Weather in Switzerland by Month: A Comprehensive Guide
Hi readers 👋,
Are you planning a trip to Switzerland and wondering about the best time to visit? The weather in Switzerland varies significantly throughout the year, so it’s important to pack accordingly. In this guide, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of the weather in Switzerland by month, helping you plan the perfect trip.
January: Cold and Snowy 🥶
January is the coldest month in Switzerland, with average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 5°C. Snow is common throughout the country, especially in the mountains. If you’re visiting during this time, be sure to pack warm clothes and sturdy shoes.
Things to do in January:
- Visit the Christmas markets in Zurich, Basel, and Bern.
- Go skiing or snowboarding in the Swiss Alps.
- Explore the picturesque winter landscapes on a snowshoe hike.
February: Still Cold, But Sunny ☀️
February is slightly warmer than January, with average temperatures rising to 2°C to 7°C. The weather is often sunny and crisp, making it a great time to visit for outdoor activities.
Things to do in February:
- Go ice skating on Lake Zurich or Lake Geneva.
- Visit the Kunsthaus Zürich, one of Switzerland’s most famous art museums.
- Take a romantic walk along the charming cobblestone streets of Lucerne.
March: Spring is in the Air 🌸
March marks the arrival of spring in Switzerland. Temperatures continue to rise, reaching an average of 5°C to 10°C. Flowers begin to bloom, and the landscape starts to turn green.
Things to do in March:
- Visit the Botanical Garden in Zurich.
- Go for a hike in the Emmental region, and admire the rolling hills and traditional Swiss chalets.
- Explore the charming town of Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
April: Blossom Time 🌺
April is the month of blossoms in Switzerland. The cherry trees in Bern, Zurich, and Basel burst into bloom, creating a spectacular sight. Temperatures rise further, reaching an average of 8°C to 13°C.
Things to do in April:
- Visit the cherry blossom festival in Bern.
- Go for a boat ride on Lake Lucerne.
- Explore the historic city of Basel, known for its museums and art galleries.
May: The Peak of Spring 🌿
May is the most beautiful month to visit Switzerland. The weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures of 12°C to 17°C. The landscape is lush and green, with wildflowers blooming everywhere.
Things to do in May:
- Hike to the summit of Rigi Mountain for panoramic views of the Swiss Alps.
- Visit the Swiss National Park, home to a diverse range of wildlife.
- Take a scenic train ride through the Bernese Oberland region.
June: The Start of Summer ☀️
June marks the beginning of summer in Switzerland. Temperatures rise to an average of 15°C to 20°C. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities, swimming, and enjoying the long summer evenings.
Things to do in June:
- Swim in Lake Geneva or Lake Zurich.
- Go hiking in the Swiss Alps.
- Visit the medieval town of Gruyères, known for its cheese-making tradition.
July: Mid-Summer Magic 🌞
July is the warmest month in Switzerland, with average temperatures of 18°C to 23°C. The weather is often sunny and hot, making it a great time to enjoy outdoor festivals and events.
Things to do in July:
- Attend the Montreux Jazz Festival.
- Visit the World Nature Forum in Sachseln.
- Go for a bike ride along the Rhine River.
August: Still Summery, But Cooler 🍁
August is still a warm month in Switzerland, but the temperatures start to cool down slightly. The average temperature range is 16°C to 21°C. The weather is often sunny and pleasant, making it a great time to visit the mountains or go for a hike.
Things to do in August:
- Hike to the summit of Mount Pilatus.
- Visit the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise for stunning views of the Matterhorn.
- Explore the beautiful town of St. Moritz.
September: Autumn Arrives 🍂
September marks the arrival of autumn in Switzerland. The weather becomes cooler and more unpredictable. The average temperature range is 12°C to 17°C. The leaves start to turn golden brown, creating a picturesque landscape.
Things to do in September:
- Visit the Rheinfall, Europe’s largest waterfall.
- Go for a hike in the Engadin Valley.
- Explore the historic city of Lucerne.
October: Crisp and Colorful 🍁
October is a beautiful month to visit Switzerland. The weather is crisp and cool, with average temperatures of 8°C to 13°C. The leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning autumn spectacle.
Things to do in October:
- Hike to the summit of Mount Stanserhorn for breathtaking views of Lake Lucerne.
- Visit the Swiss National Museum in Zurich.
- Explore the charming town of Zermatt, nestled at the foot of the Matterhorn.
November: Winter is on the Way 🌨️
November is a transitional month in Switzerland. The weather becomes colder and wetter, with average temperatures of 4°C to 9°C. Snow can start to fall in the mountains, making it a good time to visit for winter sports enthusiasts.
Things to do in November:
- Visit the Swiss Transport Museum in Lucerne.
- Go skiing or snowboarding in the Swiss Alps.
- Explore the Christmas markets in Zurich, Basel, and Bern.
December: The Magic of Christmas 🎄
December is a magical time to visit Switzerland. The weather is cold and snowy, with average temperatures of 0°C to 5°C. The country is adorned with Christmas decorations, and the air is filled with the scent of gingerbread and mulled wine.
Things to do in December:
- Visit the Christmas markets in Zurich, Basel, and Bern.
- Go skiing or snowboarding in the Swiss Alps.
- Spend a cozy evening in a traditional Swiss chalet.
Monthly Weather Table
| Month | Average Temperature (°C) | Precipitation (mm) | Sunshine Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 0-5 | 60 | 50 |
| February | 2-7 | 50 | 60 |
| March | 5-10 | 60 | 70 |
| April | 8-13 | 50 | 80 |
| May | 12-17 | 60 | 90 |
| June | 15-20 | 70 | 100 |
| July | 18-23 | 80 | 110 |
| August | 16-21 | 70 | 100 |
| September | 12-17 | 60 | 90 |
| October | 8-13 | 50 | 80 |
| November | 4-9 | 60 | 70 |
| December | 0-5 | 60 | 50 |
Conclusion
Switzerland is a beautiful country to visit year-round. The weather varies significantly throughout the year, so it’s important to pack accordingly. We hope this guide has given you a comprehensive overview of the weather in Switzerland by month. If you’re planning a trip, be sure to check out our other articles on Switzerland for more travel tips and inspiration.
FAQ About Weather in Switzerland by Month
What is the weather like in Switzerland in January?
Temperatures generally range between -1°C and 5°C. Expect frosty mornings and occasional snow.
What is the weather like in Switzerland in February?
Similar to January, temperatures stay around -1°C to 5°C. However, snowfall becomes slightly less frequent.
What is the weather like in Switzerland in March?
Temperatures start to rise, ranging from 2°C to 9°C. While snow may still occur, it becomes less common.
What is the weather like in Switzerland in April?
Daytime temperatures reach 10°C to 16°C. Expect occasional showers and potential thunderstorms.
What is the weather like in Switzerland in May?
Warmer temperatures prevail, ranging from 13°C to 20°C. Rain and thunderstorms become more frequent.
What is the weather like in Switzerland in June?
Summer begins with temperatures between 16°C and 24°C. Rain is common, especially in the mountains.
What is the weather like in Switzerland in July?
The warmest month, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 27°C. Expect sunny days and occasional thunderstorms.
What is the weather like in Switzerland in August?
Similar to July, August experiences temperatures between 18°C and 27°C. Rainstorms can be intermittent.
What is the weather like in Switzerland in September?
Temperatures gradually cool down, ranging from 13°C to 21°C. Expect a mix of sunny and rainy days.
What is the weather like in Switzerland in December?
Temperatures drop significantly, usually between -1°C and 5°C. Snowfall is common, especially in higher altitudes.
