Welcome to Zurich in the Spring!
Travel Dates: March, April, May
Spring in Zurich can be a bit unpredictable, so it’s best to dress in layers. Start with a short sleeve shirt and add a warm jacket or sweater for the cooler mornings and evenings, especially in March and April. As the weather warms up in May, you can get away with lighter layers, but it’s always smart to have a rain jacket handy in case of those spring showers. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring Zurich’s charming Old Town and beautiful lakeside promenades.
Dress Code
Zurich is known for its blend of stylish sophistication and practicality, so you’ll want to pack outfits that reflect this balance. During the day, casual yet polished clothing like jeans or lightweight pants paired with a nice top will work well for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor cafes. For evenings, especially if you’re dining out or attending a concert, consider smart casual attire—a dress or tailored trousers with a stylish blouse is perfect. Zurich’s fashion scene is subtle and understated, so opt for classic pieces over flashy trends. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes for walking and a light scarf for those cooler evenings by the lake.
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MARCH
36 – 52F (2 – 11C)
Cool, partly cloudy, occasional rain
2.8 inches of rain
APRIL
41 – 58F (5 – 14C)
Mild, partly sunny, with showers
3.0 inches of rain
MAY
48 – 66F (9 – 19C)
Mild, sunny, with light rain
3.6 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for staying comfortable during Zurich’s mild spring afternoons. I loved having these for exploring the Old Town and lakeside promenades.
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Great for cooler mornings and evenings, especially when strolling along Lake Zurich.
3. Warm Jacket: Essential for the cooler days, especially in March and April.
4. Rain Jacket: Important for the occasional spring showers, particularly in April and May.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Jeans: Comfortable and versatile, perfect for casual outings and exploring the city. These were great for walking around the museums and cultural centers.
2. Pants: Lightweight pants are useful for both day and evening, providing comfort in mild weather.
3. Skirt: A stylish option for casual dining or a day out in Zurich’s Old Town.
4. Dress: A versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, perfect for evenings out in Zurich’s vibrant neighborhoods.
5. Jumpsuit: Great for a chic, all-in-one outfit that’s comfortable and perfect for Zurich’s trendy vibe.
6. Leggings: Ideal for cooler evenings or if you plan to do any outdoor activities like hiking in Uetliberg. I liked having leggings for the cooler mornings.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for exploring Zurich’s many attractions and outdoor sites. I found these to be really practical for long days on my feet.
2. Flats: A stylish yet comfortable option for casual outings or dining out.
3. Sunglasses: A must for those sunny spring days, especially when spending time outdoors by Lake Zurich.
4. Hat: Great for sun protection during outdoor activities and while exploring the city.
5. Scarf: Useful for adding a stylish touch to your outfit and for extra warmth on cooler days.
6. Swimsuit: Essential if you’re planning to visit one of Zurich’s lakeside baths or spa facilities.
7. Pajamas: Comfortable sleepwear for mild spring nights in Zurich.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for a weekend getaway, with enough space for your essentials and a few outfits.
2. Daypack: Useful for carrying water, snacks, and extra layers while exploring the city or taking a day trip.
3. Purse: Handy for carrying your essentials when going out for dinner or attending events.
4. Tote Bag: Great for carrying additional layers, shopping, or purchases from local markets.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layering is key: Zurich’s spring weather can vary, so pack layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
- Rain gear: Showers are common, so a small umbrella or a light rain jacket is a good idea.
- Smart casual: Zurich has a stylish yet practical vibe, so pack outfits that can transition from day to night.
- Comfortable footwear: The city is best explored on foot, so bring comfortable walking shoes that are also suitable for casual dining or sightseeing.
Zurich Spring Travel FAQs
WHICH SPRING MONTH IS THE BEST TO VISIT ZURICH?
May is the best month to visit Zurich during spring, with warmer temperatures and blooming gardens.
WHAT SPRING FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN ZURICH?
March: Zurich Film Festival – An international film festival showcasing new films from around the world.
April: Sechseläuten – A traditional spring festival with parades, bonfires, and the burning of the Böögg (a snowman figure) to symbolize the end of winter.
May: Zurich Marathon – A popular marathon event attracting runners from all over the world.
May: Zurich Art Weekend – A weekend of art exhibitions, gallery openings, and cultural events across the city.
May: Street Food Festival – A celebration of global cuisine with food trucks and stalls offering a wide variety of dishes.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN ZURICH IN THE SPRING?
