BEST TIME TO VISIT Berlin

SD › Best Time to Visit Berlin
Updated: May 31, 2022
By Santorini Dave

When is the Best Time to Visit Berlin?

The best time to visit Berlin is from May through October, when the weather is generally pleasant for leisurely city strolls and lunch on outdoor patios. From late spring to early fall, temperatures range from around 19°C to 23°C. These are popular months to visit, and airfare and accommodation will be higher this time of year.

Berlin and the Spree River at sunset. The best months to visit Berlin are May and October.

Best Time for Sightseeing: The best time for sightseeing in Berlin is late spring to early summer and late summer to early autumn, when lines are shorter and there are fewer tourists to get in the way of the views. The atmosphere is still quite lively in the streets, while the weather is wonderfully mild and often sunny.
Best Time to Visit for Good Weather: The best time to visit Berlin for good weather is generally between May and October, although the city gets rather humid during the peak of summer. Rainfall is spread fairly evenly throughout the year, with June and August getting slightly more. The driest months with comfortable temperatures tend to be in July, September, and October.
Best Time to Visit Reichstag: Seeing the German parliament (Reichstag) is a must for most Berlin visitors, who enjoy the bird’s-eye view of the city from the building’s glass dome. It requires registering for a visit online, with opportunities to book for day or night. To get a layout of the city, this is best accomplished during daytime hours – ideally on a sunny day – with the best chance for clear weather and better availability in September or October.
Best Time to Visit Brandenburg Gate: Brandenburg Gate can be visited anytime, but going after dark, when the yellow floodlights are shining, makes for an especially atmospheric trip.

Berlin Travel Seasons

High Season (mid-June through August, Oktoberfest, Christmas): Summer is peak tourist season, with the year’s warmest weather and abundant events and festivals. There are two “mini high seasons” as well: the time around Oktoberfest (about two weeks starting the first day of autumn), and again from mid-December through early January for the Christmas holidays. This is when you can expect Berlin to be more crowded, with both airfare and accommodation at their highest prices of the year.
Shoulder Season (April to mid-June, September to Oktoberfest, mid-to-late-October): Spring in Berlin can be wonderfully warm, though it can also bring snow, hail, and often, a mix of all the above. Generally, the later in the season, the better the odds for good weather. Early June is often one of the best times to be in the city, when the tourist throngs haven’t yet arrived, prices haven’t skyrocketed, and sunshine is common. September will still be warm, but much less humid than in the peak summer months. Just after Oktoberfest, the tourist crowds diminish; while the weather may be wetter now, temperatures are often pleasant, trees will be bursting with vibrant autumn color, and discounts on rooms and airfares may be found.
Low Season (November through March, except mid-December through early January): Winter in Berlin is often dark and dreary, with short days and frequent cloudy skies. Freezing rain is common, and snow is possible, though when it falls it usually doesn’t stick around for too long. This is the best time to score the lowest prices of the year at hotels and good deals on flights. You’ll also be able to enjoy the streets and attractions without the hordes of tourists.

