Zurich in July: What's the weather like?

Magda Borzecka

written by
Magda Borzecka

updated 14.09.2024

Zurich in July is vibrant and bustling with activity. All kinds of outdoor activities and adventures come into their own this month. Of course, it’s also an ideal time to linger in outdoor cafés, and don’t forget to take in a cultural event or two while exploring the city's picturesque streets. Local festivals add further interest to your visit.  Soak up the warm temperatures and the views of lush greenery as the city welcomes you with its lively atmosphere and beautiful summer scenery. Get all the details on the July weather here.

Zurich in July at a glance

  • Average temperatures range from around 61°F to 77°F (16°C to 25°C).
  • July is the warmest month, ideal for summer activities like swimming, boating and hiking.
  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, summer festivals, and outdoor dining experiences.
  • Zurich is bustling with tourists, so booking accommodation and attractions in advance is recommended.

What is the weather in Zurich in July like?

The good news is that It’s typically warm and sunny at this time of year, ideal for summer activities. The city experiences long, bright days and clear skies, perfect for outdoor pursuits including trips to the lakeside and parks. You’re in the middle of peak tourist season, with events and festivals dotted around the city. This is the time to make the most of swimming, hiking and al fresco dining. 

Although generally dry, occasional summer thunderstorms may occur; a light rain jacket could come in handy. July has a vibrant and energetic atmosphere, with numerous opportunities to experience the city’s summer vibes.

Average daily temperatures in July

Zurich experiences warm summer temperatures at this time of year. The average high this month is around 77°F (25°C), while the low can dip to 59°F (15°C). The warm weather means you can make the most of a variety of outdoor and cultural activities.

Rough Guides tip: Find out about the weather in Switzerland throughout the year.

A ferry crossing Lake Zurich © Switzerland Tourism

The weather in Zurich in July is great for seeing Lake Zurich © Switzerland Tourism

Is July a good time to visit Zurich?

It’s a fantastic time to take a holiday here, especially if you’re interested in experiencing the peak of the Alpine summer. The weather in July is perfect for activities like exploring parks and lakes, enjoying outdoor cafés, and participating in summer festivals. The long days and warm temperatures provide an ideal environment for exploring both indoor and outdoor attractions. However, it’s still wise to pack a light jacket for cooler evenings.

This month sees larger crowds as it’s the peak summer season, so you’ll notice that tourist attractions and events are busy and bustling. The beauty of the lush landscapes and the vibrant summer atmosphere make this a great time to visit Zurich.

What about the crowds & cost?

July falls during the peak summer season in Zurich, meaning more crowds at popular destinations. This results in higher accommodation, excursion, and flight costs compared to the shoulder months. The stunning summer scenery and the opportunity to enjoy Zurich’s summer charm often make the visit worthwhile during this period.

city-fraumunster-church-limmat river-zurich lake-zurich-switzerland-shutterstock_379522807

The weather in Zurich in July is great for exploring the city © Shutterstock

Festivals and events in Zurich in July

Several exciting festivals and events take place this month that can enhance your visit.

  • Zurich Festival: Celebrate Zurich’s cultural diversity with music, dance, theater, and visual arts performances.
  • Street Parade: Join one of the world’s largest techno parades, featuring music, dance and vibrant street parties.
  • Open-Air Cinemas: Enjoy movies under the stars at various open-air cinema locations throughout the city.

These festivals not only provide entertainment but also offer a deeper understanding of Switzerland’s cultural heritage.

Historic Zurich Opera House © Nate Hovee/Shutterstock

Historic Zurich Opera House © Nate Hovee/Shutterstock

Ready for your dream trip to Zurich?

Our tailor-made trip service allows you to go on the trip of your dreams without the planning or hassle. All of our planned itineraries are created by local travel experts and can be tailored to meet your specific needs. 

Here are three matching trips:

  • The Taste of Three: Discover Belgium’s charm in Brussels, Ghent, and Bruges on a 10-day tour before traveling by high-speed train to Strasbourg and then to Basel for Swiss treasures like Zermatt, the Matterhorn, and Mount Pilatus.
  • Lakes and Mountains Adventure: Enjoy a 7-day exploration of Lake Como in Italy by boat or foot before moving to Zermatt in Switzerland, where tranquil nature provides a perfect backdrop for family strolls and hikes.
  • Medieval Towns in Switzerland: Experience a 14-day adventure featuring paragliding over Swiss landscapes, a night watchman’s tour in Lucerne, and explorations of Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, Zurich, and Milan.

Or see our Switzerland itineraries for inspiration.

Magda Borzecka

written by
Magda Borzecka

updated 14.09.2024

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