The climate of Switzerland: a description by month and interesting facts. When is the best time to go on vacation to Switzerland? What is the current temperature in switzerland
The weather by months is presented in the temperature table and in the reviews of tourists, in March in Zurich 10°C, Geneva 10°C.
Switzerland, or its other name, the official Swiss Confederation is a state in Western Europe. Switzerland borders on such European countries as Italy, Germany, France. The first associations that tourists have at the mention of Switzerland are reliable banks and expensive high-quality watches.
Switzerland is characterized by a typical Central European climate - continental. Fluctuations and variability of the temperature background depend on the height of the territory above sea level. In the eastern part of Switzerland, the climate takes on a shade of continental, with characteristic cool winters and warm summers. Winters are often characterized as cold, with temperatures below -10°C during the daytime, which can drop even further at night. In the summer season the air temperature is about +18+22°C, in the mountainous areas the temperature in summer is much lower.
For example, in Geneva, the climate is milder, the average temperature of January, the coldest month, is about +3°C. During the year, about 800-900 mm of precipitation can fall on the territory of Switzerland, in some places precipitation can fall in the amount of 2000 mm. Some areas of the mountains are constantly under the cover of ice and do not melt even with the approach of heat. Weather in Switzerland in April: Zurich 14°C, Geneva 14°C.
Despite the diversity of the Swiss climate, which is due to the mountainous landscape, the country is located in only one climatic zone - temperate continental which is typical for most European countries. And, this means pleasant warmth in the spring-summer period (about + 20-25 degrees) and moderate cold in the autumn-winter period.
Separately, it is worth noting only one region - the canton of Ticino, where the climate is close to almost Mediterranean. In the cold season in Switzerland, a warm, but quite strong wind often blows - Föhn .
Note to skiers. It is Foehn that is often the "culprit" of frequent snowfalls in the mountains.
Climate of Switzerland by region
Switzerland is rightfully considered a country with a "universal" climate, since there are neither severe frosts nor sweltering heat here. In fact, the country is open to tourists all year round: in any of the regions, everyone will find something interesting for themselves and the weather will not let you down.
Since a powerful alpine massif is located on the territory of the country, the climate in different regions has significant differences. Thus, the country can be conditionally divided into four holiday destinations: mountain-skiing, medical, rest on lakes and urbanistic (rest in cities).
Ski resorts are located mainly in the southern and southwestern parts of the country. Average winter temperatures in the mountains and foothill areas fluctuate between 8-10 degrees with a minus sign. In the summer, the temperature stops at the thermometer mark of 18-20 degrees. Precipitation in the mountains is abundant and reaches 2500 mm per year.
The largest resort cities in Switzerland - Zurich, Geneva, Lucerne are located in the northern, northwestern part of the country, where the climate is almost entirely dependent on the influence of the Atlantic. In winter, the air temperature in these parts of the country ranges from 4-6 degrees below zero, in summer - 18-26 degrees above zero. There is little precipitation - only about 800 mm per year, and most of them - in the spring and late autumn.
Tourist seasons in Switzerland
ski season in Switzerland it starts during the Christmas period and ends by the end of March (sometimes even by the beginning of April). Although, many ski resorts open their doors in November, with the advent of the first cold weather. Switzerland is rightfully considered the “queen” among countries suitable for winter holidays: it has an incredibly developed, state-of-the-art infrastructure for winter sports and just a respectable holiday in the mountains.
beach season in Switzerland it is rather short (from the beginning of June to the end of August) and implies a rest on the coast of lakes, of which there are a great many in the country. Despite the fact that almost all lakes are of glacial origin, millions of tourists annually come to the lakeside beaches, equipped, by the way, at the highest level. It is worth noting that on each lake the season begins at different times: for example, on Lake Geneva - in the second half of July, on Lugansk - in early summer.
Since the Swiss climate is exceptionally mild for a continental one, in the summer you can not only swim in the lakes (at the peak of the season the water warms up to +27), but also sunbathe. In addition, holidays on the Swiss lakes will not be passive: you will be offered numerous active entertainment like sailing, windsurfing, etc.
