Year-round weather and climate in Basel, Switzerland
Average temperatures in Basel run from an average low of 0°C32°F in January up to an average high of 26°C79°F in August. August is the driest month at 11 rainy days; December the wettest at 16. Here is the annual climate data, so you know what you are packing for.
Good to know
- Population
- 178K
- Currency
- CHF
- Language
- French / Swiss German
- Time zone
- Zurich
Best time to visit
The most pleasant weather falls in July, August, and September, offering a perfect balance of comfortable temperatures and clear skies.
Rain character
Moderate Showers: Rainfall is standard and manageable. A compact travel umbrella or light rain jacket will easily get you through any wet days.
Day-to-night swing
Evening Chill: Temperatures drop by a noticeable 11°C20°F when the sun goes down. A light sweater or jacket is usually all you need for evening plans.
Seasonality Profile
True Four Seasons: Dramatic contrasts. Freezing winters, transitional shoulders, and blazing summers.
Evening vibe
Cozy Indoor Culture: Evenings are generally crisp, damp, or sweltering. Nightlife centers around indoor venues.
Sightseeing stamina
All-Day Strolling: Weather is generally forgiving for long walking days. Comfortable sneakers are your most important packing item.
Average temperatures, sunshine, and rainfall
Average monthly weather in Basel, based on recent historical data. Essential insights on temperature swings, expected rainfall, and daily sunshine.
Bars span the average daily low to high. Aug is typically driest at 11 days (78mm); Dec the wettest at 16 days (105mm).
| Month | Average high | Average low | Sunshine hours | Rainy days | Total rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 6°C / 43°F | 0°C / 31°F | 5h | 13 | 84mm |
| Feb | 10°C / 50°F | 2°C / 35°F | 6h | 14 | 66mm |
| Mar | 12°C / 54°F | 2°C / 36°F | 8h | 12 | 75mm |
| Apr | 15°C / 59°F | 5°C / 41°F | 10h | 12 | 79mm |
| May | 19°C / 66°F | 9°C / 49°F | 10h | 15 | 102mm |
| Jun | 24°C / 76°F | 14°C / 57°F | 12h | 14 | 104mm |
| Jul | 26°C / 78°F | 15°C / 60°F | 12h | 13 | 100mm |
| Aug | 26°C / 79°F | 16°C / 60°F | 11h | 11 | 78mm |
| Sep | 22°C / 71°F | 12°C / 54°F | 9h | 11 | 85mm |
| Oct | 17°C / 63°F | 8°C / 47°F | 7h | 13 | 97mm |
| Nov | 10°C / 50°F | 3°C / 38°F | 5h | 15 | 109mm |
| Dec | 7°C / 44°F | 1°C / 34°F | 3h | 16 | 105mm |
Weather data by Open-Meteo.com (opens in a new tab)
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the sunniest time of year to visit Basel?
The most sunshine in Basel comes around July, averaging 12 hours a month. If you're heading there then, pack your sunglasses and sunscreen.
What clothes should I pack for Basel?
Your packing list depends entirely on when you travel. Temperatures in Basel swing from an average low of 0°C32°F in January up to 26°C79°F in August. The Packola app builds a tailored packing list for you based on the live weather forecast for your exact travel dates.
Do I need to pack an umbrella for Basel?
Basel gets rain on about 159 days out of the year. The wettest month is December. If you're traveling during the rainy season, you'll definitely want to pack an umbrella and a light rain jacket.
Pack smarter.
Averages get you close, but the week you travel is what matters. Get the live forecast, a smart packing list, and discover the best local spots and activities in Basel with Packola.
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