January is the middle of winter in Switzerland, and the weather can be cold and snowy. However, it can also be a great time to visit the country if you enjoy winter sports and activities. Some of the things you can do in Switzerland in January include:
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Switzerland is home to some of the best ski resorts in the world, and many of them are open in January. Popular destinations include Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Verbier.
- Snowshoeing and Hiking: If you prefer a more leisurely pace, you can explore the Swiss Alps on snowshoes or cross-country skis. Many of the hiking trails are also open during the winter and offer a unique perspective on the mountains.
- Winter sports : You can enjoy other winter sports like ice-skating, ice hockey, ice-climbing, curling, ice-carting and some more
- Thermal Baths: Switzerland is home to many thermal baths and spas where you can relax and warm up after a day in the cold. These include the Therme Vals, Tamina Therme, and the Bogn Engiadina.
- Christmas markets: Even though January is passed Christmas but some Christmas markets still open till New Year, these markets offer warm atmosphere and traditional goods like crafts and food.
- New year celebrations: Switzerland has spectacular fireworks and firework displays to celebrate the New Year.
It’s worth noting that it can be quite cold in January, and temperatures can drop below freezing, so make sure to dress warmly and pack accordingly. Also many places like restaurants, hotels or some outdoor activities may be closed in January as it is considered low season. Keep in mind that the Swiss mountains are a very popular destination during winter, and it can be very busy during weekends and holidays. So, it may be a good idea to book accommodations and rental equipment in advance.