Spring in Zurich is a wonderful time to explore the city’s historic sites, beautiful lakefront, and vibrant cultural scene. Start your day with a stroll through the Old Town (Altstadt), where you can admire the medieval architecture and visit landmarks like the Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches. Next, take a walk along the shores of Lake Zurich, where you can enjoy the fresh air and stunning views of the Alps in the distance. In the afternoon, visit the Swiss National Museum, where you can learn about the country’s rich history and culture. Don’t miss a trip up to Uetliberg Mountain, where you can hike through scenic trails and take in panoramic views of the city. If you’re visiting in April, be sure to experience the Sechseläuten spring festival, a traditional celebration that includes a parade, bonfires, and the symbolic burning of the Böögg. End your day with dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where you can savor Swiss cuisine while watching the sunset over the water.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT ZURICH IN THE SPRING?
A 5-7 day visit is ideal for experiencing the best of Zurich in the spring, including its cultural events, historic sites, and beautiful lakefront.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Start with a morning walk through Zurich’s Old Town, visiting the Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches, then enjoy lunch by the lake. In the afternoon, visit the Swiss National Museum, followed by a stroll along Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich’s famous shopping street. Day 2: Take a morning hike up Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic views of the city, then explore the Kunsthaus Zurich art museum in the afternoon. End the day with dinner at a lakeside restaurant.
5 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 2-day schedule. Add: Day 3: Explore the Zurich Zoo and the nearby Masoala Rainforest, an indoor tropical rainforest exhibit. In the afternoon, visit the ETH Zurich University and its famous Polyterrasse for great city views. Day 4: Take a day trip to Rapperswil, known as the “town of roses,” where you can visit the Rapperswil Castle and enjoy the beautiful rose gardens. Day 5: Spend the day relaxing at one of Zurich’s thermal baths, such as the Thermalbad & Spa Zurich, where you can unwind with a view of the city.
1 Week: Copy the itinerary of the 5-day schedule. Add: Day 6: Visit the Botanical Garden of the University of Zurich, followed by a walk through the nearby China Garden. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant neighborhood of Zurich West, known for its art galleries, shops, and trendy restaurants. Day 7: Take a boat cruise on Lake Zurich, stopping at the picturesque town of Küsnacht, where you can visit the Carl Jung Institute and the Küsnacht Castle.
10 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 1-week schedule. Add: Day 8: Spend the day at the Museum Rietberg, which houses a collection of non-European art, followed by a walk through the beautiful Rieterpark. In the evening, return to Zurich for a relaxing night. Day 9: Visit the FIFA World Football Museum, followed by a tour of the Zurich Opera House. Day 10: Revisit your favorite spots or discover new areas, ending with a final dinner at one of Zurich’s top-rated restaurants.
2 Weeks: Copy the itinerary of the 10-day schedule. Add: Day 11: Take a day trip to the Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe, where you can take a boat ride to the falls and explore the surrounding trails. Day 12: Explore the charming town of Zug, known for its beautiful lake and historic old town. In the evening, attend a live music performance at one of Zurich’s famous jazz clubs. Day 13: Spend the day exploring the nearby town of Winterthur, where you can visit the Kunstmuseum Winterthur and the Swiss Science Center Technorama. Day 14: Spend your final day revisiting favorite spots, shopping for souvenirs, or enjoying one last meal at your favorite Zurich restaurant.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN ZURICH?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Warm Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Jeans
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
5 Days
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Warm Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Jeans
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Dress
- 1 Jumpsuit
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
1 Week
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Warm Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Jeans
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 1 Jumpsuit
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
10 Days
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Warm Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 2 Pairs of Jeans
- 1 Skirt
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
2 Weeks
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Warm Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 2 Pairs of Jeans
- 2 Skirts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 3 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR ZURICH IN THE SPRING?
Heavy Winter Coats: Zurich’s spring weather is mild to warm, so heavy coats are unnecessary.
High Heels: The city’s cobblestone streets and public transportation are better navigated in comfortable, flat shoes.
Thick Sweaters: The temperatures are mild, so thick sweaters will likely be too warm.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO ZURICH IN THE SPRING?
Airfare: $600 – $1,200, depending on the departure location and booking time.
Accommodation: $150 – $300 per night, with variations based on the location and hotel class.
Transportation: $20 – $50 for local travel, including public transport and Ubers.
Meals: $50 – $100 per day, depending on dining choices.
Activities: $30 – $80 for museum entrance fees, tours, and other activities.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN ZURICH? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Zurich. Around 10% is typical in restaurants, and $1-3 per drink depending on location. Tip $1-2 per bag for hotel bellhops. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is common practice.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT ZURICH BEFORE I VISIT?
- Zurich’s spring weather can be unpredictable: Always be prepared for sudden rain, so keep your rain gear handy.
- Public transportation is efficient: The trams, buses, and trains are excellent ways to get around the city.
- The city is very walkable: Bring comfortable shoes and be ready to explore on foot.
- Plan for crowds: Zurich is a popular tourist destination, especially during festivals, so book tickets and reservations in advance for popular attractions.