Weather in Frankfurt: 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.

Frankfurt is the largest city in the state of Hesse, located in southwestern Germany. The climate is continental to temperate-oceanic (köppen), following the patterns of the rest of the country, but it has the distinction of being the warmest large city in Germany.

However, the daily average temperature ranges wildly from 36 degrees F in January to 69 degrees F in July. The city has a reputation for being grey, particularly from October to February. Be prepared for unpredictable conditions as the weather can change from rain to sun and back several times a day. Luckily, precipitation is only about 25 inches per year, but it is spread out throughout the seasons.

The best time to visit is from mid-May to mid-September. The temperature is usually between 69 degrees F (21 degrees C) and 78 degrees F (26 degrees Celsius), although you risk summer rainstorms from June to August. You also want to consider the magic of Germany at Christmas—it might be worth braving the cold.

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

Fast Climate Facts

• Hottest Month: July (69 degrees F / 21 degrees C)
• Coldest Month: January (36 degrees F / 2 degrees C)
• Wettest Month: July, 2.6 inches
• Sunniest Month: July, 7.5 hours per day

Spring in Frankfurt

Frühling (spring) in Frankfurt comes about slowly as temperatures thaw in late March, and the cherry blossoms arrive between April and May. Frankfurters flock to the city's beer gardens like Deck8 and visit the city's parks or Palmengarten (botanical garden) to enjoy the outdoors.

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 everything from grocery stores to government offices are closed. The week before and after are also a common time to travel as they are school holidays.

What to pack: Dressing in layers is always a good plan in Frankfurt. For spring, keep the umbrella on hand, but you can take off the winter hat and mittens.

Average Temperatures by Month

• March: 45 F / 7 C
• April: 52 F / 11 C
• May: 60 F / 16 C

Summer in Frankfurt

Sommer in Frankfurt is frequently sunny, punctuated by outbursts of rain. Temperatures can reach upwards of 80 degrees F, and July features the most sunshine. As there is rarely air-conditioning in businesses or homes, it can be quite oppressive.

On the other side of the weather spectrum, June and August are when the most amount of rain occurs. Rather than the rest of the year, it is not spread out throughout the day but comes in thunderous summer storms.

During this time of year, everything takes place outside. Cafe seating spills outside, parks are full, and everyone enjoys long strolls down the Museumsufer. This is a popular tourist season, so prices for accommodations are at their highest.

There are many events during the busy summer season. Sommerwerft, an open-air festival, takes place between July and August. Live music takes place in August on the northern bank of the River Main as well as the Palmengarten, movies play at numerous Freiluftkino (open-air cinema) and plays at Grüneburg Park. Public pools offer an outdoor option, and river-side cafes provide for a tranquil setting.

What to pack: Pack light with shorts, dresses, and a swimsuit. However, be prepared with something for the rain and a light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings.

Average Temperatures by Month

• June: 65 F / 18 C
• July: 69 F / 21 C
• August: 68 F / 20 C

Fall in Frankfurt

In herbst (autumn), the long days grow shorter, and the chill comes back into the air. September to November gradually becomes colder and consistently wet. The many parks showcase the city's colorful foliage, and Christmas markets begin in late November. This is a great time to venture inside the city's many museums.

Dippemess takes place in September. Changing leaves can be found around the city, including the Palmengarten. And while Oktoberfest is in Munich, Frankfurt has its version of the traditional celebration.

This is one of the least popular times to visit, so expect prices to drop for hotels, although the city's many conventions mean there can be unexpected spikes throughout the year.

What to pack: Be prepared for cold temperatures with your rain-proof jacket, sweater, and scarf. It may already be time for long pants and sturdy shoes.

Average Temperatures by Month

• September: 60 F / 16 C
• October: 52 F / 11 C
• November: 43 F / 6 C

Winter in Frankfurt

Winter in Frankfurt can be quite cool with frosty mornings and a chilly wind. Daily temperatures are usually just a few degrees above freezing (0 degrees C or 32 degrees F) with night-time temperatures dipping below that line. Snow frequently falls in winter but is usually light. Rainfall is at its lowest point, particularly in February. Sunshine is also at a minimum.

To relieve the gloom of grey days, the many weihnachtsmärkte (Christmas markets) enliven the city or shop the Zeil for international brands. New Years (or Silvester) is another cause for celebration with the lighting of fireworks. You can enjoy the chilly temperatures by ice-skating at Eissporthalle.

While December is a popular time to visit Germany and Frankfurt, the crowds in January and February are at their lowest besides the occasional conference.

What to wear: Bundle up for winter in Frankfurt. A good coat layered over sweaters, pants, and even long johns may be needed to avoid the freeze. Don't forget to protect your extremities with gloves, hats, and scarves.

Average Temperatures by Month:

• December: 38 F / 3 C
• January: 36 F / 2 C
• February: 38 F / 3 C