The climate of Bordeaux
Bordeaux,
France, located near the Atlantic coast, is characterized by a Marine west coast, warm summer climate, identified by the Köppen climate classification as Cfb. Woven into the year is a spectrum of weather patterns, beginning with relatively cool winters that gradually ease into mild, warm summers.
Throughout the year, temperatures fluctuate between a low of 4.1°C (39.4°F) and a high of 27.5°C (81.5°F). During the cooler months,
December to
February, temperatures can drop to between 4.5°C (40.1°F) and 5.4°C (41.7°F), while during the warmest months,
July and
August, they can climb up to 26.9°C (80.4°F) to 27.5°C (81.5°F).
Rainfall too has its rhythm in Bordeaux with amounts ranging from a low of 15mm (0.59") in
September to a high of 51mm (2.01") in
November. Similarly, the number of rainy days can increase up to 14.2 in
May and then decline to as few as 8.5 by September. However, the occurrence of snow is extremely rare with feasibly no snowfall from
March to December and a trivial amount, registering at 1mm (0.04") to 2mm (0.08"), in
January and February.
Considerable variation is also observed in terms of daylight and sunshine hours. Bordeaux enjoys a maximum of 15.5 daylight hours in
June and a minimum of 8.9 hours in December. Correspondingly, the duration of sunshine oscillates between 5 hours in December and January, rising up to 10.1 hours in July.
The best time to visit Bordeaux
Ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing, the period from
June to
August is deemed as the best time to visit
Bordeaux. During this time, average temperatures range from 20.8°C (69.4°F) to 27.5°C (81.5°F), creating a pleasant and warm environment. Sunshine hours peak, providing up to 10.1 hours in
July which significantly extends daylight activities.
Rainfall is at its yearly low in August with just 19mm (0.75"), coinciding with 9.3 rainy days, making this the driest span in the year. Also noteworthy is the visibility during these months which stands uniformly at 9km (5.6mi), permitting unobstructed views of Bordeaux’s scenic landscapes.
The worst time to visit Bordeaux
Contrarily, the colder months of
December to
February represent a less desirable period for travel. During these months, temperatures can dip to between 4.5°C (40.1°F) and 5.4°C (41.7°F) which may cause some discomfort, especially for outdoor activities. Furthermore, daylight hours shrink to as little as 8.9 hours in December and sunshine hours are at their lowest, averaging 5 hours in December and
January.
A significant increase in rainfall is seen during this time with precipitation reaching up to 42mm (1.65") in December. The occurrence of rainy days is comparably high, peaking at 13.2 in December and January, which may result in occasional interruptions to travel plans.
Spring weather in Bordeaux
Spring in
Bordeaux brings a gradual transition from the colder months and lasts from
March to
May. Temperatures in this period escalate from an average low of 6.3°C (43.3°F) to high of 18°C (64.4°F). Although rainfall sees a slight increase during spring, it remains moderate ranging from 31mm (1.22") to 33mm (1.3").
With increased daylight, up to 13.5 hours by May, and extended sunshine duration of 7.1 to 9.3 hours, spring in Bordeaux welcomes outdoor activities and blossoms, making it an enchanting time to explore the city.
Summer weather in Bordeaux
Bordeaux's summers, spanning from
June to
August, are characterized by their comfortably warm temperatures. With temperatures fluctuating between 20.8°C (69.4°F) to 27.5°C (81.5°F) and extended periods of sunshine, summer months are perfect for soaking in the sun and enjoying the city’s vibrant outdoor life.
Rainfall during this time period declines, stabilizing at roughly 17mm (0.67") to 19mm (0.75"), bringing dry and comfortable conditions. In conjunction, humidity levels remain consistent at approximately 68% to 70% ensuring a warm yet pleasant environment.
Autumn weather in Bordeaux
Bordeaux’s autumn extends from
September to
November and attributes to a mild climate. Temperatures start to descend, falling from 24.4°C (75.9°F) in September to 10.8°C (51.4°F) by November.
