Pass to allow for a steep ascent.

Upon disembarking, you will find yourself in a true wonderland. Interlaken, part of the canton of Bern, is a charming town surrounded by dense forests, majestic mountains (Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau) and enchanting water — including the Aare River, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Everywhere you go, you’ll be met with the most picture-perfect displays of natural allure. And that we definitely stan! Interlaken is a walkable town with two train stations on either side and a massive park in the middle called Höheweg. Sometimes, you can even spot paragliders in the air.

Many know Interlaken as the destination to settle in before heading out for day trips in the Jungfrau region. But, here are some activities you can do in the town itself! First up, it’s time for some chocolates. And yes, there’s really no need to explain the association of Switzerland with chocolates. It’s otherworldly. In Interlaken, Funky Chocolate Club hosts chocolate-making classes where you can put your skills to the test. You’ll learn everything from its beginning as a cacao fruit to designing your very own bars. You get to choose between milk or dark chocolate and taste a variety of types.

In addition, you can also go for the serene and unusual Raclette Rafting. Hosted by Outdoor, the activity begins from Bönigen and involves wine, cheese and pure good vibes. As a guide steers the raft, all you have to do is enjoy the views of houses by the river banks. The unique experience, priced at CHF 695 per boat (approximately RM3,783.05) — accommodating up to eight people. So, it’s ideal for families too! The best part: you get to melt your very own raclette and pair the cheese with potatoes and pickles.

For a delicious meal, check out Restaurant Stadthaus in Unterseen. The popular eatery was packed with locals when we visited and is renowned for its masterfully crafted Swiss dishes. Helmed by René Schudel, the menu consists of creations such as Steak Tartare with fresh Belper Knolle cheese, Braised Tomato Soup, Wienerschnitzel with cranberry chutney, Alpine Rösti and Emmental Lamb Shank.

Stop #5 – JUNGFRAUJOCH

From Interlaken, you can get to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe pretty easily. Take a bus or walk to Interlaken Ost, then hop onto the train that goes towards the direction of Grindelwald. About thirty minutes later, you will arrive at Grindelwald Terminal. Here, you can head up to the Eiger Glacier via Eiger Express gondola. At Eigergletscher, get onto a train takes you all the way up to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe at 3,453 metres above sea level. The train ride takes approximately 26 minutes.

At the top, peaks (many around 4,000 metres) stand tall as you feel the unreal aura of the Aletsch Glacier and Swiss Mitteland. It’s literally a sublime realm of rock, snow and ice. Higher up at 3,571 metres above sea level is the Sphinx Terrace. It is here where you can see the longest glacier in the Alps — a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you’re a fan of ‘Crash Landing On You’, you’d be glad to know that this was where the Episode 16 was shot featuring Se Ri, Seo Dan and Jeong Hyeok.

After that, go over to the Ice Palace and tour the mesmerising sculptures, including one of Scrat from ‘Ice Age’. Step by step, you will see brilliant craftsmanship in the designs. There’s also a section dedicated to real life occurrences such as Lang Lang on the piano. That’s not all: the team at Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe has also set aside an area for Chinese zodiac signs. When we were there earlier in January this year, we noticed the ice sculptor working on what’s set to be a dragon. It’s the Year of the Wood Dragon, after all.

Similar to the other mountains we visited during our time in Switzerland, there are lots of eateries so you don’t have to worry about going hungry. A spot to check out is Crystal, a fusion restaurant comprising both Swiss delicacies and an international selection. Opening everyday from 11.00AM to 2.30PM, the restaurant also offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps. Start your meal with a Classic Lobster Soup (made with cognac and cream) or a Steak tartare scented with Swiss Local Whiskey Rugenbräu. After that, try Swiss Cheese Fondue, Breaded Veal Escalope or Grilled Salmon Fillet for your mains.

Did you know that Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe is actually the highest railway station in Europe? The title of the highest peak in Europe goes to Mount Elbrus at 5,642 metres above sea level. When you’re here, remember to keep yourself as warm as possible with the appropriate attire — and always layer up.

