Leiden Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Leiden.
Climate overview of Leiden
Temperatures in Leiden, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands, vary greatly throughout the year. August is the hottest month at 22°C (72°F), while January is the coldest at 7°C (45°F).
The city receives around 929 mm (37 in) of rain/snowfall per year. It experiences warm summers and cold winters. August is the wettest month and April the driest. The sunniest month is May, with 7.7 hours of sunshine per day on average.
Leiden Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Leiden - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Leiden
The climate in Leiden is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. On average, daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 22°C (72°F) in August to a chilly 7°C (45°F) in January.
Nighttime temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) in August to 2°C (36°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Leiden
Generally, Leiden receives mid-range precipitation levels, with 929 mm (37 in) annually. The amount of precipitation varies moderately throughout the year. The wettest month, August, sees around 93 mm (3.7 in) of rainfall, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of rain now and then. The driest month, April, still receives a respectable 54 mm (2.1 in) of rainfall. For more details, please visit our Leiden Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Leiden
In Leiden, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 7.7 hours in May. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. December sees a soft sun for only 1.7 hours per average day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Leiden by Month
The city experiences its highest humidity in December, reaching 87%. In May, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 78%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Leiden
The average wind speed over the year ranges from 5 m/s (10 knots) to 6 m/s (12 knots). It is lower in April, May, June, July, August, September and October and higher in January, February, March, November and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Leiden
Each month is rated for comfortable sightseeing weather — mild temperatures and low rainfall. Tap a month for its full averages; your ideal time may differ for a beach or winter trip (see below).
- Best overall: June, July, August and September
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: May and July
- Climate seasons: warm summers and cold winters
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Leiden
What is the best time to visit Leiden?
June, July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Leiden. In contrast, January, February, March and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Leiden has warm summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Leiden?
Daytime highs range from 7°C (45°F) in January to 22°C (72°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from 2°C (36°F) to 15°C (59°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Leiden get?
Annual rainfall is around 929 mm (37 in). August is the wettest month with 93 mm (3.7 in), while April is the driest with 54 mm (2.1 in).
How sunny is Leiden?
Leiden receives around 1,738 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 232 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 50 hours.
Leiden 3-Day Forecast
Leiden 3-Day Forecast
Leiden on the map
Leiden is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in July - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
Flower fields in the Netherlands
The flower fields in The Netherlands are world famous. The red, pink and yellow colors are breathtakingly beautiful and should be on the bucket list.
Pride in Amsterdam
Nowhere in the world is Pride being celebrated on the water on such a scale as in Amsterdam. It is an unique experience that every person needs to add to his, her or its bucket list.
The greenest experience of Amsterdam
If you’re looking for an experience of Amsterdam that is rooted in nature, that can help you go outside and get your hands dirty, then these tips are for you.
Amsterdam Dance Event
ADE is one of the larger festival giants, but you may never have heard of it if you are not an electronic music fan. It last five days and takes place in October.