A wide range of indoor activities in Switzerland
There are fantastic indoor activities all over Switzerland, whether you're looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation.
Everything you need to know at a glance
Discover the best indoor activities in Switzerland, ideal for rainy days or bad weather. From sweet experiences in chocolate factories such as Lindt Home of Chocolate and Maison Cailler to exciting cave adventures in the St. Beatus Caves, relaxing days in thermal baths, or cultural highlights in museums and theaters – there is something for everyone. Many of these indoor experiences in Switzerland are weather-independent, suitable for adults and families with children, and easily accessible. This means that every rainy day becomes an unforgettable adventure in Switzerland.
A sweet break when it rains: a visit to the chocolate factory
The sweet smell of melted chocolate – one indoor activity in Switzerland is a visit to local chocolatiers who are famous around the world. You can take a look behind the scenes of the craft and, of course, sample a few treats.
Lindt Home of Chocolate
The Lindt Home of Chocolate in Kilchberg near Zurich is Switzerland's largest chocolate museum. Inside, an interactive multimedia exhibition takes you through seven different chocolate worlds. In the Chocolateria, you can make your own chocolate creations under the guidance of Lindt Maîtres Chocolatiers. The Home of Chocolate also houses the world's largest Lindt shop.
"Maison Cailler"
Further south in Switzerland, in Broc in the Fribourg region, is Maison Cailler: home to the factory of Switzerland's oldest chocolate brand. The interactive tour lasts around an hour, shows the entire production process, and ends with a tasting session.
If you're looking for an extra adventure, try the Escape Game. Tricky puzzles from the world of Cailler chocolate await you in a historic carriage. This indoor activity in Switzerland is an entertaining experience for children and adults alike.
Tip: Both chocolate factories are very popular destinations. To ensure you get access on your desired date, book a ticket online in advance, easily and securely with your credit card.
Excursion in the rain: on the trail of the dragon in the St. Beatus Caves
When it rains at Lake Thun, immerse yourself in the mysterious world of the St. Beatus Caves. On the northern shore of the lake, above Beatenberg, lies a fascinating cave system.
Over thousands of years, water and limestone have created impressive stalactite formations, grottos, and small waterfalls here. The approximately one-kilometer-long visitor trail is well developed, illuminated, and leads through the imposing rock chambers via safe footbridges and bridges.
The caves are sheltered within the mountain and can be visited regardless of the weather, with a constant temperature of between 8 and 10 degrees Celsius inside. Only during exceptionally heavy rainfall or during the snowmelt can the water level in the cave stream rise.
After exploring the caves, you can learn more about them in the adjacent museum. As one of the largest and most fascinating cave systems in Switzerland, the St. Beatus Caves are also part of the Grand Tour of Switzerland.
Must-do: combine your trip with a fine dining experience. Less than 15 minutes from the St. Beatus Caves is Radius by Stefan Beer at the Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa, awarded 17 points by GaultMillau and one Michelin star. As a Platinum Card member of American Express, you enjoy special benefits at GaultMillau restaurants in Switzerland.
Relaxing indoor activity for adults: a day at the spa
When rain is drumming against the windows and the mountain peaks are disappearing in the fog, there is hardly a more comfortable place than a warm thermal spa. Switzerland has a first-class selection of baths, from traditional spa hotels to modern wellness temples.
Relax in the steamy outdoor pool with a view of the snow-covered peaks, enjoy a sauna, treat yourself to a massage: a day at the spa is good for the body and soul. Especially when the sky is gray and it's raining outside.
Tamina Thermal Spa in Bad Ragaz
One of the most beautiful and oldest thermal baths in Switzerland is the Tamina Thermal Baths in Bad Ragaz. Eight different indoor and outdoor pools, a modern sauna area, and treatment rooms await you across more than 8,600 square meters. The bright, light-flooded architecture with its large oval windows creates a special atmosphere.
Tip: The Tamina Therme is connected to the
Grand Resort Bad Ragaz. The hotel is part of American Express' Fine Hotels + Resorts, where Platinum Card members enjoy exclusive benefits such as a complimentary daily breakfast for two.
Which American Express card do you always have with you when you're out and about?
Cultural enjoyment when it rains: musicals and dinner
When it rains, why not visit the theater, opera, or musical? As a Platinum Card member, you can conveniently book your tickets through the exclusive Travel & Lifestyle Service. In the member area, you can get an overview of upcoming events and often secure your tickets at a preferential price.
Not far from the MAAG Halle is the Wirtschaft im Franz in Zurich West, awarded 14 GaultMillau points and a Michelin star. In an urban, relaxed atmosphere, a carefully planned surprise menu of four, five, or six courses is served, featuring lots of vegetables and a focus on product quality.
Experience art, culture, and history: visit a museum when it rains
Switzerland is a paradise for culture lovers: hardly any other country combines such a wide variety of outstanding museums in such a small area. From exquisite art collections such as the Nicola Erni Collection to interactive worlds of experience for the whole family, you will find excellent offerings in many cities.
At the Kunstmuseum Basel, for example, you can encounter masterpieces from Holbein to Picasso and feel the city's deep roots in European art history. The Museum für Gestaltung Zürich, on the other hand, opens the doors to a world of form, color, and ideas. At the Musée d'ethnographie de Genève, you will find impressive perspectives on global cultures and ways of life.
Indoor activities in Switzerland that delight adults and children alike
A rainy day is an opportunity to relax at a spa or museum, go on a cave adventure, or see an impressive musical. Switzerland offers a huge range of indoor activities. Some experiences are equally enriching for adults and children alike.
With an American Express credit card, depending on the model, you can enjoy benefits such as the Dining Benefit and make reservations or bookings with just a few clicks via the American Express Platinum Travel & Lifestyle Service.
Frequently asked questions and answers
Wellness and culture are ideal for adults: a day at the spa, an evening of fine dining, or a visit to a museum offer relaxation and inspiration.
Yes, many indoor experiences in Switzerland are family-friendly. Maison Cailler, for example, offers interactive tours and an escape game that delights children and adults alike. An interactive museum or the St. Beatus Caves are also ideal family destinations.
American Express is accepted in most museums, spas, restaurants, and attractions in Switzerland. Platinum Card members also enjoy benefits such as dining benefits, access to Fine Hotels + Resorts, and exclusive American Express Platinum Travel & Lifestyle Service.
