The Best Time to Visit Switzerland

See Also

• Premium Lodging in Switzerland Ideal for Families
• Switzerland with Children

When is the Best Time to Visit Switzerland?

Winter and summer are outstanding occasions to visit Switzerland as the mountainous nation is well known for both skiing and climbing. January and February are perfect for skiing with temperatures beneath freezing, making snow practically ensured in spots around 5,000 feet in elevation. There is likely to be snow in lower valleys yet not in such huge amounts.

• Best time for sightseeing in Switzerland: The most pleasant time for sightseeing is mid-April through mid-October when the weather is warm. To avoid the largest crowds while still enjoying a decent chance of fair weather, plan to go at either end of that timeframe, mid-April through May or mid-September through mid-October.
• Best Time to Visit for Good Weather: For warm weather with the lowest probability of rain, plan to visit Switzerland in July or September. Temperatures generally range from the low to upper 20s, with an average of 80mm of precipitation, significantly less than June or August.
• Best Time for Winter Sports: Switzerland is famed for skiing and snowboarding, with the best snow typically in January and February, although the initial high-elevation slopes typically open in November and close in March.
• Prime Period for Hiking: When all the snow has melted, Switzerland is a premier spot for hiking trails. By late April or early May, routes up to around 6,500 feet in elevation should be mostly clear of snow, although some paths can be muddy. By June, while the highest trails may still have snow, most will be accessible, and the cable cars will be operational again too. Hiking is generally possible through early October and sometimes longer, but higher trails can be covered with snow by mid-to-late October. This is usually when cable car services conclude and mountain pass roads start closing for winter.

Switzerland Travel Seasons

• Throughout mid-June through mid-September, mid-December through February represent High Season for Switzerland, basically the peak of summer and most of winter, starting just before Christmas stretching through February due to hiking and snow sports popularity here. This is when you’ll encounter the largest crowds and highest yearly prices for accommodation and airfare.
• Transition Season (Mid-April through mid-June and mid-September through mid-October): The transition season in Switzerland occurs from the middle of spring until just before summer and around the first month of fall. It can be a great time to enjoy hiking with pleasant temperatures and small crowds. You may find some discounted airfare and accommodation rates too.
• Low Season (mid-October through mid-December and mid-March through mid-April): The slower period in Switzerland occurs outside of peak hiking and skiing times, but it provides a chance to visit with more affordable airfare and room rates possible. While the weather may be damp and chilly, there will likely be significantly less physical proximity when enjoying the sights.

