Germany Travel Guide: Climate in Germany
Travelers going to Germany should first determine the climate or type of weather to expect during their stay in the country. This allows travelers to prepare for the trip in terms of what articles of clothing to bring and what activities to plan. Germany has quite an unpredictable climate given its location and size. This means that the climate changes depending on the season, as well as the location of the traveler in the country.
In general, Germany enjoys a varied yet temperate climate. The moderate climate is attributed to the north Atlantic Drift. The temperatures are pretty constant and extremes in highs and lows don’t happen frequently. The dry continental air mass from Europe as well as the maritime air mass from the Atlantic both influences the overall weather in the country.
The areas of Germany near the North Sea, such as the cities of Hamburg and Berlin are considered oceanic. The climate here is more predictable during the summer season, although the winter season can be very cold with cutting winds. On the other hand, the eastern side has a continental climate. This results in cold winters and very hot summers. Unlike the northern side, there are long periods wherein there is no rainfall.
The central and southern portions of Germany have a climate that ranges from oceanic to continental. The cities of Leipzig, Dresden and Stuttgart can be warm during the summer but at the same time can receive a lot of rain showers.
It rains all year round in Germany, with the most rainfall recorded during the summer season, which falls between the months of June and September. During the summer season, the temperatures range between 20 °C to 30 °C/68 °F to 86 °F. This makes the summer season quite cool and comfortable. However, the summer season does have some rainfall and afternoon thunderstorms are to be expected.
The spring season in Germany falls between the months of April and May. It is also the most unpredictable season of the year since the weather patterns can vary from sunny, to rainy, to windy or cold. At higher elevations, hail and snow can even occur. However, it is one of the most beautiful times of the year to go since the spring season is when the plants are lush and green.
The autumn season is one of the most idyllic times to visit the country. This falls between the months of October and November. It is still sunny and warm in the country, making it the perfect climate to enjoy Oktoberfest. Towards November, the days get shorter and the temperature starts to drop. It can be cool and sometimes overcast or gray.
On the other hand, the winter season is quite mild. The winter season begins in December and ends in the month of March. The average daytime temperature is a cold 0 °C to 5 °C/32 °F to 41°F. During the evening hours, the temperatures do drop, often falling below zero. In the winter season, snow can be expected up until February. Eastern Germany is colder compared to the Northern and Rhine regions. The most snow falls over the Bavarian Forest.
The sunny yet wet climate results in lush vegetation and thriving vineyards in the country. There’s always something to do and somewhere fun to go in Germany. With the various changes in the temperature and climate in Germany, travelers should pack clothing that can be worn in layers. A lightweight sweater plus wet-weather clothing might prove useful.
Before leaving for a trip to Germany, travelers should check for the exact climate in Germany and the temperature in Germany for the duration of the trip. Given the different variations in climate, it’s best to know what to expect so you can be prepared with the correct clothing and accessories, as well as plan your activities accordingly. Therefore you would know if the weather will suit the type of activities you have planned as you make your way around one of the most exciting and enjoyable countries in Europe.
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