Berlin Weather by Month

Berlin Weather in January: Berlin is the coldest in January, with average high temperatures at 5°C and average lows at 1°C. When gusts blow in it can feel much colder, so bundle up, and prepare for wind and cold rain. It can snow occasionally, giving the already picturesque city a magical look, though the nearby sea keeps temperatures from falling too low. A warm, waterproof, and windproof jacket is a must. Plan to wear several layers, including thermal underwear, and be sure to bring a warm hat, boots, wool socks, gloves, and scarves. Days are short, with sunrise at 8:17 a.m. and sunset just after 4 p.m., so plan your itinerary accordingly. (Average Max Temperature: 2°C. Average Precipitation: 42mm.)
Berlin Weather in February: Winter continues in February, though the high average temperature doubles to 4°C. Expect chilly temperatures below freezing at night with the average low at -2°C. Precipitation decreases to 34mm which falls over 12 days this month; this can come in the form of either snow or rain, so pack accordingly. Days will slowly warm as the month progresses, and the amount of daylight increases too. By the time late February arrives, days see 10 hours and nearly 47 minutes of daylight, a significant increase over early February’s just over 8 hours. (Average Max Temperature: 4°C. Average Precipitation: 34mm.)
Berlin Weather in March: While spring arrives in March, it’s still likely to be chilly, especially earlier in the month. The average high doubles once again to 8°C and precipitation remains fairly steady at 36mm over 13 days. With the average low right at freezing, plan for chilly mornings and evenings; bring warm winter gear, including a heavier, waterproof coat, hat, scarf, gloves, and long-sleeve shirts for layering. Layered clothing becomes more important now for those days when the sun does come out, as well as for indoor heat. (Average Max Temperature: 8°C. Average Precipitation: 36mm.)
Berlin Weather in April: It starts to feel like spring in Berlin by the time April arrives. Thanks to the time change late last month, days see nearly 13 hours of daylight, with sunrise at 6:41 a.m. and sunset at 7:40 p.m. Temperatures really warm up now, with the average high increasing five degrees to 13°C. A low of 4 degrees above freezing means there’s little chance for snow. While April showers are common, the sun begins to come out more frequently to help warm things up. Layering is still a good idea now, but wool socks and a heavy coat are unlikely to be needed. Bring a mix of items that include long and short-sleeve shirts as well as a waterproof jacket and perhaps a travel umbrella. 41mm of precipitation fall over 13 days on average in April, which means you’ll have a good chance of at least some dry days during your visit. (Average Max Temperature: 13°C. Average Precipitation: 41mm.)
Berlin Weather in May: May is one of the most beautiful months in Berlin, with the cherry blossoms in bloom and the average high temperature now at 19°C. And just before peak tourist season, the biggest crowds have yet to arrive and prices have yet to spike. While the weather will be warm, rain is still common; 55mm of precipitation on average falls over 14 days in May. The sun will peek through the clouds more often, and you can expect nearly 16 1/2 daylight hours for outdoor sightseeing by month’s end. A jacket or coat will be necessary for early mornings and late nights. Bring layers that can be easily put on and taken off as temperatures fluctuate. (Average Max Temperature: 19°C. Average Precipitation: 55mm.)
Berlin Weather in June: Summer arrives in Berlin, with long, sunny days and warm temperatures reaching an average high of 22°C and lows that are well above freezing at 12°C. The peak humidity of the season and the biggest crowds won’t arrive until next month, making June another great month to visit. June is the rainiest month of the year, so packing a lightweight waterproof jacket or umbrella is advised. Dresses, shorts, skirts, and short-sleeve shirts are what you’ll need most now. (Average Max Temperature: 22°C. Average Precipitation: 71mm.)
Berlin Weather in July: July brings the peak of summer’s heat and the peak tourist crowds. While the average high is just a degree above June at 23°C, it’s likely to feel much hotter due to the humidity. Pack summer gear, including a bathing suit for swimming in the lakes. With the average low temperature at 13°C, only a light sweater or jacket will be needed for very late nights out. Precipitation decreases significantly – you may want to bring an umbrella or rain jacket, but you’re unlikely to use it much. Days are still wonderfully long for outdoor sightseeing, with sunrise at 4:47 a.m. and sunset at 9:32 p.m. on July 1. (Average Max Temperature: 23°C. Average Precipitation: 45mm.)
Berlin Weather in August: The average high remains 23°C in August, though like in July, humidity will make it feel warmer. The chance of rain increases again, with 62mm of precipitation falling on average over 13 days. While crowds are still at their peak, some businesses will close unexpectedly as locals heading out on vacation. Pack as you would for last month with all your summer attire, and perhaps a travel umbrella for those occasional rain showers. (Average Max Temperature: 23°C. Average Precipitation: 62mm.)
Berlin Weather in September: September signals the beginning of autumn with temperatures gradually dropping and precipitation waning. The high temperature drops four degrees to 19°C, and without extreme humidity, this is an especially pleasant time to be in Berlin. Late nights and early mornings will be crisp, so pack a jacket or sweater – although you’ll want to bring a mix of clothing, with both short and long-sleeve shirts. The later in the month you plan to visit, the more you’ll need items for cooler weather. A travel umbrella may come in handy at times. (Average Max Temperature: 19°C Average Precipitation: 45mm.)
Berlin Weather in October: Berlin cools down significantly in October with autumn now in full swing, though the weather is often quite pleasant; crisp and cool, but with little chance of rain (precipitation decreases to 36mm over 12 days this month). With the low at 6°C, a coat will be needed at night and in the morning, while clothes that can be layered are advised during the day. A hooded jacket will protect when wind or rain hits. The days are getting shorter now too; by month’s end the sun will set at 4:39 p.m. This is another one of the best times to be in Berlin. (Average Max Temperature:13°C. Average Precipitation: 36mm.)
Berlin Weather in November: November in Berlin feels like winter has arrived, especially later in the month. The average daily temperature hovers around 5°C, with highs around just 7°C and lows at a brisk 2°C. Pack winter attire now, including a heavy coat, gloves, hat, and scarf. These are likely to be needed during the chilliest parts of the day, like the early morning hours and late at night. Plan to dress in layers during the day. (Average Max Temperature: 7°C. Average Precipitation: 48mm.)
Berlin Weather in December: While December brings short days (only around eight hours of daylight) and cold temperatures, it can be a wonderful time to visit the city. The holiday festivities make it especially magical, and when Berlin is covered in snow, it’s even more charming. Chances for snow are good, with average daily temperatures at just 1°C, and lows of – 1°C and an increase in precipitation to 51mm over 16 days this month. Plan to bundle up for enjoying outdoor sights, with winter gear like a heavy coat, hat, scarf, boots, and wool socks. (Average Max Temperature: 3°C. Average Precipitation: 51mm.)