Concerning wellness recreation, then tourists visit the Swiss healing springs all year round. Each of the thermal resorts existing in the country offers millions of vacationers not only baths with hot water from healing springs: you can visit the Turkish bath, various gyms, and also have fun in numerous recreation areas.
Most often, therapeutic thermal complexes operate on the basis of hotels, which are located in picturesque places in Switzerland (at the foot of the mountains or the lake coast). Despite the year-round functioning of medical resorts, the period from mid-spring to early summer and the first month of autumn is considered the most successful for visiting them.
Separately, it should be said about urban and extreme recreation. Switzerland is famous for its numerous cultural and architectural monuments, incredibly beautiful ancient cities, an abundance of various museums and, of course, all kinds of outdoor activities that will appeal to the most ardent adrenaline lovers (climbing, canoeing, caving, etc.)
Clothes: what to bring to Switzerland
No matter how long you are planning your trip to Switzerland, stock up on warm clothes as the country has rather cool nights. In the mountains, for example, frosts are a frequent occurrence (albeit not very strong), and coupled with the famous Foehn, the feeling of cold increases many times over.
Spring in Switzerland is usually very warm and sunny.(especially in the southern part of the country). It can even be hot during the day, so make sure you have lighter things in your suitcase, and don't forget sunglasses and a hat.
For women, the issue of shoes is especially relevant. If you are planning an active holiday, then high-heeled shoes should be refrained from. In addition, if the trip is planned in early spring, then be sure to take warm shoes (including waterproof ones) and a comfortable demi-season jacket.
tourist flow
Every year Switzerland ranks among the top five most visited countries in the world. Despite the rather high prices, the country remains attractive to most representatives of European countries, especially Germans, British and French. Residents of Russia are also not averse to relaxing in excellent Swiss resorts.
Recently, there has been a trend towards an increase in the number of inhabitants of the Celestial Empire in the mountain resorts of Switzerland, who are attracted not only by the advantageous geographical position of Switzerland, but also by an acceptable (for the Chinese) price level (oddly enough).
If you are planning a trip to Switzerland, then you should be prepared for the fact that prices will be very high. Many tourists note that when they arrive in the country, they are initially shocked by the local prices, but gradually “flow” into the atmosphere and even feel the desire to spend a lot of money.
If the trip around the country will be long and long distances, then it makes sense to purchase a universal travel card - Swiss Travel Pass, the cost of which will be "beaten off" completely.
For those who like to drive a car, you can buy a car for rent, but keep in mind that only those who have reached the age of 21, who have an international license and a driving experience of at least 3 years can get behind the wheel.
Any tourist going on a trip to Switzerland should be aware of the things the country is famous for. These are cheese, chocolate, watches and penknives. Be sure to get yourself at least one memorable souvenir and try a traditional dish called "cheesefondu" - cheese melted in wine (white / red) with the addition of delicate spices.
Switzerland is famous for its castles, so be sure to visit at least one of them if medieval grandeur and history are not alien to you.
In general, in almost every city in the country you can find a large number of attractions, cultural places of recreation, culinary establishments with excellent cuisine, and much more.
Weather in the country by months
Despite the year-round tourist season, it’s probably worth starting from the winter period, since Switzerland is one of the most popular countries for lovers of ski holidays.
Winter in Switzerland
In December most often it is still worth waiting for snow and a pleasant frost - the air temperature will fluctuate within +4 degrees. But skiers can already pack their bags and prepare for the trip.
In January the high season begins at the ski resorts. The weather in the foothills is no more than -1 degrees, but high in the mountains there is a sharp decrease in air temperature to -15. With the advent of winter, active precipitation in the form of snow also begins. By the way, after the onset of Christmas, sales begin almost throughout the country.
In February the air temperature is gradually warming up, and if skiers are still skiing with might and main on the high-mountain slopes, then in the cities the snow is gradually melting, marking the beginning of winter carnivals, which are definitely worth visiting at least once.
Spring in Switzerland
In March spring is rapidly breaking into the country, giving the first warm rays of the sun. On some days, the air temperature can rise to +15, but in the mountains the ski season still lasts. True, in the first spring month, sudden snowfalls are still possible, which then also rapidly disappear.
