Warsaw, the capital of Poland, experiences a humid continental climate (Köppen classification Dfb) with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, summers are warm and occasionally hot, and spring and autumn are transitional periods with moderate weather. This article provides a detailed month-by-month breakdown of average temperatures, rainfall, and daylight hours, based on long-term data from the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) at Warsaw Chopin Airport (Okęcie). Understanding these patterns helps visitors pack appropriately and plan activities.
January
January is the coldest month in Warsaw. Average daily high temperatures hover around 0°C (32°F), while lows drop to -4°C (25°F). The city receives an average of 25–30 mm of precipitation, mostly as snow. Snow cover typically lasts for several weeks, with an average of 15–20 days of measurable snowfall. Daylight hours are minimal: sunrise around 7:40 AM, sunset at 3:50 PM, giving about 8 hours of daylight. The sun angle is low, and overcast skies are common. For outdoor activities, warm layers, a waterproof winter coat, and insulated boots are essential. Many locals frequent the winter markets in the Old Town.
Packing tips for January
- Thermal underwear and wool sweaters
- Waterproof snow boots
- Heavy winter coat (down or synthetic)
- Hat, scarf, and gloves (temperatures can feel colder with wind chill)
February
February remains cold, but daylight begins to increase noticeably. Average highs are 1°C (34°F), lows -3°C (27°F). Precipitation is similar to January, around 25–30 mm, with snow still frequent. Daylight hours stretch to about 10 hours by the end of the month (sunrise ~6:50 AM, sunset ~5:00 PM). The sun angle rises, but cloud cover remains high. Ice on sidewalks can be a hazard; consider safety tips for winter walking.
March
March marks the transition to spring. Average highs climb to 6°C (43°F), lows to 0°C (32°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 30–35 mm, with rain becoming more common than snow. Daylight hours expand to 12 hours (sunrise ~6:00 AM, sunset ~5:30 PM after DST starts in late March). The weather is variable: sunny days alternate with cold rain. Layering is key. The spring blooms in Łazienki Park begin to appear by late March.
April
April brings milder weather. Average highs reach 13°C (55°F), lows 4°C (39°F). Rainfall averages 35–40 mm — April showers are common, but prolonged rain is rare. Daylight hours increase to 14 hours (sunrise ~5:30 AM, sunset ~7:30 PM). Trees and gardens start to green, making it a pleasant time for outdoor sightseeing. However, a light jacket and umbrella are still advisable. The packing guide recommends a mix of warm and cool-weather clothing.
May
May is a delightful month with comfortable warmth. Average highs are 19°C (66°F), lows 9°C (48°F). Rainfall increases to 50–60 mm, often in the form of afternoon thunderstorms. Daylight hours peak at about 16 hours (sunrise ~4:40 AM, sunset ~8:20 PM). This is the best time for outdoor events like the Warsaw Film Festival and open-air concerts. Sunscreen and a light rain jacket are useful.
June
June is the start of summer. Average highs reach 22°C (72°F), lows 12°C (54°F). Precipitation is at its highest of the year: 65–75 mm, with frequent but brief thunderstorms. Daylight hours are near maximum: 16.5 hours (sunrise ~4:20 AM, sunset ~9:00 PM). The summer solstice around June 21 brings the longest day. Humidity is moderate. For summer activities, lightweight clothing and an umbrella are recommended.
July
July is the warmest month. Average highs are 24°C (75°F), but heatwaves can push temperatures above 30°C (86°F). Lows are around 14°C (57°F). Rainfall remains high at 70–80 mm, often from short-lived downpours. Daylight hours start to decrease slightly: about 16 hours (sunrise ~4:30 AM, sunset ~8:50 PM). The city is vibrant with outdoor cafes and festivals. Air conditioning is common in hotels and restaurants, but many apartments rely on fans.
August
August continues warm, with average highs of 23°C (73°F) and lows 14°C (57°F). Rainfall is similar to July at 60–70 mm. Daylight hours shrink to 14.5 hours by month's end (sunrise ~5:30 AM, sunset ~8:00 PM). Late August can bring cooler nights. It's a popular time for travel; booking accommodation in advance is wise.
September
September sees autumn begin. Average highs drop to 18°C (64°F), lows to 10°C (50°F). Rainfall decreases to 45–55 mm, with more stable weather. Daylight hours fall to 12.5 hours (sunrise ~6:15 AM, sunset ~6:45 PM). The golden foliage in parks like Pole Mokotowskie is stunning. A light jacket or sweater is sufficient.
October
October is cool and often damp. Average highs are 12°C (54°F), lows 5°C (41°F). Rainfall averages 35–45 mm. Daylight hours reduce to 10.5 hours (sunrise ~7:00 AM, sunset ~5:30 PM). Frost becomes possible by late October. Warm layers and a waterproof coat are recommended.
November
November is grey and chilly. Average highs are 6°C (43°F), lows 1°C (34°F). Precipitation is 35–40 mm, with rain turning to snow towards month's end. Daylight hours are only 8.5 hours (sunrise ~7:30 AM, sunset ~4:00 PM). The overcast skies can affect mood; many locals use vitamin D supplements. Indoor attractions like the National Museum become popular.
December
December returns to winter conditions. Average highs are 1°C (34°F), lows -3°C (27°F). Snowfall is common, with precipitation around 30–35 mm. Daylight hours are the shortest: 7.5 hours around the winter solstice (sunrise ~7:50 AM, sunset ~3:30 PM). Christmas markets and ice skating rinks are highlights. Warm clothing is mandatory.
Annual averages and extremes
Warsaw's annual average temperature is approximately 8.5°C (47.3°F). The city receives about 550–600 mm of precipitation per year, fairly evenly distributed. The record high is 36.4°C (97.5°F) (July 2019), and the record low is -30.7°C (-23.3°F) (January 1950). Daylight varies from 7.5 to 16.5 hours, a significant seasonal shift that influences daily life.
Practical tips for visitors
- Spring (March–May): Pack layers and a raincoat. Temperatures can swing from 0°C to 20°C.
- Summer (June–August): Light clothing, but bring a jacket for evenings. Umbrella for thunderstorms.
- Autumn (September–November): Warm sweaters, waterproof shoes. Leaves can make sidewalks slippery.
- Winter (December–February): Heavy coat, hat, gloves, and non-slip boots. Snow and ice are common.
For real-time forecasts, check Warsaw's weekly forecast. Remember that Warsaw's climate is influenced by continental air masses, so weather can change quickly. Always check the forecast before heading out.