Berlin Events and Festivals

Berlin in January

New Year’s Day – January 1 is a national holiday in Berlin, a time when many Berliners stay at home recovering from the previous night’s festivities and most businesses are closed. A 4K New Year’s run will be hosted at Brandenburg Gate, leading through the city passing some of its most popular sights.
Days of Dance – For 10 days in mid-January this contemporary dance festival comes to Berlin, focusing on up-and-coming dancers and choreographers who are based in the city. Performances include a variety of elements: music, language, sounds, and visual arts. Political events also play a part, as do unconventional genres like breakdance and striptease.
Berlin Fashion Week – Fashion Week happens over four days twice a year in Berlin, first in mid-January. It’s an international platform for fashion, with retailers, buyers, journalists, and fashion enthusiasts gathering at the runway to look for new trends. These cutting edge shows include collections from both international and German designers.
International Green Week – Held for 10 days during the second half of January, International Green Week is considered the largest exhibition for agriculture and sustainable food in the world. It includes all sorts of food and drink, from fresh produce and sausage to beer and wine, as well as talks and presentations on livestock breeding, renewable resources, and ethical forestry.

Berlin in February

Berlin International Film Festival – For 10 days in February each year, the red carpet is rolled out at Berlin theaters, bringing more than 20,000 professionals in the film industry, including world-famous stars, along with over 400 films.
Valentine’s Day – A holiday for adults throughout the country, including Berlin. Cards are exchanged, flowers or small gifts are given, and dinners out are enjoyed. Many restaurants will be offering special romantic meals.
Tanzolymp International Dance Festival – This annual dance event brings young dancers from across the globe with competitions, seminars, and workshops to support dance as a global language.

