Weather in Bern

Planning your day in Bern? Check out the latest weather data and forecasts right here. In this section, you will find current information to help you prepare for any weather conditions.

The climate of Bern, the capital of Switzerland, can be characterized as moderately continental with four distinct seasons. The city experiences noticeable temperature fluctuations throughout the year, allowing tourists to enjoy diverse weather conditions depending on the time of their visit.

Winters in Bern (December-February) are quite cold, with average temperatures around 1-3°C and frequent night frosts when the thermometer drops below zero. Summer (June-August), on the contrary, is warm and pleasant, with average temperatures around 17-19°C and maximum values reaching 22-24°C. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with moderate temperatures and gradual weather changes.

Precipitation in Bern is distributed relatively evenly throughout the year, although a slight increase in amount and the number of rainy days is observed in May. On average, one can expect from 11 to 19 wet days per month, which indicates regular, but usually light precipitation. This means that even in the sunniest months, it is worth being prepared for possible rain, although it will generally not be heavy.

The coldest month in Bern is traditionally January, when the average temperature is about 1.1°C, and night frosts lower the thermometer to an average of -2.1°C. Daytime highs in January rarely exceed 4.2°C. Conversely, the warmest months are considered July and August. In July, the average temperature reaches 18.9°C (with an average minimum of 14.0°C and a maximum of 23.7°C), and in August – 18.7°C (minimum 13.9°C, maximum 23.5°C).

The summer months in Bern, from June to August, offer pleasant warmth. Daytime temperatures usually range between 22-24°C, creating comfortable conditions for walking and sightseeing. Nights in summer are also warm, with average minimum temperatures around 12-14°C. Winter, covering the period from December to February, brings cold weather. Average daytime temperatures hover around 4-7°C, but often drop lower, especially in January. Nighttime temperatures in winter consistently fall below freezing (averaging from -1°C to -2°C), indicating regular frosts and the possibility of snowfall.

Throughout the year in Bern, noticeable daily temperature fluctuations are observed. The difference between daytime highs and nighttime lows is often about 6-10°C. This is especially pronounced in transitional seasons, for example, in April, when daytime warming up to +13.7°C can be followed by nighttime cooling to +3.2°C. Spring and autumn are characterized by gradual temperature changes: March and April bring warming after winter, while September and October bring gradual cooling before the onset of the winter months.

In Bern, precipitation is distributed throughout the year, although its total amount is small. The city does not experience pronounced dry seasons or torrential rains, but some monthly fluctuations are observed in both the volume and frequency of precipitation.

The highest amount of precipitation, according to monthly average data, falls in May – about 5 mm, while May is also the month with the highest number of days with precipitation (approximately 19 days). The driest month is considered February, when only about 2 mm of precipitation falls, and the number of rainy or snowy days drops to 11. Despite these differences, it is important to note that even in the "wettest" month, the total amount of precipitation remains quite low.

In winter, especially in January, December, and February, when average temperatures hover around zero degrees Celsius and minimums drop lower, precipitation often falls as snow. During these months, the number of days with precipitation ranges from 11 to 17. In the spring, summer, and autumn months, rain prevails. Although the total amount of precipitation in millimetres is small, the number of days with precipitation remains significant throughout most of the year, varying from 13 to 17 days per month from June to November. This may indicate frequent, but not very intense precipitation.

When planning a trip to Bern, it is important to consider the changeable weather and prepare a wardrobe that will allow you to feel comfortable at any time of the year. The key principle is layering. Regardless of the season, be sure to take comfortable walking shoes, as the city is perfect for long walks. Considering that there are quite a few rainy days in Bern year-round (from 11 to 19 per month), a waterproof jacket or umbrella will become your faithful companions. In summer, especially in July and August, when the average temperature reaches 18-19°C, do not forget sunscreen and a hat, but be prepared for evening coolness and possible rain.

In winter (from December to February), it is cool in Bern, with average temperatures hovering around 1-3°C, and night frosts are a common occurrence. You will need a warm jacket, hat, gloves, scarf, and possibly thermal underwear. In spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), the weather can be unpredictable. During the day, the temperature can be pleasant (from 5°C in March to 16°C in May and October), but evenings and mornings remain cool. During these periods, layered clothing is especially relevant: sweaters, fleece tops, and light jackets that can be easily removed or put on depending on the weather. Do not forget rain protection, as the amount of precipitation, although not very large (2-5 mm per month), is distributed over a significant number of days.

Therefore, for a comfortable trip to Bern, it is recommended to take clothes that can be combined. Light t-shirts and long-sleeved shirts, a warm sweater or cardigan, and windproof and waterproof outerwear – this is the foundation of your wardrobe. For summer months, add shorts or light trousers, and for winter – insulated trousers. And, of course, do not forget a camera to capture the beauty of this charming Swiss city!