Moscow

Moscow Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

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

Climate overview of Moscow

Moscow's climate changes dramatically with the seasons. The city experiences continental weather, typified by surprisingly hot and short summers. Winters are extremely cold and long. The winter snows begin in October and often last well into spring.

Summer, on the other hand, is the most popular time to visit Moscow. The days are very long and the weather is nice and warm. Thunderstorms and heavy rain is common during July and August.

Moscow Weather by Month

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

Monthly Temperature in Moscow

Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from comfortable to very cold in Moscow. Average daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 25°C (77°F) in July. In February, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a very cold -3°C (27°F).

At night, temperatures range from around 15°C (59°F) in July to -10°C (14°F) in February.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Moscow

Generally, Moscow has a moderate amount of precipitation, averaging 692 mm (27 in) of rain/snowfall annually. Moscow experiences moderate seasonal variation in rainfall, with monthly averages ranging from 81 mm (3.2 in) in July, the wettest month, and 39 mm (1.5 in) in March, the driest month. For more details, please visit our Moscow Precipitation page.

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

Sunshine Hours in Moscow

Moscow can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of June under a blue sky, with approximately 9.2 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in December, with only 0.6 hours of sunlight per day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Humidity in Moscow by Month

Wind Speed in Moscow

Best Time to Visit Moscow

During the months of May, June, July and August, Moscow enjoys pleasant weather with average temperatures ranging from 20°C (67°F) to 25°C (77°F). These months are perfect for sightseeing and exploring.

Rainfall during this time ranges from 63 mm (2.5 in) in May to 81 mm (3.2 in) in July. This means you can expect a mix of sunny days and occasional showers.

Wondering where to travel based on your weather preferences? Our recommendation tool helps you find destinations with your ideal climate conditions. Use our weather planner to find your perfect destination.

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Moscow

What is the best time to visit Moscow?

May, June, July and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Moscow. In contrast, January, February, March, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions.

What temperatures can I expect in Moscow?

Daytime highs range from -3°C (27°F) in February to 25°C (77°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -10°C (14°F) to 15°C (59°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Moscow get?

Annual rainfall is around 692 mm (27 in). July is the wettest month with 81 mm (3.2 in), while March is the driest with 39 mm (1.5 in).

How sunny is Moscow?

Moscow receives around 1,721 hours of sunshine per year. June is the sunniest month with 276 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 19 hours.

Moscow 3-Day Forecast

Moscow 3-Day Forecast

Moscow on the map

Moscow 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

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