Climate and Weather of Germany
Germany offers a temperate climate, characterized by warm summers and cold winters, with long periods of frost or snow being relatively rare. This climate pattern can be observed throughout the country, but weather conditions can be highly variable due to Germany's diverse geographical features. Even within a relatively small radius of a hundred kilometers (62 miles), one can encounter large differences in temperature and precipitation. In general it will become warmer towards the south in summer, but in winter months it is exactly the other way around.During the winter months, typically in January, the average maximum temperature can vary from region to region, dropping to very low levels of -2°C in Oberstdorf while rising to a comparatively mild 6°C in Kevelaer. Nights are cold across the country, with temperatures often falling to around 1°C in Kevelaer and -7°C in Oberstdorf. Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with January experiencing varied amounts of snow and rainfall from a low of 30 mm in Sondershausen to a high of 126 mm in Oberstdorf.
During the summer, particularly in July, Germany generally enjoys pleasant weather. With average maximum temperatures varying from moderate levels of 15°C in Oberstdorf to high levels of 27°C in Kaiserslautern. Rainfall during this month can be quite high, ranging from 61 mm in Hainrode to a considerable 192 mm in Mitterbach.
As the seasons transition, so does the weather. The spring months, such as April, experience temperatures ranging from a cool 5°C in Oberstdorf to a more moderate 17°C in Kaiserslautern, with precipitation varying across the country. The autumn months, like October, see maximum temperatures drop back down, ranging from 7°C in Oberstdorf to 15°C in Kaiserslautern, with accompanying changes in precipitation.
Despite the climatic differences across Germany, the period from May to September is generally considered the best time to visit. This period provides the highest chance of good travel weather, although it's worth noting that July and August are high season months, leading to slightly elevated prices.
Are you interested in more detailed information for various cities in Germany?
Please select the city you plan to visit, or one closest to your destination. For each selected city, you will see the following graphs:
1. Yearly average minimum and maximum temperatures
2. Monthly averages of precipitation throughout the year (rainfall, snow etc)
3. Monthly average hours of sunshine throughout the year
Additionally, some pages provide historical weather data such as humidity, wind speed, and water temperature.