Berlin in March

ITB Berlin – ITB Berlin is the largest travel trade fair in the world, providing a unique opportunity to learn about different places across the globe in one place. It features some 10,000 exhibitors from over 180 countries and regions, from city representatives to hotels, airlines, and other tourism-related businesses.
St. Patrick’s Day – The Irish National Holiday, officially March 17, is celebrated in a big way in Berlin. The St Patrick’s Day Festival features a parade that includes some 5,000 people marching through the streets dressed in green, accompanied by bagpipes and other instruments. It also includes a free concert, film screenings and sporting events. Many pubs offer live music and Ireland’s national drink, Guinness.
Spring Festival at Kurt-Schumacher-Damm – The family-friendly spring festival begins in late March and runs for several weeks. It includes amusement rides, culinary delights, and lots of entertainment for children.

Berlin in April

Festival Days Berlin – Festival Days Berlin is an opera festival that runs for 10 days starting in mid-April. Here international opera stars and the state orchestra join together to present classical music in an especially atmospheric venue.
Easter Weekend – The Easter Weekend, from Good Friday to Easter Monday (both of which are public holidays in Germany), brings lots of fun events. There are Easter markets, including the traditional market on Kurfürstendamm which features a nostalgic children’s carousel, a dozen giant Easter eggs, and a stage program for the entire family. On Easter Evening there is live music in Britzer Garden.
International Games Week – This 7-day event in mid-April for gaming culture, development, and business brings gaming industry representatives and enthusiasts together.
Walpurgis Night – According to German folklore, this is the night when witches fly to the Harz Mountains to celebrate spring. Today in places like Berlin it provides an excuse for fun on the last night of April with bonfires, dancing, night-time parades, demonstrations, and special club openings.

Berlin in May

re:publica – One of the largest conferences on digital culture takes place over three days in early May. It brings entrepreneurs, media professionals, and academics from around the world. It covers a wide range of issues related to digital society, media, culture, and innovations with talks, events, and workshops.
International Museum Day – This worldwide event is held on or around May 18 every year. It aims to raise awareness of the significant contributions museums make on culture and society as a whole, and is celebrated in Berlin by many museums providing special activities and tours.
Formula E Race Berlin ePrix – Berlin has been a venue for the ePrix auto race since 2015. The all-electric Formula E Championship takes place at Tempelhofer Fedl, the former Tempelhof Airport.

Berlin in June

Carnival of Cultures – One of the biggest events of the year in Berlin, this carnival and festival attracts over a million and takes place during the weekend of the Christian holiday of Pentecost, celebrated on the seventh Sunday after Easter each year. There is an over 4-hour long parade, a massive street festival with more than 900 artists, and lots of music and dancing.
Fête de la Musique – The beginning of summer is celebrated each year on June 21 in Berlin with this open-air music festival. Live music will be played throughout the city streets for free.
Citadel Music Festival – This music festival takes place throughout the summer every year and includes a series of pop, rock and electronic music at the citadel in Berlin-Spandau.

Berlin in July

Fashion Week – The second of the city’s biannual event returns in July.
Classic Open-Air Festival – Over 4 days in early July, this festival is staged in Gendarmenmarkt, one of Europe’s most beautiful squares. Musical performances under the night sky include classical as well as jazz, pop, rock and opera. Fireworks and light shows are also part of some programs.
German American Folk Festival – Starting in mid-July and running for 3 weeks, this event celebrates the friendship between America and Germany, and is focused on the American way of life. It features fairground attractions with displays of classic cars, rollercoasters, carousels, and all sorts of other amusement rides, live music and popular American fare, like hot dogs, burgers, steaks, baked potatoes, and corn on the cob.
Lesbian and Gay City Festival (Stadfest) – The largest street party of its kind in Europe takes place here every year in July, around Nollendorfplatz in the area bounded by Motzstraße, Eisenacher Straße, Fuggerstraße and Kalckreuthstraße. It draws around 400,000 with market stalls and information booths, all sorts of culinary treats, live music, performances, and exhibitions, and much more.
Christopher Street Day – This is Berlin’s Pride celebration which takes place every year in late July with hundreds of thousands demonstrating for the rights of LGBTQ people. It includes lots of music, floats, and a colorful parade.

