Vitamin D

Zurich

Vitamin D from the sun in Zurich

7 months of sun

In Zurich you can synthesize vitamin D from March to September.

From October to February synthesis isn't possible — this is when a supplement can help.

Exact window
March 12 – October 8

Zurich: we'll tell you the days you can make vitamin D.

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Today's sun in Zurich

Today's sunrise, sunset, golden hour and day length.

Year-round profile in Zurich

Daily hours with enough sun to synthesize vitamin D across the year.

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0 h10 h+
Daily hours with enough sun to synthesize vitamin D across the year.

Seasonal windows

  • March: between 12:00 and 15:00, about 16 min for 1000 IU.
  • June: between 09:00 and 17:00, about 7 min for 1000 IU.
  • September: between 11:00 and 15:00, about 13 min for 1000 IU.
  • December: synthesis isn't possible.

Estimated for Fitzpatrick type III skin, arms and face exposed, clear sky.

When to supplement in Zurich

During the months without solar synthesis, vitamin D comes only from food or a supplement. It is usually taken as D3, often with magnesium — which the body needs to activate it — and vitamin K (as K2), which contributes to the maintenance of normal bones.

More about supplements

Sunrise and sunset by month in Zurich

How sunrise, sunset and day length change over the year.

MonthSunriseSunset
08:0917:01
07:3517:46
06:4318:28
06:4020:13
05:5020:54
05:2821:24
05:4421:19
06:2320:37
07:0619:35
07:4818:34
07:3416:48
08:0716:36

Approximate values for mid-month (the 15th).

Frequently asked questions about vitamin D in Zurich

Can I get vitamin D from the sun in winter in Zurich?
In Zurich you can synthesize vitamin D from March to September.
How many minutes of sun do I need in Zurich?
In summer, about 16 minutes with arms and face exposed is enough for 1000 IU (Fitzpatrick type III skin, clear sky).
What time does the sun rise and set in Zurich?
It shifts with the seasons: in June the sun rises around 05:28 and sets around 21:24; in December it rises around 08:07 and sets around 16:36.
What is the longest day of the year in Zurich?
Longest day: June, with about 16 h of daylight. Shortest day: December, with about 8 h.
When is golden hour in Zurich?
It's roughly the last hour before sunset: in June it starts around 20:36 and in December around 15:44.

More about the sun, light and health in the guide