Stop #6 – LEUKERBAD

Our last destination in Switzerland took us to Leukerbad, a little town in the canton of Valais. Part of the Leuk district, Leukerbad is easily one of the most bewitching places we visited. It’s said to have a population of less than 2,000 and is situated 1,411 metres above sea level. With “Source of Happiness” as its tagline, you already know what to expect. The journey to Leukerbad from Interlaken takes about two hours — including a thirty-minute bus ride from the Leuk Bus Station.

Known as a wellness town, many from all over the world come to Leukerbad for its relaxing offerings. It is, after all, the largest thermal resort in the Alps. Among the many rejuvenating things you can do here is going to Leukerbad Therme. Here, you can immerse yourself in an indoor pool or head to the outdoor pool with views of the Daubenhorn. The natural thermal water (usually between 28ºC to 43ºC) truly comforts mind, body and soul — perfect after a long day of happy touring. There’s a modern sauna, swimming pool and waterslides at Leukerbad Therme. This is just one of many natural thermal spas in the town, public and private.

Another attraction here worth checking out is Torrent where you can ascent all the way up to the Torrenthorn. On clear days, this is where you can witness a splendid perspective of many of Switzerland’s peaks. They include the Jungfrau, Monte Leone, Monte Rosa and Matterhorn. At times, you might even catch a glimpse of Mont Blanc. Surrounded by the Valais and Berneses Alps, take the opportunity to unwind and “drench” yourself in Switzerland’s winter cosmos. Head over to Rinderhütte Panoramarestaurant for some much-needed pick-me-up. The self-service restaurant offers a wide selection of dishes from Switzerland and beyond.

Still on delicious eats, the restaurant in Hotel Bristol Leukerbad — helmed by Chef Alessandro Ottina — serves an eclectic menu made using high quality local ingredients. On the menu, you will find interesting creations such as Hokkaido squash gnocchi with minced rabbit meat and fried sage; Swiss pink trout fillet Meunière-style with vegetables and steamed potatoes; as well as Guinea fowl ballotine filled with dried fruits alongside Kale, shiitake and pumpkin velouté.

If you’ve never tried snowshoeing, Leukerbad’s a good place to give it a go. The Swiss Ski School here offers a snowshoe tour that takes you into the forests of the town. You will hike with the proper gear including poles as you venture on slopes and trails with a guide. Also, take the opportunity to explore the Old Town of Leukerbad where you can check out traditional Swiss buildings and designs. There are also many on your way to Gemmi Bahnen.

Some extra tidbits you should know:

Swiss Travel Pass

One of our favourite things about travelling in Switzerland is the availability of the Swiss Travel Pass. The pass lets you travel by train, bus and boat within Switzerland — and comes in 3-day, 4-day, 6-day, 8-day and 15-day versions. The ticket, whether first class or not, entitles holders to free admission for more than 500 museums as well as discounts on certain gondolas and mountain railways.

The Swiss Travel Pass starts from CHF 389 for First Class Adult tickets and CHF 244 for Second Class Adult tickets. That’s approximately RM2,117.42 and RM1,328.15 respectively. There are also different ticket prices for Youth and Children. Remember to have your e-ticket ready to be scanned whenever requested by officers onboard the vehicles.

Learn more about Swiss Travel Pass HERE.

SBB Luggage Transport Services

Throughout our trip in Switzerland, our journeys from one destination to another were made easier (and less stressful) with the help of the SBB luggage transport services. Good news is that you don’t have to carry your luggage around, be it on trains or up the mountains. You can also opt for the group luggage service if you have ten or more in your ensemble — and luggages are usually collected early in the morning and delivered by 6.00PM in the evening. The service is available in many hotspots throughout Switzerland, including Lucerne, Interlaken, Leukerbad and Pilatus.

Learn more about the SBB luggage transport service HERE.

AirPortr

Flying off from Switzerland via SWISS? The airline has recently introduced AirPortr, a one-of-a-kind service that not only collects your luggage from a chosen destination in Switzerland but also helps you check your bag at the airport. Upon landing, you can retrieve your belongings at the conveyor belt. The AirPortr service is available for booking up to 23 hours before your flight and is priced from CHF 49 (approximately RM266.72).

Learn more about AirPortr HERE.

(Hero image credit: Swiss Travel System AG / Featured image credit: Jungfraubahnen)