The climate of Kotor
Resting on the coast of Adriatic Sea,
Kotor is one of the famous cities in
Montenegro. Its geographical position contributes to its classification in the Marine West Coast climate zone (Cfb) under the Köppen climate classification system. This climate zone features warm summers, moderate rainfall, and cooler winters.
Over the climatological calendar, Kotor experiences a distinct swing between drier warm periods and cooler rainier seasons, with oscillating weather conditions. As the city is nestled by the seashore, the Ardriatic Sea's influence is profound, moderating temperature fluctuations and contributing to the city's charm.
In terms of temperature, the city's thermometer ranges from moderate 2°C (35.6°F) in colder months to a comfortable 28°C (82.4°F) in summer. The warmest months are typically around
July and
August, while the coldest are
December and
January.
Rainfall pattern across Kotor is uneven, with the majority of the precipitation occurring from
November to January, reaching a peak in December at 194mm (7.64"). The least rainfall is observed during the summer months from
June to August, with the minimum in July 42mm (1.65").
Kotor, blessed with daylight, experiences extended bright days mainly during the summer, with a high of 15.2 hours in June. Daylight becomes scantier through the rest of the year, with a low of 9.1 hours observed in December. The apex of sunshine attained in the territory is from June to August with 10 hours in July. A visible decline in sunshine hours subsequently follows towards the winter months reaching the yearly minimum of 3 hours in December.
The best time to visit Kotor
Kotor's distinctive allure is at its peak during the summer, particularly from
June to
August. This period brings the highest average temperatures, with a peak of 28°C (82.4°F) in
July and August. The advantage of this season includes the lowest rainfall at 42mm (1.65") in July, combined with the highest daylight duration at 15.2 hours in June.
Summer also offers the highest sea temperature, perfect for swimmers and those seeking to engage in watersports. The sea temperature averages between 24°C (75.2°F) and 25°C (77°F) from July to August.
The worst time to visit Kotor
While each season in
Kotor brings its unique charm, winter can be quite challenging for certain activities. The cold days of
December and
January where temperatures drop to 2°C (35.6°F), coupled with the shortest daylight duration of 9.1 hours, can find tourists scrambling for warm clothes and shorter sight-seeing days.
Besides the lower temperatures, winter is also the period with the heaviest rainfall reaching its peak in December at 194mm (7.64"). This results in a higher likelihood of travel interruptions and less favourable outdoor conditions.
Spring weather in Kotor
Spring in
Kotor from
March to
May brings a sequence of warmer temperatures, blooming vegetation and increasing daylight hours. Average high temperatures climb from 13°C (55.4°F) in March, 16°C (60.8°F) in
April to 21°C (69.8°F) in May. Daylight hours gradually increase from 12 hours in March to 14.6 hours in May.
This season also sees a decrease in rainfall, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. The declining rainfall from 121mm (4.76") in March to 86mm (3.39") in May marks the transition to the drier summer period.
Summer weather in Kotor
Summer in
Kotor, extending from
June to
August, paints the city in a radiant glow with extended sunlight hours. The months from June to August bring the warmest weather ranging from 24°C (75.2°F) to 28°C (82.4°F).
Rainfall is at its lowest, allowing clear blue sky views of the city. With an encouraging sea temperature ranging from 24°C (75.2°F) in June to 25°C (77°F) in August, this period favours beach and sea-related activities.
Autumn weather in Kotor
Autumn in
Kotor is characterized by a marked change in temperatures and increasing rainfall levels. The average high temperatures range from 24°C (75.2°F) in
September, 19°C (66.2°F) in
October to 14°C (57.2°F) in
November, indicating the approaching winter season.
Higher rainfall levels are experienced, particularly towards November, as the city receives 194mm (7.64") of rain, marking the beginning of the rainy season.
Winter weather in Kotor
Winter in
Kotor brings cooler weather with average high temperatures dropping to a low of 9°C (48.2°F) in
December and 10°C (50°F) in
January. Overall, temperatures fluctuate from 2°C (35.6°F) to 10°C (50°F).
Rainfall is at its highest with December receiving the highest annual rainfall of 194mm (7.64"). Daylight hours are at their shortest, averaging around 9 hours during December, which can limit outdoor activities. Winter in Kotor, though chilly and wet, reveals a different charm with its tranquil atmosphere and unique winter sceneries.
Weather in January
During
January,
Kotor,
Montenegro experiences a colder climate as it is the beginning of the year, making the Atlantic Pine trees look rather frosty. There is a gradual increase in daylight hours, benefiting those who enjoy outdoor activities.
Weather in January »Weather in February
In
February,
Kotor’s weather remains relatively cold, however there is a slight increase in overall temperature compared to
January. The rainfall lessens, accompanied by a small rise in sunlight hours during the day. February also sees a minimal rise in the sea temperature.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March sees a prominent shift in
Kotor’s climate as winter gives way to spring with warmer temperatures and increased daylight. The temperature of the sea begins to increase and a decrease in rainfall characterizes this period. With the temperature range moving from 4°C (39.2°F) to 13°C (55.4°F) and rainfall amounting to 121mm (4.76"), the daily weather gradually improves.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
Moving into
April,
Kotor experiences the full effect of spring with a notable rise in daily temperatures. The city is home to a variety of native spring flowers, blooming under the increased hours of sunshine and reduced rainfall.
Weather in April »Weather in May
By
May,
Kotor basks in the pleasant warmth of late spring. The significantly longer hours of daylight combined with mild temperatures provide an ideal backdrop for outdoor ventures. The sea temperature takes a leap, allowing for comfortable beach outings.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June brings the beginning of summer to
Kotor, characterized by increased temperatures, extended daylight, and a dip in rainfall. The climate remains suitable for outdoor activities and the sea reaches a pleasurable warmth. Nighttime temperatures also rise, providing warm evenings for leisurely walks around the historic city.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the heart of
Kotor’s summer, marked by high temperatures, minimal rainfall and maximum daylight hours. As the mercury soars, both locals and tourists flock to the beaches. The sea temperature also escalates, providing excellent conditions for water-based activities.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August, another high summer month, experiences similar weather conditions to
July. Enhanced sea temperatures encourage a surge in beach activities, while the rainfall remains minimal. Long daylight hours promote outdoor adventures and the warm evenings create a relaxing ambiance.
Weather in August » Weather in September
As
September arrives,
Kotor begins to transition from summer to autumn. The temperatures start to fall marginally though they still remain warm. A decrease in daylight hours is noticed while sea temperature remains relatively high.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October signifies the full arrival of autumn in
Kotor, marked by cooler temperatures, lesser daylight hours and increased rainfall. The fall colours add a unique charm to the city and the sea temperatures begin to drop. Inclement weather becomes more frequent, as October brings temperatures from 10°C (50°F) to 19°C (66.2°F) and raises the rainfall to 151mm (5.94").
Weather in October » Weather in November
November brings a noticeable shift in the weather as
Kotor ushers in late autumn. The hours of daylight diminish significantly as winter approaches. The temperature of the sea continues to decrease and the rainfall amplifies. November is characterized by a lower temperature range of 6°C (42.8°F) to 14°C (57.2°F) along with a considerable rise in rain, amassing 194mm (7.64").
Weather in November » Weather in December
In
December,
Kotor welcomes the winter season. The city wraps itself in a cooler climate with shorter daylight hours and substantial rainfall is observed. The sea temperature drops further, compared to the last month. December presents milder temperatures, oscillating between 2°C (35.6°F) to 10°C (50°F), while rain accumulation reaches 174mm (6.85").
Weather in December » [Resources]