North Macedonia

North Macedonia Weather & Climate: Monthly Averages

Monthly climate averages for North Macedonia, temperatures, rainfall and the best time to visit.

Climate overview of North Macedonia

North Macedonia is a small gem in the Balkans and has many different climatic zones for such a small country, each adding its unique charm to its region. This is due to the geographical location and topographical variations of the country.

Climatic Regions

Mildly Continental in the North: The north is a region of moderate climatic conditions. The summers are quite warm, while winters are cold. Since the temperatures are neither unbearably extreme, it remains an accommodating hub for those who prefer a mild climate.

Mediterranean in the South: The very south of North Macedonia has a Mediterranean climate due to its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are milder and wetter.

Mountainous in High Altitude Zones: Mountain areas, being at higher elevations, have their own distinct climate. While summers are cooler than in the lowlands, winters can be quite harsh with temperatures dropping significantly.

Seasonal Overview

Generally, North Macedonia has a continental climate with extreme seasons: hot summers and cool winters. This is the reason why tourists prefer to visit between May and October. This is the warmest time of the year, but at the same time, it is very dry—a great opportunity to explore the vast landscapes and cultural treasures under a bright blue sky.

During the summer months, the average monthly temperature is around 32°C (90°F). It only gets a little cooler at night, so carrying a light sweater is advisable.

Meanwhile, autumn brings drier and cooler weather. The season creates a visual treat, particularly for nature lovers, as forests and parks transform into a colorful landscape.

Winter in North Macedonia

Winter has an average temperature of about 2°C (36°F), with snowflakes and hot beverages adding to the atmosphere. This season has generally overcast, snowy, and windy conditions, especially in inland and northern areas. Snowfall can be heavy at times. Travelers during this period should be prepared for possible delays due to heavy snowfall and should pack adequately for the cold.

Explore North Macedonia by month

Popular cities by month

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Ohrid Skopje Bitola Star Dojran Gevgelija Mavrovo
Day temperature (°C)
Monthly rainfall (mm)
Monthly sunshine (hours)

Climate map

Average daily temperature, monthly rainfall & sunshine hours across cities.

Avg day temp (°C)
32°

Compare popular cities

Average daytime and nighttime temperatures, yearly rainfall and sunshine.

Ohrid 5°C (41°F) 27°C (81°F) -3°C (27°F) 16°C (61°F) 866 mm (34 in) 2,485 hours
Skopje 7°C (45°F) 33°C (91°F) -2°C (28°F) 17°C (63°F) 591 mm (23 in) 2,327 hours
Bitola 5°C (41°F) 29°C (84°F) -4°C (25°F) 16°C (61°F) 709 mm (28 in) 2,485 hours
Star Dojran 9°C (48°F) 34°C (93°F) 0°C (32°F) 20°C (68°F) 712 mm (28 in) 2,744 hours
Gevgelija 8°C (46°F) 32°C (90°F) -2°C (28°F) 18°C (64°F) 897 mm (35 in) 2,421 hours
Mavrovo 3°C (37°F) 26°C (79°F) -7°C (19°F) 12°C (54°F) 978 mm (39 in) 2,485 hours

FAQ

What is the best time to visit North Macedonia?

The warmest month in Star Dojran is August, with daytime highs of 34°C (93°F). Ohrid is the sunniest destination, with 350 hours of sunshine in July. North Macedonia has a distinct dry season from June to August. Explore North Macedonia weather by month for a detailed breakdown.

What temperatures can I expect in North Macedonia?

Star Dojran is the warmest destination, reaching 34°C (93°F) in August with nights around 20°C (68°F). Mavrovo is the coolest, with January daytime highs of just 3°C (37°F) and nights dropping to -7°C (19°F). Temperatures vary significantly between regions and seasons. See the city comparison for a full overview.

How much rain does North Macedonia get?

Rainfall varies across North Macedonia. Debar is the wettest, receiving 1135 mm (45 in) per year, with December the wettest month at 125 mm (4.9 in). Negotino is the driest at 539 mm (21 in) per year. In the coldest months, precipitation may fall as snow/rain. Use the climate map to explore rainfall patterns across regions.

How sunny is North Macedonia?

Ohrid is the sunniest destination in North Macedonia, enjoying 2,485 hours of sunshine per year, with July the brightest month at 350 hours. Overall, North Macedonia enjoys abundant sunshine year-round. Compare sunshine across cities in the charts above.

What is the climate like across North Macedonia?

Ohrid has warm summers reaching 27°C (81°F) in August and cold winters dropping to 5°C (41°F), with 2,485 hours of sunshine and 866 mm (34 in) of rain per year. Skopje has very warm summers reaching 33°C (91°F) in August and cold winters dropping to 7°C (45°F), with 2,327 hours of sunshine and 591 mm (23 in) of rain per year. Bitola has warm summers reaching 29°C (84°F) in August and cold winters dropping to 5°C (41°F), with 2,485 hours of sunshine and 709 mm (28 in) of rain per year. Explore the climate charts and comparison table for more cities.

Places in North Macedonia

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