Best time to visit Germany

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Germany

Best time of year to visit Germany

Late spring and early autumn seem to be the best time to visit Germany. Shoulder season brings fewer crowds, lower prices, and fantastic occasions like Carnival of Cultures or Berlin Festival of Lights. The weather from June through mid-September is warmest, but it's the time with most rainfall and tourists, so book accommodation in advance and pack well. Two weeks of rattling Oktoberfest in autumn might be your best or worst time in Germany depending on the perception; otherwise, autumn months see lower prices and fewer tourists. Winter brings skiing and Christmas markets that will warm you up with festive mood and mulled wine.

10 THINGS TO DO IN GERMANY (SEPTIEMBRE 19 - SEPTIEMBRE 28)

Frankfurt Auto Motor Show (IAA)

Frankfurt Auto Motor Show (IAA)

September 17–22, 2024 • event

The largest and one of the oldest automobile shows in the world

Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest

September 21-October 6, 2024 • event

The most famous beer festival in the world welcomes everyone to enjoy Bavarian culture, rivers of beer, and great traditional cuisine

Castles and Nature

Castles and Nature

May–November • nature

Bavaria is a country of castles and you'll have the chance to discover all of them

Lichtenstein Castle

Lichtenstein Castle

March–December • activity

The iconic fairytale Gothic castle has appeared in movies and books

Hiking

Hiking

April–October • activity

Discover and enjoy the beauty of nature and wildlife in this gorgeous Alpine region

Badeschiff Bathing Season

Badeschiff Bathing Season

May–September • activity

One of the best recreation areas during hot summers close to the center of Berlin

Halloween

Halloween

late September–mid-November  • event

A perfect occasion to dress up and party

Climbing

Climbing

May–October • activity

Enjoy classical and sport routes, via-ferratas, and some bouldering suitable for climbers of any experience level

Ulm Minster (Ulmer Münster)

Ulm Minster (Ulmer Münster)

April–September • activity

Enjoy the view from the world's tallest church

Cannstatter Volksfest

Cannstatter Volksfest

September 27-October 13, 2024 • event

The second largest beer festival in Germany

74 THINGS TO DO OUT OF SELECTED DATE RANGE

Krampus Nacht and Krampus Run

Krampus Nacht and Krampus Run

out of rangeDecember 10, 2023 • event

This scary demon can frighten even adults, so be sure you are ready to meet Krampus!

Rhine in Flames (Rhein in Flammen)

Rhine in Flames (Rhein in Flammen)

out of rangeMay 6, 2023 (Bonn) | July 1, 2023 (Bingen) | August 12, 2023 (Koblenz) | September 9, 2023 (Oberwesel) | September 16, 2023 (Sankt Goar) • event

These amazing firework displays take place at several locations along the river Rhine

Viehscheid

Viehscheid

out of rangeSeptember 13, 2023 • event

A unique event held annually in Bavaria. When cows come back home, the locals greet them and celebrate their return

Berlin Festival of Lights

Berlin Festival of Lights

out of rangeOctober 6–15, 2023 • event

Witness one of the most spectacular events in Berlin and immerse yourself in the magnificent light art!

Ludwigsburg Pumpkin Festival

Ludwigsburg Pumpkin Festival

out of rangeAugust 26–December 4, 2022 • event

Germans are totally into pumpkins. You can check it out at the largest pumpkin festival in the world

Christmas Markets

Christmas Markets

out of rangelate November–late December • event

A famous German tradition that has spread all over the world

New Year's Eve or Silvester

New Year's Eve or Silvester

out of rangeDecember 31 • event

Berlin is one of the best destinations in Europe for celebrating New Year's Eve

Monschau Christmas Market

Monschau Christmas Market

out of rangeNovember 29-December 1, 2024 • event

The fairytale Christmas market you won't forget

Fasching, Karneval and Fastnacht

Fasching, Karneval and Fastnacht

out of rangeFebruary 12–13, 2024 • event

Immerse yourself to a German version of Mardi Gras! Don't forget to wear a costume and a mask!

