Climate and monthly weather forecast
Sofia, Bulgaria

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The full panorama of Sofia City, Bulgaria with the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral centrally placed
The full panorama of Sofia City, Bulgaria with the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral centrally placed

The climate of Sofia

Categorized under the Köppen climate classification as Cfb, Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, boasts a marine west coast climate with a warm summer. Geographically positioned in the continental Europe, Sofia encounters significant variances in its annual weather patterns, encompassing frosty winters, pleasant springs, hot summers, and mild autumns.

Sofia's weather parameters demonstrate a dynamic range throughout the year. High temperatures climb steadily from a cool 3.4°C (38.1°F) in January, reaching a peak of 27.5°C (81.5°F) during August. On the other end of the thermometer, the lowest temperatures fluctuate from a frigid -3.9°C (25°F) to a comfortable 15.1°C (59.2°F) in July. In terms of precipitation, Sofia sees a consistent rainfall throughout the year, albeit with slight fluctuations ranging from 32mm (1.26") in February to a high of 75mm (2.95") in June. Amid these figures, snowfall is a notable element in Sofia's weather, where January and December receive the most snow at 234mm (9.21") and 248mm (9.76") respectively.

Unique weather patterns observed in Sofia includes its longest daylight period, extending up to 15.3 hours in June, and dropping to a minimum of 9.1 hours during December. UV index reaches its maximum of 9 in June and July, signifying extremely high levels of sunlight intensity.

The best time to visit Sofia

Aligning with the anticipation of pleasant weather and favourable touring conditions, the best time to visit Sofia falls in the late spring to early summer, specifically between May to July. During this period, the city experiences highs from 21.1°C (70°F) to 27.3°C (81.1°F) and lows from 9.8°C (49.6°F) to 15.1°C (59.2°F). The daylight is the longest, ranging from 14.6 to 15.3 hours, and the UV index is high, making it a good time to enjoy Sofia's outdoor attractions, cafes and parks.

The worst time to visit Sofia

Adverse weather conditions and frigid temperatures make the winter months from December to February less ideal for visiting Sofia. These months are characterized by high snowfall from 192mm (7.56") to 248mm (9.76"), fewer daylight hours of 9.1 to 10.6, and cold temperatures fluctuating between -2.4°C (27.7°F) and 5.6°C (42.1°F).

Spring weather in Sofia

Spring, spanning from March through May, marks a transition from colder temperatures to Sofia's warmer season. During this period, highs rise from 10.6°C (51.1°F) to 21.1°C (70°F), and lows increase from 0.8°C (33.4°F) to 9.8°C (49.6°F). Rainfall sees a gradual increase from 38mm (1.5") to 67mm (2.64") while the snow ceases entirely by May. With longer daylight hours, from 12 to 14.6, and increasing sunshine hours from 5.1 to 7.4, the city springs back to life with blooming gardens and bustling outdoor activities.

Summer weather in Sofia

Featuring the hottest months, the summer season in Sofia spans from June through August, with high temperatures ranging from 24.7°C (76.5°F) to 27.5°C (81.5°F), and lows from 13.2°C (55.8°F) to 14.9°C (58.8°F). Rainfall peaks at 75mm (2.95") in June, tapering off to 58mm (2.28") by August. Benefiting from the longest daylight hours of the year, the city enjoys a vibrant summer with ample opportunities for outdoor enjoyment.

Autumn weather in Sofia

Autumn, stretching from September through November, brings a gradual cooling trend to Sofia. Temperatures drop from a high of 22.9°C (73.2°F) in September to a crisp 9.7°C (49.5°F) in November, and lows descend from 11°C (51.8°F) to 1.4°C (34.5°F). Autumn marks the continuation of moderate rainfall, which varies from 46mm (1.81") to 43mm (1.69"). Despite shorter days, Sofia's autumn scenery offers equally captivating experiences.

Winter weather in Sofia

Winter in Sofia, extending from December through February, is dominated by low temperatures, high snowfall, and short daylight hours. Temperatures hover between a high of 5.6°C (42.1°F) and a low of -3.9°C (25°F). Snowfall in December and January reaches 248mm (9.76") and 234mm (9.21") respectively, creating a winter wonderland. Although the days are short, with daylight hours of just 9.1 to 10.6, winter aficionados can enjoy snow-based activities in and around Sofia during this season.

Weather in January

In Sofia, Bulgaria, the start of the year announces a genuine winter experience. Frequent downpours decorate the city scenery, reaching up to 234mm (9.21") of snowfall over approximately 7.2 snowfall days. Daylight is somewhat limited, making for shorter days. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Moving into February, Sofia experiences a slight but noticeable increase in temperatures compared to January. Despite the gradual warming, it continues to rain ice particles, albeit less frequently than in the preceding month. Weather in February »

Weather in March

The arrival of March in Sofia marks the onset of milder weather and receding winter conditions. The city's weather continues its transformation from winter to spring with temperatures recording up to 10.6°C (51.1°F) highs and 0.8°C (33.4°F) lows. Weather in March »

Weather in April

The transition from March to April sees Sofia, Bulgaria, experiencing a dramatic shift in its weather conditions. It is the month where snowfall drops drastically to an almost inconsequential 28mm (1.1"). The city now basks in more sunlight hours and the weather at large becomes warmer and more welcoming. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May brings a further surge of warmth that sweeps Sofia. It's a time when the city fully shakes off the winter chill and welcomes in the heat of summer. This month is known for its frequent showers, with rainfall peaking to the highest volume of 67mm (2.64") for the year. Weather in May »

