Besançon Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

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

Climate overview of Besançon

Temperatures in Besançon, Franche-Comté, France, vary greatly throughout the year. July is the hottest month at 27°C (81°F), while January is the coldest at 7°C (45°F).

The city receives considerable rain/snowfall, with around 1244 mm (49 in) annually. December is the wettest month. It has warm summers and cold winters. July is the sunniest month, averaging 8.7 hours of sunshine per day.

Besançon Weather by Month

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

Monthly Temperature in Besançon

The climate in Besançon is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 27°C (81°F) in July to a chilly 7°C (45°F) in the coolest month, January.

Nights vary from 15°C (59°F) in July to around 1°C (34°F) during the colder months.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Besançon

Besançon has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1244 mm (49 in) of rain/snowfall per year. Precipitation levels in Besançon remain relatively steady throughout the year. December has the most rain, with 129 mm (5.1 in) over 16 days. In the driest month July, this drops slightly to 81 mm (3.2 in), making the city's climate fairly predictable. For more details, please visit our Besançon Precipitation page.

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

Sunshine Hours in Besançon

For those who appreciate different seasons, Besançon serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in July with an average of 8.7 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in January, offering only 2.1 hours of daily sunlight.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Best Time to Visit Besançon

For comfortable weather, consider visiting Besançon in June, July and August. Conditions are usually least favourable in January, February, November 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: June, July and August
  • Warmest weather: July and August
  • Most sunshine: July
  • Fewest rainy days: July, August, September and October
  • Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and cold winters

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Besançon

What is the best time to visit Besançon?

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

What temperatures can I expect in Besançon?

Daytime highs range from 7°C (45°F) in January to 27°C (81°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from 1°C (34°F) to 15°C (59°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Besançon get?

Annual rainfall is around 1244 mm (49 in). December is the wettest month with 129 mm (5.1 in), while July is the driest with 81 mm (3.2 in).

How sunny is Besançon?

Besançon receives around 1,885 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 260 hours, while January is the cloudiest with just 63 hours.

Besançon 3-Day Forecast

Besançon on the map

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