Rainfall figures rise markedly in this period, amounting to an elevated level of 51mm (2.01") in November. The number of rainy days also increases, reaching 13.1 by November. Despite the increased cloud cover, autumn in Bordeaux can be appealing with an array of colors in the foliage providing a picturesque backdrop.
Winter weather in Bordeaux
Winter months in
Bordeaux, from
December to
February, are essentially cold with minimal snowfall. With temperatures varying from 4.5°C (40.1°F) to 10.8°C (51.4°F), winters are relatively mild as compared to many European cities.
Bordeaux experiences a high level of rainfall in winter, reaching 42mm (1.65") in December. Despite the increased cloud cover and short days, with a minimum of 8.9 daylight hours in December, relative humidity stays usually high at 82% to 84% resulting in a rather chilling effect. Therefore, it is suggested to bundle up well when venturing outside during these months.
Weather in January
January in
Bordeaux,
France displays a blend of winter conditions. Cold temperatures prevail with an average high of 9.8°C (49.6°F), while the thermometer may drop as low as 4.5°C (40.1°F). Rainfall is also substantial at 33mm (1.3"), with almost half of the month witnessing wet days.
Weather in January » Weather in February
Moving into
February,
Bordeaux weather sees slight modifications. Warmer conditions surface with the daily high temperature rising close to 11.1°C (52°F). However, snow graces the city with a gentlemanly 2mm (0.08") fall. While the rainfall eases up, wet days remain prevalent.
Weather in February »Weather in March
As
Bordeaux transitions into spring during
March, the weather undergoes notable shifts. Average high temperatures further ascend to 14.6°C (58.3°F) while a decrease in precipitation to 31mm (1.22") ensues, making way for enjoyable outdoor activities.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
The month of
April steadily progresses the spring climate in
Bordeaux. Perspectives shift toward long sunny days and pleasant temperatures, reaching an enjoyable 18°C (64.4°F) on average. Furthermore, an emphasis falls on the relative humidity, decreasing from previous months to about 72%.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May solidifies the early summer weather pattern in
Bordeaux, introducing higher average temperatures, standing at an inviting 20.8°C (69.4°F). Important to note is the diminishing trend of relative humidity, now at 73%, creating a comfortable environment for locals and tourists alike.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June in
Bordeaux is true to summer norms with considerably warmer weather, exemplified by the high temperatures soaring up to an average of 24.5°C (76.1°F). The predictable sunny ambiance is perfect for picnics or a tranquil day at the beach.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July embraces
Bordeaux with the peak summer climate. High temperatures typically reach 26.9°C (80.4°F), making it the warmest month of the year. Interestingly, it's also the driest month with only 17mm (0.67") of rain, contributing to arid conditions.
Weather in July » Weather in August
In
August,
Bordeaux remains steadfast in its summer allure. Despite slight cooling from the peak in
July, high temperatures still hover around a balmy 27.5°C (81.5°F). The drop in rainfall continues, reaching a mere 19mm (0.75") on average.
Weather in August »Weather in September
Bordeaux bids farewell to summer and welcomes autumn in
September. Though high temperatures show a mild dip to 24.4°C (75.9°F), Bordeaux retains a pleasant warmth. The amount of rainfall remains relatively low at 15mm (0.59"), enjoining residents and visitors to enjoy an extended summer experience.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
As
Bordeaux slides into
October, the inevitable autumn chill takes hold. Temperature highs start to show a sharper decline, averaging around 20°C (68°F), and the nights become progressively colder. Moderate rainfall is also a characteristic feature of October weather.
Weather in October »Weather in November
November in
Bordeaux signifies the advent of cooler temperatures and damper conditions. The city experiences an average high of 14°C (57.2°F) combined with an increase in precipitation to 51mm (2.01"), making it a wet month.
Weather in November » Weather in December
Bordeaux, during
December, plummets into wintry scenes with the arrival of colder temperatures, which go as low as 5.4°C (41.7°F). Curiously, it's also the month with a snowfall of 4mm (0.16"), bestowing a faint white touch to the city.
Weather in December » [Resources]