Switzerland Weather by Month

• Weather Conditions in Switzerland During January: The temperature varies across locations in January, the coldest month of the year in Switzerland, though on average Zurich sees highs of just 2°C with lows dipping below freezing to -2°C at night. Most areas will see at least a light dusting of snowfall except in the lower elevation locations near Italy such as Ticino. Days are short with sunrise around 9 a.m. and sunset at 5 p.m., requiring planned itineraries. Winter clothing including thermal layers, down jackets, gloves, wool socks, and waterproof boots is recommended during this time. Average precipitation is 70mm over 15 days in January, so some wet weather can be expected.
  (Average maximum temperature: 2°C. Average precipitation: 70mm.)
• Switzerland Weather in February: February introduces warmer climate to Switzerland with the afternoon high increasing four degrees to 6°C now. With the low still at -2°C and the quantity of precipitation about an equivalent at 70mm over 13 days this month, it’s usually snowy. The days are getting longer now, so you’ll have more daylight for appreciating the slopes and the sights, with nearly 11 hours by the end of February when sunrise is at just after 7 a.m. and sunset at 6:08 p.m. Pack a comparable ensemble as last month, with plenty of layers topped with a warm coat. Because you’re likely to experience more bright, sunny days, be certain to bring sunglasses and don’t neglect the sunscreen either.
  (Average high temperature: 6°C. Average precipitation: 70mm.)
• Switzerland Weather in March: Springtime is almost here now and with it, even warmer temperatures with the mercury rising to 11°C in the afternoon and the low temperature now above freezing at 3°C. If you’re hoping to ski, you’ll still be able to find snow at the higher-elevation resorts together with the increasingly warm rays of the sun, at minimum until late in the month. By the end of March, most ski resorts will have closed. Now is the time to not only pack those warm layers but a few short-sleeve shirts alongside sunscreen and sunglasses.
  (Average maximum temperature: 11°C. Average precipitation: 70mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Switzerland During April: Temperatures have climbed to a point where skiing and snowboarding are unlikely to be worthwhile options. It’s a quieter time in Switzerland, as skiers and snowboarders have departed for home, while summer’s hikers have yet to arrive. The average maximum temperature rises further to around 15°C although nights and early mornings will remain quite cool with minimums of approximately 3°C. As the month progresses temperatures will increase more. It’s advisable to bring a mixed selection of clothing suitable for both chilly and warmer conditions. As rainfall typically occurs on approximately 18 days during this month, delivering around 70mm of precipitation on average, you may want to include a waterproof outer layer. When hiking outdoors, there’s a reasonable chance of observing colorful wildflowers at this time, so be sure to keep an eye out for them in meadows.
  (Average maximum temperature: 15°C. Average precipitation: 70mm.)
• Switzerland Weather in May: The conditions in Switzerland during May can be unpredictable. It may be rather pleasant or miserable, however whatever the current climate tends to change the next day. The average afternoon high is 20°C while the low has notably increased too, to 7°C, well above freezing. There is a greater risk of rain, around 90mm over 17 days, so bring a wide selection of clothes along with a waterproof jacket and sunglasses is advised.
  (Average maximum temperature: 20°C. Average precipitation: 90mm.)
• Switzerland Climate in June: June is liable to be pleasantly warm with the normal high climbing to 21°C, and the days wonderfully long. On the summer solstice, June 21st, the sun rises at about 5:30 a.m. and doesn’t set until almost 9:30 p.m. This month is the calm before the storm, with the chance to get out on the trails before peak crowds arrive in July and August. There is a greater chance of rain, with the average precipitation increasing to 110mm over 18 days so be sure to pack a waterproof jacket along with clothing that can be layered. It will still be cool on those early morning hikes with the low temperature at 11°C but afternoons will likely be quite warm.
  (Average Max Temperature: 21°C. Average Precipitation: 110mm.)
• Switzerland Weather in July: July represents the peak of summer, a time when some of the largest crowds and warmest temperatures are commonly experienced. The daily high climbs to 24°C while precipitation diminishes quite significantly down to 80mm across 17 days. It’s the ideal time to enjoy open-air festivals, hike through the mountains, and make the most of the lakes, which become popular places to hang out and escape the heat. Carry summer attire now, along with a light jacket or sweater for evenings and early mornings.
  (Average maximum temperature: 24°C. Average precipitation: 80mm.)
• Weather in Switzerland for August: While the average high remains the same as the prior month at 24°C, in many areas temperatures seldom dip under 30°C for extended periods, making lake swimming a particularly popular activity now. There is more rainfall now though, especially in the first half of the month, which can provide some cooling relief. And nighttime lows around 13°C means not having to worry excessively about becoming overheated after dark. Bring lightweight summer attire, like a swimsuit along with a lightweight, waterproof jacket.

(Average Max Temperature: 24°C. Average Precipitation: 120mm.)

• September weather in Switzerland: September provides a wonderful time to be in Switzerland, with thinning crowds and temperatures remaining relatively warm, especially in the month`s first half. Average highs dip to 20°C but expect warmer conditions earlier in September upon arrival. Rainfall decreases to 80mm now, with less likelihood as the month progresses. The low is a mere 10°C so a variety of clothing for both warm and cool weather should be brought.
  (Average high temperature: 20°C Average precipitation: 80mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Switzerland During October: It will have a crisp and cool feel in October, and with summer departed while snow is still weeks away, it’s an excellent time to visit Switzerland to avoid large crowds. The maximum temperature averages only 14°C and the minimum falls even lower to 7°C, so be sure to dress warmly. Rain is always possible but usually light, with 70mm of precipitation over 21 days now. Plan to wear layers for both warmer and colder days along with chilly early mornings and nights. With the time adjustment this month, plan for shorter days too. By late October, the sun rises slightly after 7 a.m. and sets at 5:11 p.m.
  (Average high temperature:14°C. Average precipitation: 70mm.)
• Switzerland Weather in November: November marks the potential start of the winter season with some ski resorts opening, especially at higher elevations. However, it’s not guaranteed as snow may not fall anywhere until early December. The average afternoon high is now just 7°C and the low is slightly above freezing at 2°C. It’s time to pack your winter clothing now, preparing for potential snow by bringing a heavy, waterproof coat, wool socks, gloves, waterproof boots, and other necessary items.
  .

