Best Time to Visit Zurich

Zurich is an interesting vacation location that blends the refinement of an affluent lifestyle and premium brands with the simplicity of its breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you want to go shopping or admire the picture-postcard magnificence of its Alps, Zurich will not disappoint. Extravagance and simplicity coexist here. With that in mind, here’s an overview of the best times to visit Zurich to enjoy your trip.

When is the best time to visit Zurich, Switzerland?

So, when’s the best time to visit Zurich? The answer, of course, depends on your interests and what you want to do while you’re there. Are you interested in outdoor activities like hiking or skiing? Do you want to go shopping or attend an art festival? Are you looking to relax or experience the best food and drink Switzerland has to offer?

The finest months to visit Zurich are June through August, when normal temperatures, which typically range from the mid-70 degrees, allow for lake swimming. However, the pleasant summer weather also makes it the most costly time of year to travel. But because of the city’s closeness to the Swiss Alps ski slopes, hotel prices are still high in December, January, and February (the winter offseason).

You may be able to locate some affordable hotel prices if you go between March and May or between September and November, but bear in mind that Zurich becomes quite cold at these times of the year. It’s also perfect for those who want a good chance of seeing one of Europe’s most beautiful snow-covered landscapes.

Plan ahead of time for whichever season you choose to visit so that your vacation would be as enjoyable and pleasurable as possible.

Zurich in Spring | March – May

Spring is a great time to visit Zurich. The temperature starts moderate and rises steadily throughout the season, culminating in an average of 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius) in May. This also means you’re less likely to need a coat or jacket while exploring the city.

If you’re visiting during spring, it’s also worth noting that rain is common and sunshine is rare. If rain isn’t your thing, consider visiting during the summer instead.  So if you’re looking for a vacation where you can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities, springtime would be perfect for your trip. Additionally, this is when many hotels are at their cheapest rates, so there’s no better time to book a stay than now! As the temperatures start to rise, things will get busier with tourists flocking from all over Europe.

You’ll want to make sure you secure your hotel before they fill up as well as grab tickets for some of the most popular attractions. Since this is when tourists barely start trickling in, the city won’t be as crowded as in the summer months, and you might get some good deals on flights and hotels. 

Event Highlights in Spring

• Easter, is celebrated and observed as a public holiday in Switzerland, a predominantly Catholic country with a large Protestant population. 

Zurich in Summer | June – August

Zurich is the perfect destination for a summer vacation. The average temperature in June ranges from 18 to 24 degrees Celsius and is the most tourist-friendly time of the year. In July, temperatures rise to an average of 24 – 30 degrees Celsius, which means more sunshine and less rain.

There are many outdoor activities, as well as festivals and events happening all over the city, it is the prime time to get outdoors. Locals go outdoors in droves to attend the summer’s many festivities and to swim and sail on Lake Zurich. The number of tourists also increases during this period. As with any popular tourist attraction, be prepared for higher prices during these months.  As a result, lodging prices are greatest in June, July, and August, so make your reservations many months in advance.

Also, bear in mind that rain showers are common in the summer, so have an umbrella available. It can also become very warm in late August, so you’ll want to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water throughout the day if you are on a visit. 

Event Highlights in Summer

• Street Parade – The World’s Largest Techno Party in Zurich: Hundreds of thousands of electronic and techno music enthusiasts dance around Zurich’s lake basin during the Street Parade.
• Zurich Summer Festivals: There is usually something going on in Zurich during the summer, with open-air concerts, movies, and theater evenings.

Zurich in Autumn | September – November

Zurich has a fairly beautiful fall that doesn’t become too cold. When there aren’t throngs of people buzzing about, this is a terrific opportunity to explore the city at your own pace. Even if you cannot participate in all outdoor activities, you can still appreciate nature in a metropolitan setting. Autumn is cooler than spring, with temperatures ranging from 2 to 22 °C. Though the temperature may drop below freezing on occasion, this occurs more at the end of the season.

The rain lessens as the temperature drops, but it does not fully disappear. While the days are bearable, the evenings get much chilly. Snow does not arrive till the very end. The mountains will be cooler than the city, which may hamper your trekking intentions. Zurich’s autumn is often a complex experience.

It has a unique set of guidelines that will show you the greatest aspects of this energetic city during a less vibrant time of year. With so many nightclubs, Old Town and Zurich West are hot this season. You do not need to pre-book many tickets as there aren’t many crowds around. You can always shop around for great hotel discounts.

Event Highlights in Autumn

• Zurich Film Festival-The Zurich Film Festival gives a platform for the world’s most talented filmmakers.
• Zurich Blickfang-The worldwide design fair for fashionistas, design fanatics, and art collectors.
• Digital Art Zurich (DA Z) – The DAZ is committed to contemporary and socially meaningful contributions of digital avant-garde art genres.

Zurich in Winter | December – February

Subzero temperatures are common in Zurich during the winter. Temperatures range from -5 to 8°C. Zurich gets a lot of snow in the winter. With consistent sub-zero weather, the city and its surroundings can become extremely chilly.

There are several locations where you can discover good prices because the city is essentially devoid of tourists at this time of the year.  On average, there will be 4 hours of daylight each day, with the remaining hours being cloudy and overcast. Carry your thickest woolens for an added layer of protection against the cold. Wear tight, grippy shoes and shield your eyes from the glare of the snow.

In Zurich, winter is also a season for celebration. It ushers in  Christmas and New Year’s holidays. In December, people typically go skiing and ice skating, whereas January is filled with events and activities such as various types of snow sports, ice-sculpture competitions, sledge dog races, winter carnival parades, and more.

Event Highlights in Winter

• The ZüriCarneval, with its varied events, ensures outstanding Fascinating  experiences in Zurich.
• Samichlaus Schwimmen: a Zurich tradition that takes place in the beginning of December, in which over 300 people swim across the freezing-cold Limmat river to raise money for charity.

Summary & Final Thoughts. 

Zurich will welcome you in any season and offer you the type of experience you seek. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway with your significant other, a family vacation, or an adventure-filled ski trip with friends, Zurich has the perfect time for you.