What to do in Switzerland this weekend: 17 and 18 May 2025

Post on: 16.05.2025

Events, nature and culture to discover the country on the weekend

What to do in Switzerland this weekend? The weekend of May 17th and 18th, 2025 promises to be full of initiatives throughout Switzerland. Whether you are a culture enthusiast, a nature lover, or looking for family experiences, you will surely find something interesting to do. Below we offer you a selection of events and activities not to be missed, divided by theme and region.

Participate in the International Museum Day

Sunday, May 18th is the International Museum Day, a perfect opportunity to rediscover the Swiss cultural heritage with free admissions, guided tours, and special activities. Numerous museums throughout Switzerland participate in the initiative with events for both adults and children.

In Ticino, the Cantonale Museum of Natural History offers workshops, guided tours of the exhibition "The hand of the climate and the hand of man," and a screening dedicated to alpine fauna. Also, the Museum of Art of Italian Switzerland (MASI) in Lugano offers a special program with family activities.

In Zurich, the National Museum offers free visits to permanent and temporary exhibitions, while in Basel the Kunstmuseum welcomes visitors with interactive events and themed tours.

What to do in Switzerland | The best routes for the weekend

Spring temperatures make the weekend ideal for an outdoor excursion. Throughout Switzerland, there are well-marked trails, perfect for enjoying nature.

• Oeschinen Lake (Bern): one of the most spectacular alpine lakes, reachable by cable car from Kandersteg, ideal for a picnic or a circular walk.
• Verzasca Valley (Ticino): a classic in the south of Switzerland. The Lavertezzo Roman bridge is the starting point for scenic walks along the river with crystal-clear waters.
• Vineyard Trail (Lavaux, Vaud): for those who enjoy walking with a view of Lake Geneva, among terraced vineyards UNESCO heritage.

Remember to check the weather forecast and, if possible, book transportation in advance to avoid queues.

Food festivals and markets: local flavors and traditions

If you love local products, spring markets and village fairs are ideal for spending a few hours relaxing.

• In Lucerne, on Saturday, May 17th, the Luzerner Wochenmarkt takes place, a weekly market offering fruit, cheeses, artisan bread, and local flowers.
• In Maggia Valley, the Spring Festival is scheduled in Cevio, with craft stalls, local products, live music, and workshops for children.
• In Lausanne, the Marché de Printemps enlivens the Place de la Riponne with fresh products and Romandy specialties.

What to do in Switzerland | Must-see musical and cultural events

For those who prefer live music or cultural performances, there is no shortage of proposals.

• In Geneva, the Antigel Festival offers concerts and artistic performances in unusual locations.
• In Neuchâtel, on Saturday evening, there is a free outdoor classical music concert at Jardin Anglais.
• In Engadine, in Sils, the Spring Literary Encounters continue, with presentations and readings by Swiss and international authors.

Experiences for the whole family

If you are looking for activities suitable for the little ones, here are some family-friendly options:

• Zurich Zoo: with new cubs to see and a natural playground, it is perfect for a full day out with the family.
• Swiss Vapeur Parc (Bouveret): miniature trains delight both adults and children, with scaled routes and perfectly reproduced stations.
• Mount Tamaro (Ticino): with cable cars, scenic trails, adventure park, and toboggan run, it is a complete destination for outdoor fun.

What to do in Switzerland | Conclusion: a weekend with new perspectives

The weekend of May 17th and 18th, 2025 offers a wide range of experiences to live in Switzerland, between art, nature, culture, and gastronomy. Whether you want to explore a museum, taste local products, or relax in the mountains, you will surely find the perfect activity for your needs.

Consult the official websites of the events and destinations for updated schedules and any necessary reservations.

Have a great weekend in Switzerland!