Things to do in Zurich in December

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Overview

December is a less popular time to visit Zurich. The weather is usually really cold with a gentle breeze, with temperatures ranging from 27—39°F (-3—4°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Zurich during this time. Some of our top recommendations: go on a holiday shopping spree at Bahnhofstrasse, take a scenic train ride to the Swiss Alps, attend the Zurich Silvesterlauf (New Year's Eve Run), and more!

Zurich has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your December trip to Zurich. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to December. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Zurich in December. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout December, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Best events and things to do in Zurich in December

Top experiences in December
Go on a holiday shopping spree at Bahnhofstrasse
In December, Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world's most exclusive shopping streets, is transformed into a winter wonderland, with its elegant storefronts adorned with festive decorations and twinkling lights. This is the perfect time to indulge in some holiday shopping, as the street is lined with luxury boutiques, department stores, and specialty shops offering a wide range of high-end fashion, jewelry, and Swiss-made gifts. Whether you're looking for the perfect holiday outfit, a unique souvenir, or simply want to soak in the festive ambiance, Bahnhofstrasse is a must-visit destination in Zurich during December.
Take a scenic train ride to the Swiss Alps
In December, the Swiss Alps are blanketed in snow, creating a breathtaking winter wonderland that is best experienced from the comfort of a scenic train ride. From Zurich, you can easily access several picturesque alpine destinations, such as Zermatt, St. Moritz, or Engelberg, where you can marvel at the snow-capped peaks, frozen lakes, and charming mountain villages. Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, a train journey through the Swiss Alps is a truly unforgettable experience.
Attend the Zurich Silvesterlauf (New Year's Eve Run)
On the last day of December, Zurich hosts the annual Silvesterlauf, a festive and energetic New Year's Eve run through the city streets. Participants of all ages and fitness levels can join in the fun, donning their most festive running attire and taking part in the 10-kilometer race, which winds through the historic Old Town and along the picturesque Lake Zurich. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just looking for a unique way to ring in the new year, the Silvesterlauf is a lively and memorable experience.
Visit the Zurich Christmas Market
The Zurich Christmas Market is a magical experience in December, with its twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts filling the air. The market offers a wide variety of unique gifts, handmade crafts, and delicious holiday treats. Visitors can also enjoy live music, carolers, and other entertainment while soaking in the festive atmosphere. It's the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit.
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Go on a holiday lights tour of Zurich's Old Town
In December, Zurich's Old Town is adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere that is best experienced on a holiday lights tour. You can wander through the cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways, admiring the festive decorations, illuminated storefronts, and charming Christmas displays. Many guided tours also offer insight into the history and traditions of the city, making it a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Take a scenic boat cruise on Lake Zurich
In December, Lake Zurich is a serene and picturesque setting for a scenic boat cruise, offering stunning views of the snow-covered Alps, charming lakeside villages, and the twinkling lights of the city. Many boat tours also offer special holiday-themed cruises, complete with festive decorations, live music, and onboard dining options. Whether you prefer a leisurely sightseeing cruise or a romantic evening excursion, a boat ride on Lake Zurich is a peaceful and enchanting
Go ice skating at Dolder Ice Complex
In December, the Dolder Ice Complex transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with a large outdoor ice rink surrounded by snow-covered trees and stunning views of the city. Whether you're a seasoned skater or a beginner, this is a fun and festive activity for all ages. After a few laps around the rink, you can warm up with a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine at the nearby chalet. It's a quintessential winter experience in Zurich that shouldn't be missed.
Attend a traditional Swiss fondue dinner
December is the perfect time to indulge in a cozy and comforting Swiss fondue dinner. Many restaurants in Zurich offer special fondue menus during the winter months, allowing you to savor the rich and gooey melted cheese paired with crusty bread and a glass of local wine. The experience of gathering around a bubbling pot of cheese with friends or family is a quintessential Swiss tradition that will warm your heart and your stomach.
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Holidays in Zurich in December
December
  • Christmas Eve (December 24)
  • St. Stephen's Day (December 26)
  • New Year's Eve (December 31)
Other notable holidays
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Weather in Zurich in December

Temperatures on an average day in Zurich in December

The average temperature in Zurich in December for a typical day ranges from a high of 39°F (4°C) to a low of 27°F (-3°C). Some would describe it as really cold with a gentle breeze.

