Köln Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Köln.
Climate overview of Köln
Köln, Germany, experiences significant temperature variation throughout the year. Summers bring daytime highs of 25°C (77°F) in July, while winters cool to 6°C (43°F) in January.
Köln sees a moderate amount of rain/snowfall, totalling around 954 mm (38 in) per year. July is the sunniest month, averaging 7.0 hours of sunshine per day.
Köln Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Köln — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Köln
Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from comfortable to chilly in Köln. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 25°C (77°F) in July, the warmest time of the year, to a chilly 6°C (43°F) during cooler months like January.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) in July to around 1°C (34°F) during January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Köln
Generally, Köln has a moderate amount of precipitation, averaging 954 mm (38 in) of rain/snowfall annually. While rainfall varies throughout the year, each season offers its own charm. December brings wetter days averaging 99 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation, spread over 18 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month April experiences a drier climate, with about 57 mm (2.2 in) of rainfall spread across 16 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Köln Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
Sunshine Hours in Köln
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Köln. While July receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 7.0 hours, December marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 1.5 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Best Time to Visit Köln
Rainfall during this time ranges from 67 mm (2.6 in) in May to 84 mm (3.3 in) in August. This means you can expect a mix of sunny days and occasional showers. Looking for inspiration on where to travel this year? We have a tool that recommends destinations based on your ideal conditions. Find out where to go with our weather planner.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Köln
What is the best time to visit Köln?
May, June, July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Köln. In contrast, January, February, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Köln?
Daytime highs range from 6°C (43°F) in January to 25°C (77°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 Köln get?
Annual rainfall is around 954 mm (38 in). December is the wettest month with 99 mm (3.9 in), while April is the driest with 57 mm (2.2 in).
How sunny is Köln?
Köln receives around 1,604 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 209 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 45 hours.
Köln 3-Day Forecast
Köln 3-Day Forecast
Köln on the map
Köln is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
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