Frankfurt, Germany, nestled in southwestern Germany, boasts a climate that showcases the typical characteristics of a continental climate. This means that residents and visitors can expect cold winters and warm summers.
Frankfurt’s coldest month, January, typically sees an average low of 30°F and a high of 39°F.
The hottest month in Frankfurt is July, with average temperatures peaking at 76°F and dipping to a low of 58°F. This fluctuation in temperatures throughout the year provides a diverse weather experience.
Rainfall in Frankfurt is fairly consistent year-round, with no drastic dry or wet seasons, making it a reliable destination no matter the time of year. On average, the city receives about 25 inches of rainfall annually, which contributes to its lush, green landscapes during the spring and summer months.
The cold season, however, brings shorter daylight hours and increased cloud cover, with December receiving just around 1.7 hours of sunlight per day.
Visitors and locals alike can benefit from understanding the climate in Frankfurt, whether planning outdoor activities, seasonal events, or just day-to-day life.
The city’s unique blend of weather conditions makes it an interesting spot for those who appreciate varied and dynamic climates.
Average Temperature in Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year.
The coldest month is January, with an average temperature of about 36°F.
During this month, daily temperatures can drop to 31°F at night and rise to around 41°F during the day.
July is the hottest month in Frankfurt. The daily high temperature averages 76°F, while nighttime lows are typically around 58°F. These mild summer days make July the peak of warm weather in the city.
| Month | Avg. Temperature (°F) | High (°F) | Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 36 | 41 | 31 |
| July | 67 | 76 | 58 |
Spring in Frankfurt, from March to May, sees average temperatures range from 45°F to 59°F.
Daytime highs in March can reach 52°F, rising to 68°F by May.
Nights can still be quite cool in early spring, with lows around 37°F in March.
Autumn, from September to November, brings a gradual cooling. September averages about 60°F, with highs of 70°F and lows of 50°F. By November, averages drop to around 45°F.
Winter, especially in January, is quite cold. During the coldest nights, temperatures can fall to around 15°F.
Snowfall is possible, adding to the cold conditions.
For a year-round guide to Frankfurt’s climate with detailed monthly averages, see Frankfurt Climate By Month.
Average Precipitation in Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt experiences varying precipitation throughout the year, with notable differences in rainfall and snowfall during different months.
Average Rainfall in Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt’s rainfall varies across the year, with some months receiving more rain than others. The average annual rainfall is about 24 inches.
The rainiest month is June, with around 3.2 inches of rain.
Rainy days are common, averaging about 13 days per month during the wettest periods.
| Month | Average Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| January | 1.8 |
| February | 1.4 |
| March | 1.6 |
| April | 1.8 |
| May | 2.4 |
| June | 3.2 |
| July | 2.6 |
| August | 2.7 |
| September | 2.1 |
| October | 2.0 |
| November | 2.2 |
| December | 2.0 |
The driest month is February, with an average rainfall of 1.4 inches.
Rain is generally lighter in the winter months, making February the best time for fewer rain disruptions.
Average Snow in Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt receives a modest amount of snow annually, primarily during the colder months. The average annual snowfall is around 20 inches.
Snowfall is most frequent in January and February, with an average of 5-6 inches each month.
| Month | Average Snowfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| November | 1.5 |
| December | 3.0 |
| January | 5.0 |
| February | 6.0 |
| March | 3.5 |
Winter is the peak season for snowfall, making it essential for travelers and residents to prepare for icy conditions, especially in January and February.
Less snow falls in November and March, marking the transitional periods into and out of winter, respectively.
Average Sun in Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt experiences varying levels of sunshine throughout the year. Here, we look at daily shortwave solar energy and the number of sunshine hours by month.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt receives moderate levels of daily shortwave solar energy, which reflects the amount of sunlight reaching the ground.
During the summer, the city experiences more daylight hours, leading to longer periods of sunshine.
In contrast, winter has shorter days with fewer sunshine hours.
Monthly average shortwave solar energy (kWh/m²):
| Month | kWh/m² |
|---|---|
| January | 1.2 |
| February | 2.1 |
| March | 3.3 |
| April | 4.7 |
| May | 5.3 |
| June | 5.8 |
| July | 6.2 |
| August | 5.6 |
| September | 4.3 |
| October | 2.9 |
| November | 1.5 |
| December | 1.1 |
The shortest day of the year occurs in December, with about 8 hours of daylight.
The longest day is in June, with up to 16 hours of daylight.
The city gets the most sunshine during the summer months, providing ample daylight for outdoor activities.
Average Humidity in Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt experiences various levels of humidity throughout the year. The average relative humidity typically ranges from 60% to 90%, depending on the season.
In the winter months, the humidity is generally higher, especially in December and January.
Conversely, the summer months see slightly lower humidity.
Here’s a look at the average monthly humidity:
| Month | Average Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 86 |
| February | 82 |
| March | 77 |
| April | 71 |
| May | 69 |
| June | 66 |
| July | 64 |
| August | 66 |
| September | 73 |
| October | 79 |
| November | 84 |
| December | 87 |
Dew points also give an idea about the humidity.
During the summer, dew points can be around 57°F, while in winter, they drop to around 30°F or lower. This means the air feels more moist in winter and dry in the summer.
Average Wind in Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt experiences varying wind speeds throughout the year.
During the winter months, especially in January, wind speeds tend to be higher.
The windiest month typically is February, where gusts can be stronger.
In spring and autumn, wind speeds usually moderate, providing a mix of calmer days and occasional breezy ones.
