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Canton of Valais
Canton of Valais, Switzerland

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The Canton of Valais is a breathtaking region defined by towering Alpine peaks, rolling vineyards, and charming towns. It's a dream destination for outdoor adventurers, wine lovers, and cultural explorers alike.

Additional Information

Valais is home to the Matterhorn, Rhône Glacier, and Switzerland's largest wine-producing region. Visitors can explore castles, hike panoramic trails, and indulge in regional specialties like Raclette and Valaisan wine.

 

Reasons to Visit

  • Iconic Matterhorn and other famous peaks
  • Thriving wine culture
  • Authentic Swiss cuisine and traditions
  • Excellent hiking and skiing infrastructure
  • Historic towns with castles and museums

 

Things to Avoid

  • Ignoring weather forecasts in mountain areas
  • Underestimating sun exposure at high altitudes
  • Forgetting to book cable cars and trains in advance during high season

 

Did You Know?

Valais produces over 50% of Switzerland's entire wine output, and it's home to the longest glacier in the Alps: the Great Aletsch Glacier.

 

Cool Valais Stats

  • 45 mountains over 4,000 meters
  • Over 300 days of sunshine per year
  • 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Biospheres

Accessibility Level: High

Valais offers excellent public transport options, accessible mountain resorts, and accommodations with facilities designed for travelers with disabilities.

Recommended Age Group

Canton of Valais is most suitable for Adults and Seniors due to its focus on scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences.

  • Babies (0-2 years): Suitable with care; some trails and cable cars are baby-friendly.
  • Kids (3-12 years): Suitable with many family-friendly activities.
  • Teens (13-19 years): Recommended for adventure sports and exploration.
  • Adults (20-64 years): Highly recommended for hiking, wine tours, and scenic towns.
  • Seniors (65+): Highly recommended for accessible sightseeing and wellness options.

Address:

Canton of Valais, Switzerland

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Basic Info

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COUNTRY & Region

Switzerland,
Europe
High
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LOCAL CURRENCY​

Swiss Franc (CHF)
Safety Level icon
Price level icon
High
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Recommended Duration

• 1-7 days
• More than a week

Electricity

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Electricity

220-240V,
50Hz
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Plug Type

• Type C (Round pin)
• Type J (Three round pins)
Plug types
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Things To Do In Canton of Valais

Total: 1

Activities To Do In Canton of Valais

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Canton of Valais is June to September for hiking and December to March for skiing.

  • Spring (March–May): Melting snow and blossoming orchards; pleasant for lower-altitude walks.
  • Summer (June–August): Perfect for hiking, festivals, and alpine lake visits.
  • Autumn (September–November): Wine harvests and colorful landscapes.
  • Winter (December–February): Snow-sport paradise with lively winter markets.

Remember to check the weather forecast a few days before the trip and before heading to the airport.

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SAFETY Level

Safe. Canton of Valais, home to resorts like Zermatt, is considered safe. Standard precautions are recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.

The rating is based on multi-year peace, crime, and security indices. Before you go, always verify current conditions through official government travel advisories.

Spoken Languages

The main languages are French and German; English is common in tourist areas.

Learn The Language

  • Hello — Bonjour (French) / Hallo (German)
  • Thank you — Merci / Danke
  • Please — S’il vous plaît / Bitte
  • Excuse me — Excusez-moi / Entschuldigung
  • How much is it? — Combien ça coûte? / Wie viel kostet das?
  • Where is the station? — Où est la gare? / Wo ist der Bahnhof?
  • I would like… — Je voudrais… / Ich möchte…
  • Goodbye — Au revoir / Auf Wiedersehen

Deals, Money-Saving & Best Value Tips

Price level is Premium: Valais offers luxurious experiences, but savvy travelers can still find value.

  • Use guest cards provided by hotels for free transport and discounts
  • Buy wine directly from small producers for savings
  • Take advantage of combo passes for lifts and attractions
  • Book accommodations and ski passes early to secure better deals
High

Price levels are estimates based on multi‑year averages. Actual prices can change with season, exchange rates, and special events. Always confirm current rates and deals before booking.

Check out our traveling coupons and make your trip more affordable

We couldn't find specific tips for Canton of Valais

Food & Drink Highlights

Local Food Overview

The Canton of Valais boasts a rustic and hearty culinary tradition, deeply rooted in its Alpine landscape. Key ingredients include creamy local cheeses, mountain-cured meats, rye bread, chestnuts, apricots, and rich wines. The flavors are bold yet simple, emphasizing freshness and high-quality regional produce. Meals often follow a communal style, with warm dishes like raclette shared among family and friends. Influences from neighboring Italy and France add refinement to traditional Swiss mountain cuisine, making dining here a rich cultural experience.

Must Try Dish

Raclette du Valais AOP - Raclette du Valais AOP is a semi-hard cheese made from Alpine cow’s milk, designed to be melted and scraped over boiled potatoes, pickles, onions, and dried meats. Dating back to medieval herders who melted cheese over open fires, Raclette has become an enduring symbol of Valais hospitality. It’s best experienced in mountain restaurants or traditional inns such as Château de Villa in Sierre, where diners can sample multiple varieties of raclette cheese from across the canton.
Raclette du Valais AOP

Food Experiences

No food experience found

GetReady

Plan your trip seamlessly with our trusted partners and expert guidance. Follow these steps to book everything you need or connect with a local tour guide for personalized support

Step 1: Find the Perfect Accommodation

Explore a wide range of hotels, boutique stays, and vacation rentals to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. From luxury options to cozy family stays, find the best place for your trip.

Step 2: Book Your Flights

Secure the best flight deals for your destination. With our trusted partners, booking flights is quick and hassle-free.

Step 3: Let a Tour Guide Help

Not sure where to start? A professional local tour guide can create a customized itinerary or assist you in planning your trip. Make your journey seamless and stress-free.

Step 4: Rent a Car

Travel at your own pace by renting a car. Whether you’re exploring cities or embarking on a road trip, find reliable and convenient car rental options.

Step 5: Get Travel Insurance

Protect yourself and your loved ones with comprehensive travel insurance. Our partners offer plans to cover every aspect of your journey.

Step 6: Need a Visa?

Check visa requirements for your destination and apply quickly with trusted services. Simplify the process and ensure you’re ready to travel without delays.

FAQs

Sion is a great base for history lovers, while Zermatt is ideal for mountain adventurers.
Yes! Public transportation is excellent with trains, buses, and cable cars easily connecting destinations.
Raclette du Valais, cured meats, apricots, and world-class wines.
Yes, many alpine resorts offer spas, thermal baths, and wellness packages.
The wine harvest typically takes place from late September to October.
Skiing can be pricey, but early booking, guest cards, and combo passes offer good deals.

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