Yodeling and the legendary jazz at Montreux are well known, but Switzerland’s music scene offers much more — especially during summer festival season. This year’s outdoor line-up showcases a wide range of international and homegrown talent across scenic venues.
From June 25–28, Open Air St. Gallen, the country’s oldest open-air music festival, returns with a strong roster. Headliners include electronic pioneers The Chemical Brothers and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, alongside emerging acts such as Yes I’m Very Tired Now. The event consistently blends big international names with promising newcomers, making it a must-visit for diverse musical tastes.
July 16–19 brings the Gurtenfestival in Bern. Perched on the Gurten mountain — accessible by funicular or a pleasant hike — the festival combines panoramic views with a varied program. This year’s lineup features artists like Faithless, Ellie Goulding and Patti Smith, offering everything from electronic beats to classic songwriting in an unforgettable setting.
Between Geneva and Lausanne, the town of Nyon hosts the Paléo Festival from July 20–26. A major fixture in the Swiss summer calendar, Paléo attracts big international acts alongside eclectic world and local music. Robbie Williams is among the scheduled performers this year. Festival pass holders also enjoy added benefits: complimentary access to Nyon’s open-air pool and free admission to several museums, including the Roman Museum, Musée du Léman and the Swiss National Museum.
Finally, Aug. 20–23 features Open Air Gampel in the picturesque Valais valley. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, Gampel has established itself as a highlight of the Swiss festival circuit. This milestone edition includes energetic performances from The Prodigy and German punk favorites Die Toten Hosen, ensuring a high-energy close to the festival season.
Across these events, Switzerland’s summer festivals combine striking natural backdrops with international lineups and local cultural perks, offering memorable experiences for music fans of every stripe.