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.
January in Lucerne brings low temperatures, with highs of 4°C (39°F) and nights dropping to -2°C (28°F). It's also the driest month of the year, ideal for those who want to avoid rain.
If you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures, January may not be the ideal month to visit Lucerne. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Lucerne - and find the best time to visit.
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Lucerne typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 4°C (39°F). Nights are very cold, with lows around -3°C (27°F).
51-year average (1976-2026)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Browse day-by-day weather records for Lucerne spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
According to our 25 years of weather records for Lucerne, the following extremes were recorded between 2000 and 2025.
Find out more about the weather in Switzerland and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Switzerland in January →
Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).
Cold weather calls for smart layering in January. A thermal base layer makes a huge difference in staying warm. Add a wool sweater or fleece, then a wind-resistant outer jacket. Prepare for significant rainfall with proper waterproof clothing and shoes. You can probably leave your sunglasses at home, because sunny days are pretty rare this month.
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Lucerne climate overview or explore weather in Switzerland.
Where to go in January - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
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.
You'll love this Mountain roller coaster
Hotel Oeschinensee’s mountain coaster is a summer toboggan that you want to add to your bucket list. You'll get in your cart, sit down and fly across the track while enjoying the beautiful mountain scenery around you.
The Verzasca Valley
You can visit the Verzasca Valley in any season. It's an amazing place for swimming and it is a paradise for hikers. A must see for the bucket list.
Balloon at Chateau D'oex
If you are looking for a special place to visit in Europe in January we recommend visiting the annual balloon festival in Château-d'Oex, Switzerland.