MoselBallonFiesta in Föhren

MoselBallonFiesta in Föhren

overAugust 18–20, 2023 • event

Enjoy hot air balloon launches, races, and glows at one of Germany's largest ballooning events

Carnival of Cultures

Carnival of Cultures

out of rangeMay 17-20, 2024 • event

See the Berlin streets come to life while the colorful kaleidoscope swirls you in a bright wild dance!

Cologne Christmas Markets

Cologne Christmas Markets

out of rangelate November–early January • event

Explore some of the coziest festive fairs in Germany

Bayreuth Festival

Bayreuth Festival

out of rangeJuly 25-August 26, 2024 • event

Feel the atmosphere of the most prestigious opera festival dedicated to a single composer–Richard Wagner

Kiel Week (Kieler Woche)

Kiel Week (Kieler Woche)

out of rangeJune 22-30, 2024 • event

Don't miss a chance to observe a long line of hundred-year-old sailing vessels

Fête de la Musique (Berlin Open Air Music Festival)

Fête de la Musique (Berlin Open Air Music Festival)

out of rangeJune 21 (virtual event) • event

The beginning of summer is a great time to be in Berlin. That's when the Fête de la Musique takes place.

Summerjam Festival

Summerjam Festival

out of rangeJuly 5-7, 2024 • event

One of the largest reggae, dancehall and hip hop events in Europe

Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market

Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market

out of rangeNovember 24–December 17, 2023 (Friday–Sunday) • event

Ravennaschlucht Christmas Market is a one-of-a-kind Christmas market that will impress you

Wave-Gotik-Treffen

Wave-Gotik-Treffen

out of rangeMay 17-20, 2024 • event

Watch Leipzig all dressed up in black at the world's largest goth festival

Gamescom

Gamescom

out of rangeAugust 21-25, 2024 • event

All passionate gamers flock to the most remarkable video game fair in Europe!

Frühlingsfest Stuttgart (Stuttgart Spring Festival)

Frühlingsfest Stuttgart (Stuttgart Spring Festival)

out of rangeApril 20-May 12, 2024 • event

Europe's largest spring festival

Landshut Wedding (Landshuter Hochzeit) 1475

Landshut Wedding (Landshuter Hochzeit) 1475

out of rangeJune 30–July 23, 2023 • event

Immerse yourself in a medieval wedding celebration held in Landshut, Bavaria

Japan-Tag Düsseldorf/NRW

Japan-Tag Düsseldorf/NRW

out of rangeJune 1, 2024 • event

The largest festival of Japanese culture outside of Japan

Kevelaer Hot Air Balloon Festival

Kevelaer Hot Air Balloon Festival

out of rangeJuly 12–13, 2024 • event

The premier ballooning event of North Rhine-Westphalia

New Year's Ski Jumping (Neujahrsskispringen)

New Year's Ski Jumping (Neujahrsskispringen)

out of rangeDecember 30, 2023–January 1, 2024 • event

Share the best ski jumping moment at the Olympic Ski Stadium in Garmisch-Partenkirchen with over 30,000 winter sports enthusiasts

Berlin Biennale

Berlin Biennale

out of rangeJune 11–September 18, 2022 • event

Every other year numerous Berlin venues turn into contemporary art galleries

Pyronale Fireworks World Championship

Pyronale Fireworks World Championship

out of rangeAugust 30-31, 2024 • event

Witness a great fireworks competition where international teams try to get recognition of the jury and support from the spectators with their breathtaking pyrotechnic displays

Berlinale—Berlin International Film Festival

Berlinale—Berlin International Film Festival

out of rangeFebruary 15-25, 2024 • event

The Berlinale is the city's most glamorous film event. With more than 400 films shown, it attracts the film industry elite as well as one of the biggest audiences of the world film festivals

Dusseldorf Christmas Market

Dusseldorf Christmas Market

out of rangeNovember 23–December 30, 2023 • event

Visit one of the biggest Christmas markets in the world

Dresden Christmas Market

Dresden Christmas Market

out of rangeNovember 27-December 24, 2024 • event

The oldest Christmas market in the world welcomes you

CSD Berlin or Berlin Pride

CSD Berlin or Berlin Pride

unconfirmedJuly 27, 2024 • event

Berlin Pride, referred to as “Christopher Street Day” (CSD in short) features two major events—the CSD Demo March and CSD Finale, a big final rally