(Average high temperature: 7°C. Average precipitation: 70mm.)

• Weather in Switzerland in December: Another of the coldest months of the year in Switzerland, there is a good chance of snow with temperatures consistently below freezing at -1°C and an average of 70mm of precipitation over 16 days. It’s a wonderful time to visit here to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and the Christmas markets that give many towns an especially magical atmosphere. Just plan to dress warmly with suitable cold weather gear, and sip warm drinks between activities to stay toasty.

(Average high temperature: 4°C. Average precipitation: 70mm.)

Switzerland Events and Festivals

Switzerland in January

• New Year’s Day – January 1 is a nationwide holiday in Switzerland, with most businesses closed, although there are usually some shops and restaurants open. It’s a day to relax and recover from the fun festivities the night before.
• St. Berchtold’s Day – St. Berchtold’s Day falls on January 2, a public holiday in 15 cantons where locals receive the day off and most companies close. Folks often gather at pubs, eateries, and other dining spots to enjoy meals while exchanging good wishes for the new year. A parade known as the Barzeli still occurs in the canton of Aargau, where participants don masks and costumes symbolizing wisdom, fertility, ugliness, maturity, and vice.
• Second New Year’s Celebration – In the mountainous Appenzell region of northeastern Switzerland, locals observe a custom that has them marking the start of a new year for a second time in mid-January following the Julian calendar. During this time, costumed New Year`s Eve roving bands called Silvesterchlause travel from door to door playing bells and yodeling songs while wishing everyone prosperity and good fortune throughout the year. Larger towns may see parades and other cultural happenings as part of the celebrations.
• The World Snow Festival – Annually in Grindelwald, this event brings sculptors from all over the planet for 6 days. The artists transform ice into artistic works following an established theme that can be viewed throughout the snowy town until they melt.
• International Hot Air Balloon Festival – In late January each year in the town of Château-d’Oex in Gstaad, the renowned nine-day hot air balloon festival is hosted. It brings balloon pilots from numerous different countries and spectators from all over the globe. A spectacle to witness, the colorful forms float over the snow-capped peaks, usually against a backdrop of a bright blue sky.

Switzerland in February

• Held on the first three Sundays of February in St. Moritz, White Turf features international jockeys and thoroughbred horses from across Europe competing in races across a frozen lake.
• Valentine’s Day – February 14th is celebrated with bouquets, boxes of chocolates, and gifts of lingerie in Switzerland. Hotels and restaurants regularly host special meals and other events. Flowers are most common in the German- and French-speaking parts of Switzerland while cuisine rules in Italian-speaking areas.
• Tschaggatta – This unusual Swiss festival features oversized masked figures that surprisingly roam the streets of various villages starting on Candlemass, the Catholic holiday until Shrove Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday. They appear suddenly wearing masks, chasing onlookers and children while tossing soot on unsuspecting victims. The village of Lötschental is most renowned to experience Tschaggatta.

Switzerland in March

• Basel Fasnacht – For around seven hundred years now in the city of Basel, thousands of locals gather in the cold hours before dawn waiting for the four rings of the city`s clocktower to signal the beginning of this three day carnival. Participants don colorful disguises and masks and march through parades accompanied by wind instrument orchestras, including piccolos.
• Chalandamarz – On March 1 annually, the traditional folk custom of Chalandamarz is celebrated, symbolizing the long-awaited spring season. Schoolchildren dress in brightly colored costumes, parading through towns and villages in Graubunden.
• Fuchstival – On a Saturday around the first day of spring, this ski and snowboard festival hosts popular bands in the family-friendly ski resort town of Grüsch-Danusa, entertaining attendees with rock and pop music.
• Interlaken Music Festival – One of the most significant happenings on the classical Swiss music party timetable, this occasion brings chamber and symphony music performances to different venues, like the Congress Center Kursaal Interlaken. It begins in late March and continues through much of April.

