When is the best time to go on vacation to Switzerland? Climate and tourist seasons in Switzerland - when is the best time to visit?

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. 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 no severe frosts, nor the sweltering heat. 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 spring period 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 holiday: it has an incredibly developed, most modern 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 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 Swiss healing springs all year round. Each of the existing in the country thermal spas offers millions of vacationers not only baths with hot water from healing sources: 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 operation medical resorts, the most successful for visiting them is the period from mid-spring to early summer and the first month of autumn.

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). IN daytime it can even be hot, 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.

IN Lately 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 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 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, it is worth starting, perhaps, with winter period, because Switzerland is one of the most popular countries for lovers of ski holidays.

Winter in Switzerland

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 to the mountain ski resorts starts 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 it still lasts ski season. 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. And here 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 most best period 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

Montreux

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. 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 snow tracks. 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 (meringues) do not have such an influence here as they do in 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 directly 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 precipitation ranges from 800 to 2`500 mm depending on the area 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 comfortable temperature air of the order of + 25 ... + 30 degrees. Celsius, also warm dry winds (föhns) that blow from the east and southeast. Fans of hiking will undoubtedly enjoy sightseeing as well as walks along the most beautiful alpine meadows right at this time of the year.

Calm period in Switzerland in autumn

This applies to both the weather in Switzerland and the 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.

The weather by months is presented in the temperature table and in the reviews of tourists, in June in Zurich 22°C, Geneva 22°C.

Switzerland, or another name for it, official Swiss Confederation- state in Western Europe. Switzerland borders on European countries like 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 summer. 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, average temperature January, the coldest month, is around +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 July: Zurich 24°C, Geneva 25°C.

Switzerland is not a very large country located in Europe. More than half of its area is occupied by mountains. The climate of Switzerland can be briefly called temperate continental. But the relief of the country is such that, traveling through its different regions, you can get from summer heat in the winter cold. In this article, we will look at the weather and climate in this country in different regions, altitudinal zonality and by the seasons. After all, Switzerland is very popular for tourists, and many people want to know when exactly is the best time to go here. It is generally believed that the best time to visit this country is in December-February and May-September. Why - read below.

The climate of Switzerland: a brief description

The mountain system of the Alps is a natural wall, which, on the one hand, does not allow cold air masses from the Arctic to the south of the country, and a warm breeze from the subtropics to the north. It would seem that there should be a large temperature difference between these regions. Nevertheless, winters in the north of Switzerland are quite mild and summers are comfortable. In the cold months in the northern cantons of the country it can be up to 3-5 degrees of frost, and in warm months - 22-25 above zero. In the south of the country summer temperature hotter. It is 26-28 degrees. It falls in the south and more precipitation than in the north, mainly in summer time. The second half of November, March and April are the most rainy and foggy months.

The role of mountain systems

Features of the Swiss climate are determined by the presence large area hills. The weather in this country is very dependent on how the area is raised above sea level. in winter in high mountains oh, it's snowing. During the day in the cold months, it can be 10 degrees below zero, at night - 15. Some peaks have eternal glaciers and ski resorts work there all year round. The relief and climate of Switzerland are very interconnected. It is usually warmer in Geneva than in Zurich by a couple of degrees, and in the canton of Ticino, where they speak Italian, it is quite hot. It's sunny there even when it's raining all over the country.

Climate of Switzerland by months: winter

The best time to visit the country is December. This Christmas month is not too cold, but everywhere you will feel fabulous atmosphere. Festive bazaars are noisy everywhere, Christmas trees and garland lights are sparkling, and if you already freeze, you will always warm yourself with mulled wine, roasted chestnuts and hot chocolate. But know that it can be foggy in low-lying places, because if you want the sun, then your path should not lie in big cities.

Unlike the rest of Europe, sales in Switzerland start in January. In the same month, the main ski season starts. In large cities it is quite warm - mostly 1-5 degrees above zero, in Lugano it can be plus 10. But in the mountains - already 10-15 degrees below zero. Therefore, in Switzerland during this period, tourists go both to large cities - to enjoy artistic and architectural treasures - and to spend time in ski resorts. Comfort, respectability, adrenaline, stunning nature and après-ski entertainment are guaranteed.