Summer months, particularly July, generally see the lowest wind speeds.
| Month | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 10.5 |
| February | 11.2 |
| March | 10.0 |
| April | 9.2 |
| May | 8.5 |
| June | 7.8 |
| July | 7.2 |
| August | 7.3 |
| September | 7.9 |
| October | 8.9 |
| November | 9.7 |
| December | 10.3 |
Wind patterns in Frankfurt are influenced by its geographical location.
Situated in a relatively flat region, the city often experiences moderate breezes, with occasional gusts during colder months.
Average Air Quality in Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt often experiences good air quality, making it a healthy place for residents and visitors.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) typically measures ‘Good’ levels.
Monthly Average AQI
| Month | AQI |
|---|---|
| January | 50 |
| February | 55 |
| March | 45 |
| April | 40 |
| May | 35 |
| June | 30 |
| July | 25 |
| August | 20 |
| September | 30 |
| October | 40 |
| November | 45 |
| December | 50 |
AQI values vary throughout the year but usually fall within the ‘Good’ range.
Additional Factors
- Pressure: Average air pressure is around 1013 mb.
- UV Index: Falls between 3-6, moderate to high.
- Visibility: Average visibility is about 10 miles, making it clear most of the time.
- Cloud Cover: Varies by month, with more cloud cover in the winter.
For current and real-time air quality data, you can visit AccuWeather or IQAir.
Maintaining awareness of air quality can help residents make healthier lifestyle decisions.
Topography of Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt, located in the state of Hesse, is known for its diverse topography. The city sits at a latitude of about 50.11° N and a longitude of approximately 8.68° E.
Frankfurt’s landscape features a mix of urban areas, parks, and forests. The River Main runs through the city, providing scenic views and recreational opportunities.
Elevation:
- Average Elevation: 364 feet above sea level
- Lowest Point: Near the River Main
- Highest Point: Approximately 656 feet near the Taunus mountain range
Frankfurt Airport:
- One of the busiest airports in Europe
- Located southwest of the city center
- Elevation: 364 feet above sea level
Geographical Features:
- Located in the Rhine-Main region
- Surrounded by the Taunus Mountains to the north and the Odenwald forest to the south
The diverse topography of Frankfurt makes it a unique city with both natural and urban elements. It is the largest city in Hesse and a major financial hub in Germany, blending its natural beauty with metropolitan life.
Extreme Weather Events That Occur in Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt experiences various extreme weather events throughout the year.
Flooding is a significant concern. In 2021, heavy rain led to disastrous flooding in regions near Frankfurt. Such events can result in property damage and loss of life.
Heatwaves also impact Frankfurt. For instance, the July 2019 European heatwave saw temperatures soar across Germany, affecting lifestyles and increasing health risks.
Winter storms can be severe. These storms bring strong winds and heavy snowfall, disrupting daily life and transport.
Hail is another extreme event in Frankfurt. Hailstorms can damage crops, vehicles, and buildings. On occasion, hail can reach significant sizes during severe thunderstorms.
Here’s a brief table summarizing the extreme weather events by month:
| Month | Extreme Weather Events |
|---|---|
| January | Winter Storms |
| February | Winter Storms |
| July | Heatwaves |
| August | Heatwaves |
| September | Heavy Rain & Flooding |
| October | Hailstorms |
Residents and visitors should stay updated on weather forecasts and take necessary precautions during these extreme events. The changing climate is contributing to the frequency and intensity of these weather patterns.
Best Time of the Year to Visit Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt offers unique experiences throughout the year, with spring blossoms, summer festivals, fall colors, and winter markets. Here’s a detailed look at each season to help you decide the best time to visit.
What is Frankfurt, Germany Like in Spring
Spring in Frankfurt lasts from March to May. It’s a fantastic time to visit as temperatures rise from an average of 45°F in March to around 65°F by May.
Flowers bloom in the city’s many parks and gardens, including the Palmengarten botanical garden.
Spring months bring moderate rainfall, around 2 inches per month. The city begins to host outdoor events and festivals, and cafe patios start to fill up.
Early spring can still be chilly, so it’s wise to bring a light jacket. By mid-May, the weather is ideal for exploring the city’s historical sites and modern attractions.
What is Frankfurt, Germany Like in Summer
Summer in Frankfurt, from June to August, is warm with temperatures often reaching up to 86°F in July.
Its numerous parks are in full glory, providing perfect spots for picnics and relaxing walks. The city comes alive with events like the Frankfurt Apple Wine Festival and the Museumsuferfest.
Rainfall is relatively low, around 1.5 inches per month, making it the driest time of the year. The Main River is bustling with boat tours, and outdoor eateries are vibrant.
Light clothing, sunglasses, and sunblock are recommended for the summers.
What is Frankfurt, Germany Like in Fall
Fall spans from September to November, and the temperatures cool from around 70°F in September to 45°F by November.
The fall foliage in the city’s parks and surrounding countryside is stunning. The city hosts the famous Frankfurt Book Fair in October, attracting visitors from around the world.
Rainfall increases again, typically 2 to 3 inches per month. Layers are advisable, as weather can vary significantly from day to day. Fall is a great time for cozying up in the city’s cafes and enjoying local food and drink.
What is Frankfurt, Germany Like in Winter
Winter in Frankfurt, from December to February, is cold, with temperatures averaging between 30°F and 40°F.
January is the coldest month, often with nighttime temperatures dropping to 15.5°F. Snowfall is occasional but adds a picturesque charm to the city.
Winter is the time for the famous Frankfurt Christmas Market, held in the city’s historic Romer square.
Despite the chilly weather, attractions like the city’s museums and indoor markets keep visitors busy.
Warm clothing, including hats, scarves, and gloves, are essential for braving the winters.