The climate and weather in Switzerland
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Switzerland is located in a temperate climate zone. It does not have very cold winters and very hot summers. Temperatures are therefore moderate and generally bearable. However, the weather and climate in Switzerland varies according to altitude.
The Atlantic Ocean influences the climate in the west and northwest. To the west, there is a mild, moist sea breeze. The southern part is influenced by the Mediterranean Sea. The Alps play a major role in shaping the climate. Not only do they divide the country into different climate zones, but they also act as a natural barrier between the northern and southern parts of the country.
In the north, annual rainfall averages 2,000 mm. In the south 500-600 mm of precipitation falls per year. The amount of precipitation increases during the summer. At an altitude of 1200-1500 m above sea level, precipitation falls as snowfall during the winter months.
However, winters without snow are quite common in the lowlands (some lower western parts). The Swiss winter has its own special characteristics, and one of its climatic characteristics is the Föhns, or gusty winds blowing from the mountains. Föhns usually appear in autumn or spring. They spread soft and dry air over the Alps.
The seasons vary greatly and changes have recently become more noticeable. Winters used to be cold and snowy. However, this is not always the case now, especially in the lowlands.
Also, many ski resorts can barely manage without artificial snow. Trees blossom and nature turns green in spring, but snow anomalies in April are no exception. Temperatures reach 30 degrees Celsius in the summer, but can sometimes be higher if the summer is very hot. In the autumn, the crops are harvested and nature takes on a different colour and prepares for winter. Depending on the altitude the temperature range can vary.
We strongly recommend bringing jumpers, comfortable walking shoes or boots, sunscreen, sunglasses, a compact umbrella or light mackintosh.
Two weeks before Christmas, the big cities like Geneva, Zurich, Bern, Lucerne come alive. December is ideal for spending the Christmas or New Year holidays with friends or family in Switzerland.
The height of the winter season (January to February) is recommended for those who love winter sports, winter pursuits and cosy trips to snowy towns. These months are truly winter months. It's pleasantly cold and the days get shorter.
Summer, like winter, is also popular with tourists visiting Switzerland. The height of the summer season lasts from July to August, when it is warm. Although there are also some hot days. Either time is ideal for visiting Switzerland.
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