Funkensonntag

Funkensonntag

out of rangeFebruary 18, 2024 • event

The reflection of bonfires set along the riverbank and the magical colours of the evening sky is something not to miss. Don't miss this authentic and unique tradition of driving away the spirits of winter in the Allgau region

Ballonfestival Bonn

Ballonfestival Bonn

out of rangeJune 7–11, 2023 • event

One of the best balloon events in Europe takes place in the green heart of Bonn

Warsteiner Montgolfiade Balloon Festival

Warsteiner Montgolfiade Balloon Festival

out of rangeSeptember 1–9, 2023 • event

Visit the dolliest festival in Europe

Ballonfest Chemnitz

Ballonfest Chemnitz

out of rangeAugust 16–18, 2024 • event

Three days of entertainment, fun, and balloons for the whole family

Rock am Ring and Rock im Park

Rock am Ring and Rock im Park

out of rangeJune 7-9, 2024 • event

Two huge rock events at the same time and almost in the same place? Yes, please!

Trier Christmas Market

Trier Christmas Market

out of rangeNovember 22-December 22, 2024 • event

Enjoy Christmas shopping and Advent events in the most romantic setting worldwide!

Dixieland Festival Dresden

Dixieland Festival Dresden

out of rangeMay 12–19, 2024 • event

Germany's oldest and Europe's largest old-time jazz fest

Cologne Carnival (Kölner Karneval)

Cologne Carnival (Kölner Karneval)

out of rangeFebruary 8–13, 2024 • event

Over a million people gather to see this colorful spectacle

Nuremberg Christmas Market

Nuremberg Christmas Market

out of rangeNovember 29-December 24, 2024 • event

Don't miss one of the most famous Christmas markets in the world

Almond Blossom Along the Wine Route

Almond Blossom Along the Wine Route

out of rangeMarch–April • nature

The arrival of pink and white almond blossoms at the German Wine Route is a sure sign of spring

St. Martin's Day (Martinstag)

St. Martin's Day (Martinstag)

out of rangeNovember 10–November 11 • event

Get your portion of family warmth sitting by the Martinsfeuer

BMW Berlin Marathon

BMW Berlin Marathon

out of rangeSeptember 29, 2024 • event

Berlin, the city of runners, hosts one of the most popular marathons in the world

Walpurgis Night (Walpurgisnacht)

Walpurgis Night (Walpurgisnacht)

out of rangeApril 30–May 1 • event

A wild pagan celebration, originating from local myths and folklore

Maypole (Maibaum)

Maypole (Maibaum)

out of rangeMay 1 • event

Check out this significant occasion to celebrate with local folklore groups and all the villagers dressed in their most exquisite traditional costumes

Burg Frankenstein Halloween

Burg Frankenstein Halloween

out of rangeNovember 4, 2023 • event

Imagine it's Halloween time, and bloodthirsty monsters are by your side!

Floating Beer Garden (Isar Floßfahrt)

Floating Beer Garden (Isar Floßfahrt)

out of rangeMay–mid-September • activity

Enjoy a journey on a traditional raft with music, dancing, and lots of fun

New Year’s Eve (Silvester) in Germany

New Year’s Eve (Silvester) in Germany

out of rangeDecember 31 • event

Ready to jump on the bandwagon of Germans who celebrate New Year’s Eve loud and wild?

AERO Friedrichshafen Air Show

AERO Friedrichshafen Air Show

out of rangeApril 17-20, 2024 • event

Visit Europe's largest aviation event!

