Germany is a country that embraces its seasons, with events and celebrations spread across the calendar.
With a balmy south west, a cool northern coast and a mountainous south, the weather is by no means uniform between the states, so check the region you plan to visit for more detailed information; including which festival is next. This seasonal guide can help you plan the perfect time for your visit to Germany.
May to September is the best time for warmer weather
Germany’s warmest period is sandwiched between cherry blossoms in the spring and golden leaves in the autumn. July and August normally see the highest temperatures, but can also bring moody thunderstorms, sudden downpours and even hail.
Those heading for the cooler coast should still aim for these hottest months (despite the crowds), while those planning on hiking, cycling, or other outdoor activities might want to plan something during the more stable conditions either side. School holidays are staggered by state in Germany but run from June through to September.
September and October are the best times for a beer festival
Munich’s Oktoberfest kicks off in late September and runs until the start of October. During this time, hotel prices rise steeply and places are booked up months in advance. If you’re not interested in the event, then this is not the best time to visit the city. To experience something similar, with fewer people, there’s the Starkbierfest (strong beer festival) in spring or a number of other folk festivals throughout the year.
Elsewhere in the country, late summer is the peak season for wine-related celebrations such as the Stuttgart Wine Festival, the Rheingau Wine Festival in Frankfurt and the Wurstmarkt in Dürkheim.
March to May and October to November are the best times for budget travelers
The weather during these months can be unpredictable, but should no longer feel like the depths of winter. These off-peak shoulder seasons are a great time for budget travel thanks to lower rates for accommodation and lower demand. Expect quieter inner-cities and old towns, as well as top sights without the crowds. Be prepared to adapt your itinerary and wardrobe according to the forecast.
December is the best time for Christmas markets
Opening towards the end of November and running all the way up to Christmas, Germany’s markets bring hot mulled wine and smoky sausage grills to towns, villages and cities up and down the country.
A trip during this time will help get you in the festive mood and might even offer some snow, but you won't be the only one with the idea. Popular with locals and international visitors alike, this time could see an increased demand for accommodation, especially in hot spots such as Nuremberg and Dresden.
January to March is the best time for skiing
The skiing season starts in earnest after Christmas, with the Alps and resorts such as Garmisch-Partenkirchen between a one to two hour drive from Munich airport. In places without a good covering of snow, this time of year can feel cold and dark. The cafe culture in cities such as Berlin can help take the edge off with cozy candle-lit hangouts, but beware of the icy streets outside. Pack a heavy-duty jacket.
In some parts of the country, including cities such as Mainz, Dusseldorf and Cologne, the start of the year sees the build up and culmination of Fasching or carnival ahead of Lent. Expect colorful processions and a party atmosphere– a good way to forget about the weather.
This article was first published Jul 28, 2023 and updated May 8, 2024.
In Germany, the "tourist season" runs roughly from May through September. Summer has its advantages: the best weather, snow-free alpine trails, very long days (light until after 21:00), and the busiest schedule of tourist fun. Travel during "shoulder season" (spring and fall) is easier and can be a bit less expensive.
HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I SPEND IN GERMANY? A three to five-day visit to Germany is enough to cover the country's key attractions and highlights such as the Holocaust Memorial, Brandenburg Gate, and the Twelve Apostles.
The cheapest time to visit in Germany's big cities is between January and March, though you will have cold temperatures and long, dark nights to contend with. If that sounds unappealing, you should try to plan your vacation around late spring (March to May) or late autumn (October to November).
The German spring runs from March to May.Summer is from June through to August, and Autumn is during the months of September, October, and November.German winters are between December and February.
Peak Season : Summer (June to September) is the peak tourist season in Germany. The warm weather is great for outdoor activities such as hiking and swimming. The long sunny days ensure that you make the most of your time outdoors.
Southwestern. The southwestern region is comprised of the states of Baden-Württemberg, Hessen, Rheinland-Pfalz, and Saarland. This region has arguably the most favorable climatic conditions. Home to cities like Karlsruhe, Heidelberg, and Freiburg, Germany's southwest is the warmest part of the country.
For budget travelers, you can expect to spend around $50 to $70 per day in Germany, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend around $100 to $150 per day. It's important to plan ahead and research activities and costs to create a budget that works for you.
The affordability is great! Because Germany is centrally located on the continent, it is more expensive than eastern countries like Romania or Bulgaria, but it is cheaper than pricey western countries like France or Spain. If you want to travel Germany on a budget, it can definitely be done!
Take a river cruise. Many of Germany's major cities lie along large rivers, making river cruises a popular way to see the country. While there are expensive multi-day cruises going from city to city, you can also take a day cruise for a more budget-friendly option.
The cheapest time of year to fly from India to Germany is usually October and costs around ₹ 31,739. If you're not sure when you want to go, and October doesn't work for you, we can help. Just take a look at prices for the rest of the year and you can quickly plan a trip that suits your budget.
The best time to visit Germany is May or June. The spring weather is warm during the day and slightly cool at night as the cherry trees bloom and Berlin's festival scene bursts to life.
Although there isn't a specific rainy season, the autumn and winter months will see more rain and drizzle than usual. Although summers are often drier, it might still rain.
The temperature and conditions change during this season, but in general you can look forward to a warm climate and long days, particularly in July and August, the two hottest months in Germany.
One week in Germany is enough time to visit three destinations at a comfortable pace. History buffs will appreciate tours of Nuremberg's World War II sites, while travelers keen on culinary experiences can sample local food and wine on tasting tours in Berlin and the Rhine Valley.
Introduction: My name is Kimberely Baumbach CPA, I am a gorgeous, bright, charming, encouraging, zealous, lively, good person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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