Sofia Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Sofia.

Climate overview of Sofia

Sofia has a humid continental climate. The city is surrounded by mountains which has a big influences on the weather. In the cold winter months there is a lot of fog and smog due to the lack of wind. In summer months it feels hotter than it actually is because of the lack of wind. Spring and autumn are characterized by very unpredictable weather. Within a day or two, the weather can change completely.

Sofia Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Sofia - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Sofia

Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from comfortable to chilly in Sofia. Average daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 27°C (81°F) in August. In January, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a chilly 4°C (39°F).

At night, temperatures range from around 14°C (57°F) in August to -5°C (23°F) in January.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Sofia

Generally, Sofia has a moderate amount of precipitation, averaging 734 mm (29 in) of rain/snowfall annually. Sofia can be quite wet during May, receiving approximately 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 11 rainy days.

In contrast, during the driest month (November), you will experience much drier conditions, with 42 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation spread across 7 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Sofia Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Sofia

Sofia can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of July under a blue sky, with approximately 10.3 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in December, with only 2.3 hours of sunlight per day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Humidity in Sofia by Month

Wind Speed in Sofia

Best Time to Visit Sofia

For comfortable weather, consider visiting Sofia in May, June, July, August and September. Conditions are usually least favourable in January, February and December.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: May, June, July, August and September
  • Warmest weather: July and August
  • Most sunshine: July and August
  • Fewer rainy days: January, February, August, September and October
  • Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and cold winters
  • Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -5°C (23°F).

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Sofia

What is the best time to visit Sofia?

May, June, July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Sofia. In contrast, January, February and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Sofia has warm summers and cold winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Sofia?

Daytime highs range from 4°C (39°F) in January to 27°C (81°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from -5°C (23°F) to 14°C (57°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Sofia get?

Annual rainfall is around 734 mm (29 in). May is the wettest month with 91 mm (3.6 in), while November is the driest with 42 mm (1.7 in).

How sunny is Sofia?

Sofia receives around 2,250 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 310 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 68 hours. Overall, Sofia enjoys abundant sunshine.

Sofia 3-Day Forecast

Sofia 3-Day Forecast

Sofia on the map

Sofia is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.

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