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Weather Overview for Zurich

Situated in the northern area of Switzerland; Zurich features a rather temperate climate that is generally moderated by its proximity to the north western edge of Lake Zurich, its inland locality and the nearby northerly hills such as the Kaferberg and the Gubrist. Due to urbanisation and the presence of humid Atlantic breezes that enter the city from the west, Zurich ever rarely features severe weather extremes. Considering its geographical situation in a landlocked country, Zurich instead experiences much milder weather than what many people anticipate

Winter

As daytime temperatures hover around 2°C throughout the coldest month of January, climates by nightfall never fail to drop below freezing point and sharp frosts are most likely to form overnight. It is very common for snowy weather to occur during the winter months in Zurich therefore humidity and precipitation levels remain high. Winter is not exactly the most favourable time to visit Zurich as daylight hours are very low and sunshine hour’s average at two hours each day.

Spring

Daytime temperatures tend to warm up very quickly from February to March as the city starts to reach highs of 8°C and then 18°C by the end of May. Rainfall is still rather low during the springtime and sunshine hours rise to five or six hours each day by April. Spring provides an ideal Easter break as tourism throughout the city hasn’t yet hit its peak and the air surrounding the city always has a crisp and fresh feeling to it.

Summer

Summers in Zurich boast increased hours of daylight and sunshine signifying more parties and evening celebrations, commonly taking place between the months of July and August. The summer months in Zurich are certainly the cities peak season and many tourists from regions all over Europe flood the streets of the city centre as the warm and sunny weather make sightseeing all the more enjoyable. Temperatures during the summer peak at approximately 23°C however are known to climb higher for short periods when the sun is at its most powerful. Rainfall levels are also commonly higher in June and August therefore a look at the days forecast ahead is always a good idea.

Autumn

Autumn is a great time to visit Zurich particularly in September and October when temperatures remain reasonably warm and rainfall levels have died from the summer. Average temperatures during the autumn months range anywhere from 6°C to 19°C and sunshine levels don’t decline until the end of October. Areas such as the Lindenhof district and its many historic attractions are excellent to visit in the autumn once the crowds have decreased.