Berlin in August

International Berlin Beer Festival – This early August festival celebrates the national drink over 3 days with approximately 2,400 beer specialties. The mile-long festival includes around 350 breweries from some 90 different countries.
Pop Kultur – This international festival at Kulturbrauerei takes place over 3 days in mid-August. Ore than a music festival, it not only includes live music, but films, live readings, talks, exhibitions and networking events. There will be 80 concerts, DJ sets and much more.
Pyronale – This 2-day event in late August is a fireworks competition where international teams compete for the best pyrotechnic displays.

Berlin in September

International Stadium Festival – The biggest one-day athletics event in the world, the ISTAF is hosted at Berlin Olympic Stadium in early September, bringing around 50,000 spectators and 180 world-class athletes in 15 disciplines, including Olympic medalists and world champions.
Lollapalooza – This 2-day music festival in early September takes place outside of Olympic Park and Olympic Stadium. The event includes big-name artists; some past artists include Imagine Dragons, Dua Lipa, and Liam Gallagher.
IFA Berlin – At this consumer electronics fair, over 1800 exhibitors will be presenting the latest and greatest in consumer electronics and appliances, offering the chance to see what’s new before it’s available in stores.
Berlin Art Week – Berlin Art Week is held in mid-September each year. The works of local and international artists will be exhibited in hundreds of galleries throughout the city.
Oktoberfest – There are 2 big Oktoberfest celebrations that begin in September. The Alexanderplatz takes place over 2 weeks with a large festival tent that includes authentic live music, an open-air beer garden with original Bavarian beer, and lots of German cuisine. Oktoberfest Berlin at Kurt-Schumacher-Damm is the largest Oktoberfest folk festival and offers fun-fair rides, original Oktoberfest beer, and a large Bavarian-style party tent.

Berlin in October

Day of German Unity Celebrations – This national holiday on October 3 commemorates the 1990 German reunification. It is celebrated with a three-day festival around Platz der Republik. Multiple stages with host live bands and there will be vendors selling food, drink, and sweets.
Festival of Lights – For 10 days in mid-October, this festival transforms the city’s most famous historical monuments and landmarks like Berlin Cathedral and Brandenburg Gate with spectacular light projections and video art.
Halloween – There’s always an excuse to party in Berlin, and Halloween is celebrated in a big way by many in this city: pumpkin carving contests, haunted houses, and lots of clubs and bars hosting costume parties.

Berlin in November

Berlin Jazz Fest – One of the premier jazz events in the world, this four-day fest brings international jazz stars, big bands, and large-format ensembles to various venues in the city.
International Short Film Festival Berlin – One of the most significant international film festivals in the city and Germany’s second oldest, the Short Film Festival takes place for a week in November every year. Both short- and medium-length films are presented from around the world in various cinemas around Berlin.
Christmas Markets – German’s legendary Christmas markets begin on the last weekend of November each year and run until Christmas Day. Berlin is home to 60 different Christmas markets.

Berlin in December

Christmas Markets – German’s legendary Christmas markets continue this month until Christmas Day. Berlin is home to 60 different Christmas markets.
Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day – December 24, 25 and 26 are all national holidays in Berlin. The restaurants, bars, and clubs are always open, but attractions may be closed or have limited hours while public transport runs on a holiday schedule.
New Year’s Eve – On December 31, Berlin throws one of the biggest New Year’s Eve parties in the world, bringing over a million to “Party Mile” which extends from Brandenburg Gate. There are food and drink tents for dining on local German specialties, lots of beer and mulled wine, along with live music – all capped off with a fireworks show at midnight. That’s followed by epic, sometimes 12-hour or longer parties at dance clubs throughout the city.

About Santorini Dave

Santorini Dave Author Bio. Santorini Dave was started in 2011 by a guy who loved Greece, travel, and great hotels. We're now a small team of writers and researchers on a mission to deliver the most helpful travel content on the internet. We specialize in Santorini, Mykonos, Athens, and Greece and recommend the best hotels, best neighborhoods, and best family hotels in top destinations around the world. We also make hotel maps and travel videos. I can be contacted at dave@santorinidave.com.

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