Lucerne Weather in January
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.
Rainfall in Lucerne in January
Expect fewer clouds and less rain as the month goes on. This makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities, even though the temperatures are on the cooler side. Historically, January sees about 15 days of snow/rain, with a monthly average of 118 mm (4.6 in). Rainfall intensity is on the higher side this month. Expect more substantial showers rather than light, passing rain.
Temperature in Lucerne in January
Expect highs of 4°C (39°F) in Lucerne in January, with nights dropping to around -2°C (28°F). The month of January belongs to the winter season. It stays very cold throughout much of the day, so warm winter clothing is essential. With overnight lows of -2°C (28°F), temperatures fall below freezing at night. An extra thick blanket can make a real difference if your accommodation runs cold. This month tends to bring the coldest weather of the year, so be sure to pack enough warm clothing to stay comfortable.
Sunshine in Lucerne in January
The city usually sees around 48 hours of sunlight, indicating fewer sunny days.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.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Switzerland, check out our Lucerne's climate page.
Lucerne Temperature in January
Min Temperature
-2°C (28°F)
Max Temperature
4°C (39°F)
Chance of Rain
48%
Precipitation
118 mm (4.6 in)
Rainy days
15 days
Humidity
78% *
Sunshine
48 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
35% *
Daily Historical Temperatures
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).
Average temperatures in January
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
Historical weather for Lucerne in January
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.
Lucerne historical weather extremes in January
According to our 25 years of weather records for Lucerne, the following extremes were recorded between 2000 and 2025.
- The hottest January day on record in Lucerne reached 18°C (64°F) (January 10, 2015).
- On January 25, 2000, Lucerne saw its coldest January day with temperatures maxing out at -8°C (18°F).
- Nighttime temperatures dropped to -12°C (10°F) on January 1, 2002, marking the coldest January night on record.
- The heaviest January precipitation occurred on January 22, 2018, when 33 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation fell.
Best Places in Switzerland in January
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 →
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What to Wear in Lucerne in January
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.What To Do in Lucerne in January
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Switzerland, check out our Lucerne's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Lucerne climate overview or explore weather in Switzerland.
