Canberra Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Canberra has a temperate climate. Due to its slightly higher elevation Canberra has larger temperature differences than the coast of Australia. It is one of the few cities in this country where it could freeze in winter. Sometimes the thermometer plunges even a few degrees below zero. The summers in Canberra are pleasant with averages of around 28°C (82°F).
Monthly Temperature in Canberra
Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from comfortable to chilly in Canberra. Average daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 28°C (82°F) in January. In July, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a chilly 12°C (54°F).
At night, temperatures range from around 13°C (55°F) in January to 1°C (34°F) in July.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Canberra
Generally, Canberra has a moderate amount of precipitation, averaging 653 mm (26 in) of rain/snowfall annually. Canberra experiences moderate seasonal variation in rainfall, with monthly averages ranging from 69 mm (2.7 in) in November, the wettest month, and 32 mm (1.3 in) in May, the driest month. For more details, please visit our Canberra Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
Sunshine Hours in Canberra
Canberra can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of January under a blue sky, with approximately 10.0 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in June, with only 5.1 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in Canberra by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Canberra.
The city experiences its highest humidity in June, reaching 81%. In December, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 51%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Canberra
The mean wind speed varies between 1 m/s (2 knots) and 2 m/s (4 knots) throughout the year. It is lowest in February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September and October and highest during January, November and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Canberra 3-Day Forecast
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
Best Time to Visit Canberra
During the months of January, February, March, April, October, November and December, Canberra enjoys pleasant weather with average temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 28°C (82°F). These months are perfect for sightseeing and exploring.Rainfall during this time ranges from 33 mm (1.3 in) in April to 69 mm (2.7 in) in November. This means you can expect a mix of sunny days and occasional showers. Planning your next adventure but unsure where to go? Our climate tool suggests perfect locations tailored to your preferred weather conditions. Discover your ideal travel destination with our weather planner.