Weather Overview

The weather in Berlin varies greatly throughout the year.  The best time to visit if you don´t like the cold is from late spring in April till early autumn/fall in October.  Berlin, however, is an amazing city regardless of temperature, and although the winter months can be chilly, there is still heaps to do, including the famous Christmas markets throughout December.  See below for our guide to the seasons for a little of what to expect...

Winter (December 22 – March 22)

Winters can get pretty chilly in Berlin with the average high temperature hovering around 2ºC/35ºF, although it isn’t uncommon for the temperatures to drop to -5ºC/23°F or -10ºC/14°F at times.  This by no means hampers the spirit of the Berliners who are happy to party no matter what the mercury is doing – as long as it is indoors.  If you are lucky you’ll get some snow in December and you can warm yourself with a Glühwein (Hot spiced wine) at one of Berlin’s Christmas markets while munching on some great regional food and soaking up the Christmas spirit.  January is the coldest month of the year and on average only receives 46 hours of sunshine for the entire month; so don’t forget to pack your thermals.
 
Suitcase essentials:  Winter Coat, hat, scarf, thermal underwear, and sturdy shoes for the snow and ice covered streets.
 

Spring (Frühling) (March 22 –June 22)

As the mercury starts to rise, Berliners take to the outdoors like bears after hibernation.  Barbecues are dusted off, picnic blankets are shaken out and locals and visitors alike flock to the many parks and nature reserves around Berlin.  As the temperature steadily increases, beer gardens and outdoor bars and clubs awake from their winter slumber.  The feeling of optimism and enthusiasm is almost palpable as leaves once more begin to grown, and trees begin to blossom, making spring one of the best times to visit the city.
 
Suitcase essentials:  At times in March and April you may still need a decent coat, scarf and gloves.
 

Summer (Sommer) (June 22 – September 22)

Summer in Berlin is a time of celebration, with many festivals and loads of outdoor events during this time.  Nights are generally mild, and there is plenty of sunshine from around 5am till 10pm.  Expect some occasional rain, with an average of 9 rainy days per month.  The average high temperature in summer is 22ºC/72°F, with temperatures falling to around 15ºC/59°F during the night.   It is not uncommon for the temperature to hover around 30ºC/86°F, and on some occasions might get as high as 35°C/95°F.  When the mercury rises unbearably, we recommend spending some time at one of the beautiful lakes, rivers and swimming pools in and around Berlin to escape the heat.
 
Suitcase essentials:  Light jacket, umbrella, sunscreen, sunglasses and your dancing shoes.
 

Autumn/Fall (Herbst) (September 22 – December 22)

From August, the temperature, and the sunlight that hits Berlin each day, gradually decreases and by the beginning of December the average night-time temperature in Berlin is a chilly 4ºC/39°F.  It is not all doom and gloom, however, as the many trees throughout the city provide a beautiful backdrop of reds, oranges, and yellows, keeping you wandering the streets well after your ears go numb.
 
Suitcase essentials:  a decent coat, gloves, scarf and hat.  Thermal underwear if you are especially cold blooded.