What if you could do more than watch the pros race through the stunning Swiss Alps—you could ride the same roads yourself? The Tour de Suisse isn’t just a world-class cycling spectacle; it’s now an immersive experience thanks to the TdS Explorer.
In 2025, fans won’t have to settle for cheering from the sidelines. Whether you’re a casual rider, a weekend warrior, or a die-hard cycling fan, you can follow in the tyre tracks of the pros—on your terms, at your own pace. This is your chance to combine the thrill of elite racing with the freedom of exploration, all set against Switzerland’s most scenic backdrops.
Tour de Suisse: A Legacy of Cycling Excellence
Since 1933, the Tour de Suisse has stood as one of the most iconic stage races in professional cycling. Often seen as a key warm-up for the Tour de France, it’s a proving ground for some of the world’s best riders—and a showcase of Switzerland’s most stunning terrain. From alpine ascents and high-speed descents to technical time trials and unpredictable weather, it’s a race that tests every aspect of a cyclist’s ability.
Cycling History
Over the decades, the Tour has seen legendary battles between Ferdi Kübler and Hugo Koblet, celebrated Swiss champions whose names are still revered in the sport. Riders such as Pasquale Fornara, who holds a record four overall wins, and modern stars like Egan Bernal have all left their mark on this event.
But the real magic of the Tour de Suisse lies not just in its history or difficulty—it’s in how the race winds through everyday towns, mountain villages, and world-class landscapes. For fans, it’s an up-close view of the action. And for the first time, through the TdS Explorer, you can go from spectator to participant and follow the same routes in your own time.
Who Is the Event For?
Whether you’re a cycling fan chasing the thrill of the peloton or a leisure rider chasing breathtaking views, the Tour de Suisse now offers something for everyone.
For Spectators
The Tour de Suisse is a spectacular event to watch in person. The race travels through picturesque towns and dramatic alpine landscapes, offering countless opportunities to see the pros up close. Towns like Aarau, Chur, and Piuro come alive with excitement as the race passes, often with dedicated fan zones, live commentary, and a festive village atmosphere.
Mountain stages offer particularly memorable viewing: bring a cowbell, hike to a bend in the road, and experience the electric anticipation as the peloton winds its way up the pass. From roadside barbecues to finish-line sprints, watching the Tour live is a summer highlight for many Swiss families and visiting fans alike.
For Riders: The TdS Explorer
If spectating from the sidelines isn’t enough, the TdS Explorer invites you to become part of the action, on your terms. This free, non-competitive challenge lets cyclists of all abilities ride parts of the same route the pros race on.
From April to September, you can ride to official Explorer Checkpoints (located in the Tour’s host towns) and track your progress using a fitness app like Strava. Whether on a road bike, e-bike, or mountain bike, every visit earns you progress toward rewards and a deeper connection with the event.
It’s an ideal experience for:
- Casual riders seeking scenic adventures
- Cycling tourists planning a summer trip
- Families wanting an active holiday
- Weekend warriors looking to tackle iconic climbs like the Gotthard Pass
Unlike most sportive events, there’s no fixed start time, route, or distance you set the pace. You can ride one stage or chase all ten checkpoints. The experience is yours to define.
How the TdS Explorer Works – Ride It Your Way
The TdS Explorer isn’t your typical cycling event; it’s a self-guided challenge designed to make the Tour de Suisse experience accessible to everyone. Whether you’re riding solo, in a group, or with your family, this is your chance to follow in the tyre tracks of the pros without the pressure of racing.
Event Details
Official Website
Month
June
Number Of Days
8 Days Men (8 stages(
4 Days Women (4 stages)
Country
Switzerland
Entry Costs
Pro Riders/Teams Only
TdS Explorer (free) open event
Currency
Swiss Francs: 1 = £0.90 (Check)
(you can pay in Euros but your change will be Swiss Franks)
Visa Requirements
No
Carnets
What is a Carnet, The ATA Carnet, often referred to as the “Passport for goods”, is an international customs document that permits the tax-free and duty-free temporary export and import of nonperishable goods for up to one year
Hotel Cost
Range: ££ – £££££
Food Cost
£££ – £££££
Weather
- Average Temp : 12C (54F) to 72C (55F)
- Hours of Sunlight: 7 hours
- Average Rain: 100 + mm
Flights
- Daily
- Cost: £££ – ££££
Travel Advice
Useful Info
Related Rider Guides
How It Works
Participating is simple, flexible, and free:
- Register online at the official TdS Explorer portal.
- Connect your fitness tracker (Strava, Komoot, or another compatible app).
- Visit Checkpoints—these are the same towns and cities featured in the 2025 Tour de Suisse, from Küssnacht and Heiden to Chur and Piuro.
- Your rides are logged automatically, and you earn rewards as you tick off locations. You can visit by bike, e-bike, or even on foot.
You don’t need to follow the entire race route—just entering the designated town limits during your ride or walk is enough to trigger a checkpoint.
