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Weather Comparison

Paris vs Zurich

Side-by-side weather comparison for March

Paris: 12°CZurich: 10°C488 km apart

March Weather: Paris vs Zurich

MetricParisZurichBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer12°C (54°F)10°C (50°F)Paris
Average LowHigher is milder3°C (37°F)1°C (34°F)Paris
Rain DaysFewer is drier11 days13 daysParis
PrecipitationLess is drier51 mm79 mmParis
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier7h/day8h/dayZurich
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer66Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better19 km/h13 km/hZurich

Which City is Better in March?

Paris and Zurich are closely matched in March. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.

Paris is on the cooler side at 12°C, requiring warmer clothing. Zurich is cooler at 10°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Paris is the stronger choice in March. Zurich receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in March

Paris reaches an average high of 12°C (54°F) and drops to 3°C (37°F) at night during March. The daily temperature range is 9°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Zurich averages 10°C (50°F) for the high and 1°C (34°F) for the low, with a daily range of 9°C. The 2°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in March.

Rainfall Comparison in March

Paris receives approximately 51 mm of rainfall across 11 rain days during March. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Zurich sees 79 mm over 13 rain days. That makes Paris the drier option by 2 rain days and 28 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Paris vs Zurich

Packing for Paris in March

Highs of 12°C, lows of 3°C, 11 rain days

  • warm layers
  • a mid-weight jacket
  • long trousers
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • a warm scarf

Packing for Zurich in March

Highs of 10°C, lows of 1°C, 13 rain days

  • warm layers
  • a mid-weight jacket
  • long trousers
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • a warm scarf

Pack for both: warm layers, a mid-weight jacket, long trousers, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, a warm scarf. These items are useful in either destination during March.

Year-Round Comparison: Paris vs Zurich

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.March is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthParisZurich
HighRainHighRain
Jan7°C12d5°C13d
Feb8°C10d6°C11d
Mar12°C11d10°C13d
Apr15°C11d14°C13d
May19°C11d18°C15d
Jun22°C10d22°C16d
Jul24°C10d24°C15d
Aug24°C9d23°C14d
Sep21°C8d19°C12d
Oct16°C11d15°C12d
Nov11°C11d9°C12d
Dec7°C12d5°C14d
12°

Paris Weather in March

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

10°

Zurich Weather in March

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Paris warmer than Zurich in March?
Yes. In March, Paris is warmer with an average high of 12°C (54°F) compared to Zurich at 10°C (50°F), a difference of 2°C.
Which city gets more rain in March, Paris or Zurich?
Zurich gets more rain in March with 13 rain days and 79 mm of precipitation. Paris is the drier option with 11 rain days.
Is it better to visit Paris or Zurich in March?
It depends on your preferences. Paris averages 12°C and 7 hours of daily sunshine with 11 rain days. Zurich averages 10°C with 8 sunshine hours and 13 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Paris. For drier weather, Paris is the better pick.
How far apart are Paris and Zurich?
Paris and Zurich are approximately 488 km (303 miles) apart. Paris is located in France (Europe) while Zurich is in Switzerland (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Paris and Zurich?
For Paris, August tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 24°C. For Zurich, July is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 24°C highs.

Compare Paris and Zurich in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Paris coordinates: 48.86°N, 2.35°E | Zurich coordinates: 47.38°N, 8.54°E