Zürich Weather in January

January in Zürich averages 5°C (41°F) during the day and -1°C (30°F) at night. Quite a bit of snow/rainfall is typical this month, with around 92 mm (3.6 in) on average. An umbrella is a good idea.

Rainfall in Zürich in January

Expect around 15 days of snow/rain based on historical data, with 92 mm (3.6 in) average. Rain this month is fairly typical, a standard mix of wet and dry days with no particularly heavy or persistent showers.

Temperature in Zürich in January

January in Zürich brings typical temperatures with highs around 5°C (41°F) and lows of -1°C (30°F). January marks the winter season. It stays cool throughout the day, so warm layers are a good idea from morning to evening. With lows of -1°C (30°F), nights are freezing. Packing a spare blanket is worth considering if you're staying somewhere that might not be fully heated. It's generally the coldest month of the year, making it essential to pack warm layers and winter accessories.

Sunshine in Zürich in January

This month sees fewer sunny days, with about 61 hours of sunshine, perfect for those who enjoy cooler temperatures.

Wind Speed in Zürich in January

Average wind conditions reach 2 m/s (4 knots) in January. This creates comfortable weather with light winds that gently move vegetation. Keep in mind this is an average. Daily conditions range from near-calm to more noticeable wind.

Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. May, June, July, August and September typically offer the best weather for Zürich.

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Check the conditions for any month of the year.

• January
• February
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• May
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• September
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For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Switzerland, check out our Zürich's climate page.

Zürich Temperature in January

Min Temperature -1°C (30°F)  

Max Temperature 5°C (41°F)  

Chance of Rain 49%  

Precipitation 92 mm (3.6 in)  

Rainy days 15 days  

Humidity 83%  

Windspeed 2 m/s (4 knots)  

Sunshine 61 hours  

Percentage Sunshine 24%  

Daily Historical Temperatures

51-year average (1976-2026)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Zürich typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 5°C (41°F). Nights are very cold, with lows around -2°C (28°F).

Average temperatures in January

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Daily Historical Precipitation

51-year average (1976-2026)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in January

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Historical weather for Zürich in January

Browse day-by-day weather records for Zürich spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Historical weather Temperatures Precipitation

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‹ January February March April May June July August September October November December ›

Zürich historical weather extremes in January

Based on 25 years of weather observations in Zürich between 2000 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes.

• The hottest January day on record in Zürich reached 15°C (59°F) (January 10, 2015).
• Zürich experienced its chilliest January day on January 10, 2003, reaching only -7°C (19°F).
• Zürich registered its coldest January night on January 7, 2017, with temperatures dropping to -13°C (9°F).
• The heaviest January precipitation occurred on January 14, 2021, when 45 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation fell.

What to Wear in Zürich in January

We recommend to layer up for chilly conditions in Zürich in January. You could start with thermal underwear or a good base layer to keep your core warm on the cooler days this month. Maybe also add a sweater or fleece, and top it off with a windproof jacket. High rain levels are expected, so pack waterproof gear and an umbrella or poncho. With limited sunshine expected, sunglasses aren't a priority for packing.

What To Do in Zürich in January

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

Swimming

4/10

Cycling

3/10

Walking

3/10

Camping

1/10

Outdoor sports

3/10

Select a Month

Check the conditions for any month of the year.

• January
• February
• March
• April

• May
• June
• July
• August

• September
• October
• November
• December

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Switzerland, check out our Zürich's climate page.

More climate data for Zürich

Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed

See the full Zürich climate overview or explore weather in Switzerland.