The climate of Copenhagen
Reflecting its geographical position in Northern Europe, the city of
Copenhagen aligns near-perfect with the Cfb Köppen climate classification, which implies a Marine west coast climate with warm summers. This designation characterizes areas where moderate temperatures prevail throughout the year, with no month dipping below -3°C (26.6°F), to balance the warmest month sitting below 22°C (71.6°F).
Throughout the year, the climatic conditions in Copenhagen see ample variations. The temperature range oscillates from a frigid minimum average of -1.9°C (28.6°F) in
February to a comforting high of 21.2°C (70.2°F) in
July. A portion of this spectrum plays out over an average year. An examination of the sea temperature data throws light onto the maritime influences in the area. The sea temperature stays substantially lower in the winter months, with an average of 2.3°C (36.1°F) in February, but rises sharply in the summer, to an average of 17.8°C (64°F) in
August.
Rainfall too, show signs of variation, with the months of
September and July seeing the maximum fall, while the driest month, February sees just 23mm (0.91"). Relative humidity holds remarkably steady, with slight drops in the summer months, from 76% in
April to 72% in
May and
June. A noticeable feature of Copenhagen's weather is its duration of daylight which swings from a low of 7.8 hours in
December to a whopping 17.4 hours by June.
The best time to visit Copenhagen
The finest time to visit
Copenhagen would be between
May and
August. This period boasts the highest average temperatures, from 15.5°C (59.9°F) to 21°C (69.8°F), alongside appreciable hours of daylight, from 16.3 hours in May to 16.9 hours in
July. These months also provide suitable conditions for outdoor pursuits with relative humidity averaging 72-73% and the sea temperature comfortably exceeding 14.9°C (58.8°F). Even though
June and July are admittedly on the wetter end of the spectrum, with rainfall measures of 50mm (1.97") and 51mm (2.01"), it is counterbalanced with longer daylight hours and higher temperatures.
The worst time to visit Copenhagen
The least attractive time to visit
Copenhagen is arguably the winter months, from
December to
February. During this phase, the city grapples with bitter cold temperatures, plummeting between -1.7°C (28.9°F) and 2.8°C (37°F). Adding to the chilly conditions, Copenhagen sees decreased daylight hours, from 7.1 hours in December to 9.6 hours in February, and an increase in snowfall days with 5.9 in December and 4.4 in
January. Moreover, the harsh marine influence is felt with sea temperatures dropping to as low as 2.3°C (36.1°F) in February.
Spring weather in Copenhagen
Spring in
Copenhagen, from
March to
May, marks a moderate transition in temperature and precipitation. During this period, the average temperatures range from 2.5°C (36.5°F) in March to 15.5°C (59.9°F) in May. Correspondingly, daylight hours also see a significant rise, from 11.9 hours in March to a substantial 16.3 hours in May. Meanwhile, precipitation stays steady, from 35mm (1.38") in March to 41mm (1.61") in May.
Summer weather in Copenhagen
Summer in
Copenhagen, encompassing
June to
August, is celebrated for its surprisingly warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and substantial humidity. The peak average temperature tops at 21.2°C (70.2°F) in
July while the sea temperature grows fervently reaching up to 17.8°C (64°F) in August. Despite the increased rainfall in July and August, both measuring over 50mm (1.97"), the balmy temperatures and extended daylight hours, peaking at 17.4 hours in June, provide an inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities.
Autumn weather in Copenhagen
The Autumn season in
Copenhagen hosts lowering temperatures, consistent rainfall, and gradually shortening daylight hours. The months of
September to
November see average temperatures decrease from 16.7°C (62.1°F) to 6.9°C (44.4°F). Precipitation sees a high in September of 59mm (2.32") but experiences a slight decrease to 48mm (1.89") in November. Meanwhile, daylight hours dwindle from 12.7 hours in September to 8.3 hours in November, signifying the onset of winter.
Winter weather in Copenhagen
Winter in
Copenhagen, running from
December to
February, is characterized by its colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and increased snowfall. The temperatures during this period hover between -1.7°C (28.9°F) in December and 2.8°C (37°F) in February. Daylight hours are notably shorter, from 7.1 hours in December, gradually increasing to 9.6 hours by February. Yet, the beauty of experiencing a snowy Copenhagen, with December seeing up to 5.9 snowfall days, can be truly enchanting for the winter-loving travelers.
Weather in January
This is the coldest month in
Copenhagen, with temperatures plunging down to -1.7°C (28.9°F) at their lowest. In spite of the bone-chilling cold, the city starts to stir from its winter slumber, preparing for the coming months.
Weather in January »Weather in February
The weather in
Copenhagen in
February moderates slightly from
January standards, with an average maximum temperature of 2.8°C (37°F). Still, the city feels the winter bite, particularly in the early mornings and late evenings.
Weather in February »Weather in March
In
March, spring makes its appearance known in
Copenhagen with an average maximum temperature of 5.5°C (41.9°F). The month marks a transition from the harsh winters to milder spring weather. The days become longer, submerged in a gentle, warming sunlight, making it a great time to explore the city.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
Copenhagen in
April experiences a substantial leap in temperatures, reaching up to 10.2°C (50.4°F). This upward shift heralds the true beginning of spring, with clear blue skies and comfortable temperatures perfect for outdoor exploration.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May in
Copenhagen is characterized by a significant increase in temperature, allowing people to shed their winter attire. The days are noticeably warmer, reaching a peak of 15.5°C (59.9°F), making the month a popular time for outdoor pursuits and cultural events.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June is known for being one of the warmest months in
Copenhagen, with temperatures reaching up to 19.1°C (66.4°F). As the city prepares for summer, this is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor events, sample local delicacies, or unwind at the many cafes.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the warmest month in
Copenhagen, with a maximum temperature of 21.2°C (70.2°F). The city is bathed in plenty of sunlight, with longer daylight hours and warm evenings perfect for strolls around the city's landmarks. Visitors enjoy the dry and comfortable weather, making it a popular time for travel to Copenhagen.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August weather in
Copenhagen remains warm and invigorating, with the average maximum temperature around 21°C (69.8°F). It's summer at its peak, with the city's parks and gardens in full bloom, offering a kaleidoscope of colors.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September sees a dip in temperatures, with values as high as 16.7°C (62.1°F) in
Copenhagen. The start of autumn brings in a refreshingly brisk climate, taking over from the heat of summer. The weather leans towards being cool and moist, with more rain than in the summer months.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
Copenhagen in
October experiences a further decrease in temperature, with the higher limits around 11.9°C (53.4°F). The transformation into autumn is more evident, with chillier days and an increase in rainfall. Despite the lesser sunshine hours, the city's beauty remains undimmed, with the colorful autumn foliage offering a magnificent spectacle.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November heralds the onset of winter in
Copenhagen with a cool average maximum temperature of 6.9°C (44.4°F). It's a transition time, where the last vestiges of autumn give way to the first signs of winter. The lower temperatures make their presence felt, with shorter days and long, chilly nights.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December in
Copenhagen is characterized by cold temperatures and the anticipation of winter holidays. The thermometer averages around a high of 4.1°C (39.4°F) giving the city a taste of the intense cold to come in
January. The snowfall and festive lights add to the charm of the city's Christmas markets.
Weather in December »