Climate & Weather

Climate & Weather in Germany

Germany has a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Weather varies by region, with southern areas experiencing more extreme temperatures.

Seasons Overview

Winter (December-February):

• Temperature: 0-5°C (32-41°F)
• Short days (8 hours daylight)
• Gray, overcast frequently
• Snow occasional (more in south/mountains)
• Christmas markets brighten the gloom!

Spring (March-May):

• Temperature: 8-18°C (46-64°F)
• Unpredictable weather
• Flowers blooming (beautiful!)
• Increasing daylight
• Still rain-prone

Summer (June-August):

• Temperature: 20-30°C (68-86°F)
• Long days (16+ hours daylight in June)
• Occasional heat waves (35°C+)
• Beer garden season!
• Thunderstorms common

Fall/Autumn (September-November):

• Temperature: 10-18°C (50-64°F)
• Beautiful foliage
• Increasingly gray
• Rain increases
• Oktoberfest weather!

Regional Climate Differences

Rainfall & Gray Days

Annual rainfall: 700-800mm (moderate)

Rainy days: 120-150/year (so, quite a few!)

Truth: Germany is often gray and cloudy, especially November-February. This affects many expats.

Managing gray winters:

• Vitamin D supplements
• Light therapy lamps
• Plan trips to sunny destinations
• Embrace hygge (cozy culture)
• Stay active outdoors

What to Expect by City

Berlin:

• Cold winters, warm summers
• Less rain than west
• More continental extremes
• Gray November-February

Munich:

• Coldest winters among major cities
• Warm summers
• Snow more common
• Föhn winds (warm Alpine winds) bring sudden temperature changes

Hamburg:

• Milder but wetter
• Maritime climate
• Wind and rain year-round
• Rarely extreme temperatures

Cologne/Frankfurt:

• Moderate winters
• Warm summers
• Frequent rain
• Central location = average weather

Seasonal Preparation

Winter essentials:

• Warm winter coat (invest in quality!)
• Waterproof boots
• Layers (buildings well-heated)
• Umbrella
• Bike lights (dark commutes)
• Ice scraper for car

Summer needs:

• Most apartments NO air conditioning!
• Fans essential
• Sunscreen (sun strong despite latitude)
• Water bottle
• Sunglasses

Impact on Lifestyle

Winter challenges:

• Seasonal Affective Disorder common
• Dark commutes (leave 8am, return 5pm = dark both ways)
• Heating costs (€100-200/month)
• Less outdoor activities

Summer joys:

• Beer gardens packed
• Parks and lakes crowded
• Outdoor festivals
• Extended daylight (sunset 21:30 in June!)
• Terrace seating everywhere

Best & Worst Times

Best weather months:

• May-June: Pleasant, blooming, long days
• September: Warm, stable, beautiful
• December: Christmas markets (cold but festive)

Challenging months:

• November: Gray, cold, wet
• January-February: Dark, cold, dreary
• March: Unpredictable, still often cold

Comparison to Other Climates

For those from:

• Tropical climates: Winter will be shock. Invest in warm clothes.
• Mediterranean: More rain, colder winters, similar summers.
• US/Canada northern states: Similar, maybe slightly milder.
• UK/Ireland: Less rain, colder winters, warmer summers.
• Southern Europe: Significantly colder, especially winter.

Climate Change Impact

Recent trends:

• Hotter summers (40°C+ heat waves)
• Milder winters (less snow)
• More extreme weather events
• Flooding risk increased

Tips for Weather Adaptation

1. Layer clothing - Weather changes quickly
2. Invest in winter gear - You'll use it 4-5 months
3. Get rain jacket - Year-round necessity
4. Buy desk lamp - Combat winter darkness
5. Plan sunny winter escapes - Mental health boost
6. Embrace outdoor culture - Germans do it year-round!
7. Expect gray November-February - Mentally prepare