The weather in Switzerland in March

March offers a multitude of reasons to visit Switzerland. As winter transitions into spring, the country remains a haven for winter sports enthusiasts while also welcoming the first signs of warmer weather. Conditions are ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and exploring the stunning natural landscapes. Cultural festivals, like the Geneva International Motor Show and the Baselworld Watch and Jewelry Show, add interest to your visit. Enjoy the beauty of snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, and picturesque villages as the country begins to thaw. Read all about the March weather in Switzerland here.

Switzerland in March at a glance

• Average temperatures range from around 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C).
• March is a great time to explore places like the Swiss Alps, where you can experience late-season skiing and snowboarding.
• The weather is cold in the mountains but milder in the lowlands, making it perfect for both winter sports and early spring activities.
• In March you experience fewer crowds as the peak winter season winds down so you can explore Switzerland’s unique charm without the rush.

What’s the weather in Switzerland in March like?

At this time of year you’ll find a mix of winter and early spring conditions. In the Alps, temperatures remain cold and snow remains, providing excellent conditions for late-season skiing and snowboarding. In the lowlands and cities like Zurich and Geneva , temperatures begin to warm up, and you may see the first signs of spring with budding flowers and longer days.

March is also a great time for early spring activities such as hiking and sightseeing. Average rainfall is moderate, with occasional snow showers in the mountains and rain in the lowlands. This is a great month to plan your Switzerland itinerary. 

Average daily temperatures in March

March in Switzerland offers a blend of late winter and early spring, depending on where you are. In cities like Zurich and Geneva, daytime highs reach 48 to 55°F (9 to 13°C), while nighttime temperatures fall to 32 to 37°F (0 to 3°C).

Lower valleys stay mild enough for early spring hikes, while mountain areas stay cold with highs of 20 to 35°F (–6 to 2°C), keeping ski conditions solid. Lake temperatures hover around 43 to 46°F (6 to 8°C), too cold for swimming but still scenic.

March days bring about 12 hours of daylight and a mix of rain in the lowlands and snow in the Alps. It’s a good month for combining snowy mornings with sunnier afternoons.

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Is March a good time to visit Switzerland?

March is a fantastic time to visit Switzerland if you’re interested in experiencing the transition from winter to spring. The weather creates the perfect conditions for activities like skiing, snowboarding, and exploring the stunning natural landscapes. The days are longer, providing more daylight to enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, be prepared for varying weather conditions, so packing layers and both warm and waterproof clothing is essential.

This month is quieter as the peak winter season winds down, so you can enjoy a more relaxed experience at tourist attractions and winter sports sites. The beauty of the snow-capped mountains and the emergence of spring make this a great time for a visit. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Switzerland.

• Great skiing conditions continue
• Longer daylight hours than winter
• Quieter as peak season winds down
• The transition period offers variety
• Variable weather requires layered clothing

What about the crowds & cost?

March falls during the shoulder season in Switzerland, meaning fewer crowds at popular destinations. This results in more affordable accommodation, excursions, and flights compared to the peak winter and summer months. The mix of winter and early spring scenery and the opportunity to enjoy both winter sports and spring activities can make this an attractive destination during this transitional period. If you're still deciding, see our guide to the best time to visit Switzerland. 
 

Where to go in Switzerland in March

March is one of the best times to visit Switzerland if you want both snow and sunshine. Here are some of the best places to visit in Switzerland. 

Zermatt

You get some of the best skiing of the season in Zermatt in March. The snow stays reliable thanks to the altitude, and the Matterhorn looks especially striking on clear days. The village itself stays peaceful and walkable, since it’s car-free, and mountain restaurants start setting up outdoor seating for long, sunny lunches. Non-skiers can ride the Gornergrat railway for wide-open views. March in Zermatt means fewer crowds but full access to everything that makes it one of Switzerland’s most iconic Alpine towns.

Interlaken and the Jungfrau Region

March in the Jungfrau area lets you mix snow and spring in one trip. You can still ski up high, but lower trails start opening for hikes. The cogwheel train up to Jungfraujoch is still running and delivers panoramic views over the glacier. Villages like Wengen and Grindelwald keep their old-school charm without the peak season crush. It’s also a great time to catch those famous altitude transitions. 

Lucerne

Lucerne starts to wake up in March, with spring weather creeping in. Lake cruises start running again, and it’s warm enough to walk the lakeside promenade comfortably. You can still get into the snow at Mount Pilatus or Rigi via mountain trains, and the town’s small-scale charm is easier to enjoy without the summer rush. The old town stays beautiful and uncrowded, and museums like the Transport Museum are good bets if the weather turns. See our pick of the best outdoor activities in Switzerland.
 

Best things to do in March

March in Switzerland marks a shift. Skiing is still in full swing in the mountains, but spring starts to show up in the valleys. It’s a good time to combine snow days with city breaks and train rides through stunning landscapes.  Here's our pick of the best things to do in Switzerland. 

Ski the Swiss Alps

High-altitude resorts like Saas-Fee and Zermatt stay snowy well into March, with strong sun and softer conditions that are ideal for all-day skiing. You can ski from one village to another, stop for rösti on a mountain terrace, and ride back by lift. If you’re looking for long days on the slopes of the Swiss Alps without the Christmas crowds, this is your window.

Ride scenic trains

Switzerland’s scenic trains are a good way to take in the country without needing to plan too much. In March, you’ll still see snow-covered peaks, but the lower valleys begin to thaw, giving you that dramatic winter-to-spring contrast. The Glacier Express and Bernina Express are both worth doing, and it’s easy to link them with stops in places like Chur, Zermatt, or St. Moritz. 

Visit chocolate and cheese producers

If the weather turns, head indoors to explore two things Switzerland does best. In Gruyères, you can watch traditional cheese being made in a medieval village. In Zürich or Broc, chocolate factories like Lindt or Cailler let you see the process and sample the goods. Many small dairies and chocolate makers run tastings year-round, and they’re often in scenic Alpine settings. For more advice, see our Switzerland travel tips. 
 

Planning your itinerary

Our Switzerland itineraries are designed to help you experience the best of the country, hassle-free. They’re a great starting point — detailed enough to guide your trip but flexible enough to match your pace and interests. If you're wondering how long to stay in Switzerland, our itineraries can help you find the perfect trip length, whether you have a few days or a couple of weeks. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

• Switzerland itinerary 7 days: A week in Switzerland allows you to experience the essentials — think Zurich, Lucerne, and the Swiss Alps.
• Switzerland itinerary 10 days: Ten days gives you time to explore both the classic sights and some hidden gems, like small alpine villages or lakeside towns.
• Switzerland itinerary 14 days: With two weeks, you can fully immerse yourself in Switzerland’s diverse regions, from the French-speaking west to the Italian-speaking south.