Eltz Castle

Eltz Castle

out of rangeApril 1–November 1, 2023 • activity

This centuries-old medieval castle over Elzbach river is one of the most beautiful in the Rhineland-Palatinate region

Frankfurt Marathon

Frankfurt Marathon

out of rangeOctober 27, 2024 • event

The second largest marathon in Germany after Berlin

XJAZZ

XJAZZ

out of rangeMay 6-12, 2024 • event

The largest jazz festival in Berlin

Aachen Christmas Market

Aachen Christmas Market

out of rangeNovember 24–December 23, 2023 • event

This amazing Christmas market is located near a UNESCO world heritage site, Aachen Cathedral

Rothenburg Christmas Market

Rothenburg Christmas Market

out of rangeNovember 29-December 23, 2024 • event

Rejoice in this traditional Advent pre-Christmas market that offers plenty of delicious treats, lots of holiday music, and unforgettable atmosphere

Bremen Christmas Market

Bremen Christmas Market

out of rangeNovember 25-December 23, 2024 • event

Get into the holiday spirit at one of the best Christmas villages in northwest Germany

Leipzig Christmas Market

Leipzig Christmas Market

out of rangeNovember 28–December 23, 2023 • event

Enjoy an ambient atmosphere at Leipziger Weihnachtsmarkt

Esslingen Christmas Market

Esslingen Christmas Market

out of rangeNovember 23–December 21 • event

This annual winter celebration features unique gifts, live music, and lots of entertainment

Balloon Sail

Balloon Sail

unconfirmedJune 26, 2023 • event

Tons of people would give an arm and a leg to attend this hot-air balloon fest! Wanna see why? Keep reading!

Moers Festival

Moers Festival

out of rangeMay 17-20, 2024 • event

A long-lasting jazz tradition on the the Lower Rhine

Bamberg Christmas Market

Bamberg Christmas Market

out of rangeNovember 28–December 23, 2023 • event

While away and feel the Christmas spirit at this one-of-a-kind event

Skiing at Zugspitze

Skiing at Zugspitze

out of rangeNovember–April • activity

The highest mountain in Germany presents an unforgettable view

Hamburg Christmas Markets

Hamburg Christmas Markets

out of rangemid-November–December • event

Some of the best holiday food and entertainment in North Germany

Toad Migration

Toad Migration

out of rangeMarch–April • nature

Have you ever noticed a traffic sign with a frog on it?

Asparagus Season

Asparagus Season

out of rangemid-April–June • food

Welcome the springtime with the first German spring vegetable

Wacken Open Air

Wacken Open Air

out of rangeJuly 31-August 3, 2024 • event

Headbang till sunrise at one of Europe's best heavy metal festival

Stuttgart Christmas Market

Stuttgart Christmas Market

out of rangeNovember 29–December 23, 2023 • event

The top Advent attraction in Baden-Württemberg, southwest Germany

Jazz Baltica

Jazz Baltica

out of rangeJune 28-30, 2024 • event

Five stages and 30 concerts during one summer weekend by the Baltic sea

Day of German Unity

Day of German Unity

out of rangeOctober 3 • event

Berliners celebrate the national holiday with a festival around Brandenburg Gate

Baden-Baden Christmas Market

Baden-Baden Christmas Market

out of rangeNovember 21, 2024-January 6, 2025 • event

Nestled in the mountains of the Black Forest, Baden-Baden is a true winter wonderland

Heidelberg Christmas Market

Heidelberg Christmas Market

out of rangeNovember 25-December 22, 2024 • event

One of the most beautiful Christmas markets in southwest of Germany

Koblenz Christmas Market

Koblenz Christmas Market

out of rangeNovember 24–January 7 • event

One of the best seasonal fairs in Rhineland-Palatinate

Ostermünde

Ostermünde

out of rangeMarch 31, 2024 • event

Open spring season with Easter celebrations in Travemünde, a small German seaside town

Hurricane Festival

Hurricane Festival

out of rangeJune 21-23, 2024 • event

One of the best festivals of rock, indie and electronic music in Germany

About You Pangea Festival

About You Pangea Festival

out of rangeAugust 8-11, 2024 • event

A vivid mix of music, sports, arts, and playfulness

Montgolfiade Tegernsee

Montgolfiade Tegernsee

out of rangeJanuary 29–February 5, 2023 • event

Get a bird-eye view of Bavaria's most beautiful valley

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Germany weather in enero

10.5/10 score
Ideal
10° average
average temperatures
10 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
Regardless of the city you visit, the middle of winter is the coldest and darkest period of the year in Germany, yet good enough to appreciate its landmarks and cuisine. With the average highs up to 3-5°C (34-41°F) and lows around freezing and below, the probability of snowfall is high in most places, especially in Bavaria (Munich), Alps and the Harz Mountains, and also in Berlin. The north is an exception due to the milder climate of the coastal area near the Baltic and North seas. Bremen and Hamburg expect rain rather than snow. If you visit in January, plan the itineraries in accordance with short days—January 1st sees less than eight hours of daylight. Dress in layers and make sure to pack thermal underwear, a down jacket, warm socks, scarves, gloves, and a hat.

