The climate of Grenoble
Grenoble, located in the southeast of
France, is defined by a Marine West Coast climate, allocated the Köppen classification of Cfb, characterized by warm summers. The city is situated in a broad valley surrounded by mountains, causing the variations in weather parameters throughout the year.
Observing the climatological data, Grenoble displays a wide range of weather throughout the year. Temperatures fluctuate significantly, with the average high temperature reaching a maximum of 26.9°C (80.4°F) in
July, while dipping down to a chilly -1.2°C (29.8°F) in
January. The months exhibit a smooth transition of temperatures, gradually increasing from January and reaching its peak in July, before slowly decreasing to culminate in
December.
Relative humidity ranges from 70% in July to 84% during
November, December, and January. Precipitation in Grenoble shows an interesting contrast, with the highest levels of rainfall from 104mm (4.09") to 106mm (4.17") recorded in
May,
September, and
October. However, months like July and
August display lower levels of rainfall, between 59mm (2.32") and 67mm (2.64").
The best time to visit Grenoble
Analysing the climatic interpretations, the best time to visit
Grenoble largely depends on visitors’ preferences. For those who prefer milder temperatures with less overcrowding, the time between
May and
June may be more appealing with the thermometer ranging from 19.9°C (67.8°F) to 23.8°C (74.8°F), coupled with relatively moderate rainfall levels.
Summertime, from June to
August, offers an excellent window for tourists who enjoy warmth and extended daylight hours. Moreover,
July's warmth registers an average sunshine duration of 9.3 hours, offering ample opportunities for sightseeing and exploring.
The Worst Time to Visit Grenoble
The least suitable time for visitors in
Grenoble would be the colder months of
December to
February. During these months, temperatures can plummet to lows of -1.2°C (29.8°F). Despite these months also recording the highest relative humidity (84%), the frigid temperatures may appear uninviting to travellers.
Spring Weather in Grenoble
Spring in
Grenoble -
March through
May, sees a steady increase in temperatures. Starting from a high of 12°C (53.6°F) in March and ending at a warm 19.9°C (67.8°F) in May. Humidity remains relatively stable during these months, falling between 73% and 76%. Rainfall shows acceleration, going from 66mm (2.6") in March to 104mm (4.09") in May. Days become lengthier, with daylight hours extending from 11.9 hours to 14.9 over the course of the season.
Summer Weather in Grenoble
Grenoble's summer -
June through
August, is characterized by warm temperatures and extended daylight hours. The high temperature averages fluctuate from 23.8°C (74.8°F) in June to a peak of 26.9°C (80.4°F) in
July, slightly receding to 26.4°C (79.5°F) in August. A relative decline in humidity occurs during these months, from 74% to 70%. Rainfall is lower during this time, ranging from 59mm (2.32") to 75mm (2.95"). Daylight extends to a maximum of 15.6 hours in June, offering significant sunshine hours to visitors.
Autumn Weather in Grenoble
Autumn in
Grenoble, spanning from
September to
November, is marked by a decrease in temperatures and daylight hours. High temperatures drop substantially, from 21.8°C (71.2°F) in September to 10.2°C (50.4°F) in November. During this period, the weather becomes more humid, starting at 79% in September and increasing to 84% by November. Rainfall is high during these months, fluctuating between 88mm (3.46") and 106mm (4.17"). The decreasing daylight hours also corroborate the arrival of autumn, minimising from 12.5 hours in September to 9.6 hours in November.
Winter Weather in Grenoble
Winter ushers in a cold weather phase in
Grenoble, extending from
December through to
February with temperatures dropping to an average low of -1.2°C (29.8°F) in
January. Despite this, the High-temperature averages remain within the threshold of 5.9°C (42.6°F) to 7.8°C (46°F), making winters moderately bearable. The relative humidity remains stable at 84% during this season. A slight decrease in rainfall is observed, with numbers ranging from 51mm (2.01") to 67mm (2.64"). The shortest daylight duration of the year is witnessed during this time, compressing sunlight availability to as low as 8.8 hours in December. With snowfall prevalent in January and February, Grenoble paints a picturesque winter landscape, making it a haven for snow sports enthusiasts.
Weather in January
The year starts off cold in
Grenoble, heightening the need for appropriate winter gear, particularly while venturing outdoors. Unexpected snowfall might greet the locals and visitors given
January's typical climatic patterns. The city experiences longer nights due to short daylight hours of approximately 9.2h.
Weather in January »Weather in February
February in
Grenoble exhibits a string of cloudy days, denying abundant sunlight, while the winter maintains its grip over the city. The last vestiges of snow continue to fall, albeit less frequently, a fitting farewell to the frosty season.
Weather in February » Weather in March
March welcomes the inception of spring in
Grenoble, with significant shifts in the weather. It appears that the city loosens its wintry grip, hence, flowers begin to bloom, and the atmosphere becomes invigorating. The variances from
February become apparent, not only in average highs reaching upwards to 12°C (53.6°F) but also in terms of daylight, extending up by about an hour.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
The month of
April ushers in the true spirit of Spring in
Grenoble. People begin to shed their layers of clothing acknowledging the pleasant warmth and welcoming colors of nature. April experiences a further rise in temperature from
March, reaching a high of roughly 15.3°C (59.5°F).
Weather in April »Weather in May
May in
Grenoble brings about warmer weather, making it an enjoyable time to explore the city. Nature is in full bloom, encapsulating the spirit of late spring, while local endeavours in outdoor activities significantly increase. May is noticeably warmer than
April, with temperatures soaring to a high of around 19.9°C (67.8°F).
Weather in May » Weather in June
June in
Grenoble ushers in the Summer season, being one of the warmest months, which includes a substantial increase in sunshine hours of about 15.6h. The city begins to bustle with energy and outdoor events, imbuing an enchanting vibe in the atmosphere.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July introduces the peak of summer in
Grenoble, with temperatures hitting their annual high and extended daylight hours playing a key part in varying outdoor pursuits. Residents and visitors are treated to warm, sunny days, encouraging picnics in parks and hikes in nearby hills.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August in
Grenoble maintains the warmth and appeal of summer, preserving the festive atmosphere and ensuring a lively milieu. The city is brimmed with outdoor activities including water sports, thanks to the comfortable temperature range.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September marks the start of fall in
Grenoble, embodying a blend of summer's warmth and winter's crispness. Nature starts to display a magnificent array of colors, delighting the eyes of locals and tourists alike. September experiences a significant dip in temperature, with highs falling to approximately 21.8°C (71.2°F) from
August.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Grenoble serves as a distinct sign of the impending winter. The city starts to witness quieter streets, especially as temperatures continue to drop and daylight hours decrease. This month shares
September's ambiance, but with an increasingly noticeable chilly edge.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Grenoble rings in the winter chill, with temperatures going as low as 2.7°C (36.9°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. While the city's parks display the last shades of autumn, earlier sunsets and the occasional flurry hint at the approaching winter.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December is the official launch of the winter season in
Grenoble. Despite the dwindling daylight hours which stand at about 8.8h, the festive mood illuminates the city. With temperatures dropping to an average low of nearly -0.1°C (31.8°F), residents and visitors can expect snowfall towards the end of the month.
Weather in December »