December Packing List for Zurich — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Heavyweight Down CoatEssential

  With December lows hitting 30°F, a high-quality down coat is vital for staying warm while exploring the Altstadt.

• Merino Wool SweatersEssential

  Layering with merino wool is key when temperatures hover around 40°F during daytime strolls through Niederdorf.

• Thermal Base LayersEssential

  Crucial for managing the wind-chill near the Limmat River where temperatures can feel much colder than the recorded 30°F low.

• Waterproof Leather BootsEssential

  Necessary for navigating potentially wet or icy sidewalks in the Old Town when temperatures dip to 30°F.

• Warm Wool SocksEssential

  Keep feet warm during long excursions near the Limmat River where December's 30°F lows can cause discomfort.

• Heavyweight ScarfEssential

  Protects against the wind-chill found in the narrow streets of Niederdorf during 30°F nights.

• Thermal GlovesEssential

  A must-have for keeping hands warm when temperatures drop to 30°F during evening walks.

• Warm BeanieEssential

  Prevents heat loss while exploring the hilly areas around Zurich when temperatures drop to 30°F.

Clothing

• Heavyweight Down CoatEssential

  With December lows hitting 30°F, a high-quality down coat is vital for staying warm while exploring the Altstadt.

• Merino Wool SweatersEssential

  Layering with merino wool is key when temperatures hover around 40°F during daytime strolls through Niederdorf.

• Thermal Base LayersEssential

  Crucial for managing the wind-chill near the Limmat River where temperatures can feel much colder than the recorded 30°F low.

• Water-Resistant ShellRecommended

  With 11 days of precipitation expected, a water-resistant layer is necessary for damp walks along Zürichsee.

• Smart Casual TrousersRecommended

  Perfect for matching the banking elegance of Bahnhofstrasse while staying comfortable in 40°F weather.

Footwear

• Waterproof Leather BootsEssential

  Necessary for navigating potentially wet or icy sidewalks in the Old Town when temperatures dip to 30°F.

• Warm Wool SocksEssential

  Keep feet warm during long excursions near the Limmat River where December's 30°F lows can cause discomfort.

• Smart Casual BootsRecommended

  Ideal for maintaining a polished look on Bahnhofstrasse while staying comfortable in 40°F weather.

Accessories

• Heavyweight ScarfEssential

  Protects against the wind-chill found in the narrow streets of Niederdorf during 30°F nights.

• Thermal GlovesEssential

  A must-have for keeping hands warm when temperatures drop to 30°F during evening walks.

• Warm BeanieEssential

  Prevents heat loss while exploring the hilly areas around Zurich when temperatures drop to 30°F.

Gear

• Compact UmbrellaRecommended

  Essential for handling the 11 days of precipitation expected throughout December in Zurich.

• Portable Power BankOptional

  Cold temperatures near the Limmat River can drain phone batteries quickly during those 11 days of potential rain.

• Insulated Water BottleOptional

  Staying hydrated is important even when exploring Zurich's hilly terrain in the 40°F daytime highs.