Switzerland monthly temperature. When is the best time to go on vacation to Switzerland? Low season in Switzerland

In Switzerland characteristic 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% fresh water Europe.

best time for sightseeing holiday in Switzerland: June-August

Ski season in Switzerland: December-March

Weather in Switzerland in summer

Summer in Switzerland best time for sightseeing. 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 becomes the epicenter skiing, best months ski season are January and February. Good sunny days allow you to fully enjoy the hospitality of the country and the excellent winter entertainment infrastructure, while Christmas markets create an atmosphere of comfort. average temperature in winter on the plains 0 o C, in the mountains -5 o C.

Monthly weather in Switzerland

One of the most influential banking centers, one of the most prosperous countries in the world, the owner of the best European ski resorts Switzerland is a small country in Western Europe, located in the heart of the Alps. Find out on the Tour-Calendar why the most favorable time to visit this mountain country consider the period from December to February and from May to September.

Tourist season in Switzerland

flawless ecological situation, breathtaking natural landscapes and the best ski resorts in Europe - these are not all the reasons for such a high tourist popularity of Switzerland, which annually attracts 10 million people. Switzerland is unimaginable without Geneva and Zurich, where the priceless artistic, musical and architectural treasures of Europe are stored, without first-class hotels with well-trained service, without a high level of medical care and excellent balneo centers, as well as regular summits and congresses of the highest level. In fact, everyone perceives Switzerland in their own way. For a millionaire, it is associated with comfort, reliability and respectability, for a simple layman - with the pristine beauty of nature and the stiff restraint of the population. Due to the favorable climate, holidays in the country are relevant throughout the year.

High season in Switzerland

First of all, Switzerland is the leading destination winter holiday, therefore, the lion's share of the tourist flow to the country falls on the height of the ski season from December to early March. This period coincides with the New Year and Christmas season. Pre-holiday turmoil reigns everywhere, and a premonition of magic is in the air. Travelers go equally to large cities and ski resorts. Fortunately, on the latter with "apre-ski" full order. It's no secret that holidays in Switzerland are suitable for the rich, or at least for people who are not very constrained in their means. So, in winter, even some of them can be jarred astronomical sums for accommodation and average check in a restaurant. In general, saving in Switzerland is a sign of bad taste. Another period of the high season in the country is the summer peak months, which are very popular for sightseeing tourism. Of course, in terms of the number of tourists, it is slightly inferior to the winter one, but in major cities there is no shortage of foreigners. There is also a very decent demand for recreation "in the bosom of nature" - at lake or thermal resorts. And this, of course, is immediately reflected in the pricing policy of hoteliers.

Low season in Switzerland

low season holiday in Switzerland falls on late autumn and early spring(excluding Easter week). Many ski centers are closed, but resort towns continue to receive tourists as before. The weather is not quite friendly, but there is no crowd, and travel agencies make great deals on tours. As for independent travel, the choice of place of residence will be the determining factor in pricing. Count on big discounts There are no hoteliers in the major cities of Switzerland. Demand is always high there, because the off-season period is typical only for tourism, and in the business world this is the most active time. It often becomes more profitable to book hotels with travel agencies that buy rooms in advance at attractive prices, rather than on all kinds of booking platforms. But here you need to look at the situation. Also, it will not be superfluous to follow the special offers for tickets, often arranged at this time by some airlines.

The best time for excursions

Switzerland is the charm of old cities, the splendor of over 1000 castles, an abundance of museums and galleries, as well as winding paths along charming alpine meadows. Switzerland is a true adventurer's paradise: climbing, paragliding, canoeing and more. Speaking about this country, quite often we have to use the word "most", since it is here that the "world's most terrible bridge", "the world's largest lake", "the world's largest ice grotto" and much more are located. himself." When is the best time to plan an acquaintance with the country? I must admit that at the height of summer there are a lot of tourists in Switzerland, so if there is an opportunity to postpone your vacation to other dates, we advise you to use it. April, May and June are excellent times for city sightseeing tours, in September and October you can safely go to mountain passes (often they are still covered with snow until mid-June). In the south of Switzerland, abounding in subtropical vegetation, you can also go in late autumn due to the mild climate throughout the year.

