Best of Both Worlds: Summer in Greece vs. Summer in Switzerland

Whenever someone from Greece asks about visiting me in Switzerland, I always suggest they come during the summer. Likewise, whenever friends from Switzerland plan trips to Greece, my advice is the same: visit in summer! It might sound contradictory, but there’s a good reason: Swiss summers are beautiful and relatively dry (though “dry” here means it still rains quite a bit!), and Greece is… well, Greece. For me, it’s forever my number one summer destination. Spending summers anywhere else just doesn’t feel right, and honestly, I doubt it ever will. However, since Switzerland has become my home away from home, I’ve discovered incredible activities here too.

In this final post, I’m sharing the best summer experiences from both my beloved Greece and my adopted Swiss home. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural discoveries, these activities will help you create the perfect summer memories.

Switzerland: Nature, Adventure, and Relaxation

• Lake Activities: Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) at Lake Brienz is unbeatable, with stunning turquoise waters surrounded by majestic mountains.
• Alpine Lake Hikes: Combine hiking with a refreshing swim and picnic at beautiful spots like Oeschinensee or Seealpsee. These day trips offer fantastic views and perfect summer vibes.
• Forest Barbecues: Enjoy grilling in one of Switzerland’s numerous public barbecue spots nestled within forests or parks, creating a cozy outdoor gathering with friends.

• • Aare Float: One of the best Swiss summer experiences is floating down the Aare River from Thun to Bern. Bring an inflatable boat, some snacks, music, and great company, and let the river carry you on a relaxing 3.5-hour journey.

• Adventure Parks: For thrill-seekers, adventure parks offering ziplining and rope courses scattered across Switzerland promise adrenaline-filled fun surrounded by lush nature.

Greece: Discovering Hidden Gems

• Kalamata: Not an island, but equally enchanting. Kalamata features beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and authentic Greek experiences, all at affordable prices.
• Kythera: A hidden gem at the crossroads of the Aegean and Ionian Seas, Kythera enchants visitors with its dramatic cliffs, charming villages, waterfalls, and secluded beaches—perfect for those seeking peace and untouched beauty.
• Amorgos: Ideal for campers and nature enthusiasts, Amorgos is famous for its traditional Greek festivities, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere.

• Syros: Just a short 3 hour ferry ride from Athens, this small yet vibrant island blends culture, stunning architecture, and lovely beaches into one memorable destination.
• Skopelos: Looking for tranquility? Skopelos, where “Mamma Mia!” was filmed, provides lush landscapes, serene beaches, and picturesque villages perfect for a quiet escape.

Wherever you choose to go, both Greece and Switzerland offer unforgettable summer experiences. Embrace these adventures, and you’ll see why I’ve fallen in love with the unique charm of each country. Happy summer and thank you for following along in this adventure!

Thank you for following along this fun journey, I hope I helped you even a tiny bit to feel at home even when you are away from home. Make sure to check out my previous posts here:

• New in Switzerland? The Ultimate Survival Guide for Expats
• Chasing the Sun: How a Greek Navigates Swiss Winters
• Cultural Shocks: Adjusting to Swiss Life 
• A Bite of Home: The Ultimate Spanakopita Recipe
• Balancing Act: Managing Work, Studies and Personal Life as an Expat
• Spring Sunday Reset: Making Sundays in Switzerland Feel Like Home

• Greek Easter: A Celebration of Tradition, Family, and Going Back Home (+Video)

Just as every beautiful sunset marks the close of a memorable day, this final post marks the end of an amazing chapter. Thank you for following along on this journey—here’s to many more adventures ahead!

All Images taken by the author.