Switzerland
Switzerland in September: what you really need to know
Switzerland in September is wonderful for hikers and swimmers. However, the weather can change suddenly, trains cost more than you might think, and the mountains are colder than you expect. This guide helps you avoid being stranded with the wrong clothes, the wrong flights, or no place to sleep.
3 September 2026 · Wayloha editorial · 3 sources
Flights and trains: the cheapest route
Bern-Belp Airport is closer, but Zurich International Airport is 120 kilometres further away and much more affordable. You will find more international flights and better prices there. Always compare both options before you book.
From Zurich, take the train to Interlaken Ost. From there, change to a bus to Lake Brienz. This costs less than you might expect: a public transport day pass is reasonable. If you want to explore a lot, hire a car instead. It is often cheaper than paying for every train journey separately.
- Search for flights on Skyscanner, which compares all airlines at once.
- Always take the train to Interlaken Ost, not to any other station.
- Hiring a car is worth it if you stay longer than three days.
The mountains around Lake Brienz stand still in the water, and you are almost alone.Switzerland
What to pack: warm enough, not too much
This is September in the mountains. The temperature usually stays below 25 degrees, but that doesn't tell you much. The weather can change within an hour. Many visitors pack far too lightly because they think it is still summer.
You need a fleece or jumper, a windproof jacket, and sturdy shoes. Even on warm days, it can cool down significantly in the shade or at higher altitudes. Sunscreen also helps: the mountain sun burns harder than you expect.
- Always bring an extra layer, even on warm days.
- Check the local weather forecast on the morning of your hike: it changes quickly.
- Wet clothes dry slowly in the mountains, so make sure you have a spare set.
Sleeping: the cheapest places
Hostels are the most economical option near Lake Brienz and Kandersteg. Look for them on Hostelworld, which has the largest selection and usually the best prices. Guesthouses and small hotels can be found on Booking.com. Always compare to see how much you can save.
Want to go even cheaper? Try Couchsurfing, but book early: many places are already taken by September. Interlaken has the widest range of accommodation, but Meiringen, home to the Sherlock Holmes Museum, is smaller and quieter.
- Book hostels via Hostelworld for the cheapest rate.
- Reserve Couchsurfing two to three weeks in advance.
- Look at Meiringen too: fewer tourists than in Interlaken, and lower prices.
