Public holidays by canton in Switzerland ¦ Experis

Switzerland has between 9 and 13 public holidays per year, depending on the canton. Only one day is nationwide: August 1st (National Day). All other holidays are determined at the cantonal or municipal level.

National public holidays 2026:

• New Year’s Day: January 1, 2026
• Good Friday: April 3, 2026
• Easter Monday: April 6, 2026
• Ascension Day: May 14, 2026
• Whit Monday: May 25, 2026
• Swiss National Day: August 1, 2026
• Christmas Day: December 25, 2026
• St. Stephen’s Day: December 26, 2026

Cantonal overview (number of public holidays in 2026):

• Ticino (TI): 13 holidays (highest)
• Valais (VS): 12
• Lucerne (LU): 12
• Solothurn (SO): 12
• Zurich (ZH): 9
• Geneva (GE): 9 (lowest)
• Vaud (VD): 9

Practical notes:

• If you start a new job, the public holidays of the workplace apply (not those of your residence)
• Paid public holidays: in most cantons yes, but not always mandatory
• Bridge days: not automatically granted, depends on employer policy
• Religious holidays (Good Friday, Ascension, Whit Monday) are more common in Protestant cantons

Frenquently Asked Questions

Q: How many public holidays does Switzerland have on average?

A: On average, 10 to 11 public holidays per year. The exact number depends on the canton.

Q: Which canton has the most public holidays in 2026?

A: Ticino (TI) with 13 holidays, followed by Valais (VS), Lucerne (LU), and Solothurn (SO), each with 12.

Q: Are public holidays always paid in Switzerland?

A: In most cantons, yes—provided they fall on a working day. Exact rules are specified in the employment contract or collective agreement.

Q: Which holidays apply to my IT job?

A: The canton where you work applies, not where you live. For remote work, the employer’s registered office usually applies.

Q: Are there additional bridge days?

A: Bridge days are not mandatory and depend on the employer. Many tech companies offer them as a goodwill benefit.