We are looking to see Switzerland in the wintertime. While we're mobile, we're both disabled enough not to be able to do the typical Rick Steves tour because of all the walking.
My question is this: With needing more clothes for winter to pack, is it still feasible to see all of Switzerland's winter attractions by their scenic trains, or should we rent a car?
We were in Switzerland last Dec., for the xmas markets, and traveled with carry-on luggage only. I took four outfits, which included the clothes I flew in. I had a great long, down winter coat, so I didn't need lots of tops, just layering sweaters, which aren't bulky. I took two pairs of winter ankle boots, wearing one.
With the fantastic Swiss train system, I vote for the trains. I've also read here that many mountain areas are accessible only by train, so you may want to research that.
Have a wonderful trip!
I would especially choose trains in the winter. I've done both the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express (couple times) in January. Its a winter wonderland. You could have driving issues in winter, almost none with trains. Many stations have hotels just a very short walk away. You'll be wearing your coat, hat and gloves while traveling (take them off and hang them up by your seat on the train). So you really don't need to take a lot of clothing for indoor use.
Yes to trains, especially in the winter.
You will need more clothing in the winter but not much more than the summer and you don't need shorts. Appropriate dress is proper layering. The add to three season wear is base layer (long underwear) and an intermediate thermal insulation layer. A good wind/rain proof outer shell works both summer and winter. And add head covering (e.g. wool or synthetic knit cap) that covers ears and gloves. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/layering-basics.html
I wear waterproof (Gortex lined) low cut boot with traction (e.g. Vibram type soles. Switzerland is good about snow removal (streets and sidewalks) in towns and villages. While we bring boot chains /traction-devices on our winter trips, we didn't need them in Switzerland. Note that the big cities are in low valley floor locations and get less snow than the mountain villages.
Unless you are able to pull your rental car to the side and attach chains your tires then by all means do not venture out by car.
Trains, gondolas, funiculars, buses go absolutely everywhere you as a tourist could possibly want to go.
Thank you so much for the responses! I really don't want to take a car. The answers I got re: clothing helps a lot. I stay hot, so I just need ordinary clothes for inside and maybe one set of thermals for outside, including the warm coat, boots, etc.
Do be prepared for rain. I had a great, long, down winter coat, and also a poncho to put over the coat when the rain was heavy. We were lucky that the rain was sporadic , usually a drizzle, and was heavy only one day [last Nov/Dec.]
Don’t over-pack. We went to Norway in February 2019 and took multiple pairs of boots, snow pants, and long underwear. Really unnecessary, layering is the key. Switzerland’s train/transportation system is excellent, winter or summer. Have fun!