In April the ski season ends, and the weather becomes warm in summer, reaching 23-24 degrees plus. But at the same time, sharp jumps in temperature down (for example, from +20 to +10) and sudden and cold rains are possible. The month of April is the time of the arrival of Easter, which all Swiss are looking forward to. May practically no different from April in terms of weather conditions.
Summer in Switzerland
June July- the warmest time in the country. With the advent of the first summer days, the beach season opens and crowds of vacationers pour out onto the lake shores. And, if in June the weather can still unpleasantly surprise with cool days, then by July a pleasant heat sets in, when the air temperature reaches 26-27 degrees. By the way, on July 1, sales begin throughout the country (even discounted price tags appear in outlets).
In August The weather is still pleasantly warm, and the water is suitable for swimming. But those who rest on Lake Geneva should be careful: there the water rarely heats up above 20 degrees, so it will always be cool. But in Luhansk, the water is the warmest - up to 26 degrees.
Autumn in Switzerland
September month in Switzerland is warm in summer, with little rainfall and no wind. The heat recedes and a pleasant warmth remains. But in October autumn gradually begins to assert itself: the first gusts of cold wind appear, the air temperature drops to +15 and the sun is increasingly hiding behind clouds.
November- not the best period for a holiday in Switzerland. The air becomes damp, the sky is cloudy, a real autumn cold is felt: the air temperature drops to 5-8 degrees. But the first resorts are already opening in the highlands, as fluffy snow lies in the mountains.
Weather in cities and resorts by months
Berne
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | sen | Oct | But I | Dec | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average maximum, °C | 3 | 5 | 10 | 13 | 18 | 22 | 24 | 24 | 19 | 14 | 7 | 4 | |
| Average minimum, °C | -4 | -3 | 0 | 3 | 7 | 11 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 5 | 0 | -2 |
arosa
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | sen | Oct | But I | Dec | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average maximum, °C | -0 | 0 | 3 | 6 | 11 | 14 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 9 | 3 | 0 | |
| Average minimum, °C | -6 | -7 | -5 | -2 | 3 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 5 | 2 | -3 | -5 |
Bad Ragaz
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | sen | Oct | But I | Dec | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average maximum, °C | 4 | 5 | 11 | 15 | 20 | 22 | 25 | 24 | 20 | 16 | 9 | 5 | |
| Average minimum, °C | -3 | -2 | 2 | 5 | 10 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 11 | 7 | 2 | -1 |
Basel
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | sen | Oct | But I | Dec | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average maximum, °C | 5 | 6 | 11 | 15 | 20 | 23 | 25 | 25 | 20 | 15 | 9 | 5 | |
| Average minimum, °C | -1 | -1 | 3 | 5 | 9 | 12 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 7 | 3 | 0 |
Gstaad
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | sen | Oct | But I | Dec | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average maximum, °C | 3 | 5 | 9 | 12 | 17 | 21 | 23 | 23 | 19 | 15 | 8 | 4 | |
| Average minimum, °C | -8 | -7 | -4 | -0 | 4 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 2 | -3 | -6 |
Davos
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | sen | Oct | But I | Dec | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average maximum, °C | -0 | 1 | 4 | 7 | 12 | 16 | 18 | 17 | 14 | 11 | 4 | 0 | |
| Average minimum, °C | -9 | -9 | -6 | -2 | 2 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 4 | 1 | -4 | -8 |
Geneva
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | sen | Oct | But I | Dec | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average maximum, °C | 5 | 6 | 11 | 15 | 20 | 24 | 27 | 26 | 21 | 15 | 9 | 5 | |
| Average minimum, °C | -1 | -1 | 2 | 5 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 11 | 7 | 2 | 0 |
Interlaken
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | sen | Oct | But I | Dec | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average maximum, °C | 3 | 5 | 10 | 14 | 19 | 22 | 24 | 24 | 19 | 14 | 8 | 4 | |
| Average minimum, °C | -4 | -3 | 0 | 3 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 6 | 1 | -2 |
Lausanne
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | sen | Oct | But I | Dec | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average maximum, °C | 4 | 6 | 10 | 14 | 19 | 22 | 25 | 24 | 20 | 15 | 9 | 5 | |
| Average minimum, °C | 0 | 1 | 4 | 6 | 11 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 9 | 4 | 1 |
