Austria and Switzerland Tours in May 2026

What our customers ask about Austria and Switzerland Tours in May 2026

• What kind of weather can I expect in Austria and Switzerland during May?

  Spring brings comfortable temperatures across both countries making it an excellent time for exploring. In lower-lying cities like Interlaken and Lucerne temperatures range from 12-20°C (54-68°F). Mountain destinations such as St. Moritz stay cooler with temperatures between 5-15°C (41-59°F) and occasional snow. As one TourRadar traveler notes: "The weather in May offered stunning views of the Alps without the summer crowds making it perfect for photography and hiking."

• What are the best places to visit in Austria and Switzerland during May?

  May provides ideal conditions to explore both countries' key destinations. Switzerland's Jungfraujoch region opens up for hiking while Lucerne starts its lake cruise season. In Austria visitors can enjoy Salzburg's gardens in full bloom and catch Innsbruck's cable cars as they begin summer operations. Many travelers choose to stay at the historic Sacher Hotel in Salzburg or the well-positioned Hotel Ambassador in Zermatt. One TourRadar traveler mentioned: "The spring flowers in May around Salzburg's Mirabell Gardens were absolutely stunning and the mountain views were crystal clear."

• Where are the best places to stay in Austria and Switzerland in May?

  The selection of accommodations ranges from city-center hotels to mountain retreats. The Renaissance Tower Hotel in Zurich puts you close to urban attractions while the Grand Hotel National in Lucerne offers waterfront views. For mountain scenery the Hotel Grace La Margna in St. Moritz is a top choice. Vienna's Hotel Sacher represents classic Austrian hospitality. One TourRadar traveler noted: "The Grand Hotel National in Lucerne offered amazing views of the lake and mountains especially beautiful with spring flowers blooming everywhere."

• What are the most scenic routes to explore in Austria and Switzerland during May?

  Spring transforms the famous rail routes into visual feasts. The Golden Pass line connecting Lucerne to Interlaken shows off green valleys while the Glacier Express between Zermatt and St. Moritz reveals alpine meadows coming to life. Austria's Grossglockner High Alpine Road typically opens in May displaying mountain panoramas. A TourRadar traveler shared: "Taking the panoramic train from Chur to Zermatt in May was breathtaking - the contrast between snow-capped peaks and green valleys was incredible."

• What are the best day trips to take in Austria and Switzerland during May?

  Spring weather makes day trips especially enjoyable. Popular options include exploring the Sound of Music locations near Salzburg taking the cable car ride to First from Grindelwald or visiting Chillon Castle from Montreux. A TourRadar traveler shared: "The day trip to Mondsee from Salzburg was magical in May - the lakeside setting and mountain backdrop were perfect for photos."

• What unique culinary experiences are available in Austria and Switzerland in May?

  Spring brings seasonal specialties to local menus. Austrian restaurants feature fresh asparagus dishes while Vienna and Zurich's café terraces reopen for outdoor dining. The pleasant weather enhances experiences like cheese tastings at Chillon Castle and Swiss chocolate demonstrations. One TourRadar traveler shared: "The outdoor cafés in Vienna's historic center were perfect in May - we enjoyed Sachertorte at Café Central while people-watching in comfortable temperatures."