The climate of Carcassonne
Carcassonne, a picturesque city in southern
France, experiences a Marine west coast climate, with a warm summer, categorized by the Köppen climate classification as Cfb. Carcassonne has quite a diversified range of temperatures throughout the year, going from a chilly 3.1°C (37.6°F) in
January to a warm 28.6°C (83.5°F) in
July. It experiences a substantial difference in temperature across all 12 months, which becomes evident when observing the climatological data.
Relative humidity levels tend to fluctuate over the course of the year, but are generally on the higher side, ranging from 64% in July to as high as 84% in
December, indicating a rather moist environment. As for precipitation, the city gets a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year, peaking in
November and December with 63mm (2.48") each. However, it sees fewer rainy days in July with just 4.1 days of rain.
Unique weather conditions can be noticed when it comes to snowfall. While Carcassonne experiences snowfall only in the colder months of the season, it's fairly rare, with January and December garnering snowfall on only 2.1 days and 1.4 days respectively.
The Best Time to Visit Carcassonne
The ideal period to visit
Carcassonne would be during the summer months, specifically from
June to
August. During this time, the city experiences the highest temperatures, spanning from 21°C (69.8°F) to 28.6°C (83.5°F). These months also offer the most Sunshine hours, ranging from 6.9 to 8.9 hours, and high UV index of 8, allowing tourists to enjoy pleasurable outdoor activities and explorations.
The Worst Time to Visit Carcassonne
The least favorable time to visit
Carcassonne is during the colder part of the year, primarily from
December to
February. The average daily temperature during these months ranges from 3.1°C (37.6°F) to 3.8°C (38.8°F), with the high temperature barely reaching 11.1°C (52°F) in February. Rainfall is at its highest point in these months, especially in December with 63mm (2.48"). Despite longer daylight hours in December, with 9.7 hours per day, snowfall occurs in the city making outdoor activities less enjoyable.
Spring Weather in Carcassonne
Springtime in
Carcassonne, from
March through
May, brings a transition in temperatures. Starting at a low of 5.6°C (42.1°F) in March, it rises to 11.4°C (52.5°F) in May. The high temperature, on the other hand, warms up at a faster pace, reaching from 14.4°C (57.9°F) to 21°C (69.8°F) during the same period. Rainfall tends to fluctuate, with 73mm (2.87") in
April, the highest for the season. Spring also brings increases in daylight and sunshine hours, rising from 12 to 14.7 hours and 5.6 to 6.9 hours respectively.
Summer Weather in Carcassonne
Summers in
Carcassonne are appealing and welcoming to visitors. The average low temperatures stay between 14.8°C (58.6°F) and 17.2°C (63°F), while the average high temperatures range from 21°C (69.8°F) in
June to 28.6°C (83.5°F) in
July and holding at 28.3°C (82.9°F) for
August. Also, rainfall hits a yearly low in July with 29mm (1.14"), resulting in just 4.1 average rainy days.
Autumn Weather in Carcassonne
During the fall months,
Carcassonne experiences a gradual drop in temperatures. The high temperature starts from a warm 24.5°C (76.1°F) in
September and gradually drops to 13.5°C (56.3°F) by
November. The low temperature also follows suit, reducing from 14°C (57.2°F) in September to 6.6°C (43.9°F) in November. Rainfall starts to increase during these months, with 60mm (2.36") marked for both
October and November.
Winter Weather in Carcassonne
Winter in
Carcassonne brings the coldest temperature of the year. with monthly low temperature levels oscillating between 3.1°C (37.6°F) and 3.8°C (38.8°F), whilst high temperatures range from 9.7°C (49.5°F) to 11.1°C (52°F). Rainfall peaks in
December at 63mm (2.48"), as does the relative humidity at 84%. Daylight hours are limited, with only 9 hours in December, although the numbers slowly rise, hitting 10.5 hours by
February.
Weather in Carcassonne in January
As
Carcassonne embraces the New Year,
January brings temperatures as low as 3.1°C (37.6°F) and as high as 9.7°C (49.5°F). Regardless of the chillier conditions, the historical city remains alluring, with softly frosted landscapes and crisp, winter walks. Despite being in the South of
France, snowfall is not out of the question, adding a romantic white blanket to the medieval city. Rainfall is also a frequent visitor in January, making an appearance on roughly 9 days on average. As we leave behind the shorter days of winter, daylight hours gradually begin to increase.
