Climate and monthly weather forecast
Lyon, France

Located in eastern France, Lyon finds itself under marine west coast climate, as classified by the Köppen climate categorization system. The city experiences a warm summer predominantly marked by the label Cfb. As one navigates through the year in Lyon, marked fluctuations in climatological parameters can be observed, notably in temperatures, precipitation, and daylight hours.

Average high temperatures progress in an upward trend from 6.4°C (43.5°F) in January, peaking to 27.7°C (81.9°F) in July, before subsiding to a chill 7.1°C (44.8°F) in December. This wave-like pattern in temperatures is mirrored by low temperatures as well, starting from a cold 0.3°C (32.5°F) in January, reaching 16.6°C (61.9°F) in July, and dropping again to a winter low of 1.6°C (34.9°F) by December. Relative humidity levels gently oscillate across the year as well, but generally hover in the seventieth percentile, with slightly increased humidity from November to January.

Furthermore, the yearly rainfall distribution in Lyon exhibits an interesting pattern with a significant uptick in the latter months. Though the city sees a fair share of precipitation all year around, with the lowest monthly average rainfall of 44mm (1.73") in February, the measure spikes significantly from September reaching 99mm (3.9") during the peak in October. While the count of rainfall days is moderately consistent throughout the year, the number of snowfall days decreases dramatically during summer months.

Another characteristic of Lyon's climate is the progressive variation in daylight and sunshine durations. The shortest daylight hours are observed in December, with just 8.8 hours. However, days lengthen as the year moves forward, peaking at a generous 15.7 hours of daylight in June. Similarly, average sunshine hours increase from a meager 1.8 hours in December to a glorious peak of 9.1 hours in July.

With a pleasant balance of temperature and sunshine duration, the period from June to August emerges as the most favorable time for a visit to Lyon. During these summer months, one can expect high temperatures ranging from 24.6°C (76.3°F) to 27.7°C (81.9°F) with abundant sunshine reaching up to 9.1 hours in July.

While Lyon offers unique experiences throughout the year, the winter season of December to February poses a challenging climate for tourists. The weather leans towards the colder side, with high temperatures ranging from 6.4°C (43.5°F) to 8.4°C (47.1°F) and low temperatures hovering between 0.3°C (32.5°F) and 1.1°C (34°F).

Spring in Lyon, spanning from March to May, exhibits a gradual rise in temperature from 13°C (55.4°F) to 20.8°C (69.4°F). Simultaneously, the hours of sunlight dramatically increase from 5.5 hours to 7.1 hours. Rainfall sees an uptick towards 91mm (3.58") by the end of spring and the humidity gently oscillates between 71 to 74% through these months.

During the summer period between June and August, Lyon basks in warm temperatures from 24.6°C (76.3°F) to 27.7°C (81.9°F). The relative humidity hovers around the lower 65 to 70% range, providing a comfortable environment despite the rise in temperature. The city revels in extended daylight spanning 15.7 hours in June and sunshine hours reach their zenith at 9.1 hours in July.

Autumn brings a noticeable decline in temperature from a high of 22.7°C (72.9°F) in September to a cooler 10.8°C (51.4°F) by November. Accompanied by this drop in temperature is an incremental decrease in daylight duration from 12.5 to 9.5 hours. Rainfall reaches its apogee at 99mm (3.9") in October, while the number of rainy days peaks at 10.2 in the same month.

Winter in Lyon, from December to February, is characterized by chill temperatures, reduced daylight hours, and minimal sunshine duration. The average high temperature drops to a brisk 6.4°C (43.5°F) to 8.4°C (47.1°F), while the average low plunges from 1.6°C (34.9°F) to 0.3°C (32.5°F). Daylight duration is shortest at 8.8 hours in December, and average sunshine hours are at their nadir of 1.8 to 2.4 hours, giving the city a distinct winter atmosphere.

In Lyon, January marks the beginning of a new year with a sharp winter chill. The cold temperatures can seem colder considering a significant number of snowfall days, totaling 5.5 days. Wrapping up warmly is advised for outdoor activities, as frost gilds the historic buildings and crunches underfoot. Weather in January »

February in Lyon sees a subtle shift from the deep winter conditions of January. Slightly warmer temperatures begin to thaw the winter frost, but layers remain necessary. While snowfall days decrease, rainfall days maintain a consistent pace, ensuring Lyon's tranquil rivers continue to flow steady. Weather in February »

March heralds the arrival of Spring in Lyon, with a notable change in the atmosphere. Sunshine becomes a frequent visitor, resulting in a noticeable increase in daily temperature highs, approaching 13°C (55.4°F). As the city throws off the cloak of winter, outdoor activities increase, taking full advantage of the growing days. Weather in March »

In Lyon, April showcases the full bloom of Spring, marrying crisp mornings with increasingly warm afternoons. The commencement of this month sees a significant increase in rainfall, recording approximately 75mm (2.95"). Outdoor enthusiasts revel in the longer daylight hours providing ample time for exploration. Weather in April »

May in Lyon is a delightful period characterized by bright, sunny days. This is the first month of the year in Lyon without snowfall, indicative of steadily warming conditions. The city awakens in full force with bustling outdoor markets and the opening of local park attractions. Weather in May »

June signals the beginning of Summer in Lyon with long, sun-filled days. The mercury continues its ascent, setting the stage for warm, clear skies. Locals and tourists alike flock to Lyon's many outdoor spaces to enjoy a host of summer activities. Weather in June »

July brings to Lyon the height of summer with temperatures peaking at a TORRID 27.7°C (81.9°F). To escape the afternoon heat, citizens often retreat to the city's numerous shady parks and refreshing waterways. This month yields the most sunshine hours per day, making solar protection indispensable. Weather in July »

The hot summer weather persists in Lyon throughout August. Despite a slight reduction from July's peak temperatures, the sweltering conditions prevail. August becomes a time when both locals and visitors indulge in refreshing activities such as swimming and water sports. Weather in August »

September's arrival in Lyon signals the graceful transition from Summer to Autumn. Despite a drop in temperature, the city’s weather remains predominantly warm and pleasing. The month is characterized by the gradual shortening of daylight hours, causing tinges of melancholy among locals bidding farewell to summer. Weather in September »

Autumn is in full swing in Lyon by October. Chilly winds replace the summer breeze, and temperatures hover in the more comfortable range throughout the day. The weather remains mostly dry, even though it becomes the second wettest month of the year with rainfall accumulating to 99mm (3.9"). Weather in October »

In Lyon, November brings the first touch of winter, while still holding onto the last vestiges of autumn. With temperatures dialing down, it’s a period of adjustment as the locals prepare for the upcoming winter month. Chilly nights become the norm, but the city retains its charm, coated in layers of autumn colors. Weather in November »

Lyon’s December weather paints a picturesque winter feel as the year rounds off. The city readies for the festive season, with decorations twinkling against the frosty backdrop. Despite being the coldest month of the year, a drop in the number of rainfall days to 9.1 provides some relief. Weather in December »