St Gallen

Planning a visit to St. Gallen? Find out everything about current weather conditions and check out the detailed forecasts below to ensure your trip is as comfortable as possible.

St. Gallen's climate is characterized as temperate, with distinct seasons typical of Switzerland's foothills. It never gets sweltering here: summers are mild and comfortable with average temperatures around 18–19°C, which is perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Winter brings a chill, with temperatures dropping to zero or below, creating a true Alpine fairy-tale atmosphere.

A defining feature of the weather in this region is the high frequency of precipitation throughout the year. Statistics show that rainy or snowy days are quite common—averaging between 13 and 19 days per month—with May and the summer months often being the wettest periods. When traveling, visitors should be prepared for changeable weather and always carry an umbrella or waterproof jacket, regardless of the season.

The temperature regime in St. Gallen is characterized by moderation and a clear change of seasons, which is typical for this region of Switzerland. The coldest month of the year is January, when the average temperature stays around 0.6°C. Winters here feel bracing and fresh, but not extremely harsh: nighttime lows in December and January often drop slightly below freezing (to -2.3°C), while during the day the thermometer usually rises to +3...4°C.

Summer in the city can be described as pleasantly warm, ideal for long walks without the risk of overheating. The peak of the heat occurs in July, which is considered the hottest month with an average temperature of 18.8°C and daytime highs reaching a comfortable 23.0°C. June and August also delight with mild weather, when the air warms up to +22°C, creating excellent conditions for tourism.

Throughout the year, there is a noticeable but not drastic range between daytime and nighttime temperatures. Generally, the difference is between 4 and 9 degrees. For example, in May it might be around +16.5°C during the day, cooling down to +8.2°C at night. Such fluctuations make for cool evenings even in the warmer months, so travelers are advised to carry a light jacket or sweater regardless of the season.

St. Gallen has a fairly humid climate, so an umbrella or a high-quality raincoat will be essential companions for your trip at any time of year. It is difficult to single out a distinct dry season: precipitation falls fairly evenly and regularly throughout all twelve months.

The highest frequency of precipitation is observed in late spring and the first half of summer. May is considered one of the rainiest months, with up to 19 days of precipitation recorded. June and July are not far behind, averaging about 18 wet days each. In summer, rain often comes in the form of brief but intense showers that refresh the air and maintain the famous greenery of the Swiss landscape.

With the arrival of the cold, the nature of precipitation changes. Since average temperatures in December and January hover around 0°C to 1°C—and often drop below zero at night—the city is frequently covered in snow. December, for instance, also features high humidity (around 18 days of precipitation), creating picturesque winter views. Even in statistically "drier" months, such as February and October, tourists should expect about 13 days of precipitation.

When packing for St. Gallen, it's important to keep the changeable nature of Swiss weather in mind. The main principle for your wardrobe is layering, which will allow you to feel comfortable in any situation. Even in summer, when the average daytime temperature is around 19°C, evenings can be crisp, so a light sweater or windbreaker is a must-have for your luggage. In winter, when temperatures often hover around freezing, you'll need a warm coat or down jacket, as well as a hat, scarf, and gloves.

Pay special attention to moisture protection, as precipitation occurs quite frequently throughout the year: statistics show between 13 and 19 rainy days per month. A compact umbrella, raincoat, or waterproof hooded jacket will be your best friends. For walking through the historic center and the city's famous stairways, choose comfortable shoes with flat, non-slip soles that won't get soaked during a sudden downpour.

If your trip falls in spring or autumn, the weather can change several times a day, so bring items that are easy to mix and match. Don't forget sunglasses and sunscreen: even in cloudy weather, the sun in Switzerland can be quite strong, especially when walking on the hills surrounding the city.