The 5 most scenic train journeys in Switzerland
Explore Switzerland's top 5 train journeys, featuring breathtaking Alpine views and engineering marvels like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express.
Lucerne Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Lucerne.
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Climate overview of Lucerne
Temperatures in Lucerne, Canton of Lucerne, Switzerland, vary greatly throughout the year. July is the hottest month at 23°C (73°F), while January is the coldest at 4°C (39°F).
The city receives considerable rain/snowfall, with around 1870 mm (74 in) annually. July is the wettest month. It has a distinct rainy season from May to August, with warm summers and cold winters. July is the sunniest month, averaging 5.6 hours of sunshine per day.
Lucerne Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Lucerne - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Lucerne
The climate in Lucerne is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 23°C (73°F) in July to a chilly 4°C (39°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 13°C (55°F) in July to around -2°C (28°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Lucerne
Lucerne has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1870 mm (74 in) of rain/snowfall per year. Lucerne offers a pleasant mix of wetter and slightly drier months. The difference in precipitation between the wettest month July (206 mm (8.1 in)) and the driest month January (118 mm (4.6 in)) is not too significant. For more details, please visit our Lucerne Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Lucerne
For those who appreciate different seasons, Lucerne serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in July with an average of 5.6 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in December, offering only 1.2 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Data from: Altdorf, Switzerland (32 KM, 20 Miles).
Daily hours of sunshine
Data from: Altdorf, Switzerland (32 KM, 20 Miles).
Daily percentage of sunshine
Data from: Altdorf, Switzerland (32 KM, 20 Miles).
Humidity in Lucerne by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Lucerne.
The city experiences its highest humidity in December, reaching 80%. In April, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 66%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Data from: Altdorf, Switzerland (32 KM, 20 Miles).
Best Time to Visit Lucerne
Compared with the rest of the year, the most comfortable conditions in Lucerne are usually found in September. Conditions are generally least comfortable in January, February, March, April, November and December.
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
Jan
cold
Feb
wet
Mar
wet
Apr
wet
May
mixed
Jun
mixed
Jul
mixed
Aug
mixed
Sep
good
Oct
mixed
Nov
wet
Dec
wet
- Best overall: September
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: June and July
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct rainy season from May to August, with warm summers and cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -2°C (28°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Lucerne
What is the best time to visit Lucerne?
September typically offers the most optimal weather in Lucerne. In contrast, January, February, March, April, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Lucerne has a distinct rainy season from May to August, with warm summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Lucerne?
Daytime highs range from 4°C (39°F) in January to 23°C (73°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -2°C (28°F) to 13°C (55°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Lucerne get?
Annual rainfall is around 1870 mm (74 in). July is the wettest month with 206 mm (8.1 in), while January is the driest with 118 mm (4.6 in).
How sunny is Lucerne?
Lucerne receives around 1,385 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 168 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 36 hours.
Lucerne 3-Day Forecast
Lucerne on the map
Lucerne is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular in September
Where to go in September - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Zürich
20°C (68°F) Crans-Montana15°C (59°F) Engelberg
15°C (59°F) Nendaz15°C (59°F) Saas-Fee12°C (54°F) Davos13°C (55°F) Grindelwald13°C (55°F) Zermatt11°C (52°F) Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
The 5 most scenic train journeys in Switzerland
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