Zurich Weather in December

Cold, grey days

December in Zurich feels damp and chilly, with highs around 4°C and lows near -2°C. Rain falls on 16 days, and cloud often hides the sun, so sightseeing can feel more wintry than festive. Short daylight leaves less time for outdoor plans.

The Old Town's lanes and the Kunsthaus work well when the weather turns wet. You can also warm up over fondue in a Stube, a traditional Swiss dining room. Save long walks along Lake Zurich for a brighter spell; wet paths and cold wind can make them less pleasant. Uetliberg's trails may be slippery, so skip the hike if conditions are poor.

Markets and Christmas

Zurich's Christmas markets bring lights and seasonal stalls to the city. The market inside the main railway station is easy to reach, while the Wienachtsdorf spreads across Sechseläutenplatz by the Opera House. Bahnhofstrasse's illuminated decorations make an evening stroll feel special.

Families who enjoy festive displays will find plenty to see, but the busiest market areas can feel crowded. Christmas and New Year also draw visitors, and hotel prices tend to rise around the holidays compared with quieter months.

Getting around

December is winter, and the weather isn't ideal for a beach-like lakeside day or a long countryside walk. Instead, mix short outdoor stops with museums, cafés and market visits. With just 2.1 hours of sun a day on average, a flexible plan helps when grey skies settle in.

For an easy market evening, take a tram to Bellevue, then walk across Sechseläutenplatz to the Wienachtsdorf. You'll avoid a longer trek through the cold, and the Opera House makes a handy landmark when the stalls are busy.