Copenhagen, Denmark enjoys a varied climate with distinct seasons, offering a unique experience no matter the time of year. Located in the northern hemisphere, this European capital experiences cold winters and mild summers.
December through February are the coldest months, with temperatures dropping to around 30°F in February. The average high in February is 37°F.
In contrast, summer months like July offer pleasant weather with average highs reaching 70°F. Visitors can expect long summer days and cool evenings.
These ideal temperatures make outdoor activities and exploring the city very enjoyable.
Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, but the city is never overly rainy. The surrounding ocean plays a vital role in maintaining Copenhagen’s moderate and enjoyable climate.
This blend of predictable seasons and mild conditions makes Copenhagen an attractive destination year-round. For more detailed information about Copenhagen’s climate, you can check out the year-round weather guide.
Average Temperature in Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen experiences a variety of temperatures throughout the year. The average temperature in Copenhagen varies significantly between summer and winter months.
Monthly Average Temperatures
| Month | Avg. High (°F) | Avg. Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 38 | 31 |
| February | 37 | 30 |
| March | 42 | 34 |
| April | 53 | 41 |
| May | 61 | 48 |
| June | 67 | 54 |
| July | 70 | 56 |
| August | 68 | 55 |
| September | 61 | 50 |
| October | 52 | 43 |
| November | 43 | 36 |
| December | 38 | 32 |
Warmest and Coldest Months
The warmest month is July when the temperature can reach an average high of 70°F. This month often has pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
In contrast, February is the coldest month with an average high of 37°F and a low of 30°F. Night temperatures can drop further, making it the most challenging month for those unprepared for the cold.
Temperature Range
Copenhagen’s temperature range through the year shows a significant difference. The temperature in summer is usually mild to warm, while winters are cold and often snowy.
Both locals and tourists should prepare for these variations. It is always a good idea to check recent temperatures and forecasts before planning activities.
Average Precipitation in Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen experiences varied precipitation throughout the year, with distinct patterns in both rainfall and snowfall.
Average Rainfall in Copenhagen, Denmark
Rainfall is a significant part of Copenhagen’s climate. The city gets an annual rainfall of about 24 inches.
Copenhagen’s rainiest month is August, with an average of 3.2 inches of rain. On the other hand, February is the driest month, receiving around 1.4 inches.
| Month | Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| January | 1.6 |
| February | 1.4 |
| March | 1.6 |
| April | 1.5 |
| May | 2.0 |
| June | 2.4 |
| July | 2.8 |
| August | 3.2 |
| September | 2.4 |
| October | 2.2 |
| November | 2.1 |
| December | 1.8 |
Rainy days are common, with the city averaging around 171 rainy days each year. It’s important for visitors to be prepared for frequent rain, especially during summer months.
Average Snow in Copenhagen, Denmark
Snowfall is an essential feature of Copenhagen’s winter months. The coldest month is February, experiencing average lows of 30°F.
On average, Copenhagen receives around 24 inches of snow annually. The snow season usually spans from November to March.
| Month | Snowfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| November | 2.0 |
| December | 5.0 |
| January | 7.0 |
| February | 6.0 |
| March | 4.0 |
Snow and ice are quite common, impacting both daily life and travel plans. Snow lovers will find the months of January and February particularly appealing, as these months typically see the highest amounts of snowfall.
Average Sun in Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen has varying amounts of sunshine throughout the year, influenced by the changing seasons and weather patterns. This section provides details on daily solar energy received.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen’s shortwave solar energy varies each month due to its northern location and distinct seasons. Shortwave solar energy is highest in summer and lowest in winter.
| Month | Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy (kWh/m²) |
|---|---|
| January | 0.4 |
| February | 1.3 |
| March | 2.7 |
| April | 3.9 |
| May | 5.2 |
| June | 5.4 |
| July | 5.3 |
| August | 4.4 |
| September | 3.1 |
| October | 1.7 |
| November | 0.5 |
| December | 0.2 |
January has the lowest sunshine with an average of 0.4 kWh/m² due to shorter days and more cloud cover. July provides close to peak solar energy with 5.3 kWh/m², benefiting from longer hours of daylight and generally clearer skies.
During winter months like December, expect as little as 0.2 kWh/m². This low energy level is common in high-latitude cities like Copenhagen.
In summer, the sun remains above the horizon for long stretches, leading to prolonged daylight hours also known as white nights. This increases total hours of sun and sunshine hours in June and July.