Germany weather in febrero

10.5/10 score
Ideal
10° average
average temperatures
10 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
Another month of cold and darkness, yet less severe. The average highs increase a little reaching up to 5°C (41°F), and lows remain around freezing. The snowfalls are still frequent in the south and east. Occasional cold waves from Siberia and the North Pole may bring rather low temperatures, far below freezing. The weather is generally chilly and humid. However, the average precipitation decreases a little. One more pleasure—the days offer more daylight hours to enjoy winter sports or sightseeing. By the end of the month, the sun rises at around 7 am and sets down at 5:45 pm. Yet, it doesn't work for the northern area, where the daylight is still scarce. When packing, take thermal underwear and a down jacket. Socks, gloves, scarves, and hats will be of much use.

Germany weather in marzo

10.5/10 score
Ideal
10° average
average temperatures
10 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
March still feels much like winter, even though the temperatures increase slowly, and the darkness starts fading away, even in the northernmost areas of the country. The later in the month you arrive, the milder weather you're likely to enjoy. The average max temperature is 9°C (48°F). The most pleasant weather is observed across the western belt exposed to the mild air masses of Atlantic. Even southern and eastern areas that usually get most snowfalls, warm up in March. However, cold spells from Siberia and the North Pole may bring chilly weather, which is especially likely for Bavaria. Don't neglect warm garments while packing, as mornings and evenings remain quite chilly. A warm coat is a must, but dressing in layers is also important so that you could easily undress in the sunny afternoon or indoors.

Germany weather in abril

10.5/10 score
Ideal
10° average
average temperatures
10 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
It feels like spring has set in most of Germany, especially in Frankfurt and all western belt. In the meanwhile, the last cold spells with short snowfalls and night frost are still possible in Bavaria and Munich in early April. The second half of the month is somewhat milder. The average highs reach 12-14°C (54-57°F) in the afternoon. A sudden rise of temperatures and southern winds may cause rapid snowmelt in the mountains. The best thing is the sun that appears more often this month. Naturally, the days get longer—15 daylight hours in late April. Besides, the rainfalls aren't significant. Visiting Germany in April, you may leave your winter coat at home. Keep in mind chilly mornings and evenings. Bring different items of clothing, including long- and short-sleeves, as well as a jacket, sweatshirt, and sweater to stay comfy at different temperatures.

Germany weather in mayo

10.5/10 score
Ideal
10° average
average temperatures
10 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
The month of May, especially its second half, is considered one of the best times to visit Germany. It is when the first truly warm days come to the country. The pleasant temperatures hover around upper teens, sometimes reaching the lower 20s (60-70°F). Along with the warmth, the rainfalls are more frequent now. The inland areas experience afternoon thunderstorms. In May, you can benefit from plenty of sunshine and long days, which make this month a perfect time to enjoy the outdoors. Cherry blossoms make it even more delightful. You don't have to bring a heavy coat in May, but simple sweaters and a jacket will do. A raincoat will be of use. And a pair of sunglasses too.

