Hi!

So, as stated above, I'm an American. Early 20s. This will be my first international trip and first solo trip. Switzerland is my dream destination and has been for many years. I decided it's time to finally bite the bullet, but I'm having a hard time deciding when/where to go.

I always saw myself going in December, as I'm obsessed with Christmas and am dying to be in a winter village-y place around the holiday season (the part of the US I am from does not get snow). Christmas markets would be a MAJOR draw

However, I found out that the destination that I was drawn to the most (Lauterbrunnen) is not ideal in the winter for those not interested in skiing. It seems that most of the trails are closed and there is little to do around the winter.

I'm not an advanced hiker, but the major reason I would visit Switzerland would be for scenic walks around natures (along with shops and village-y stuff)

Therefore, I'm basically asking if I should visit in December and live out my Christmas fantasies, but maybe visit other towns/cities instead? Or if I should visit Lauterbrunnen in, say, May and forgo the Christmas idea? Or would there be enough for me to do in Lauterbrunnen in December that I would be fine?

I'm open to any other village/town suggestions!

Note: I would fly into Zurich either way, so I'd definitely there no matter what. I plan on spending probably around 5 days, give or take a few. Am willing to visit as little or as many villages/towns/cities as possible

Thank!