Beach season in Switzerland

One of the most popular holiday destinations in Switzerland is relaxation on the country's numerous lakes, despite the fact that most of them are of glacial origin. Lakeside beaches, as well as ski resorts, are equipped at the highest level. The beach season on Lake Geneva lasts from mid-July to August. And on Lake Lugansk and Lake Maggiore on the border with Italy, they begin to swim in the first days of June. Here, in the midst of summer, the water warms up to +26 °C. Due to the subtropical climate uncharacteristic for the country and protection from the winds by the high slopes of the mountains, take sunbathing in the south of the country it is possible even in September-October. By the way, on Swiss reservoirs, rest is unlikely to be passive. Activities such as yachting, windsurfing, golf, etc. are available here.

Ski season in Switzerland

Switzerland boasts the most respectable ski resorts in the world and the best ski schools for both adults and children. Holidays in the Swiss Alps are considered truly elite, so don't be surprised if you have to share the track with some famous top model or popular pop star. Here it is business as usual. The mass opening of the skiing season begins a week before Christmas, although a number of ski resorts receive their guests as early as the last days of November. The closing of the season falls on mid-March - mid-April. However, some high-mountain stations and several ski centers on alpine glaciers operate until the summer itself. Cultural life in the resorts of Switzerland is in full swing. In addition to interesting show programs offered by local restaurants and entertainment venues, the season is always marked by interesting competitions and holidays. For example, in mid-January Grindelwald hosts the “Festival snow sculptures”, the International Curling Championship “Bull-Trophy” is expected in the same month. And in Zermatt in April for a three-day music Festival"Zermatt Unplugged" flocks a lot of world pop stars.

Wellness season

In Switzerland, there is an increase in the tourism sector related to wellness holidays. The Swiss are the healthiest nation in the world, it is not for nothing that millions of tourists choose their country, visiting numerous balneological resorts every year. Absolutely in every thermal complex there are baths with hot water from healing springs, a hammam, a gym, a water park, medical offices and entertainment industry establishments. As a rule, such thermal complexes operate on the basis of hotels located in the most secluded corners of the country, on the shores of picturesque lakes or surrounded by Alpine mountains. They function throughout the year, but the best time to visit them is the second half of spring, early summer and early autumn. Wellness centers at ski resorts are in great demand, of course, in winter.

Time for holidays and festivals

The Swiss holiday calendar easily stretches over the whole year. The most significant state and religious dates include: December 6 - St. Nicholas, December 25 - Catholic Christmas December 26 - St. Stephen, December 31 - St. Sylvester or New Year, January 2 - St. Berthold, late March - early May - Easter, August 1 - Confederation Day or Swiss National Day, August 15 - Assumption of the Virgin Mary, November 1 - All Saints Day. It is impossible to imagine Switzerland without rich folklore traditions, ritual festivals and Alpine celebrations. However, as a rule, in each canton they have their own - the multinationality of the country affects. Therefore, to mention all of them, unfortunately, will not work. But we will try to list the most ambitious ones. In mid-February - early March, a real carnival madness called "Fasnacht" is going on in Basel. The holiday opens on the Monday after Ash Wednesday and is a large costumed procession to the accompaniment of a musical orchestra. The Swiss capital also follows carnival traditions. Only carnival in Bern does not start on Monday, but on Thursday, immediately after Ash Wednesday. Its main symbol is the Bernese bear, which opens the holiday. The culmination of the fun takes place on Saturday, on this day a grandiose parade is arranged, in the evening, a chic theatrical performance and a gala concert await the audience. The third Monday of April in Zurich is the traditional spring festival "Six Rings", which marks the meeting of spring. The apogee of the celebration is the public burning of a straw effigy. Summer is the time for festivals. So, in the first days of July, tens of thousands of people flock to Montreux to enjoy jazz music at the Montreux Jazz Festival, a little later, the mountain resort of Verbier delights the ears of its visitors with classical music for two weeks.