Residents and visitors should consider these variations for outdoor planning and energy usage, as well as the potential UV index impacts.
Average Humidity in Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen experiences variability in humidity throughout the year. Relative humidity generally remains comfortable but can fluctuate based on the season.
In winter, the air can feel quite damp due to the lower temperatures. December tends to have higher relative humidity, often above 80%. January and February also maintain high humidity levels.
During the warmer months, relative humidity decreases slightly. July, being the warmest month, sees levels around 70%. Despite this, the air still maintains a degree of moisture.
Monthly Humidity Levels
| Month | Average Relative Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 85 |
| February | 83 |
| March | 77 |
| April | 71 |
| May | 69 |
| June | 72 |
| July | 74 |
| August | 75 |
| September | 80 |
| October | 83 |
| November | 87 |
| December | 89 |
The dew point also contributes to the perceived humidity. In the colder months, the dew point is often low, around 30°F, reflecting the cooler weather. In contrast, during summer, the dew point can reach up to 55°F to 60°F, making the air feel more humid.
Average Wind in Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen experiences variable wind speeds throughout the year.
The average wind speed typically ranges from 6 to 15 mph.
Winter months tend to be windier, with January and February often experiencing gusts up to 20 mph.
June is usually the calmest month.
Below is a table summarizing the average wind speed by month:
| Month | Avg Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 13 |
| February | 14 |
| March | 12 |
| April | 10 |
| May | 9 |
| June | 8 |
| July | 8 |
| August | 9 |
| September | 10 |
| October | 11 |
| November | 12 |
| December | 13 |
The frequency of windy days is higher during the colder months.
For more details about wind patterns, you can explore articles on wind.
The breeziest locations are near the coastlines.
As Copenhagen is close to the sea, winds can be quite strong during storms.
During the summer, the wind speeds are lower, providing a comfortable climate for outdoor activities.
Average Air Quality in Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen enjoys relatively good air quality throughout the year.
Based on data from IQAir in 2020, the AQI (Air Quality Index) often stays in the “Good” category. The AQI readings have been recorded at 23 and 18 US AQI at different times.
Residents of Copenhagen breathe cleaner air than many other cities worldwide. The levels of main pollutants are generally low.
Main Pollutants (µg/m³):
- PM2.5: 4.4
- PM10: 8.9
- Ozone (O₃): 56
- Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂): 5
- Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂): 0.1
- Carbon Monoxide (CO): 0.2
The capital’s air quality is aided by its coastal location, which helps in dispersing pollutants.
The sea temperature in Copenhagen also plays a role in moderating the climate, which indirectly affects air quality.
Sea Temperature (Monthly Averages in °F):
| Month | Average Sea Temperature |
|---|---|
| January | 37.9 |
| February | 37.4 |
| March | 39.0 |
| April | 42.3 |
| May | 48.6 |
| June | 55.4 |
| July | 61.7 |
| August | 63.9 |
| September | 60.3 |
| October | 54.9 |
| November | 48.6 |
| December | 42.6 |
The air pressure in Copenhagen stays consistent with its Marine west coast climate.
Along with control measures, this keeps the air quality good for most of the year.
Even when cloud cover is high, the air quality remains largely unaffected by industrial pollution.
Topography of Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, located in the Capital Region of Denmark, stands at an average elevation of 9 meters (29.5 feet) above sea level. The city’s terrain is quite flat, with gentle, rolling hills.
Notably, Copenhagen’s highest point reaches 91 meters (298.5 feet) at Valby Hill.
Elevation Details
| Location | Elevation (feet) |
|---|---|
| Average Elevation | 29.5 |
| Minimum Elevation | -19.7 |
| Maximum Elevation | 298.5 |
Landmarks and Surrounding Areas
- Bornholm: This island, part of Denmark, lies to the southeast of Copenhagen and is known for its rugged cliffs and varied height, unlike the flatter terrain of the mainland.
- Christiansborg Palace: Situated on Slotsholmen Island, this governmental building exemplifies the low-lying nature of Copenhagen, around 6.5 feet above sea level.
- Amager: A neighboring island, also largely flat, with some areas even below sea level.
Natural Features
Copenhagen is surrounded by water bodies, including the Øresund Strait. This body of water plays a significant role in the geography and climate of the city.
Urban Area
Copenhagen’s cityscape includes a mix of historic and modern architecture.
The terrain here remains largely flat, offering easy navigation and cycling paths throughout the city.
This flat topology is beneficial for urban planning and transportation.
