best time to visit Zurich: a month-by-month guide

When is the best time to travel to Zurich?

It all depends on what you're after.

For sunshine and swims – July and August bring the warmest weather, perfect for Lake Zurich dips and rooftop cocktails.

For a winter wonderland – December is all about Christmas markets and fairy lights, while January and February are peak ski season.

For fewer crowds – March to May and September to November mean quieter streets, cooler temps, and a more relaxed Zurich experience.

Each season has its charm—so let’s dive into what to expect, month by month.

spring in Zurich (March – May)

Spring in Zurich is like the city’s soft launch for summer—cool, colourful, and buzzing with new energy. The chill of March makes way for warmer April days, and by May, the parks and promenades are in full bloom. You’ll get sunshine, fresh mountain air, and best of all—no peak-season crowds.

what to do

• Take in the city from Uetliberg—Zurich’s very own mountain—before it gets too hot for a hike.
• Stroll along Lake Zurich, where cherry blossoms pop up like a postcard scene.
• Explore Zurich’s green spaces—Belvoir Park and Rieter Park are perfect for a lazy picnic.

what’s on

• Sechseläuten Festival (April): Zurich says goodbye to winter in the most dramatic way—by setting fire to a giant snowman (aka the Böögg). The faster its head explodes, the warmer summer will be. Science? No. Tradition? Absolutely.

Spring is the season for easy-going city breaks, mild Zurich weather, and picture-perfect blooms. But if you’re craving sun, swims, and long summer nights, keep reading.

summer in Zurich (June – August)

Zurich in summer? Think blue skies, warm breezes, and a city that practically lives outside. June starts the season with long daylight hours and buzzing cafés, July cranks up the heat (hello, Lake Zurich swims), and by August, the streets are alive with festivals, music, and rooftop cocktails.

what to do

• Cool off in Lake Zurich—swim, paddleboard, or just dip your toes in at one of the many badis (public swimming areas).
• Soak up city views with a spritz in hand at a rooftop bar—try the ones along Bahnhofstrasse or in Zurich West.
• Swap city streets for mountain trails—Uetliberg and Felsenegg hikes are stunning in summer.

what’s on

• Zurich Pride (June): A city-wide celebration of love, diversity, and equality—expect parades, parties, and an electric atmosphere.
• Street Parade (August): One of the biggest electronic music festivals in the world. Picture DJs, dancing, and colourful floats rolling along the lakefront.

Long, warm days and a lakeside city vibe make summer in Zurich a dream. But if you prefer golden leaves, crisp air, and fewer people around, autumn might be your season..

autumn in Zurich (September – November)

Autumn in Zurich is like a perfectly brewed cup of coffee—warm, comforting, and best enjoyed slowly. September still holds onto summer’s golden glow, but by October, the leaves start turning fiery shades of red and orange. November brings cooler days, cosy cafés, and the first hints of winter.

what to do

• Wander through Old Town (Altstadt) as it transforms into a postcard of autumn colours.
• Sip local wines during the Swiss wine harvest season—Zurich’s vineyards aren’t far from the city.
• Catch a film at the Zurich Film Festival (September), where Hollywood meets the Alps.

what’s on

• Zurich Film Festival (September): A major event for cinema lovers, with international premieres and A-list guests.
• Wine harvest season (September – October): Swiss wines are underrated (and delicious). Head to the vineyards near Lake Zurich to taste them straight from the source.

Autumn is Zurich’s golden hour—crisp air, colourful streets, and fewer crowds. But if twinkling lights, steaming mugs of mulled wine, and festive magic are more your thing, winter is up next.

winter in Zurich (December – February)

Zurich in winter is straight out of a snow globe—twinkling lights, crisp air, and just the right amount of festive magic. December is all about Christmas markets and steaming mugs of Swiss hot chocolate, while January and February bring snowy adventures and cosy indoor escapes.

what to do

• Wander through the city’s Christmas markets (November – December) for mulled wine, twinkling lights, and handmade gifts.
• Take a day trip to the Swiss Alps—whether you're skiing or just soaking up the winter wonderland vibes.
• Warm up the Swiss way with a session at the Limmat river sauna, where you can go from steamy heat to an icy dip.

what’s on

• Christmas markets (November – December): The scent of roasted chestnuts, fairy lights everywhere, and plenty of festive cheer.
• New Year’s Eve fireworks: Ring in the new year with a spectacular show over Lake Zurich.

Zurich in winter is pure magic, whether you're here for the Christmas spirit or the snow-covered landscapes. Want the full rundown? Check out our Zurich winter guide for everything from festive must-sees to the best spots for a steaming cup of fondue.