What You Get
The more locations you visit, the more you unlock. Prizes and achievements are awarded when you reach:
- 1 Checkpoint – Welcome reward
- 3 Checkpoints – Branded TdS gift
- 6 Checkpoints – Premium cycling item
- 10+ Checkpoints – Entry into prize draws and elite fan perks
And if you ride or walk to a stage town during the official race dates (June 12–21, 2025), you’ll get bonus Checkpoints and exclusive rewards.
Who’s Taking part?
While the TdS Explorer is still relatively new, interest is growing fast. In previous editions, thousands of cyclists from Switzerland and Europe took part, ranging from holidaymakers riding between lakeside towns to amateur cyclists tackling alpine stages for the challenge and the views. Because it’s open to all ages and fitness levels, participation is expected to grow significantly in 2025.
This isn’t just about completing a challenge—it’s about discovering Switzerland’s rich cycling culture, one town at a time.
Planning Your Tour de Suisse Adventure
Whether you’re heading to the next Tour de Suisse or planning a cycling trip around future editions, here’s some timeless advice to help you get the most out of your visit on or off the bike. You can read more on our bike box buying guide to make sure it is up to the job of protecting your cycling investment.
Getting Around Switzerland
- Public Transport Is Your Friend. Switzerland’s trains and buses are punctual, fast, and bike-friendly. A Swiss Travel Pass (or regional equivalents) gives you unlimited travel and often covers local buses and boats too.
- Carry a Bike Ticket. Most regional trains allow folded or boxed bikes for free; for open-frame bikes, you may need a small extra fee or reservation—especially on panoramic routes.
- Combine Ride & Rail. Use trains to shuttle you back from the top of a pass or between distant stage towns, saving your legs for the big climbs..
Where to Stay
- Base yourself near multiple stages. Alpine towns like Andermatt, Chur, or Meiringen often appear repeatedly on the route or are within reach of back-to-back stages.
- Book early. Accommodation fills fast once the official route is announced, especially in mountain villages and finish towns.
- Look for bike-friendly hotels. Many Swiss lodgings offer secure bike storage, repair kits, and laundry services, excellent for Explorer participants.
What to Bring
For spectators
-
- Foldable chair or mat
- Reusable water bottle and snacks
- Layers for changing mountain weather
- Cowbell (you’ll see why!)
For riders
-
- GPS or phone mount to follow your route
- Puncture repair kit (Alpine gravel = occasional flats)
- Lightweight waterproof gear
- Sunscreen and high-energy snacks
Be Flexible with Your Plan
The Tour often includes last-minute route changes due to snow, roadworks, or weather. If you’re chasing a particular stage or climb, keep an eye on local updates and have a backup option.
Experience More Than the Race
- Explore the host towns—many put on side events, markets, or concerts during race week.
- Visit local alpine passes or lakes when you’re not spectating or riding.
- Don’t overlook smaller stage starts—these offer close-up rider access, often with fewer crowds.
When to Plan
- Route announcements usually come in late winter or early spring. This is the best time to lock in accommodation and build your travel plan.
- TdS Explorer dates run from April to September, so you can still ride the routes even if you miss race week.
FAQ: Tour de Suisse & TdS Explorer
Can anyone take part in the TdS Explorer
Yes! The TdS Explorer is open to cyclists of all levels, whether you’re riding a road bike, e-bike, mountain bike, or even on foot. It’s non-competitive and designed to be flexible and inclusive.
Do I need to follow the full Tour de Suisse route to earn Explorer rewards
No. You only need to enter a host city or checkpoint town listed in the current year’s Explorer challenge. You can ride, walk, or use any human-powered method, no need to match exact pro routes or distances.
How do I track my progress in the TdS Explorer
Once you register, you’ll link your ride tracking app (such as Strava or Komoot). When you physically enter a checkpoint town while recording your ride, it logs automatically and counts toward your rewards.
Can I take part without being in Switzerland during race week
Yes. The TdS Explorer runs from April to September, so you can collect checkpoints before, during, or after the official Tour de Suisse. Bonus checkpoints are available during race week, but participation is open throughout the summer.
Is it possible to watch a stage and then ride part of the route on the same day
Absolutely. Many participants watch a stage start or finish and then ride sections of the same route later that day. Early morning rides or afternoon spins after spectating work well, just check local road closures in advance.
What should I bring if I’m spectating
Pack layers (Swiss weather changes quickly), a reusable water bottle, snacks, a hat or umbrella, and of course a cowbell. Many fans bring foldable chairs and claim a good spot hours in advance on big mountain stages.
Are e-bikes allowed in the TdS Explorer
Yes! The challenge welcomes e-bikes, making it more accessible to a wider range of riders. It’s about participation and exploration, not performance.
How many checkpoints are there in total
The number changes each year depending on the official race route. In 2025, there are 10 official checkpoint locations tied to stage towns. You can earn rewards after visiting 1, 3, 6, or all 10.
Getting Your Cycle There
If you opt to take your own cycle to partake in the TdS Explore of course make sure you use the Shokbox hard bike box. For more advice read our article on flying with your bike.