Extreme Weather Events That Occur in Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen experiences different extreme weather events throughout the year.
One notable event is the 2011 cloudburst, which caused heavy flooding. The flooding resulted in insurance payments amounting to DKK 6.2 billion, affecting around 90,000 claims.
This event highlighted the risk posed by increased rainfall due to climate change.
Winter Months
During winter months, Copenhagen can experience severe snowstorms.
These storms can disrupt daily life, making travel difficult and causing power outages.
The coldest temperatures are usually observed in January and February, but severe weather can occur anytime during winter.
| Month | Average Low (F) | Average High (F) | Snowfall (Inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 30 | 37 | 2.0 |
| February | 30 | 38 | 1.6 |
Summer Solstice and Heat Waves
In contrast, summer heat waves can bring high temperatures and dry conditions. The highest temperature recorded in Denmark was 96.6°F.
These extreme heat events usually occur around the summer solstice, causing discomfort and health risks, especially for vulnerable populations.
| Month | Average Low (F) | Average High (F) | Precipitation (Inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| June | 54 | 68 | 1.9 |
| July | 58 | 72 | 2.2 |
Copenhagen also faces issues with high wind speeds.
Strong winds, especially in the winter months, can reach up to 90 mph, causing damage to infrastructure and posing safety risks.
Addressing these events, Denmark has plans such as the “Action Plan for a Climate-Proof Denmark” which aims to manage the impacts of these extreme weather events and protect the city’s infrastructure.
Learn more about Denmark’s climate challenges at the Climate Change Portal.
Best Time of the Year to Visit Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen offers a unique experience depending on the season. Visitors can enjoy everything from mild spring weather and vibrant summer festivals to colorful fall foliage and cozy winter holidays.
What Is Copenhagen, Denmark Like in Spring
Spring in Copenhagen runs from March to May. The weather slowly warms up, starting with average highs of 44°F in March and reaching about 59°F in May.
You can expect occasional rain, with April receiving around 1.7 inches of precipitation.
In March, the days are shorter, but by May, you get about 16 hours of daylight.
The city wakes up from its winter slumber as flowers bloom and outdoor cafes open.
It’s a great time to explore Tivoli Gardens, take a canal tour, or bike through the city’s parks. Remember to pack layers and a rain jacket.
| Month | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Rainfall (Inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| March | 44 | 32 | 1.6 |
| April | 52 | 37 | 1.7 |
| May | 59 | 45 | 1.8 |
What Is Copenhagen, Denmark Like in Summer
Summer in Copenhagen, from June to August, is the most popular time for tourists.
The temperatures are comfortable, with average highs around 68°F in June and peaking at 71°F in July.
Rainfall is moderate, and daylight extends up to 17 hours in June.
This season is perfect for outdoor activities like visiting the Nyhavn harbor or attending music festivals.
The long days give you plenty of time to explore. Expect larger crowds and busier tourist spots. Pack light clothing, but also bring a light sweater and an umbrella.
| Month | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Rainfall (Inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| June | 68 | 52 | 2.1 |
| July | 71 | 55 | 2.7 |
| August | 70 | 54 | 2.6 |
What Is Copenhagen, Denmark Like in Fall
Fall in Copenhagen spans from September to November.
Temperatures gradually drop from mild to quite chilly.
September starts with average highs of 64°F, but by November, highs can be around 45°F.
Rainfall increases, especially in October, which sees around 2.4 inches of rain.
The fall season brings beautiful foliage, making it an excellent time for walks in the countryside or parks.
The tourist crowds thin out, offering a more relaxed experience.
It’s best to pack warm clothes and a sturdy raincoat.
| Month | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Rainfall (Inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| September | 64 | 51 | 2.2 |
| October | 54 | 43 | 2.4 |
| November | 45 | 36 | 2.2 |
What Is Copenhagen, Denmark Like in Winter
Winter in Copenhagen, from December to February, is cold and dark.
December sees average highs of 39°F and drops to 37°F in January. The days are short, with only about 7 hours of daylight in December. Rainfall is also lower, around 1.8 inches.
Despite the cold, Copenhagen in winter has its charm, especially with the Christmas markets and festive decorations.
The Tivoli Gardens holiday season is a must-visit.
It’s essential to pack heavy winter clothes, including a warm coat, gloves, and boots.
| Month | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Rainfall (Inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| December | 39 | 32 | 1.8 |
| January | 37 | 30 | 1.9 |
| February | 38 | 30 | 1.6 |