Visiting the Swiss Alps Over Summer: A Complete Guide

Switzerland

Switzerland has over 1,500 lakes across the country. Yes, you read that right. Many of them are right in the heart of the Alps, surrounded by mountains, villages, and roads with some of the best views you'll ever see.

While most people think of this place for winter and snow, summer is actually one of the best times to see the Swiss Alps. The landscapes turn green, the weather is mild, and the mountain paths, lakes, and viewpoints are at their best.

It is also the perfect time to travel at your own pace, stopping wherever you feel like it without having to rush. This is where driving makes a huge difference: getting around Switzerland by car completely changes the trip.

In this guide, we’ll show you what to see in the Swiss Alps over summer, the spots you can’t miss, a recommended driving route, and some practical tips for planning your trip.

How to Get to the Swiss Alps

Getting to the Swiss Alps is easier than it seems. Switzerland has several international airports with great connections to the UK and the rest of Europe. The main entry points are Zurich, Geneva, and Basel, which are all perfect starting points for your trip.

From any of these airports, you’ll have a few different options for reaching the Alpine regions. The Swiss train network is famous for being on time and efficient, but it does have its limits if you’re looking to explore the Alps properly.

That’s why more and more travellers are choosing to hire a car directly at the airport. This way, you can start your journey straight away, without having to stick to timetables and with total freedom to go where you want.

Getting Around the Swiss Alps: Is Hiring a Car a Good Idea?

This is one of the most common questions when planning a trip to Switzerland. While public transport works very well, the truth is that a car offers clear advantages, especially in summer.

Travelling by train is fine if you only want to visit the main cities, but the Alps hide many of their best spots in less accessible areas. Waterfalls, tiny villages, viewpoints, or quiet lakes where you can stop and enjoy the scenery… Many of these places aren't well-connected by public transport.

On the other hand, with a car you can:

• Stop wherever and whenever you want
• Access incredible roads
• Avoid changes and waiting around
• Adapt your route based on the weather or what you feel like doing

Plus, Swiss roads are in perfect condition and driving is comfortable and safe, even in mountain areas.

If you want to find the best options, it's best to use a comparison site like CarJet, which lets you see prices from different companies and pick the one that suits your trip best.

Best Places to See in the Swiss Alps This Summer

The Swiss Alps are full of spectacular places, but there are a few destinations that really stand out and are a must on your trip.

Interlaken and the Lauterbrunnen Valley

Interlaken is one of the most popular spots in the Alps. Located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, it’s the ideal starting point for exploring the stunning Lauterbrunnen Valley.

This valley is known as the 'Valley of 72 Waterfalls,' and in summer, it offers an incredible landscape where you can walk among the mountains, visit villages like Wengen or Mürren, and enjoy some of the most iconic views in Switzerland.

Zermatt and the Matterhorn

Zermatt is one of the most well-known destinations in the country. This small Alpine village is car-free and sits at the foot of the famous Matterhorn, one of the most famous mountains in the world.

In summer, the area is great for hiking, making the most of the viewpoints, and experiencing high-mountain landscapes without the winter crowds.

Lucerne and Its Lake

Lucerne combines the best bits of a city with stunning natural surroundings. Its old town, the famous wooden bridge, and the lake surrounding it make it a must-see stop.

From here, you can also easily reach nearby mountains like Pilatus or Rigi, perfect for day trips.

Jungfraujoch and the Jungfrau Region

Known as the 'Top of Europe,' Jungfraujoch is one of the highest accessible points in Europe. Although you reach it by train, it’s a staple of any trip through the Swiss Alps.

The Jungfrau region as a whole is ideal for exploring in summer, with its trails, glaciers, and unique landscapes.

St. Moritz and the Engadin

If you’re looking for a more exclusive feel, St. Moritz is the place for you. Nestled in the Engadin Valley, it's a great spot to take in the lakes and mountains scenery. It’s perfect if you want to combine nature with a bit of relaxation, and it tends to be quieter than some of the more famous areas.

The Best Swiss Alpine Lakes to Enjoy This Summer

Summer is the perfect time to explore the Swiss lakes, many of which have crystal-clear waters and are surrounded by the mountains.

Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, near Interlaken, are two of the most impressive spots you'll find.

Lake Geneva is another famous choice, and it's ideal if you want to mix nature with a bit of city life.

But beyond the big names, the best part is finding the smaller, less touristy lakes. These are the spots where you can just pull over in your car and enjoy the surroundings in total peace and quiet.

Driving Through the Swiss Alps in Summer: A Recommended Itinerary

One of the best ways to explore the Swiss Alps is on a 5 to 7-day road trip.

Here’s a look at how you could plan your trip:

• Day 1: Arrive in Zurich and pick up the car
• Day 2: Lucerne and the surrounding area
• Day 3: Interlaken and Lakes Thun and Brienz
• Day 4: Lauterbrunnen Valley
• Day 5: Zermatt (leaving your car on the outskirts)
• Day 6: Head towards Engadin and St. Moritz
• Day 7: Journey back

The distances are not actually that long, but the mountain roads mean you'll be taking things a bit slower, which is all part of the experience.

When Is the Best Time to Visit the Swiss Alps?

Summer, especially between June and September, is the ideal time to see the Alps.

During these months, the days are long, the weather is enjoyable, and most of the trails and activities are open.

July and August are the busiest months, whereas June and September are usually the quietest.

Why Hiring a Car in the Swiss Alps Is the Best Way to Go

If there’s one thing that really changes a trip through the Swiss Alps in summer, it’s the freedom to move around as you please.

Hiring a car lets you find spots that aren't in the guidebooks, stop whenever you feel like it, and travel at your own pace. It also saves you from the restrictions of public transport and gives you access to some of the most impressive roads in Europe. If you really want to enjoy the trip, the trick is to keep your schedule flexible and avoid rushing.

By using a comparison site like CarJet, you can easily find a car that fits your budget and get going from the airport without any fuss.

After all, in a place like this, it’s not just about getting to your destination, it’s about everything you find along the way.