Locarno
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | sen | Oct | But I | Dec | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average maximum, °C | 7 | 9 | 14 | 17 | 21 | 24 | 27 | 26 | 22 | 16 | 11 | 7 | |
| Average minimum, °C | 1 | 2 | 5 | 8 | 12 | 15 | 18 | 17 | 14 | 10 | 5 | 2 |
Lugano
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | sen | Oct | But I | Dec | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average maximum, °C | 7 | 9 | 13 | 16 | 20 | 24 | 27 | 26 | 22 | 17 | 11 | 7 | |
| Average minimum, °C | 1 | 2 | 5 | 8 | 12 | 15 | 18 | 17 | 14 | 10 | 5 | 2 |
Lucerne
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | sen | Oct | But I | Dec | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average maximum, °C | 3 | 5 | 10 | 14 | 19 | 22 | 25 | 24 | 19 | 14 | 8 | 4 | |
| Average minimum, °C | -2 | -2 | 1 | 4 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 11 | 7 | 2 | -1 |
Switzerland has a typical climate for central Europe with little temperature fluctuations and average rainfall (most of it in the form of snow). Throughout the year, it is quite windy in all parts of the country.
The mountains have a significant influence on the climate of the country, the Alps are located in the south of Switzerland, and the Jura mountains are in the north. Switzerland is famous for its rivers and lakes, which contain 6% of Europe's fresh water.
The best time for a sightseeing holiday in Switzerland: June-August
Ski season in Switzerland: December-March
Weather in Switzerland in summer
Summer in Switzerland is the best time for sightseeing holidays. The period is distinguished by a large number of sunny days, the hottest month is July, while the temperature rarely rises above +21 o C.
Weather in Switzerland in autumn and spring
The weather in autumn and spring is quite cool, the temperature stays at +5-10 o C, at this time there are few tourists in the country, which is a plus for many travelers. On the other hand, spring and autumn in Switzerland can be rainy and abrupt weather changes.
Weather in Switzerland in winter
In winter, Switzerland turns into the epicenter of skiing, the best months of the ski season are January and February. Good sunny days allow you to fully enjoy the hospitality of the country and the excellent infrastructure of winter entertainment, and Christmas markets create an atmosphere of comfort. The average winter temperature in the plains is 0 o C, in the mountains -5 o C.
Monthly weather in Switzerland
Average t (o C) during the day |
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September | ||||
When it comes to such a tourist-friendly country as Switzerland, such a trifle as the vagaries of the weather certainly does not matter at all, because it is equally good to relax here in any weather.
Glaciers and mountains
To begin with, let's give dry meteorological data: in Switzerland, a temperate continental climate dominates, which is characterized by constant temperatures, without bursts either up or down. Winters are mild, summers are warm, precipitation is observed in autumn and spring, but within reasonable limits. At the same time, it cannot be said that the weather is the same throughout the country - the basis of the relief of Switzerland is mountains (more than two-thirds of the state's area), so there is altitudinal zonation here: the closer to "sea level", the more uniform the weather in summer and winter, the higher the mountains, the sharper changes depending on the time of year await tourists.
An additional feature of the Swiss mountains is a large number of glaciers. In total about 2000 sq. km of the territory is covered with eternal ice caps - as many as 140 large separate glaciers. This is the best fit for skiers who know themselves cut through the snow expanses from November to May.
Climate of Switzerland
Switzerland belongs to the temperate continental climate region. But, of this country, it should be borne in mind that about 60% of its territory is occupied by mountains, so here you can get from winter to summer in two hours. The Alps are a kind of barrier that prevents the flow of cold arctic masses to the south, and warm subtropical masses to the north. In the northern cantons, winter is mild and lasts about 3 months: from December to February. At this time, the minimum temperature is -1...-4, the maximum +2...+5 degrees. In summer (from June to August) at night it is usually +11...+13 degrees, in the daytime the air warms up to +22...+25 degrees. There is quite a lot of precipitation throughout the year. Their maximum falls on the summer period (up to 140 mm per month), the minimum for the period from January to March (slightly more than 60 mm per month).