Switzerland in April

• Morges Tulip Festival – Hosted along the shores of Lake Geneva in the city of Morges at Parc de L’Independance, this annual floral celebration occurs throughout the month of April starting on or around the 1st. It features an impressive display of over 120,000 tulips in over 300 diverse varieties as well as daffodils and hyacinths. Visitors can purchase food and drinks from a marquee tent and enjoy various family-friendly special events held most weekends during the festival period.
• Sechseläuten – For 4 days in mid-April, the Swiss city of Zurich holds their traditional spring festival as an annual highlight event. Members from all the guilds dress in costumes to celebrate the arrival of spring, with the focal point being the burning of a straw figure called Böögg that represents winter. It features a colourful children`s procession as well as a parade with over 3,500 costumed guild members including 350 riders and 30 brass bands leading 50 horse-drawn wagons to the bonfire where Böögg awaits.
• Easter – Throughout Switzerland there are numerous events commemorating Easter. If in Nyon on Lake Geneva, don`t miss the colorful fountain decor enhancements showcased. On Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, much of Switzerland will see closures. The most striking celebration for Easter may be the parade and living drama in Mendrisio, held on Easter Sunday.

Switzerland in May

• May Day – May 1 is May Day, a public holiday in 10 cantons where the general public are given the day off. Most enterprises will be closed.
• Cheese Festival – Held annually on the first Sunday of May in the medieval town of Gruyeres, Switzerland, this festival celebrates cheeses from the local region and beyond. Some highlights involve sampling alpine fondue, watching wheelwright craftspeople demonstrate their art, and witnessing the production process for Gruyere cheese.
• Ascona Music Festival – This prestigious chamber music festival takes place near Lake Maggiore in the town of Ascona, celebrating music`s finest with internationally renowned musicians set against a stunning backdrop.
• Ascension Day – In Beromünster, a sacred observance for Ascension Day takes place at first light each morning. Costumed riders orbit an open area on horseback pursued by an oversized group of spectators garbed in customary costumes on parade with banners, melodies, and vocal melodies. The activity is supplemented by the numerous pilgrims assembling to engage in the festivities. Numerous schools and open workplaces all through Switzerland will be closed or have lessened hours to respect their traditions.

Switzerland in June

• Ascona Street Artists Festival – For four days in late May to early June, this festival brings actors, dancers, mimes, jugglers, balancers, musicians, clowns, fire breathers, and more to Ascona Old Town. There are hundreds of free shows and performances.
• Fête de la Musique – In Geneva, this celebration occurs yearly for three days around the summer solstice. Musicians from around the world perform across more than 50 stages showcasing genres from rock and pop to classical orchestras to French and world music. As streets close for the event, public transit provides the best access.
• Hill Ascent Event – Usually held in late June with the specific date reliant on atmospheric conditions, this provides the opportunity to witness approximately 500 cows trekking up Engstigenal in the early dawn. Starting at 5 am, viewers can take the train to the Alpine region to enjoy sunrise and find a spot welcoming the cows completing this strenuous journey.

Switzerland in July

• Montreux Jazz Festival – For two consecutive weeks in early July, Montreux hosts the largest jazz festival in all of Europe. It highlights both up-and-coming musicians and world-renowned jazz and blues artists, with numerous free performances.
• Rosenfest Weggis – This long-running summer occasion happens yearly in Weggis over the primary end of July along the shores of Lake Lucerne. There are fireworks, the crowning of the Queen of Roses, processions, music, dancing, a marketplace, and children’s activities.
• Gurten Festival – Over 4 days in mid-July, this festival highlights more than 60 live acts and DJ performances set against a backdrop of beautiful scenery in scenic Bern. Represented musical styles include rock, pop, soul, R&B, punk, electro, hip hop, country, and blues performed by both national and international performers.
• Paléo Festival – This six-day annual musical gathering is hosted in Nyon. Switzerland`s largest open-air concert event and one of the primary ones on the calendar in mainland Europe, its final performance includes a spectacular fireworks show.

Switzerland in August

• Swiss Patriotism Day – Occurring on August 1, this public vacation day signifies Swiss identity. Many companies and services will be closed on this date, though celebrations include parades, fireworks displays, barbecues, bonfires and more. Youngsters march through streets bearing paper lanterns as citizens light candles in windows. The largest festivities take place at Ruetli Meadows on Lake Lucerne.
• Locarno International Film Festival – Held annually in August, this event brings approximately three thousand film professionals, one thousand journalists and around one hundred sixty thousand cinema-goers to the small picturesque town of Locarno near the Italian border on Lake Maggiore. It offers all kinds of films and formats, without limitation, becoming the world capital of auteur cinema over eleven days.
• Neighborhoods of the World – Celebrate Chicago’s diverse ethnic cultures with traditional live music, dance, cuisine, and crafts from places like China to Poland to Brazil. This recurring event takes place each Sunday from mid-February through March at Navy Pier.
• Zermatt Folklore Festival – Over a weekend in mid-August each year, this festival is dedicated to Swiss tradition, bringing colorful costumes, yodeling, music, and dance to the lovely village of Zermatt. The highlight is the Sunday parade along the Bahnhofstrasse which includes over 1,000 participants.