Climate in Switzerland

In general, we can say that Switzerland is dominated by a continental climate type. However, different regions are characterized by large amplitudes of temperature fluctuations. The higher the altitude, the colder the weather and the higher the humidity level. The northwestern and central parts of the country are influenced by the Atlantic, in the east the alpine climate subtype prevails in the mountains, and in the south, on the border with Italy, the subtropical Mediterranean. Winters in Switzerland are quite cold and snowy, while summers are warm and rainy.

Switzerland in spring

The beginning of spring in Switzerland is marked by a slight increase in average daily temperatures. In the lowlands, the thermometer reaches +8 °C..+9 °C. Geneva and Zurich are the warmest, while central Bern is a couple of degrees cooler. It is still frosty in the mountains, but at most resorts at the height of the day, positive temperatures are recorded. March is a pretty tricky month. Already in the first days of March, young grass breaks through in the southern regions, but it is possible that after a while this part of the country will be covered by a wave of cooling. The April weather pattern is strikingly different from the March one, especially in the west and south of the country. Here begins the active time of flowering. AT open ground magnolias, camellias and tulips bloom. At noon, the air sometimes warms up to +14 °C. It is also warm in Bern - at least +13 °C. This month is more likely to rain, do not forget to take an umbrella with you. But in the mountains there is still snow confidently, spring has not yet reached here. May heralds the imminent approach of summer. It kicks off an active excursion season: the sun wins more and more hours from inclement weather, daylight hours are getting a little longer, and there is no need to wrap up in the usual winter things. If you go to Zurich, you will expect at least +19 °C, a little more restrained in Bern - about +17 °C. Most of the ski resorts have already completed the next season, but there are some where the snow continues to hold confidently. For example, in Zermatt. Eternal ice reigns here.

Temperature and weather in Switzerland in spring

Switzerland in summer

Summer is a rather wet season in the Swiss valleys, but warm. The average air temperature for the season in the north in the central regions ranges from +19 °C to +24 °C during the day, and from 11 °C to 14 °C at night. In the south of the country the weather is somewhat hotter. On some days, the thermometer can fly up to +28 °C .. +32 °C, however, such temperatures are surprisingly easy to endure. As the evening approaches, the air cools sharply, so it will not be superfluous to take a light jacket with you. In July, on many lakes of the country - active bathing season. The coolest water is on Lake Geneva, its maximum temperature mark is about +20 °C. Lake Zurich is slightly warmer - from +22 °C to +23 °C. And on Luhansk there is a real beach paradise, here the water can warm up to +26 ° C! Summer in the foothills is ideal for enjoying the alpine nature. It is not so cold during the day - +15 °C..+17 °C. And at an altitude of over 2000 m - within +5 °C .. +10 °C.

Temperature and weather in Switzerland in summer

Switzerland in autumn

In September, the light breath of autumn is already felt, but the general climatic background of the country is quite pleasant. This is especially true of the southern cities of Switzerland. The sun shines for at least 6 hours a day, the heat recedes, and a comfortable warm weather. This month there is much less precipitation than in the summer season. Although in the central regions it rains quite often. In the mountains at the end of September, the first snow may fall. In October, autumn comes into its own in Switzerland: the air cools sharply, gusty winds begin to blow. Despite occasional rains, it often overcast weather. Light frosts are possible at night. In the Alps, negative temperatures already dominate with might and main, and sometimes snowfalls occur. November is not the best time to visit the country. The cities are rather uncomfortable: damp, overcast and windy. Despite positive temperatures, short-term frosts are possible. It gets dark early, so the main tourist audience spends the evenings in bars or restaurants. The ski resorts are much more fun. There, by the end of the month, the ski season opens, and instead of dirty slush, there is fluffy white snow underfoot.

Despite the diversity of the Swiss climate, which is due to the mountainous landscape, the country is located in only one climate zone – temperate continental, which is typical for most European countries. Ah, this means pleasant warmth in the spring- summer period(about +20-25 degrees) and moderate cold in autumn-winter.

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, it often blows warm, but at the same time it is enough strong wind – 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, on the highest level. It is worth noting that on each lake the season begins at different time: so, on Lake Geneva - in the second half of July, on Lugansk - in the early days of summer.

