October in Switzerland
October can be a lovely time to visit Switzerland, with fall colors taking over the alps.
Most mountain areas are open through mid to late October, with some extending their seasons if the weather stays sunny.
Below you’ll find all our October articles to help you plan your fall activities in Switzerland.
Need help? Book a travel advice call.
Swiss Autumn 101
- Switzerland
October Hiking
- Zürich Region
- Switzerland
October Destinations
- Engadin St. Moritz
- Switzerland
- Valais, Zermatt
October Events
- Switzerland
3/4 Oct 2026 – Cow Descent in Seewis
- Switzerland
Thun Wasserzauber
25 Sept to 25 Oct 2026
Rendez-vous Bundesplatz Bern
17 Oct to 22 Nov 2026
Basel Fall Fair (Herbstmesse)
24 Oct – 10 Nov 2026
Eonarium Light Show Geneva
2026 dates TBA
Swiss Cheese Festival
Fall Wine Events
tentative 12-18 Oct 2026 – Zurich Wine Festival
tentative 30 Oct – 11 Nov 2026 – Expovina Wine Ships in Zurich
October Train Discounts
SBB Day Pass for 2
In October, SBB usually offers the “Day Pass for 2” offer. If one person has a Half Fare Card, you can buy two day passes for CHF 80 (for 1st class CHF 130). Learn more.
Gottard Panorama Train Discount
From late October thru February, Treno Gottardo offers a heavily discounted train ticket between Zürich/Luzern/Basel and Locarno/Lugano. You must buy in advance for a specific day of travel, limited supply per day. Learn more.
SBB Railaway Discounts
You can get up to 50% off mountain excursions and other attractions with SBB Railaway Combo offers. These offers include the public transport to reach the activity and ticket for the mountain transport or attraction entrance fee.
In September and October, they often have the biggest discounts. See current offers.
Voralpen-Express Fall Hit
In fall, you can travel on the Voralpen-Express line between Lucerne and St Gallen for a discounted price (CHF 20 with Half Fare Card). The tickets can be purchased through end of November and using thru end of December. Learn more.