In the south, winter temperatures are almost the same, and summer temperatures are higher. The average minimum temperature is +13...+16, the average maximum temperature is +26...+28. There is more rainfall in this area. From March to November, more than 100 mm of precipitation per month falls here, and from June to August this amount approaches 200 mm. The least precipitation falls in January and February (about 60 mm).
The weather in the mountains depends on the altitude of the area. It is snowy in the highlands in winter. The temperature for most of the year (from October to May) is negative both at night and during the day. In the coldest months (January and February) at night the temperature drops to -10...-15, during the day - to -5...-10. It is warmest in July and August (2...7 degrees at night, 5...10 degrees in the daytime). The maximum snow height is observed, as a rule, in early April. At an altitude of 700 meters, it lasts 3 months, 1000 meters - 4.5 months, 2500 meters - 10.5 months.
Switzerland in winter
The advantages and beauty of winter Switzerland are what millions of skiers from all over the world flock to the country every year. And they are quite understandable: a comfortable temperature for outdoor activity from -5 to -10 ° C, an abundance of serene sunny days and voluminous, fluffy, but elastic snow cover are ideal for improving skiing skills, contemplative walks, and fun dog sledding. , and finally - for relaxed evenings on the balcony of the chalet under a blanket and with an obligatory glass of hot mulled wine. At the same time, in Geneva, the temperature does not drop below +3 °C, which will make even heat-loving natures feel comfortable.
This is interesting: Plain Switzerland is periodically shaken by weather anomalies - for example, the Swiss remember photographs of Lake Geneva under huge ice caps and the “thorny sculpture” of the frozen Jet d’Eau fountain.
Switzerland in spring
Spring Switzerland is a rather flexible concept: in the mountains in March-April, and sometimes even in May, they still ski with might and main (thanks, we recall, glaciers), while the valleys gradually wake up from hibernation, dress up in cheerful greenery, and closer to summer they delight eye with floral multicolor. Going to Switzerland in the spring for ski resorts, you should prepare for a comfortable temperature of about +2 ° C in March, +5 ° C in April and +10 ° C in May, again depending on the altitude and the presence of ice “litter”. It is still quite chilly on the lake shores in early spring, damp cold winds are possible, so in March-April you should not count on temperatures above +10 °C. But in May, the approach of summer is tangibly felt here: from +15 ° C on a thermometer, on especially warm days - and all +20 ° C. Bathing, however, will have to be postponed for the summer months, the water is literally icy, but nothing prevents you from spending time with health benefits in the depths of spa centers.
Switzerland in summer
In summer, the beauty of Switzerland is unusually good, which even the most zealous fans of skiing, for whom the colder the better, cannot but admit. The shores of Lake Geneva, Lugansk or Zurich most of all resemble a picture from paradise - the water surface shines, the sun gives its gentle rays to vacationers, and the greenery around seems to be even more green and lush. Summer holidays in Switzerland are ideal for those who do not like the heat - the temperature here is the most comfortable: from +20 to +25 °C. The water temperature in the lakes, by the way, is in no way inferior to the Mediterranean one: in Geneva - a little lower, +20 ° C, in Zurich - +24 ° C.
Switzerland in autumn
This is interesting: September in Switzerland is almost no different from summer - autumn is in no hurry to come, and you can enjoy the warmth until October.
The temperature in the valleys is in no hurry to fall, holding steady at around +20 °C. But in the mountains, the cautious approach of the ski season is already felt: in St. Moritz, for example, the thermometer rarely exceeds +12 ° C. October is affectionately warm on the plateau: from +12 to +14 °C on average, and reminiscent of winter in the mountains: from +3 to +7 °C, where it begins to snow by this time. Well, in November it is already possible to get up on skis, while it is still not frosty in the air: comfortable +2 ° C. It’s not very comfortable to relax on the shores of the lakes: at +7 ° C and high humidity it quickly becomes dank here, but it’s quite pleasant to explore Bern, Lucerne, Geneva or Zurich.