The climate of Gibraltar
Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, is known for its Mediterranean climate. The unique geographical location of Gibraltar, straddling the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, leads to its temperate, agreeable weather throughout the year. Despite its small size, Gibraltar boasts a pleasantly mild climate characterized by hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The average annual temperature is about 18.3°C (64.9°F), with the warmest month of
August reaching an average of 24.4°C (75.9°F). Conversely, the coldest month,
January, sees an average of 13.3°C (55.9°F). Precipitation in Gibraltar averages at 833mm (32.8") per year, with
November seeing the most rainfall at 150mm (5.91"), and
July typically experiencing no rainfall.
The best time to visit Gibraltar
Considering
Gibraltar's temperate climate, the best time to visit this picturesque locale largely depends on individual preferences. For those drawn to warm weather and outdoor activities, the summer months of
June through
August offer ideal conditions. During this period, temperatures often range from 22°C (71.6°F) to 24.4°C (75.9°F), providing optimal conditions for exploring Gibraltar's beautiful beaches and famous landmarks, such as the Rock of Gibraltar, without the concern of rainfall. Spring, specifically late
April and
May, also presents an attractive option, as temperatures are comfortable and rainfall is considerably less than in the autumn and winter months.
The worst time to Visit Gibraltar
Despite the year-round mild climate, the months with the least favorable conditions for travel to
Gibraltar are typically in the late autumn to winter, specifically
November through
February. During this period, the temperatures drop to an average low of 13.3°C (55.9°F) in
January and rainfall increases significantly, especially in November which averages 150mm (5.91"). While these conditions might not hinder indoor activities or visits to Gibraltar's fascinating museums and historical sites, they could impede outdoor explorations and beach visits.
Spring weather in Gibraltar
The spring season in
Gibraltar, from
March to
May, is typically mild and relatively dry. The average temperatures during this period gradually increase from 15°C (59°F) in March to about 19°C (66.2°F) in May. The chances of rainfall reduce considerably from winter, making it an attractive season for visitors who wish to explore the outdoor attractions. The overall pleasant weather and lower tourist crowd during spring make it an ideal season for hiking and wildlife spotting, especially the famous Barbary macaques.
Summer weather in Gibraltar
Summer in
Gibraltar, spanning from
June through
August, is characteristically warm and dry. The temperature during this period often ranges from 22°C (71.6°F) to a high of 24.4°C (75.9°F) in August. These months usually see little to no precipitation, with
July being typically rainless. The warm and dry conditions make summer an excellent time for beach activities, watersports, and exploring the bustling city life of Gibraltar.
Autumn weather in Gibraltar
Autumn, from
September to
November, marks a transitional phase in
Gibraltar's weather. The temperature during these months usually ranges from a high of 24°C (75.2°F) in September to a low of 16°C (60.8°F) in November. Rainfall begins to increase during this season, with November experiencing the most precipitation, averaging 150mm (5.91"). While the weather remains reasonably warm, the increasing chances of rainfall may necessitate careful planning for outdoor activities.
Winter weather in Gibraltar
Winter in
Gibraltar, from
December through
February, is comparatively cool and wet. Average temperatures during this season range from a low of 13.3°C (55.9°F) in
January to a high of 15°C (59°F) in December. Gibraltar experiences its highest levels of rainfall in winter, particularly in
November and December, making it less suited for outdoor pursuits. Nonetheless, the mild temperatures and atmospheric charm of the winter months make indoor attractions, historical sites, and festive events particularly inviting.
Weather in January
January, nestled in the heart of winter, is the coldest month of the year in
Gibraltar, with an average temperature of 13.3°C (55.9°F). However, compared to many other European destinations, Gibraltar's winter is quite mild.
Weather in January » Weather in February
February in
Gibraltar represents the tail end of the winter season, seeing a slight increase in temperature compared to
January. The average temperature during February typically hovers around 14°C (57.2°F). Daytime temperatures can reach up to 16°C (60.8°F), while during the night, it can drop to approximately 12°C (53.6°F). As with January, the territory does not display significant climate variation among different regions due to its compact size.
Weather in February » Weather in March
March in
Gibraltar signifies the onset of spring, leading to a noticeable rise in temperatures. The average temperature for this month is about 15°C (59°F). Daytime temperatures regularly reach 17°C (62.6°F), providing pleasantly mild conditions, while nighttime temperatures may fall to 13°C (55.4°F).
Weather in March » Weather in April
April in
Gibraltar marks the heart of spring, bringing forth a clear rise in temperatures. The average temperature for April is approximately 16.5°C (61.7°F). Daytime temperatures often reach 18°C (64.4°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to about 15°C (59°F).
Weather in April » Weather in May
May in
Gibraltar experiences a further rise in temperatures as the summer season approaches. The average temperature for May is approximately 18°C (64.4°F), providing a pleasantly warm climate. Daytime temperatures regularly reach around 20°C (68°F), perfect for outdoor activities, while nighttime temperatures hover around 16°C (60.8°F).
Weather in May » Weather in June
June in
Gibraltar marks the commencement of the summer season, with a significant increase in temperatures. The average temperature for June is approximately 21°C (69.8°F). Daytime temperatures often reach around 24°C (75.2°F), offering ideal conditions for sunbathing and water activities, while nighttime temperatures stay at about 18°C (64.4°F).
Weather in June » Weather in July
July in
Gibraltar is deep into the summer season, with temperatures rising further. The average temperature for July is around 24°C (75.2°F). Daytime temperatures frequently reach up to 27°C (80.6°F), providing hot, sunny conditions, while nighttime temperatures drop to 21°C (69.8°F).
Weather in July » Weather in August
August in
Gibraltar marks the peak of the summer season, with temperatures reaching their highest. The average temperature for August is around 25°C (77°F). Daytime temperatures often reach up to 28°C (82.4°F), providing hot and sunny conditions, while nighttime temperatures usually stay around 22°C (71.6°F).
Weather in August » Weather in September
September in
Gibraltar represents the transition from the hot summer months to the milder autumn season. The average temperature for September is about 23°C (73.4°F). Daytime temperatures regularly reach around 26°C (78.8°F), while nighttime temperatures can fall to 20°C (68°F).
Weather in September » Weather in October
October in
Gibraltar ushers in the autumn season, bringing a noticeable decrease in temperatures compared to the summer months. The average temperature for October is about 20°C (68°F). Daytime temperatures typically reach around 22°C (71.6°F), providing mild and pleasant conditions, while nighttime temperatures can fall to 18°C (64.4°F).
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Gibraltar signifies the peak of the autumn season, with a further decrease in temperatures. The average temperature for November is about 17°C (62.6°F). Daytime temperatures typically reach around 19°C (66.2°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to about 15°C (59°F).
Weather in November » Weather in December
December in
Gibraltar marks the beginning of the winter season, with temperatures continuing to drop. The average temperature for December is around 14°C (57.2°F). Daytime temperatures usually reach around 16°C (60.8°F), providing cooler conditions, while nighttime temperatures can fall to about 12°C (53.6°F).
Weather in December »