The climate of Fribourg
Fribourg,
Switzerland is categorized under the Köppen climate classification as Cfb - marine west coast, warm summer. The geographical position of the city situates it within a setting that experiences moderate temperatures and considerable precipitation throughout the year.
The climate here is largely characterized by a substantial fluctuation in temperatures from a low of -3.2°C (26.2°F) during the winter months to a high of 24.6°C (76.3°F) during the summer. Temperature readings usually fluctuate between -3.2°C (26.2°F) to 24.6°C (76.3°F) throughout the year. Simultaneously, the city sees relative humidity levels ranging from 68.5% to 86.9%, indicating moisture-laden air at most times of the year.
Rainfall in Fribourg spreads evenly throughout the year, with the highest occurrence observed in
May at 126mm (4.96"). The city experiences an average of 10 rainy days per month, peaking in May with 13.4 days. Snowfall occurs predominantly in winter, with the highest recorded snowfall of 162mm (6.38") in
February and dropping drastically to zero by May. Hours of daylight vary widely from a low of 8.6 hours in
December to a prominent 15.8 hours in
June.
Weather patterns in Fribourg suggest a climatic zone that is moist and cool, with significant amounts of snowfall in winter, leading to the tag - 'marine west coast, warm summer'.
The best time to visit Fribourg
Acknowledging the annual weather transitions, the most recommended period to visit
Fribourg extends from
June to
August. During these months, the city experiences its most enjoyable weather with average high temperatures scaling to 21.8°C (71.2°F) in June, 24.6°C (76.3°F) in
July, and 24.1°C (75.4°F) in August. Rainfall is moderately high during this period, but the number of daylight hours, which hover around the 15-hour mark, provides ample time for tourists to explore this beautiful destination.
The worst time to visit Fribourg
Considering
Fribourg's climate variability, the least hospitable months for visiting are typically
December through
February. The chilling low temperatures of -3.2°C (26.2°F) in
January and -1.9°C (28.6°F) in December paired with high snowfall figures, particularly in February, at 162mm (6.38"), make these months less inviting for visitors. The daylight hours are also significantly reduced during these months, limiting tourist activities.
Spring weather in Fribourg
Springtime in
Fribourg is a season of gradual change. Beginning in
March with average high and low temperatures of 9.9°C (49.8°F) and 0.4°C (32.7°F), respectively, it warms up to an average high of 18.5°C (65.3°F) and low of 7.4°C (45.3°F) by
May. Rainfall begins to intensify from 72mm (2.83") in March to a substantial 126mm (4.96") in May. The number of daylight hours steadily increases during this period, making spring a favourable season for outdoor activities.
Summer weather in Fribourg
Summer in
Fribourg is prominently warm and enjoyable. The average high temperatures range from 21.8°C (71.2°F) in
June to 24.1°C (75.4°F) in
August, while average lows range from 10.6°C (51.1°F) in June to 12.3°C (54.1°F) in August. Despite the regular rainfall, ranging from 115mm (4.53") in June to 117mm (4.61") in August, the extended daylight hours make the summer months ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings.
Autumn weather in Fribourg
Autumn in
Fribourg witnesses a descent in temperatures, from an average high of 19.6°C (67.3°F) and low of 9°C (48.2°F) in
September, to an average high of 8°C (46.4°F) and low of 0.8°C (33.4°F) by
November. Despite the drop in temperatures, rainfall remains relatively stable ranging between 100mm (3.94") and 74mm (2.91"). With decreasing daylight hours, the city steers into settling for the ensuing winter.
Winter weather in Fribourg
Winter in
Fribourg is known for its colder temperatures and considerable snowfall. With an average high temperature lingering at 4.3°C (39.7°F) in
December and 3.7°C (38.7°F) in
January, the winter months impose a chilly ambiance. The average low temperatures in these months drop to -1.9°C (28.6°F) and -3.2°C (26.2°F) respectively. Notably, snowfall is significant in these months with January observing 162mm (6.38"). The reduced daylight hours contribute to the cold wintry atmosphere in the city.
Weather in January
January in
Fribourg,
Switzerland, kicks off the year with typical winter conditions. The city experiences low temperatures plunging to -3.2°C (26.2°F) and sometimes lower, with a high peaking only at a chilly 3.7°C (38.7°F).
Weather in January » Weather in February
As the city moves into
February, the distinct winter chill continues, albeit with slightly milder temperatures. February brings slightly more snow with 162mm (6.38") falling compared to
January's 137mm (5.39"). Interspersed with these snowy days are frequent spells of rain enhancing the city's quintessential winter atmosphere.
Weather in February »Weather in March
As
March unfolds,
Fribourg slowly transitions into spring. Peak temperatures often reach up to 9.9°C (49.8°F), offering a notable warming from the preceding winter months. However, quick and sometimes heavy showers totaling 72mm (2.83") of rainfall are not unusual - a testament to the city's temperate climate.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April presents a significant shift in
Fribourg's weather with a discernible increase in warmth during the day, reaching 13.6°C (56.5°F). Precipitation primarily occurs as rain, with a total of 84mm (3.31") falling during the month.
Weather in April » Weather in May
In
May,
Fribourg fully embraces the spring season. The month experiences a significant surge in precipitation levels, with rainfall hitting a peak of 126mm (4.96"). This considerable wetness is nevertheless accompanied by warming temperatures that invite outdoor adventures.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June in
Fribourg heralds the beginning of summer, with daily averages soaring to a warm 21.8°C (71.2°F). Despite the appealing sunshine, rainfall remains a prevalent feature with volumes measuring up to 115mm (4.53"). Sunshine-drenched days and verdant landscapes form the classic backdrop for the multitude of summer festivals that sweep the city.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
As the calendar flips to
July,
Fribourg enters its hottest phase, with daytime temperatures often peaking at an impressive 24.6°C (76.3°F). Rainfall reaches its zenith too with a strong 113mm (4.45"). Intriguingly, the national holiday celebrations coincide with this peak of summer enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August continues
July’s warm trend, though marginally lower, experiencing daytime highs of around 24.1°C (75.4°F). The abundance of rainfall continues with 117mm (4.61") measured during the month. The city pulsates with summer energy and hosts various outdoor events.
Weather in August » Weather in September
With the onset of
September,
Fribourg bids farewell to the summer season. The weather takes a slightly cooler turn, temperatures dropping to daytime highs of 19.6°C (67.3°F). Rainfall reduces accordingly, totaling 100mm (3.94") in September compared to
August’s 117mm (4.61").
Weather in September »
Weather in October
In
October,
Fribourg immerses deeply into the autumn spell, with the first hints of winter starting to sneak in. While rain still persists during the month, it triggers a spectacular display of fall foliage. The crisp, cool air further adds to the charm of exploring the city's historical landmarks.
Weather in October »Weather in November
November marks the transition from autumn to winter in
Fribourg, with temperatures falling to a low of 0.8°C (33.4°F). In tune with the dipping mercury, the rainfall measures up to 74mm (2.91"). The once lush and vibrant landscapes adopt a more subdued palette, the onset of winter making its own unique statement.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December arrives with a characteristic winter chill, temperatures rarely climbing above 4.3°C (39.7°F). It also marks a return of the snow, with 128mm (5.04") gracing the city. Traditionally, people relish this season by engaging in winter sports or enjoying mugs of hot chocolate in cozy settings.
Weather in December » [Resources]