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 »