For comparison, the hottest month in Zurich, July, has days with highs of 74°F (23°C) and lows of 56°F (13°C). The coldest month, February has days with highs of 38°F (4°C) and lows of 25°F (-4°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Zurich in December based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in December
39°F
highs
27°F
lows

General weather summary

Really cold with a gentle breeze
Feels like
41%
Chance of rain
0.172 in
Amount
11.5 mph
Wind speed
82%
Humidity
8.6 hrs
Daylight length
8:04 AM
Sunrise
4:37 PM
Sunset
37%
Cloud cover
Jacket
What to wear
What to wear in December
With an average high of 39°F (4°C) and a low of 27°F (-3°C), it generally feels really cold with a gentle breeze. There might also be a small chance of rain. With that in mind, most people would dress in something warm like a jacket and remember to bring an umbrella
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Best attractions for Zurich in December

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Zurich has to offer for travelers in December, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Zurich that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Zurich for December.
Steakhouse Old Town
1. Steakhouse Old Town
4.0
(935)
Steak house
Grill
Generous meat & seafood dishes served in a rustic destination with a seasonal terrace.
Bahnhofstrasse
2. Bahnhofstrasse
4.7
(503)
Notable street
Sights & Landmarks
Upscale, central pedestrian & tram boulevard lined with many cafes & luxury designer boutiques.
Zoo Zürich
3. Zoo Zürich
4.6
(26226)
Zoo
Outdoor Activities
Opened in 1929, this popular attraction features more than 370 animal species in themed habitats.
Uetliberg
4. Uetliberg
4.7
(2060)
Mountain peak
Nature & Parks
Small mountain with hiking trails to panoramas over Zürich, its lake & the Alps on clear days.
Press & Books, Zürich Hauptbahnhof Haupthalle
5. Press & Books, Zürich Hauptbahnhof Haupthalle
4.3
(137)
Book store
Sights & Landmarks
Kunsthaus Zürich
6. Kunsthaus Zürich
4.7
(6577)
Art museum
Museums
Art museum with major European collections from 15th century to the present, plus temporary shows.
Grossmünster
7. Grossmünster
4.5
(8280)
Protestant church
Sights & Landmarks
Iconic twin-towered Romanesque cathedral, where 1500s religious reformer Huldrych Zwingli preached.
Fraumünster Church
8. Fraumünster Church
4.5
(3404)
Evangelical church
Sights & Landmarks
Elegant church with a delicate, copper-topped spire, a crypt museum & stained glass by Marc Chagall.
Lindenhof
9. Lindenhof
4.7
(11343)
Historical landmark
Nature & Parks
Hilltop gathering place on the site of a former Roman fort with outdoor chess boards & city views.
Swiss National Museum
10. Swiss National Museum
4.5
(8072)
Museum
History Museums
Displays on aspects of Switzerland's history, plus handicrafts, homewares & an armory tower.
Limmat
11. Limmat
4.7
(114)
River
Nature & Parks
FIFA Museum
12. FIFA Museum
4.3
(4318)
Museum
Specialty Museums
Modern museum featuring 1,000+ exhibits on football, with a sports bar, eateries & a library.
Niederdorf
13. Niederdorf
Neighborhoods
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Lively Niederdorf, part of the old town, is known for its medieval streets and squares, cathedrals like the Romanesque Grossmünster, and Limmatquai promenade, with views of Lake Zurich. Musée Visionnaire shows Art Brut paintings, while Cabaret Voltaire is an offbeat arts center for events and installations. Upscale boutiques and fine-dining restaurants dot the area, alongside cocktail bars and a few nightclubs.
St. Peter
14. St. Peter
4.5
(1643)
Protestant church
Sights & Landmarks
Enduring parish featuring Romanesque & Gothic architecture & a large church clock.
Museum Rietberg
15. Museum Rietberg
4.7
(1247)
Museum
Cafe
Non-European artworks displayed within a 19th-century villa & landmark modern extension.
Paradeplatz
16. Paradeplatz
4.5
(1203)
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Imposing city square that's famous for being the center of Swiss banking operations.

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Zurich?

Get inspired for your trip to Zurich with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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