Switzerland in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for December
Average temperature across Switzerland in December.
City Weather in December
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zurich | 4° | -1° | 80 mm | low | Cold |
| Geneva | 6° | 0° | 86 mm | low | Cold |
| Basel | 6° | 0° | 60 mm | low | Cold |
| Lausanne | 6° | 0° | 89 mm | low | Cold |
| Bern | 4° | -2° | 67 mm | low | Cold |
| Winterthur | 4° | -1° | 75 mm | low | Cold |
| Lucerne | 5° | -1° | 94 mm | low | Cold |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Swiss Plateau (Mittelland)
By December the plateau settles into short, often chilly days with a mix of rain, sleet and the occasional snow that brightens the cities briefly. Christmas markets in Zurich, Bern and Basel are atmospheric despite the cold - temperatures hover around 0-5°C and public squares stay lively. Heavy coats, a warm hat, and good footwear are essential; transport can be delayed during snow or icy conditions.
Lake Geneva & Western Switzerland (Geneva, Lausanne, Montreux)
December at the lakeside offers a festive atmosphere: Christmas markets in Montreux and Geneva, mild daytime temperatures around 0-6°C and occasional snowy scenes on the nearby peaks. The lake moderates extremes so heavy snowfall on the shore is uncommon, but days are short and chilly. Warm layers and waterproof footwear keep you comfortable while exploring holiday events.
Bernese Oberland & Central Alps (Interlaken, Jungfrau, Engelberg)
December returns full winter conditions to the Bernese Oberland: consistent snow on pistes, illuminated Christmas markets in small villages and frequent winter-sports crowds. Valley temperatures hover around freezing and peaks stay deep in frost; avalanche-controlled areas limit some backcountry options. Ski clothing, good quality boots and reservations for weekend travel are necessary during the holiday peak.
Valais & High Alps (Sion, Zermatt, Saas-Fee, Matterhorn)
December returns full winter service to Valais ski resorts: reliable snow, busy lifts and festive village atmospheres in Zermatt and Saas-Fee. The Rhône valley towns have mildish days relative to the high Alps but winter sports dominate higher altitudes. Bring full winter clothing, reserve travel over holiday weekends, and expect spectacular snowy peak views on clear days.
Ticino & Southern Lakes (Lugano, Locarno, Lake Maggiore)
December returns cool but not harsh conditions to Ticino: mild lake-level days interspersed with rainy spells and occasional frosts at night. Festive markets in Lugano and Locarno are atmospheric and outdoor dining shifts indoors; higher elevations will already be snowy and offering winter sports. Layered clothing and a good umbrella keep you comfortable through the holiday season.
Eastern Alps - Graubünden & Engadin (Davos, St. Moritz, Chur)
December restores full winter conditions with consistent snow on slopes, excellent cross-country tracks in the Engadin and lively winter tourism in St. Moritz and Davos. Days are short and cold but often sunny in the high-altitude basins, producing ideal conditions for winter sports. Pack full winter equipment, book in advance for the holidays, and expect busy lifts during peak weeks.