Since the Swiss climate is exceptionally mild for a continental climate, 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 Swiss healing springs all year round. Each of the thermal resorts existing in the country offers millions of vacationers not only the procedures for taking a bath with hot water from healing springs: you can visit the Turkish bath, various GYM's, as well as have fun in the 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 leisure, 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.

AT recent times 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 profitable geographical position Switzerland, but also 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 come to 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 be behind the wheel of 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 international law and driving experience of at least 3 years.

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 destinations, culinary establishments with excellent cuisine and much more.

Weather in the country by months

Despite the year-round tourist season, you should probably start with winter period, because 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 at the ski resorts high season. 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 arrival of the first summer days opens beach season 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

arosa

Bad Ragaz

Basel

Gstaad

Davos

Geneva

Interlaken

Lausanne

Locarno

Lugano

Lucerne

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 altitudinal zonality here it is present: the closer to the "sea level", the more uniform the weather in summer and winter, the higher in the mountains, the more dramatic 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. Temperature 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). Max Height snow 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: comfortable for activity on fresh air temperatures from -5 to -10 ° C, an abundance of serene sunny days and voluminous, fluffy, but resilient snow cover are ideal for improving skiing skills, contemplative walks, fun dog sledding, and finally - for relaxed evenings on the balcony of the chalet under a blanket and with the 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 to 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”. On the lake shores in early spring it is still quite chilly, 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 noticeably felt here: from +15 ° C on a thermometer, especially warm days— and all +20 °C. Bathing, however, will have to be postponed for summer months, the water is literally icy, but nothing prevents you from spending time with health benefits in the depths of the 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 rest in Switzerland is 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.

It invariably pleases travelers at any time of the year, due to the fact that the country is located in the temperate continental climate zone. Therefore, here you will never have to languish in the heat, or suffer from severe frosts. The average annual temperature fluctuates around 10-16 degrees. Celsius is above zero.

If you choose the time of your acquaintance with this country in such a way that weather in switzerland favored you most, then first of all decide on the purpose of your trip.

Ski season in Switzerland

For skiing, the most successful season is from December to April. The peak of the ski season falls on January-February, when the snow cover has already been renewed in the mountains, and the predominance in the Alps high pressure gives cold sunny days, which will allow you to successfully master the snowy slopes. We also note that avalanches often descend in the mountains in winter. The sub-zero temperature is maintained almost throughout the country. The exception is the northern shore of Lake Geneva, as well as the lakes of Lago Maggiore and Lugano, which are protected by mountains and the northern winds (meringue) do not have the same effect here as on the rest of Switzerland. Don't forget about Christmas new year holidays which, thanks to the wonderful winter weather in Switzerland, can turn into a fairy tale and give you a lot of unforgettable impressions. In addition to direct skiing, Switzerland attracts tourists with magnificent snow-capped mountain landscapes that can be admired by traveling by funicular or train.

May is considered not a very good period for tourism, since the ski season has already ended, but it is still too early to take walks because of washed-out trails. In addition, the rains turn picturesque waterfalls into seething mountain streams. The average annual rainfall varies from 800 to 2`500 mm depending on the terrain and is determined by the influence of humid Mediterranean air, which rises up the slopes and then moves over the Swiss plateau, therefore, twice as much precipitation falls from the windward part of the Alps than over the plateau. In fairness, it should be noted that it is during this period that the first wild flowers bloom on the slopes of the mountains.

Swiss climate in summer

Summer weather in Switzerland is characterized by a comfortable air temperature of the order of + 25 ... + 30 degrees. Celsius, also warm dry winds (föhns) that blow from the east and southeast. Fans of hiking will certainly enjoy sightseeing, as well as walks through the most beautiful alpine meadows at this time of the year.

Calm period in Switzerland in autumn

This applies to both the weather in Switzerland and tourist season. Cool dry weather in September and October will allow you to still enjoy the surrounding beauties. The exception is November, when it often rains, the time for hiking has already ended, and the ski season has not yet begun. But no one will forbid you to drive along ideal European roads and appreciate the architecture of Swiss cities, go shopping or ride a funicular train to the top of the mountain and enjoy the view of the covered eternal ice peaks, right?

Switzerland is worth it to travel here all year round and enjoy the peace and tranquility that this country can give to its guests.