February is much warmer. In the capital of the country, Zurich and Basel, the temperature rises to 10-15 degrees, it's time for carnivals. snow and winter fairy tale remain only for visitors to ski resorts.

Weather and climate in spring

In March in Switzerland, all the trees are green for a long time, tulips bloom in the flower beds, and people even sometimes sunbathe by the lakes in the valley. Nevertheless, it can rain (and it happens quite often), or even the whole city can be covered with snow from the mountains. In Lugano, the temperature rises to 20 degrees Celsius, and in some resorts that are located low, the ski season is already over.

The climate of Switzerland in the spring is very rainy, and this is especially evident in April. Even though it's usually the season Easter holidays and many weekends, almost everywhere they don’t ski anymore. Sometimes the sun is hot just like in summer.

But in May the high season begins. At this time, the first tourists come who love trekking and walks in the mountains. But we must bear in mind that an unexpected storm may come and a cold snap may come.

What is the summer like in Switzerland?

Comfortable temperature and coolness - that's what makes June different in this country. The temperature rarely rises higher than 26 degrees. In the lakes - especially in Zurich - they are already beginning to swim. And the highest passes, such as St. Gotthard, which is covered with snow even in May, are already opening. This month marks the beginning of the summer sales.

The climate of Switzerland can be hot in summer, especially in July. If you are in big cities, then you can sunbathe on the embankments of the lakes. In the mountains it is more pleasant and cool, and if it gets hot, then all buses are equipped with air conditioners.

Approximately the same temperature is kept in August. In addition, in Switzerland it is a month of various street parades - colorful spectacles that tourists love to contemplate and photograph.

Autumn weather

September is still the tourist season in Switzerland. Warm, sunny, but fog or clouds threatening rain may already fly in. But you can safely walk in the mountains, especially in the south of the country. Although the highest passes are already beginning to close - there at this time - at least at the end of the month, snow falls. But fortunately, the small size allows you to leave one region for another at a convenient time. Indeed, in Lugano and other Italian-speaking cities it is always warm and sunny. And in the German cantons, Oktoberfest is already starting at this time.

The climate of Switzerland is such that Indian summer begins in the middle of autumn. In October, the country harvests and drinks cider. Only now it is no longer possible to walk in high mountains. The weather can be completely unpredictable - from 25 degrees to 7. But during these months you can make an excellent photo session. The mountains, overgrown with trees, decorated with gold, crimson and all kinds of shades of these colors foliage, look indescribably majestic. Moreover, at this time Railway tickets There are very big discounts.

Prices fall even lower in November, but at this time it rains almost everywhere and heavy fogs. Although you can go to museums and big cities. Discounts apply here too. Yes, and for such a favorite a tourist route like the Jungfrau - one of the highest mountains in Europe - can be reached for almost a penny. The main thing is to choose a day that suits the weather. And if the year turns out to be cold, then at the end of November they are already skiing. Everything starts all over again, and the year is coming to an end.

Climate of Switzerland. Due to the complexity of the terrain climatic conditions different regions of Switzerland are different. In the Alps, for example, winters are relatively cold (temperatures usually drop to -10-12°C, sometimes down to -20°C), but almost always very sunny. Above 2,500-3,000 m, the snow does not melt throughout the year; in winter and spring, snowfalls are not uncommon due to the accumulation of snow on the slopes. On the Swiss plateau, winter is mild, the average January temperature is about -2 "C. Snow, as a rule, lasts for several days. In December and January, they blow from the Atlantic strong winds bringing rain, fogs are frequent. The summer is warm (the average temperature in July is 18 "C), the autumn is long and sunny. This area and the foothills of the Alps are characterized by bizas - gusty, cold and damp winds from the Atlantic, which, by the way, blow without interruption for a number of days that is a multiple of three - sometimes up to 9 days, as well as foehns - winds that pass through the Alps and carry dry and warm air. The softest and warm climate have internal mountain valleys and basins.