Weather in Carcassonne in January »Weather in Carcassonne in February
Following
January,
February carries on the winter vibes with the lowest temperatures marginally rising to 3.5°C (38.3°F) and the highest reaching 11.1°C (52°F). Compared to its predecessor, February shows slight reductions in rainfall, humidity, and snowy days, signifying the gradual transition towards spring. February does harbor more daylight and sunshine hours than January, which means longer viewing times for the citadel. Although snowfall days decrease to 2.1 on average, a brisk walk through the cobblestone streets still necessitates a warm coat and perhaps a hot chocolate afterwards.
Weather in Carcassonne in February »Weather in Carcassonne in March
In
March, weather shifts towards milder temperatures peaking at 14.4°C (57.9°F) and sinking to 5.6°C (42.1°F), which makes this month a gradual introduction to springtime. As the city shakes off the remnants of winter, snowfall days plunge to less than one, and rainy days dwindle from the previous month. The cityscape dressed in colors of spring, under the increasingly lengthy sunshine hours, is a sight to behold. The humidity levels also drop slightly from
February, which makes walking through
Carcassonne's vineyards a pleasant experience. In contrast to winter, the UV index begins to climb indicating stronger sun intensity.
Weather in Carcassonne in March »
Weather in Carcassonne in April
April is truly a spring month in
Carcassonne, with temperatures veering from 7.7°C (45.9°F) to 17°C (62.6°F). With most rainfall reserved for showers, the city becomes a verdant spectacle, as vines start to bud and flowers begin to bloom. April also brings noteworthy increases in the duration of daylight and sunlight compared to the previous month. This upturn is a welcoming boost for sightseers exploring the Gothic Cathar castles and other remarkable landmarks. The UV index in Carcassonne also sees a marked rise warranting extra protection during prolonged outdoor adventures.
Weather in Carcassonne in April » Weather in Carcassonne in May
By
May, summer beckons as thermometers swing between 11.4°C (52.5°F) and 21°C (69.8°F). At this point in the year, the city basks in approximately 15 hours of daylight per day, while the UV index continues to increase indicating strong sunlight. Tourists and locals alike can appreciate the full bloom of vine leaves in May. Rainfall reduces further, transforming the month into a relatively drier period, perfect for strolling around the Canal du Midi or the medieval city. As we leave spring behind, humidity in
Carcassonne starts to decrease, prepping the climate for the sizzling summer.
Weather in Carcassonne in May »Weather in Carcassonne in June
June announces the onset of summer, the warmest season in
Carcassonne, with temperatures peaking at 25.4°C (77.7°F) and dropping as low as 14.8°C (58.6°F). Photographic opportunities abound as the city basks in nearly seven hours of sunshine daily, highlighting the sun-tinged Byzantine walls and the hilltop château. As the UV index reaches its peak for the year, the month brings the ideal weather for immersing oneself in French culture, tasting the region's esteemed wine, and exploring the city's historic charm. Rainfall continues to decline, resulting in June being relatively drier. Conversely, the longer daylight paves the way for extended outdoor activities.
Weather in Carcassonne in June »
Weather in Carcassonne in July
Solo highest temperature graces
Carcassonne in
July, soaring to 28.6°C (83.5°F), combined with the absolute lesser rainfall of merely 29mm (1.14") recognized for this calendar year. This month constitutes the zenith of summer with longer sunlight exposure and attenuating humidity. Though it may seem counterintuitive, the UV index plateaus in July, insisting on the need for sunblock. In absence of rain, outdoor recreational activities are uninterrupted, making this city a hotspot for culture enthusiasts. Intricately staged operas, craft markets, and comprehensive tours of the city await those visiting Carcassonne in high summer.
Weather in Carcassonne in July »Weather in Carcassonne in August
As summer progresses,
August sustains
July's warmth with a peak temperature of 28.3°C (82.9°F) while the lowest dips to 17°C (62.6°F). With this sustained warmth, any remaining vine grapes mature and ripen, filling the air with an inviting scent. The sun stretches in the sky for 8.4 hours on average with an appreciable UV index signaling a slightly reduced sun intensity than July. True to the month's reputation, the heat prompts townsfolk and tourists towards the cool water of lac de la Cavayère for delightful relief. While August has the highest average humidity for a summer month, rainfall increases compared to its predecessor.
Weather in Carcassonne in August »Weather in Carcassonne in September
With the advent of
September, the city experiences temperatures between 14°C (57.2°F) and 24.5°C (76.1°F), signaling an impending autumn. Under 7.1 hours of daily sunshine, the Medieval Citadel of
Carcassonne’s turrets and towers shimmer against a bright blue background. Although the UV index decreases, the climate remains pleasant and welcoming as the city prepares for the grape harvest. September also sees a slight increase in average humidity from
August. Rainfall statistics start to show an upward trend, and as the daylight hours decrease, the summer warmth begins to recede.
