Weather by Month - Zurich
Temperature Comparison
The biggest temperature swing occurs between October and November, with a change of 6°C.
Jan
COLD
Feb
COLD
Mar
COOL
Apr
COOL
May
MILD
Jun
MILD
Jul
WARM
Aug
WARM
Sep
MILD
Oct
COOL
Nov
COOL
Dec
COLD
| Month | Low Temperature | High Temperature | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | | | cold |
| February | | | cold |
| March | | | cool |
| April | | | cool |
| May | | | mild |
| June | | | mild |
| July | | | warm |
| August | | | warm |
| September | | | mild |
| October | | | cool |
| November | | | cool |
| December | | | cold |
Rain & Sunshine Patterns
Driest Months
#1 February
Best for: outdoor activities & sightseeing
#2 March
Best for: outdoor activities & sightseeing
#3 January
Best for: outdoor activities & sightseeing
Wettest Months
#1 May
Expect: possible showers, pack waterproofs
#2 July
Expect: possible showers, pack waterproofs
#3 August
Expect: possible showers, pack waterproofs
UV & Sun Protection Calendar
High UV Alert:
April, May, June, July, August require serious sun protection.
Jan
2
LOW-MOD
Feb
3
MODERATE
Mar
5
MODERATE
Apr
6
HIGH
May
7
HIGH
Jun
7
HIGH
Jul
7
HIGH
Aug
7
HIGH
Sep
6
MODERATE
Oct
4
MODERATE
Nov
3
LOW-MOD
Dec
2
LOW-MOD
Extreme (11+)
Avoid sun during midday, use SPF 50+
Very High (8-10)
Essential sun protection required
High (6-7)
Use SPF 30+, wear hat & sunglasses
Moderate (3-5)
Sun protection recommended
Low-Moderate (1-2)
Minimal protection needed
Low (0)
No protection required
Daylight Hours
Daylight varies from 8.5 hours in December (winter) to 15.9 hours in June (summer), which is a difference of 7.4 hours.
Shortest Days
December
8.5h
Average Sunrise:08:04
Average Sunset:16:37
Plan daytime activities for midday when light is best. Early sunsets mean evening plans should account for darkness.
Longest Days
June
15.9h
Average Sunrise:04:29
Average Sunset:20:22
Extended daylight perfect for evening activities and late dining. You can fit more sightseeing into each day.
Wind & Humidity Overview
Wind Conditions
Average wind speed
Windiest months:
March (8 km/h)
February (8 km/h)
January (7 km/h)
Packing tip: Conditions are generally calm, but a light layer is always handy.
Humidity Levels
Average humidity
78%
Most humid:
November (85%)
Least humid:
April (73%)
Packing tip: Choose breathable, natural fabrics like cotton or linen for comfort in humid conditions.
Seasonal Overview
Northern Hemisphere seasons shape the weather patterns throughout the year. Here's what to expect in each season:
Winter
January, February, December
Avg High 5°C
Avg Low -1°C
Avg Rain 82 mm
Cool weather; bring layers and a jacket
Spring
March, April, May
Avg High 14°C
Avg Low 4°C
Avg Rain 97 mm
Warming trend with frequent showers; pack waterproofs
Summer
June, July, August
Avg High 23°C
Avg Low 14°C
Avg Rain 118 mm
Comfortable temperatures; enjoy outdoor activities
Autumn
September, October, November
Avg High 14°C
Avg Low 7°C
Avg Rain 88 mm
Wet season begins; bring rain gear
Monthly Details
Click any month for detailed weather information and packing advice.
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View Best Time to VisitFrequently Asked Questions
When is Zurich warmest?
July is typically the warmest month in Zurich, with average high temperatures reaching around 24°C (75°F). This is peak summer weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
When is Zurich coldest?
January is usually the coldest month, with average low temperatures dropping to around -2°C (28°F). Pack warm layers if visiting during this time, especially for evening activities.
When does Zurich get the most rain?
May typically sees the most rainfall in Zurich, averaging around 124mm (4.9 inches). It's wise to pack waterproof layers and have some indoor backup plans if you're visiting during this month.
What is the driest month in Zurich?
February is typically the driest month, with average rainfall of just 69mm (2.7 inches). This makes it an excellent time for outdoor exploration and activities with minimal risk of rain disruption.
How much does the temperature vary in Zurich throughout the year?
Temperatures in Zurich range from average lows of 6°C (43°F) to highs of 14°C (57°F). This variation means you'll want to pack differently depending on when you visit—layers are key for adapting to the seasonal changes.
Do I need sun protection when visiting Zurich?
Yes, sun protection is important in Zurich. UV levels can reach 7 during peak months, which is considered high. Pack sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses, and a hat, especially if you'll be outdoors for extended periods.