The climate of Bratislava
Located in the geographical heart of Central Europe,
Bratislava is characterized by a Cfb Köppen climate classification, also known as a Marine West Coast climate with a warm summer. This subtly suggests the presence of four distinctly noticeable seasons.
With a temperature spectrum that ranges from a chilly -2.7°C (27.1°F) in
January to a balmy maximum of 27.3°C (81.1°F) in
August, weather conditions in Bratislava vary greatly throughout the year. The variability is also noticeable in the precipitation patterns with rainfall fluctuating, albeit subtly, from 22mm (0.87") in
April to a maximum of 57mm (2.24") in both
May and
June. Humidity levels in Bratislava do not display drastic fluctuations throughout the year, staying between 61% and 85%.
Days featuring sunshine extend considerably from
February’s 4.2 hours per day to
July’s peak of 11.2 hours per day. The daylight hours adjust in a similar pattern, with the shortest days in
December offering 8.5 hours of daylight and longest ones in June extending to 16 hours.
A unique aspect of Bratislava’s weather is its snowfall which occurs predominantly between January and
March with a peak in January at 107mm (4.21") and stops altogether from May to
October.
The best time to visit Bratislava
For those in search of warm, pleasant temperatures without the accompanying humidity, the best time to visit
Bratislava falls between
June and
August. These months strike a delicate balance between high temperatures, which peak at around 27.3°C (81.1°F) in August, and relative humidity which lowers to an comfortable level of 64% to 72%. This coupled with rainfall levels dropping to as low as 29mm (1.14") in August and the abundance of sunlight which extends to 11.2 hours per day in
July, makes this period exceptionally welcoming for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The worst time to visit Bratislava
The least attractive time to visit
Bratislava tends to be the chilly stretch from
November to
February.
December records the lowest average temperatures, reaching a low of -0.8°C (30.6°F), whilst
January experiences the most snowfall at 107mm (4.21"). Additionally, January sees the shortest daylight hours at 8.9 hours per day, which significantly limits the time available for outdoor explorations.
Spring weather in Bratislava
Spring time in
Bratislava, running from
March through
May, greets visitors with gradually increasing temperatures, which range from 10.5°C (50.9°F) to a delightful 19.8°C (67.6°F). Additionally, rainfall in these months is relatively moderate, with the highest, 56mm (2.2"), being in May. With 15.2 hours of daylight and sunshine duration improving to 9.6 hours per day in May, spring in Bratislava offers ample time for outdoor activity.
Summer weather in Bratislava
Spanning
June to
August, the balmy summer in
Bratislava treats inhabitants and visitors with conducive temperatures hovering between 24.2°C (75.6°F) and 27.3°C (81.1°F). The rainfall during the summer months is comparatively low, further amplifying the appeal of outdoor activities. As one of the longest days occur during this time, the daily sunshine durations peak at 11.2 hours in
July providing abundant opportunity for sightseeing and explorations.
Autumn weather in Bratislava
Autumn descends on
Bratislava from
September to
November with temperatures descending from 21.2°C (70.2°F) in September to a chilly 9°C (48.2°F) in November. During this period, rainfall is sporadic and ranges from 32mm (1.26") to 30mm (1.18"). Average daily sunshine duration gradually declines from 9.4 hours in September to 5.2 hours per day in November, indicating shorter days and less sunlight for exploration.
Winter weather in Bratislava
The coldest months in
Bratislava are between
December and
February where the temperature ranges between 2.2°C (36°F) and 3.6°C (38.5°F). An addition of snowfall that peaks in
January at 107mm (4.21") and significantly short days with 8.9 hours of daylight in January, exemplifies the biting winter in Bratislava. Therefore, this period is better suited for activities that favour indoor settings over outdoor explorations.
Weather in January
January in
Bratislava exhibits the grasp of winter. The plummeting temperatures demand warm clothing and accessories, while the cityscape transforms into a picturesque winter wonderland after fresh snowfall, at an average of 107mm (4.21").
Weather in January » Weather in February
Moving from
January to
February,
Bratislava sees a slight decrease in snowfall, though the wintry ambiance persists, paving the way for continued enjoyment of winter activities. The city experiences increased daylight, allowing for more lengthy exploration.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March marks a significant shift in
Bratislava’s weather — a departure from the cold, biting winds of winter towards the warmth of spring. With a jump to 10.5°C (50.9°F), the air feels noticeably warmer than in
February. People fill the streets once more, armed with lighter coats and sunnier dispositions.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in
Bratislava promises an even more sun-soaked spectacle, paving the way for outdoor pleasure. The increase in temperature from
March to April encourages residents and visitors to bask in the balmy beauty of the city. The aroma of blooming flora permeates the air, captivating strollers in city parks.
Weather in April » Weather in May
Bratislava embraces the full bloom of spring in
May. With temperatures cresting at 19.8°C (67.6°F), the city is bathed in sunshine and vibrancy. The weather transitions into a mild warmth, ideal for exploring the city's historic sights and botanical gardens.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June signals the onset of summer in
Bratislava, creating an inviting environment full of sunny days and a lively buzz. The months' long daylight hours bring residents outdoors, filling parks and festivals with infectious energy. The temperature soars to a pleasant 24.2°C (75.6°F), offering idyllic conditions for city tours, culinary adventures, or languorous afternoons by the city’s fountains.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
In the heart of summer,
July boasts the highest temperatures of the year in
Bratislava. The scorching sunshine requires light clothing, sunscreen, and abundant water. The temperatures peak at a sweltering 27.3°C (81.1°F), making it the hottest month of the year yet bearable due to the city’s low humidity.
Weather in July »Weather in August
The warmth of summer extends into
August in
Bratislava, although temperatures slightly dip from
July, marking the gradual transition into autumn. The city's bustling vibe continues with outdoor activities and river cruises popular among residents and tourists.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September in
Bratislava welcomes the autumnal equinox, characterized by shedding leaves, milder temperatures, and a distinctive charm. As the temperature cools down to a comfortable 21.2°C (70.2°F), it becomes perfect for outdoor activities, including cycling and picnics in the city's parks.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
Bratislava's continual descent into cooler climes is evident in
October. Cool winds bring a chill in the atmosphere, and the city adjusts to the transition from autumn to winter. Flaming shades of red, orange, and yellow adorn the city, displaying a riotous assortment of colors, especially noticeable in the local parks.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November sees a further drop in temperature and a steep rise in humidity. The city, almost devoid of its autumn colors, gears up for the upcoming winter. The weather may be colder, with a low average temperature of 3.5°C (38.3°F), but the briskness fails to chill the spirits of its visitors.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December in
Bratislava is synonymous with the festive season, marked by spectacular holiday lights and bustling Christmas markets. The arrival of snow further boosts the city’s charm, dressing it in a white blanket. Each flake is a cue for the fun-filled winter festivities that include ice skating, sledding, and warming up with a cup of hot wine.
Weather in December » [Resources]