Peter Harrison

Christmas & New Year in Switzerland

A Festive Escape

Tour Overview

Celebrate Christmas and New Year in picture-perfect Switzerland, where snow-covered mountains, charming alpine villages, and scenic train journeys create the ultimate winter wonderland.

Travel in comfort by rail and experience the magic of the festive season as you wind through the Swiss Alps on world-famous trains. Whether you choose to stay in the historic town of Chur, lakeside Interlaken, or charming Brig, your holiday will be filled with cosy festive traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences.
Enjoy spectacular winter rail journeys on two of Switzerland’s most iconic scenic routes. The Bernina Express takes you on an unforgettable ride through snow-laden forests, across dramatic viaducts, and past frozen lakes, climbing to the highest railway crossing in the Alps. Meanwhile, the Glacier Express, known as the slowest express train in the world, offers panoramic views of Switzerland’s most stunning winter scenery, from deep valleys to soaring peaks. These train journeys are true highlights of a magical Swiss holiday, perfect for embracing the season’s beauty.
With a high guarantee of a ‘White Christmas’ in the Alps, stay on for New Year and take part in one of Switzerland’s most unique celebrations—the spectacular Brûlage de la Cathédrale (Burning of the Cathedral) in Lausanne. This centuries-old tradition sees a dazzling light show projected onto Lausanne’s grand cathedral, creating an unforgettable way to welcome the New Year in true Swiss style.
With flexible travel options, you can tailor your festive escape to suit your pace. Take a leisurely rail journey from the UK, travelling through France before arriving in Switzerland, or opt to fly in and start your adventure from your chosen alpine base. However you choose to spend your Christmas and New Year in Switzerland, this chocolate-box holiday guarantees breathtaking scenery, festive charm, and a truly special way to celebrate the season.

Travel Tips

Take advantage of Switzerland’s seamless integrated transport network.
Use a First Class Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on trains, postbuses, lake steamers and many city buses and trams.
Experience a quintessential ‘White Christmas’ and indulge in the rich traditions and culture during the Festive period.
Christmas festivals and markets are aplenty. Maybe include a stay in a city for a day or two where you can experience the festivities and shop.
Journey on the fabulous Bernina express route with its spirals and tunnels.
December is generally thought to be the best month to visit Interlaken as the town is beautifully decorated.
Choose to spend New Year’s Eve in Lausanne on the Cathedral’s Esplanade for the annual Burning of the Cathedral celebration.
A holiday with an outing for your hats, gloves and winter coats. The stunning snowy scenery means chilly temperatures.
An opportunity to ride the world-famous Glacier Express for the scenic journey from Chur to Brig.