Ice Hockey World Championship 2026 in Switzerland: Zurich, Fribourg – and so much more in between

In May 2026, Switzerland will become the meeting point for the international ice hockey elite for just over two weeks: the IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship is coming back – loud, fast and emotional. And the best part: with two host cities, the tournament is ideal to combine with a discovery trip through Western Switzerland and the Swiss Plateau.

The key facts at a glance:

• When? 15 to 31 May 2026
• Where? Zurich (Swiss Life Arena) and Fribourg (BCF Arena)
• How many teams? 16 national teams
• How many games? A total of 64 games

Zurich brings big-city energy and international flair; Fribourg wins you over with charm, proximity and that typical “everything is within walking distance” feel. Two arenas, two atmospheres – and the same World Championship pulse everywhere.

Why the 2026 tournament is especially worth extending

If you are already travelling for the World Championship, it is well worth adding a few extra days. Because between Zurich and Fribourg, there is not simply “transit”, but one of Switzerland’s most varied regions – ideal for day trips or a couple of additional nights before the first puck drop or after finals weekend.

Here are a few ideas for how you can combine ice hockey and Swiss experiences in a well-balanced way:

Murten: postcard-perfect old town and lakeside time

Murten is perfect for a relaxed World Championship day without a game. Stroll through the old town lanes, walk along the town walls, and then treat yourself to a coffee with a view of the lake. After an intense overtime night, Murten is exactly the right place to slow down again.

Neuchâtel (Neuenburg): a Riviera feel by the lake

On Lake Neuchâtel, many things feel a little more southern: the light, the waterfront promenade, the presence of the water everywhere. The old town is compact and charming – perfect if you want to consciously take the pace down between two matchdays.

Yverdon-les-Bains: lake, history and wellness

Yverdon-les-Bains combines a lakeside setting, historic character and – depending on what you are looking for – a feel-good programme with thermal baths. If your legs (and your voice) are tired from cheering, it is an ideal addition to your World Championship stay.

Bern: UNESCO old town, the Aare and capital-city flair

Bern is a day trip that is worth it even if you only have a single day. Explore the arcades, the Federal Palace and the loops of the Aare – and enjoy everything from cosy to modern when it comes to food. A day trip is easy to slot in and still feels like a highlight of its own city break.

Example itinerary for your World Championship trip

Your trip around the 2026 tournament could look like this:

• 2–3 days in Zurich: attend games and explore Zurich (lake, old town, culinary hotspots, viewpoints)
• Continue to Fribourg: experience games and enjoy the atmospheric old town
• In between, 1–2 day trips: Murten or Bern (or both, if you like)
• To finish: Neuchâtel or Yverdon-les-Bains for lake time and relaxation

The Ice Hockey World Championship 2026 is not just a sporting event – it is an invitation to experience Switzerland between Zurich and Fribourg as part of the journey: two host cities, 16 teams, big emоtions – and in between, places that can make your stay noticeably richer.