Weather in Carcassonne in September »
Weather in Carcassonne in October
As autumn begins to set in seriously in
October, you can expect temperatures to range from 11.2°C (52.2°F) to 19.3°C (66.7°F). The bright, golden hues of the vine leaves add charm to the enchanting city of
Carcassonne. Such ideal temperatures accompany tourists exploring the winding streets and the majestic Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus. Simultaneously, daylight and sunshine hours steeply decline compared to
September. As the climate turns cooler, rainfall increases, matching the city's medieval mystique with the cool, damp streets reflecting the ancient architecture.
Weather in Carcassonne in October »Weather in Carcassonne in November
The transition from fall to winter is apparent in
November as the mercury contracts from 13.5°C (56.3°F) to 6.6°C (43.9°F). As daylight hours continue to reduce, the city resorts to its evocative atmosphere under sodium lit cobbled streets. November brings an increase in humidity levels in comparison to
October, painting a tranquil picture of the city draped in misty mornings. The decreasing UV index signifies the softened sunlight. The rain falling over the timeless
Carcassonne Castle completes a picturesque view hinting at the upcoming winter chill.
Weather in Carcassonne in November »Weather in Carcassonne in December
As the year wraps up,
Carcassonne bids adieu to autumn and welcomes winter in
December with temperatures varying from 10.2°C (50.4°F) to 3.8°C (38.8°F). The month's shorter daylight and sunshine hours bestow a unique charm on Carcassonne, particularly during the festive season. Residents, tourists, and even the city's historic architecture tuck themselves under the protective arms of thick winter clothing and warm, interior lighting as snowfalls are possible. The fairy-tale city boasts the highest relative humidity of 84% for the year. December recognizes the annual top rainfall mark of 63mm (2.48"), making it the wettest month, concluding the city's yearly climatic cycle.
Weather in Carcassonne in December »Weather in January
The year begins with
January known for its colder temperatures, a progression from
December, in
Carcassonne,
France. During this month, winter season’s influence remains apparent, characterized by the relatively high humidity and frequent rainy days.
Weather in January »Weather in February
Weather in this month shows subtle signs of a shift towards spring, becoming somewhat warmer and dryer than
January. With steadily rising temperatures,
Carcassonne experiences an overall milder climate in
February as the days start to lengthen.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March in
Carcassonne holds a stronger indication of the spring weather; however, remnants of winter’s chill are still present. During this month, there is noticeable warming of days, and rain gradually becomes less frequent. Temperatures begin to rise, reaching highs of 14.4°C (57.9°F), with March becoming progressively warmer compared to
February.
Weather in March » Weather in April
April in
Carcassonne signifies a definitive transition into spring, bringing warmer temperatures and an increase in sunshine hours as compared to
March. Balmy days are more frequent and typically characterized by significantly reduced rainfall.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May’s arrival in
Carcassonne brings the first taste of summer with temperatures rising, humidity levels dropping, and sunlight hours extending. Weather conditions are generally pleasant, providing suitable conditions for outdoor activities and tourism.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June signifies the onset of the summer season in
Carcassonne, with steadily climbing temperatures, lengthier daylight hours, and the highest UV index of the year. The city basks in the warmth of the sun, and rainfall becomes even less frequent.
Weather in June » Weather in July
July is
Carcassonne's warmest month, indicating the peak of summer with temperatures reaching a high of 28.6°C (83.5°F). The city experiences the heat intensifying as humidity levels drop and the number of rainfall days decrease, extending from
June's weather patterns.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August sustains the summer's heat from
July, rendering
Carcassonne sun-drenched and with minimal rain. The city witnesses the height of the tourist season, thanks to excellent weather conditions. Despite a slight decrease, temperatures reach a high of 28.3°C (82.9°F), mirroring the warmth that July had brought.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September brings a gentle cooling effect to
Carcassonne, signaling the beginning of the autumn season, yet still holding onto the warmth from
August. The month typically observes mild weather conditions, with gradually decreasing temperatures.
Weather in September » Weather in October
Carcassonne experiences a further descent into autumn with
October's arrival, marked by dropping temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and increased chances of rain. From the weather patterns, it can be observed that there is a shift from the mild conditions of
September.
Weather in October » Weather in November
A significant shift in weather occurs in
November, with temperatures plummeting even further, daylight hours decreasing, and rainfall becoming more frequent in
Carcassonne. The transition from
October's mild weather to the coming winter chill becomes clearer as the month progresses.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December brings
Carcassonne into winter's grip, recognized by significant drops in temperature, limited sunshine hours, and increased chances of rainfall. Snowfall is rare but possible, particularly in the later part of the month, aligning with
November's weather trends.
Weather in December »