Zurich Weather in January

January weather in Zurich

January is the coldest, greyest and dampest stretch of the year here, and it's rated Poor at 1.2 out of 10. Mainly it's the cold that counts against it. Highs sit around 3°C and lows drop to about -3°C, and rain falls on around 15 days. Days are short, with only about 8.7 hours of daylight and just over two hours of sun a day. Rain can turn to slush on city streets. The lake and river still make a lovely walk, but don't count on bright views from the water.

So plan for indoor sights when the weather closes in. The Kunsthaus Zürich and Swiss National Museum are good choices, and cosy cafés around Niederdorf give you a warm break between stops. Save long, exposed walks on Uetliberg for a clearer day, since cloud can hide the views and paths may be slippery. If you can, pick a different month altogether. September is the best time to visit Zurich, and February is only a little warmer than January, so the season doesn't really improve until spring.

What's on

New Year's Day is a public holiday, and some shops and services may close. January 2 is Berchtoldstag, a local public holiday in Zurich, so check opening times before you head out. Around Epiphany on January 6, you may spot Dreikönigskuchen, a sweet ring-shaped cake with a small figure hidden inside.

Families who enjoy museums and café stops will find January easier than a day built around outdoor activities.

Crowds and practical tips

Once the Christmas and New Year rush has passed, Zurich is generally quieter than in summer and early autumn. January is a low season for city visits, so hotel rates are often lower than in busier months. The trade-off is dreary weather and fewer comfortable hours outdoors.

For a local winter meal, order Zürcher Geschnetzeltes: sliced veal in a creamy sauce, often served with rösti. It's especially welcome after a damp walk through the Old Town. On a wet afternoon, take the tram to the Swiss National Museum beside the main station. It's easy to reach without crossing much of the city in the rain.