Hi all: Planning 7-10 days in Switzerland in early May. This will be in the middle of a 5-week trip sandwiched between Italy (Rome, Venice, Bologna) and France (Paris/Reims/Strasbourg). We like to pack light and I am concerned that with rainy or cold (even snowy) weather in Switzerland that may not be possible. Are there certain areas that would make sense for layers (but without rain pants, a big coat and hiking boots). I was thinking maybe Geneva/Lausanne area and maybe Bern and/or Lucerne. Are any of the trains with beautiful views running in early May? Would love to see the Matterhorn at Zermatt, but that may not be feasible.
We greatly enjoy history, architecture & museums. But, Switzerland will be very much for the scenic mountain views. That said, would it make more sense to wait for another year and go in summer (a season we usually avoid for European travel). We are 78 and 80 and pretty fit and active, but we don't know how many summers we will be in that category. All information and suggestions are appreciated!!
Posted by
Chicago
8495 posts
I just take layers that time of year. The cold and snow is at higher elevations. I stayed in Murren at 6000 feet 2nd Week May 2019. It snowed àt night and melted by day. I saw the Matterhorn on a day trip to Zermatt from Murren after I checked the weather forecast the night before going. If it is snowing or cloudy you won't be able to see it. You don't need hiking boots just water resistant shoes with good traction.
Take the scenic train route from Tirano Italy (you can get there from Milan) to Pontresina Switzerland and stay there for a couple of nights; then to Murren and stay there 3 nights; then go and stay in Luzern or Bern or Montreux before going to France.
Posted by
West Michigan
463 posts
We were in Switzerland in 2023 late April to mid-May, visited Geneva, Bernese Oberland, Bern, Lucerne. Had good weather the whole trip. Worst case, we each carried a small umbrella, used them a couple of times. I just bring a light jacket, hardly ever used it.
In 2025, we were there first week of May, same thing. The snow will be up at higher elevations, not down at lake level.
We are in your age group. Don't wait another year, do it now. It will be wonderful. And summers are too crowded, May is perfect.
Posted by
Switzerland
321 posts
Are any of the trains with beautiful views running in early May?
Yes, they certainly are. Here is where you can find out about them:
I really love seeing the mountains at this time of year because the air is so clear, not hazy like it so often is in the summer. On a sunny day the snow-capped peaks really stand out, even when looking off into the distance. It is my favourite time to take a ride up local mountains like the Schilthorn, or travel some of the panoramic train routes.
Something like these Yacktrax are really handy to bring along if you are at all concerned you will encounter snow (when walking out on the viewing platform on the mountains, for example). They fit over your shoe or boot and the metal coils will give you all the traction you need. I just keep them in a ziplock bag in my backpack.
https://www.walmart.com/ip/YakTrax-Walk-Traction-Device/22794986?classType=VARIANT
Posted by
OP
lake forest park, washington, usa
138 posts
Thank you all for the informative, specific and helpful replies. We'll definitely get the Yaktrax and will be doing more research. Happy to say I feel like Switzerland is possible without more luggage! I'm sure I will have more questions in order to firm up our itinerary.