Skiing and Snowboarding Near Zürich

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Switzerland Tourism.

You can find the latest updates on City of Zürich.

The resort features modern chairlifts and gondolas that keep the wait times short during the week. Beginners can practice on gentle slopes while experts enjoy challenging black runs and off-piste terrain. You will find several shops offering high-quality ski resorts near Zürich equipment rentals near the station. A standard adult day pass for the 2026 season costs approximately 70 Swiss Francs.

Mountain restaurants serve traditional Swiss dishes like golden rösti and melted cheese fondue to hungry skiers. You should try to arrive before 9:00 AM to enjoy the best snow conditions on the trails. The slopes remain open until late afternoon when the sun sets behind the beautiful Churfirsten peaks. Taking the train back to the city allows you to relax after a long day.

• Direct trains depart from Zürich HB every hour.
• Rental packages for skis and boots start at 60 CHF.
• The resort offers a dedicated area for young children.
• Check the local snow report before you leave the city.

If you prefer a smaller and quieter atmosphere, consider visiting the nearby resort of Amden. This village overlooks Lake Walen and provides stunning views from its sunny, south-facing ski slopes. It is particularly good for families with small children who are learning to ski for the first time. You can easily find Zürich winter travel tips to help plan your logistics.

Mount Titlis Winter Adventure Guide

A Mount Titlis day trip is a highlight for many visitors to Switzerland in 2026. The journey begins with a scenic train ride from Zürich to the mountain village of Engelberg. You will then board a series of cable cars to reach the summit at 3,020 meters. The final leg features the Rotair, which is the world's first fully revolving gondola.

Once at the top, you can walk through a magical glacier cave carved deep into the ice. The Titlis Cliff Walk is Europe's highest suspension bridge and offers breathtaking views of the abyss. Brave travelers can also ride the Ice Flyer chairlift over the deep crevasses of the glacier. These activities are included in your mountain transport ticket for the 2026 winter season.

The summit station has several dining options ranging from quick snacks to elegant sit-down meals. You can enjoy a warm hot chocolate while looking out at the vast sea of alpine peaks. Make sure to wear heavy winter clothing because temperatures at the summit remain well below freezing. The air is much thinner at this altitude so take your time while walking around.

Tickets for the Titlis cable cars cost around 96 CHF for adults without a travel discount. You can save money by using a Half Fare Card or a Swiss Travel Pass. It is best to book your tickets online in advance to skip the long ticket lines. Visit the official Zürich Tourism website for more information on regional transport.

Scenic Winter Train Rides From Zürich

Switzerland is famous for its efficient rail network and beautiful views from the train windows. You can enjoy scenic winter train rides that depart directly from the main station in Zürich. The Voralpen Express is a wonderful choice that connects the city with Central and Eastern regions. This train features large windows designed for sightseeing throughout the entire journey.

One popular itinerary involves taking the train to the historic city of Lucerne for the morning. You can walk across the famous Chapel Bridge and explore the charming streets of the old town. In the afternoon, continue your journey toward the rolling hills of the Appenzell region. The landscape looks like a winter fairytale when the traditional farmhouses are covered in deep snow.

Another excellent option is to visit the city of St. Gallen to see its famous Abbey Library. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the oldest and most beautiful libraries in the world. The train ride takes about one hour and passes through lovely lakeside scenery and snowy forests. You can find more details about the country on the Switzerland Tourism website.

Most scenic trains offer comfortable seating in both first and second-class carriages for travelers. You can purchase food and drinks from the onboard bistro while you watch the world go by. Using a Swiss Travel Pass allows you to hop on and off these trains without buying tickets. This flexibility is perfect for exploring several different towns in a single winter day.

Visit the Rhine Falls This Winter

The Rhine Falls is the largest waterfall in Europe and looks spectacular during the winter months. You can reach the falls in just 45 minutes by taking a train toward Schaffhausen. In winter, the mist from the water often freezes on the nearby trees and railings. This creates a unique landscape that feels very different from the busy summer tourist season.

Visitors can explore the trails around Laufen Castle which sits on a cliff overlooking the rushing water. The glass elevator provides a great view of the falls as you descend to the platforms. You can stand just a few meters away from the powerful currents on the lower viewing decks. Information on Rhine Falls in winter is essential for checking seasonal boat schedules.

While boat tours are limited in winter, some short trips still operate during the 2026 holiday season. After seeing the falls, take a short bus ride to the nearby town of Schaffhausen. This town is famous for its well-preserved medieval buildings and the circular Munot fortress. You can enjoy a quiet lunch in a cozy cafe before heading back to Zürich.

The entrance fee to the Laufen Castle side of the falls is only 5 Swiss Francs. This is an affordable day trip that offers great photo opportunities for your winter travel album. The paths can be slippery so wear boots with good grip for your safety during the visit. Most visitors spend about two to three hours at the falls before exploring the surrounding area.

Best Sledding and Hiking Day Trips

Sledding is a traditional Swiss winter activity that is fun for people of all ages and skills. You can find some of the sledding runs near Zürich on the Rigi Kulm mountain. To get there, take a train to Arth-Goldau and then ride the historic cogwheel railway. The sledding tracks are several kilometers long and offer views of the surrounding lakes.

If you prefer walking, there are many winter hiking trails that stay open throughout the season. These paths are regularly groomed so you can walk safely without needing specialized snowshoe equipment. The Uetliberg mountain is the closest option and offers a panoramic view of the Zürich skyline. You can walk from the top station to Felsenegg and return by cable car.

Proper preparation is key for a successful winter hike or sledding adventure in the Swiss Alps. You should always check the local weather forecast and the condition of the trails before you start. Wear layers of moisture-wicking clothing to stay warm and dry while you are being active. Most mountain stations offer sled rentals so you do not need to bring your own equipment.

The cost of a daily sled rental is usually between 15 and 25 Swiss Francs. Many trails end near a mountain restaurant where you can warm up with a bowl of soup. Sledding is especially popular on weekends so try to visit during the week for more space. Always follow the marked signs to ensure you stay on the safe and maintained paths.