Switzerland in September

• Hosted in the canton Valais, Switzerland’s largest wine-growing region, it is the biggest wine fair of the year, offering the chance to sample many different types of Swiss wine.

” VINEA Le Salon Wine Fest

• Oktoberfest – Events commemorating Oktoberfest will take place throughout Switzerland in September and October, including in Bern which hosts festivities over 2 consecutive Fridays. Activities include live music performances, operation of a beer garden, and provision of various foodstuffs. Lucerne’s Oktoberfest features significant quantities of beer and traditional Bavarian comestibles.
• National Day of Remorse, Repentance, and Supplication – Celebrated annually on the third Sunday of September, this public holiday sees different denominations and faiths like Jewish, Muslim, Catholic, and Reformed uniting for prayer gatherings across Swiss cities. Many companies will be closed except in Geneva.

Switzerland in October

• Desalpe – In Canton Fribourg the returning home of cows from the Alpine pastures is known as Desalpe, which typically happens in early October or occasionally in late September. It celebrates the cows coming down from the high mountain grazing areas and is one of the most prominent of all traditional mountain events. There will be plenty of bell ringing, music, flag throwers, and cheese available for purchase.
• Lugano`s concluding outdoor festival of summer: Held over three days in early October, this celebrates local produce with ample food and drink. Highlights include eating stations called grottini, where attendees can sample a wide range of Ticinese specialties like polenta with stew plus Ticino wines. A parade, face painting, live music, and dancing also occur.
• Chestnut Festival – Taking place on the second Saturday of October, the Chestnut Festival occurs in Ascona. Visitors can sample chestnuts roasted over open flames by local vendors, in addition to chestnut-based delicacies such as cakes, honeys, and jams together with traditional regional foods and wines. Musical performances will be presented throughout the afternoon as well.
• Swiss Cheese Festival – The largest cheese market in Central Switzerland features 70 market stalls and a cheese breakfast, as well as a competition to determine who will be the Swiss champion with around 900 cheeses vying for the title across 2 separate categories. There will also be a dairy demonstration and opportunities to learn how to milk a cow.

Switzerland in November

• All Saints Day – All Saints Day is a public holiday in 15 cantons where Catholic influence is strongest, providing a day off for the general populace with most businesses closed. It’s a day to honor departed loved ones, with candles lit in cemeteries across the country.
• Onion Market – This traditional folk festival in Bern takes place on the fourth Monday in November. It brings 50 tons of onions artistically woven into braids along with stalls that sell traditional pottery, hot mulled wines, and a variety of foods.
• Christmas Markets – Christmas markets will open throughout Switzerland in the latter half of November, bringing holiday music and lighting, locally handcrafted items, roasted chestnuts, melted cheeses, mulled wine, and much more.

Switzerland in December

• Mass Brewers Festival – Highlighting ales from 30 local breweries belonging to the Massachusetts Brewers Guild, this event takes place on a Friday evening towards the end of the month. Ticket price includes unlimited samples of 100+ beers along with live music and snacks.
• Fete de L’Escalade – Held over three consecutive days around December 11 yearly, this marks the largest annual celebration in Geneva, commemorating the failed attempt by the Duke of Savoy to suddenly seize the city in 1602. Locals dress in period attire, parading through streets with drums and torches. Country markets, folk music and feasts are available in addition to a bonfire where attendees can stay warm while enjoying the traditional chocolate pot.
• Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day: December 24th through 26th are commemorated holidays in Switzerland, celebrating Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day respectively. Numerous businesses will have closed starting from the afternoon of the 24th as the Swiss observe Christmas with a festive meal. Exchanges of gifts may transpire on the 25th, January 1st, or 6th.
• New Year’s Eve – December 31st will bring festivities to celebrate the approaching year to urban communities across Switzerland, with Zurich facilitating one of the greatest, drawing in excess of 100,000 to the shores of Lake Zurich for live music, sustenance, drinks and fireworks at midnight.