When to Visit Geneva
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
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Year-Round Essentials
Spring (Mar-May)
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Winter (Dec-Feb)
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Month-by-Month Guide
January
January is the heart of Geneva's winter, with cold, damp conditions and temperatures that hover just above freezing. The city takes on a quieter atmosphere after the holiday rush, and you'll likely encounter overcast skies and occasional snow flurries, though heavy snowfall in the city itself is actually less common than you might expect. It's a decent time for museum visits and fondue, but the short days and grey weather aren't for everyone.
February
February continues the winter chill, though temperatures start to tick up ever so slightly by month's end. You're still looking at cold, damp conditions with the lowest rainfall of the year, which is relative—it's still pretty wet by most standards. This is typically the quietest month for tourism, making it a good time for budget travelers who don't mind bundling up.
March
Spring starts to make an appearance in March, with temperatures climbing into the low 50s°F and the first hints of green returning to the parks. That said, the weather can be quite variable—you might get a sunny, mild day followed by a cold snap. The city starts to wake up from its winter slumber, and you'll notice more outdoor café seating appearing, though locals are still bundled up by evening.
April
April brings proper spring weather to Geneva, with temperatures reaching into the 60s°F and the lakeside parks coming into full bloom. The weather can still be unpredictable—those Alpine influences mean you might experience several seasons in one day—but it's generally pleasant for walking tours and outdoor exploration. This is when tourism starts to pick up, particularly around Easter if it falls in April.
May
May is one of Geneva's most appealing months, with temperatures in the upper 60s°F and the city looking its best with flowers in bloom and the lake sparkling. You're getting longer days now, which means more time to explore, and the outdoor terraces are in full swing. Worth noting that rainfall ticks up a bit, but it's usually short showers rather than all-day affairs.
June
Summer arrives in June with warm, pleasant temperatures in the mid-70s°F and some of the longest days of the year. This is when Lake Geneva becomes the city's playground, with people swimming, sailing, and lounging on the lakeside beaches. Tourist numbers are climbing but haven't quite reached peak season levels, making it something of a sweet spot for visiting.
July
July is peak summer in Geneva, with the warmest temperatures of the year reaching around 80°F and the city buzzing with activity. The lakeside is packed, outdoor festivals are in full swing, and everyone seems to be on terrasse enjoying the weather. It's also peak tourist season, so expect crowds at major attractions and higher prices, though the atmosphere is undeniably festive.
August
August continues the summer warmth with temperatures similar to July, though many locals actually leave the city for their own vacations, creating an interesting dynamic where tourist numbers are high but the city feels slightly emptier. The weather remains ideal for lake activities and outdoor dining, and you'll still get those long, warm evenings that make Geneva so appealing in summer.
September
September brings the beginning of autumn with temperatures dropping into the upper 60s°F, but it's often one of the most pleasant months to visit. The summer crowds thin out, the weather is still warm enough for outdoor activities, and there's a certain crispness to the air that's quite refreshing. Rainfall does increase noticeably, becoming the wettest month, so a good rain jacket becomes more essential.
October
October sees autumn taking hold, with temperatures in the upper 50s°F and the foliage around Lake Geneva turning beautiful shades of gold and red. The weather becomes more changeable, and you're looking at the highest rainfall of the year, so indoor attractions become more appealing. It's shoulder season, meaning fewer tourists and better hotel rates, but you'll need to pack for variable conditions.
November
November is when Geneva really transitions into winter mode, with temperatures dropping into the 40s°F and grey, damp conditions becoming the norm. The days get noticeably shorter, and the city takes on a quieter, more introspective character. It's not the most appealing time for casual tourists, but if you're here for business or don't mind the gloom, you'll find much lower prices and empty museums.
December
December brings the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere that brighten up the cold, dark days. Temperatures are similar to January, hovering around freezing, and you'll get that damp cold that seems to seep into everything. The holiday season brings tourists back to the city, particularly in the weeks leading up to Christmas, and the decorations around the Old Town and lakefront are quite charming despite the weather.