Germany weather in junio

10.5/10 score
Ideal
10° average
average temperatures
10 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
Unlike winters, summers are hotter in the south, while the northern coastal area experiences cooler weather due to the sea winds. Both the North and Baltic seas have equally low temperatures, but strong winds make them suitable for sailing and kitesurfing. The cities located further from the sea, including Berlin, experience higher temperatures, but also afternoon thunderstorms. The same is to be said about the mountainous areas. German summer is not particularly sunny, with quite a lot of rainy days. Yet these days are also warm and long. If you go hiking in the mountains, expect much cooler temperatures at high elevations. The peaks are often foggy. During packing, don't forget to take your rain jacket along with light summer garments, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Germany weather in julio

10.5/10 score
Ideal
10° average
average temperatures
10 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
Mid-summer is the peak season in Germany. Temperatures reach their maximum hovering in the mid- to upper-20s (77-84°F) and above, and there's high humidity too. The sea winds in the north and short rain showers in inland have a nice cooling effect. The northernmost areas are slightly milder than inland, but also windier and rainier. Cooler temperatures are observed only at high altitudes—fogs and afternoon thunderstorms are frequent here, while the highest elevations may occasionally have even snowfalls. A rain jacket, sunscreen, and sunglasses will come in handy for visiting Germany at the peak of summer.

Germany weather in agosto

10.5/10 score
Ideal
10° average
average temperatures
10 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
One of the hottest months in Germany. The average highs decrease slightly. Nevertheless, due to the great level of humidity, one feels as if it were the same or even hotter than in July. Also, August is one of the wettest months a year with plenty of rainy days in the north and afternoon thunderstorms in the inland and mountains. The temperatures drop only with higher altitudes. Harz mountains in the center-north area are cooler than the southern Alps at the equal altitude—that's owing to the higher latitude. A waterproof outer layer is a must if you choose to travel during one of the rainiest months of the year. But sunscreen and sunglasses are also not to be forgotten along with the lightweight summer clothing.

Germany weather in septiembre

10.5/10 score
Ideal
10° average
average temperatures
10 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
The first half of September offers pleasant warm weather. The rainfalls are less frequent than in summer months, but the average highs also decrease, now hovering at around 20°C (68°F). Gradually mornings and evenings get chillier and the days become shorter. Every other day brings less sunshine. So everything signifies that autumn is around the corner, and it's a perfect time to enjoy the last warm days outdoors before the cold has come. The month is appreciated for the lower chances of thunderstorms and fall foliage. If you're traveling in September, the luggage is getting a little heavier, as there's a greater need for sweaters, sweatshirts, and a jacket. But short sleeves may come in handy too.

Germany weather in octubre

10.5/10 score
Ideal
10° average
average temperatures
10 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
Autumn is in full swing, and the temperatures cool down progressively. The average highs dip to 13°C (55°F) and lows—to a chilly 6°C (43°F). A little rain is possible, and the first mists too. Still, there are some good chances of enjoying crisp sunny days brightened up with fall foliage. While planning your itinerary, keep in mind the days get much shorter—by the end of October, the sunrise is at 7 am and sunset at 4:39 pm. When visiting in October, the most necessary thing is dressing in layers to be ready for both warm and chilly days. A rain jacket might come in handy too.

Germany weather in noviembre

10.5/10 score
Ideal
10° average
average temperatures
10 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
By mid-November, the weather gets fairly winter-like. Get ready for the cold and possibly first snow. It's particularly true for the southern and eastern regions. The average temperatures dip to just above freezing. But daytime temperatures differ depending on the region—it's a bit warmer in the western areas. The sun rarely shines, and daylight hours are fewer, particularly in the north. The dullness is beaten with the start of the Christmas season. It usually launches by the end of the month. Germany is praised for especially stunning Christmas markets. November visitors must pack warm clothes, including such winter gear as a warm coat or a down jacket, boots, gloves, and a hat. It'll be wise to dress in layers to be able to take some clothes off in the heated indoors.

Germany weather in diciembre

10.5/10 score
Ideal
10° average
average temperatures
10 mm
precipitation
6h 24m
daylight duration
One of the coldest and darkest months due to the fewest daylight hours—on December 21st, the day of the Winter Solstice, the sunset happens before 4 pm. The average temperature hovers below freezing. The south and east of the country receive the most snowfalls, while rainy weather prevails in the northern areas. The best part of the season is Christmas, which brightens up the dullness with festive markets, holiday lights, foods, and hot spirits. To make your visit cozy and comfy, make sure to pack thermal underwear, a down jacket, wool socks, gloves, a scarf, and a hat. A raincoat or umbrella will be in handy if you go to the northern areas.