Valais · Travel guide · Updated 2026

Valais: Switzerland's Alpine Paradise

Discover Valais: A breathtaking region in the Swiss Alps offering iconic peaks, charming villages, world-class skiing, and exquisite local wines.

Valais, a stunning region in the heart of the Swiss Alps, is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Known for its majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and charming villages, Valais offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and serene landscapes. Whether you're hiking in the summer or skiing in the winter, Valais promises an unforgettable experience. One of the region's highlights is the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic peaks in the world. The picturesque town of Zermatt, located at the foot of the Matterhorn, is a car-free haven where you can enjoy fresh mountain air and stunning views. Take a cable car up to the Klein Matterhorn for a panoramic view of the Swiss, French, and Italian Alps. Valais is also famous for its vineyards and wine production. The sunny slopes of the Rhone Valley provide ideal conditions for growing grapes. Don't miss a visit to one of the local wineries to sample some of Switzerland's finest wines. Pair your wine with local delicacies like raclette or fondue for a true taste of Valais. For those interested in history and culture, Valais has plenty to offer. The medieval town of Sion is home to ancient castles and churches, while the thermal baths in Leukerbad provide a relaxing retreat. With its diverse attractions and breathtaking scenery, Valais is a must-visit destination in Switzerland.

Salgesch

Naturpark Pfyn-Finges

Discover Valais: A breathtaking region in the Swiss Alps offering iconic peaks, charming villages, world-class skiing, and exquisite local wines.

Grindelwald

Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory

Discover Valais: A breathtaking region in the Swiss Alps offering iconic peaks, charming villages, world-class skiing, and exquisite local wines.

Zermatt

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Discover Valais: A breathtaking region in the Swiss Alps offering iconic peaks, charming villages, world-class skiing, and exquisite local wines.

Hérémence

Grande Dixence dam

Discover Valais: A breathtaking region in the Swiss Alps offering iconic peaks, charming villages, world-class skiing, and exquisite local wines.

Saint-Léonard

Lac Souterrain De Saint-Léonard

Discover Valais: A breathtaking region in the Swiss Alps offering iconic peaks, charming villages, world-class skiing, and exquisite local wines.

Brig

Stockalperschloss

Discover Valais: A breathtaking region in the Swiss Alps offering iconic peaks, charming villages, world-class skiing, and exquisite local wines.

Zermatt

Gornergrat Observation Platform

Discover Valais: A breathtaking region in the Swiss Alps offering iconic peaks, charming villages, world-class skiing, and exquisite local wines.

Sion

Château de Tourbillon

Discover Valais: A breathtaking region in the Swiss Alps offering iconic peaks, charming villages, world-class skiing, and exquisite local wines.

Sion

Domaine des Iles

Discover Valais: A breathtaking region in the Swiss Alps offering iconic peaks, charming villages, world-class skiing, and exquisite local wines.

When is the best time to go to Valais?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsJul–Aug
Longest daylightJun–Jul
Driest periodJul–Apr

Explore places in Valais

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    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Valais sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory

    Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory, a must-visit destination for tourists seeking the ultimate alpine adventure in Switzerland.

    Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory

    Lac Souterrain De Saint-Léonard

    Explore the stunning Lac Souterrain De Saint-Léonard, Switzerland's captivating underground lake with breathtaking beauty and rich history.

    Lac Souterrain De Saint-Léonard

    Domaine des Iles

    Explore the breathtaking landscapes and family-friendly activities at Domaine des Iles, Sion's serene park destination for nature lovers.

    Domaine des Iles

    Grande Dixence dam

    Discover the grandeur of the Grande Dixence Dam, a stunning feat of engineering amidst the breathtaking Swiss Alps, perfect for nature and adventure lovers.

    Grande Dixence dam

    Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

    Discover the breathtaking beauty and exhilarating experiences at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, the ultimate alpine adventure in the Swiss Alps.

    Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

    Stockalperschloss

    Explore Stockalperschloss, an architectural gem in Brig, Switzerland, where history meets stunning views and cultural exhibitions.

    Stockalperschloss

    Naturpark Pfyn-Finges

    Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Naturpark Pfyn-Finges, a nature lover's paradise in the heart of Switzerland.

    Naturpark Pfyn-Finges

    Le Châtelard Emosson

    Experience breathtaking views, thrilling rides, and rich history at Le Châtelard Emosson, a premier tourist attraction in the Swiss Alps.

    Le Châtelard Emosson

    Château de Tourbillon

    Explore the historic Château de Tourbillon, a stunning castle in Sion offering breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.

    Château de Tourbillon

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    Centre Manor Sierre

    Explore Centre Manor Sierre, the ultimate shopping mall in Switzerland with diverse shops, delightful dining, and vibrant entertainment for all.

    Centre Manor Sierre

    Cristal Centre

    Explore Cristal Centre in Martigny for an unforgettable shopping and dining experience in a modern and inviting atmosphere.

    Cristal Centre

    Uvrier Centre

    Explore Uvrier Centre in Sion, Switzerland: a vibrant shopping mall with diverse retail, dining, and entertainment options for every taste.

    Uvrier Centre

    Tout un Canton - La Boutique du Valais

    Discover the essence of Swiss culture at Tout un Canton - La Boutique du Valais, your go-to spot for local delicacies and handcrafted souvenirs in Riddes.

    Tout un Canton - La Boutique du Valais

    Coop Supermarché Grimentz

    Experience the vibrant charm of Coop Supermarché Grimentz, your one-stop shop for local delicacies and essentials in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

    Coop Supermarché Grimentz

    Tea-room - Boulangerie - Pâtissere Salamin

    Experience the traditional Swiss café culture at Boulangerie - Pâtisserie Salamin, where artisanal breads and delightful pastries await in scenic Grimentz.

    Tea-room - Boulangerie - Pâtissere Salamin

    Bazar Suisse - Swiss Souvenirs Shop

    Explore the charm of Switzerland at Bazar Suisse, your ultimate destination for authentic Swiss souvenirs and unique gifts.

    Bazar Suisse - Swiss Souvenirs Shop

    Cristal Shop

    Experience the sparkle at Cristal Shop, Aigle's premier destination for exquisite crystal and glass art in the heart of Switzerland.

    Cristal Shop

    Boulangerie - Pâtisserie Salamin des Alpes à Vissoie

    Experience the authentic taste of Swiss pastries and sandwiches at Boulangerie - Pâtisserie Salamin des Alpes in Vissoie.

    Boulangerie - Pâtisserie Salamin des Alpes à Vissoie

    Essential bars & hidden hideouts

    The evening cards below match the bars layer in the map, so browsing and orientation stay connected.

    File:Matterhorn from Domhütte - 2.jpg - Wikipedia
    Destination guide

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    Discover Switzerland's majestic landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich culture. From alpine adventures to urban exploration, experience the best of Europe in one destination.

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    Explore Valais in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    File:Matterhorn from Domhütte - 2.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:View of Matterhorn from Zermatt village, Valais, Switzerland.jpg -  Wikimedia Commons
    File:Aerial View of Ewigschneefeld (Aletsch Glacier), Switzerland.jpg -  Wikimedia Commons
    File:Vallée de Saas.JPG - Wikimedia Commons
    Datei:Verbier, Switzerland, in 2011.jpg – Wikipedia
    File:Sion (Svizzera) 1.JPG - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Mont Fort Buckelpiste 017.JPG - Wikipedia
    File:CRANS MONTANA in January.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Burgerbad thermal baths, Leukerbad.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Map Jungfrau Aletsch 2007.png - Wikimedia Commons

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