Weather in June

The city of Sofia witnesses its highest temperature escalation of the year during June, announcing the arrival of summer in full swing. Days are notably long and the absence of snowfall is a refreshing change. Outdoor enthusiasts find conditions favorable for exploration and adventure, while the city lights up with a new cycle of festivities. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July holds the title for being the warmest month in Sofia with the temperature rising to a sizzling 27.3°C (81.1°F). This month, the expansive blue sky over Sofia rarely witnesses any snowfall. Despite the sporadic showers, the weather remains pleasant for wandering around. Weather in July »

Weather in August

In Sofia, August is synonymous with days filled with sunshine followed by mild evenings. Despite a fractional dip in temperature compared to July, the warmth persists. The outdoor ambiance remains vibrant and the city continues to buzz with activities. Weather in August »

Weather in September

As September arrives in Sofia, the climate begins to tune down from the summer highs. The temperatures settle to a more manageable upper limit of 22.9°C (73.2°F), indicating the onset of autumn. The leaves start to turn golden, adding to the city's scenic beauty. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Sofia, Bulgaria, is a blend of the residual warmth of summer and the fresh breeze of the incoming winter. It could be noted as the month when the city undergoes a remarkable transformation in its weather patterns. The long summer days start to fade, replaced by fresh and crisp autumn air. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November ushers in the winter, with a stark drop in temperatures, giving Sofia, Bulgaria, a whole new facade. The ambient temperature drops to a chilly 1.4°C (34.5°F) during the night, a significant diversion from October. The days get shorter and snow starts to dot the city's landscape once again. Weather in November »

Weather in December

In December, Sofia wears a thick white blanket of snow, with whopping 248mm (9.76") of snowfall recorded in the month. The freezing temperatures transform the city into a winter wonderland. Despite the weather conditions, December is festively bright, thanks to the Christmas lights illuminating the city streets. Weather in December »
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Frequently asked questions

What are the coldest months in Sofia?

Sofia's coldest month, January, registers temperatures that range from a high of 3.4°C (38.1°F) to a low of -3.9°C (25°F).

How many days does it rain in Sofia?

In Sofia, during the entire year, the rain falls for 125 days and collects up to 582mm (22.91") of precipitation.

When does it snow in Sofia?

January through April, October through December are months with snowfall.

How much does it snow in Sofia?

Throughout the year, there are 31.7 snowfall days, and 981mm (38.62") of snow is accumulated.

When is the lowest UV index in Sofia?

The months with the lowest UV index in Sofia, Bulgaria, are January and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1.

What is the driest month in Sofia?

February is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 10 days and accumulates 32mm (1.26") of precipitation.

When it does not snow in Sofia?

May through September are months without snowfall.

What is the rainiest month in Sofia?

The month with the most rainfall is June, when the rain falls for 12 days and typically aggregates up to 75mm (2.95") of precipitation.

When are the longest days in Sofia?

With an average of 15h and 18min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year in Sofia, Bulgaria.

What is the month with the highest UV index in Sofia?

June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 9, are months with the highest UV index in Sofia.

What month has the most sunshine in Sofia?

The month with the most sunshine in Sofia is July, with an average of 9.7h of sunshine.

What is the warmest month in Sofia?

The warmest period tends to be August, when average temperatures fluctuate between a high of 27.5°C (81.5°F) and a low of 14.9°C (58.8°F).

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Sofia?

On Sunday, 27. October 2024, at 04:00, Daylight Saving Time ends, and the time zone changes from EEST to EET. The next Daylight Saving Time starts on Sunday, 30. March 2025, at 03:00, and the time zone reverts from EET to EEST.

When does it snow the most in Sofia?

The month with the most snowfall in Sofia, Bulgaria, is December, when snow falls for 7.2 days and typically aggregates up to 248mm (9.76") of snow.

What is the month with the shortest days in Sofia?

December has the shortest days of the year in Sofia, with an average of 9h and 6min of daylight.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Sofia?

The month with the least sunshine in Sofia is December, with an average of 2.1h of sunshine.

Average temperature
Sofia, Bulgaria

Average temperature - Sofia, Bulgaria

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (27.5°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (3.4°C).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (15.1°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (-3.9°C).

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Average rainfall
Sofia, Bulgaria

Average rainfall - Sofia, Bulgaria

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is June (75.4mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is February (31.5mm).

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Average rainfall days
Sofia, Bulgaria

Average rainfall days - Sofia, Bulgaria

The month with the highest number of rainy days is May (13 days).
The month with the least rainy days is September (7 days).

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Average snowfall
Sofia, Bulgaria

Average snowfall - Sofia, Bulgaria

The month with the highest snowfall is December (248mm).
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August and September (0mm).

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Average snowfall days
Sofia, Bulgaria

Average snowfall days - Sofia, Bulgaria

The months with the highest number of snowfall days are January and December (7.2 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August and September (0 days).

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Average daylight / Average sunshine
Sofia, Bulgaria

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Sofia, Bulgaria

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 18min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 6min).

The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 9h and 42min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 2h and 6min).

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Sofia, Bulgaria

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