Weather in Hamburg: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

The weather in Germany features four distinct seasons where summers are hot, winters are cold, and the shoulder seasons of spring and fall have plenty of festivals and often the best weather. In Hamburg, there is an oceanic climate and it is rainy year-round but that doesn't take away from the many things to do in the country's second biggest city. Be prepared for the unpredictable as it can change from storms to sun and back several times a day.

Here is an overview of the weather in Hamburg throughout the year with visitor information on average temperatures, what to pack, and what to do any time of the year.

Fast Climate Facts for Hamburg:

• Hottest Month: July (73 F / 23 C)
• Coldest Month: January (39 F / 4 C)
• Wettest Month: June and August (3.1 in / 78.7 mm avg)
• Windiest Month: February (8 mph / 14 km per hour average)

Spring in Hamburg

Frühling (spring) in Hamburg comes about slowly with warming temperatures and the arrival of the cherry blossoms. Hamburgers flock to the city's beer gardens between rain showers and visit the city's parks like Planten un Blomen and Stadtpark.

One of three festivals of Hamburg's Spring DOM takes place at Heiligengeistfeld in St. Pauli in late March. On Friday nights there are fireworks and Wednesdays are Family Days with discounts.

Also plan for Easter which is a major holiday in Germany. Along with the celebrations on Easter Sunday, Friday and Monday are national holidays and many things are closed. The week before and after are also a common time to travel as they are school holidays.

By May, the weather has finally turned for the better and Hamburg is ready with the occasionally riotous energy of May Day.

What to pack: Wearing layers is always a good plan in Hamburg. For spring, keep the umbrella on hand but you can take off the winter hat and mittens. Maybe keep the scarf for a bit longer.

Summer in Hamburg

Sommer can be sunny, foggy or rainy — sometimes all in one day. The city's location on the water means days are rarely too hot, although be aware that if the temperature does spike, there is little relief as few homes or even businesses have air conditioning.

If you need to find some natural cool, walk beside the waters of Alster Lake or visit the beaches of Övelgönne and Blankenese. There is also a fully nudist beachat FKK Sommerbad Volksdorf.

Festivals like Christopher Street Day (Berlin Pride), Schlagermove and Dockville are top events. For something more low-key, catch the a movie at a Freiluftkino (open air cinema).

Because of the attractive weather, many people visit the city during this time. Accommodation prices are at their highest and attractions and transport are busier than usual.

What to pack: This is the time of year when you can take it all off like at the FKK beaches. Or you can pack a swimsuit. Still, be prepared for cooler days and intermittent rain.

Fall in Hamburg

In herbst (autumn), the long days grow shorter and the chill comes back. The many parks reveal the city's colorful foliage and Christmas markets begin in late November. This is a great time to venture inside to the city's many museums and theaters.

The Reeperbahn Festival also happens in late September featuring live performances in the most lively area of the city.

This is one of the least popular times to visit so expect prices to drop for hotels.

What to pack: Temperatures drop quickly with the fading light and sturdy boots and scarves are a necessity during this time.

Winter in Hamburg

Winter in Hamburg can be quite chilly with the wind off the sea. It doesn't usually snow but a few days over winter, but expect temperatures that hover around freezing and icy conditions. When the weather is cold enough for long enough, the Alster freezes over and you can ice skate across its mirror-like surface.

Weihnachtsmärkte (Christmas markets) are the perfect way to warm your soul and your insides with warming mugs of glühwein (mulled wine) and indulgent treats.

To start the year, celebrate New Years (or Silvester) on December 31. Join the locals in eating mustard doughnuts, drinking sekt (sparkling wine) and lighting off fireworks.

While December is a popular time to visit Germany and Hamburg, the crowds in January and February almost completely disappear.

What to wear: Winter is the time to layer all your warm clothes in Hamburg. Utilize under-layers of long johns and tops with waterproof coat, gloves, and hats. Put on boots that can keep their grip in icy conditions.