Zürich

Zürich Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Zürich.

Climate overview of Zürich

Zürich has an oceanic climate and the weather is very changeable due to proximity of the mountains. The temperature is pretty low and large differences can occur between day and night. Therefore, always prepare for both hot and cold weather when you pack your suitcase. However, because Zurich is on the southern side of the mountains the temperature is almost always a bit higher than the average in Switzerland. And in summer the temperature can even rise to pleasant heights.

Summer is the best time to travel, although it can rain more. When you can settle for slightly lower temperatures, then you can choose to go in May, June and September with a lot less tourists around.

Zürich Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Zürich — and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Zürich

Visitors to Zürich can expect significant temperature changes throughout the year. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 25°C (77°F) in July, the warmest time of the year, to a chilly 5°C (41°F) during cooler months like February.

At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 14°C (57°F) in July to around -1°C (30°F) during February.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Zürich

Zürich is known for its substantial rain/snowfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1350 mm (53 in). Year-round, Zürich has a balanced climate with minimal variation in precipitation. The difference between the wettest month, June, with 140 mm (5.5 in), and the driest month, February, with 90 mm (3.5 in), is minimal. For more details, please visit our Zürich Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Zürich

Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Zürich. While July receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 7.7 hours, December marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 1.6 hours of sunlight per day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Humidity in Zürich by Month

Wind Speed in Zürich

Best Time to Visit Zürich

During May, June, July, August and September, Zürich experiences its most favorable weather, with temperatures between 20°C (67°F) and 25°C (77°F). These mild conditions make it an excellent time for a visit.

The weather does bring rainfall during this period, between 115 mm (4.5 in) and 140 mm (5.5 in).

Need help choosing your next travel destination? We offer a specialized tool that matches you with locations based on your weather preferences. Explore destinations that suit your climate preferences.

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Zürich

What is the best time to visit Zürich?

May, June, July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Zürich. In contrast, January, February, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions.

What temperatures can I expect in Zürich?

Daytime highs range from 5°C (41°F) in February to 25°C (77°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -1°C (30°F) to 14°C (57°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Zürich get?

Annual rainfall is around 1350 mm (53 in). June is the wettest month with 140 mm (5.5 in), while February is the driest with 90 mm (3.5 in).

How sunny is Zürich?

Zürich receives around 1,705 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 230 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 48 hours.

Zürich 3-Day Forecast

Zürich 3-Day Forecast

Zürich on the map

Zürich is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.

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