Switzerland Weather & Climate: Monthly Averages

The weather in Switzerland varies greatly because it has four different climate types. The highest areas have an Alpine climate, the medium-high areas a cold continental climate, and the lower parts (in the north-west) have a temperate continental climate. The tip of Switzerland, which borders Italy, even has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers.

Precipitation and Sunshine

Precipitation is around 1000 mm (39 in) per year. Every year, there is more precipitation in the western part of Switzerland since it is closer to the Atlantic coast. The average amount of sunshine per year is approximately 1700 hours. As a general rule, the temperature drops about one degree Celsius with every 200 meter (656 ft) elevation gain.

Winter Conditions

In winter, it is quite cold and gray in large parts of Switzerland. In the mountain areas above 2000-2500 meters (6561 - 8202 ft), it is regularly extremely cold. In the Alps and Jura, it freezes almost the entire day, and there is a fair amount of snowfall. During strong depressions in the winter months, large amounts of snow can fall in a single day. The major winter sports areas in Switzerland are almost one hundred percent covered in snow from December through April.

Best Time to Visit Switzerland

The overall best travel time for a hiking vacation in Switzerland is from May to September. The highest temperatures occur in July and August, with maximum temperatures around 25°C (77°F). Because the chance of thunderstorms is higher in July and August, the period from May to the end of June is best suited for hiking or other outdoor activities.