Weather in Salzburg

Planning an unforgettable trip to Salzburg? To ensure nothing dampens your experience, check out the current weather forecast and useful charts presented below.

Salzburg, located in picturesque Austria, is characterised by a temperate continental climate. This means all four seasons are clearly defined here, each with its own weather features. Be prepared for noticeable temperature fluctuations throughout the year, which allows you to choose the perfect time for your trip depending on your preferences.

Summer in Salzburg is generally warm and pleasant, with average temperatures in July and August around 18.2°C, and maximum values reaching 23°C. Winters, however, are quite cold; the average temperature in January drops to -0.2°C, and night frosts are not uncommon. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with moderate temperatures, offering comfortable conditions for walking and exploring the city.

One of the characteristic features of Salzburg's climate is the relatively even distribution of precipitation throughout the year. The number of rainy days per month varies from 13 to 21, with a slight peak in May. This means a light raincoat or umbrella might come in handy at any time of year, but it also contributes to the lush greenery and beauty of the surrounding Alpine landscapes.

The climate of Salzburg demonstrates a clearly defined change of seasons with noticeable temperature fluctuations throughout the year. The coldest month is traditionally January, when the average temperature is around -0.2°C, and night frosts can drop the thermometer to -3.4°C. Daytime highs in January rarely exceed 3.0°C. Conversely, the peak heat occurs in July and August, when the average temperature holds at 18.2°C. During these summer months, daytime temperatures can reach a comfortable 22-23°C.

The summer months in Salzburg, from June to August, are characterised by pleasantly warm weather. Average daytime highs range from 22.3°C in June to 23.0°C in July, creating ideal conditions for walks and outdoor activities. Nights bring a refreshing coolness: average minimum temperatures during this period range from 12.1°C to 13.4°C. Thus, even on the warmest days, evenings can be quite fresh, which is worth considering when choosing your wardrobe.

Winter in Salzburg, covering the period from December to February, brings cool and sometimes frosty weather. Average daytime temperatures range from 3.0°C in January to 5.7°C in February, while night-time lows regularly drop below freezing, reaching -3.4°C in January and -2.6°C in February. The difference between day and night temperatures is noticeable throughout the year but is especially palpable in the off-season and summer, when daytime warmth gives way to cool evenings. For example, in April, the difference between the average maximum (13.7°C) and minimum (2.8°C) temperature is almost 11 degrees.

In Salzburg, precipitation falls throughout the year, with no distinctly defined dry season. The number of days with precipitation varies from 13 (in February and November) to 21 days (in May). This means the likelihood of encountering rainy or snowy weather is quite high in any month, so an umbrella or raincoat can prove to be useful companions.

In winter, especially from December to February, when average temperatures often drop below freezing (for example, in January the average temperature is -0.2°C, and the minimum is -3.4°C), precipitation falls predominantly in the form of snow. In January and December, there are about 16-17 days with precipitation, and the total amount is 4 mm in each of these months. In transitional seasons, such as March (average temperature 4.2°C) and November (average temperature 4.1°C), both rain and sleet are possible. In summer, from June to August, when warm weather sets in, rain prevails. In May, July, and August, the highest monthly rainfall is recorded – 6 mm each, with May also observing the maximum number of days with precipitation (21 days).

If we consider the volume of precipitation, the "wettest" months are May, July, and August, each receiving 6 mm. The least amount of precipitation falls in March – only 3 mm, despite the fact that there are about 15 days with precipitation in this month. February and November are characterised by the fewest number of days with precipitation (13 days each), with the total amount of precipitation in these months being 4 mm. Thus, although the total monthly rainfall might seem small, its regularity and frequency are a characteristic feature of Salzburg's climate.

When planning a trip to Salzburg, it is important to consider the variable Alpine climate and be prepared for various weather conditions. The key advice is layering your clothes. Regardless of the season, the temperature can change noticeably during the day, and precipitation, although not always heavy, happens quite often (from 13 to 21 rainy/snowy days per month). Therefore, a waterproof jacket or a compact umbrella, as well as comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets and potential nature walks, are your must-haves. Do not forget sun protection, especially in the summer months when ultraviolet radiation in the mountains can be intense.

If your trip falls in summer (June-August), when the average temperature hovers around 17-18°C with highs up to 23°C, pack light clothing: t-shirts, shorts, dresses. However, evenings can be cool (around 12-13°C), so a light sweater or cardigan will come in handy. For a winter journey (December-February), when the average temperature fluctuates around 0°C and often drops lower, a warm jacket, hat, gloves, scarf, and warm, preferably waterproof, boots are mandatory, as precipitation often falls as snow. Thermal underwear can also be a good idea, especially for long walks in January when minimum temperatures reach -3.4°C.

In spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), the weather in Salzburg is particularly unpredictable. Temperatures can vary from cool (average in March 4.2°C, in November 4.1°C) to moderately warm (average in May 12°C, in September 13.7°C). During these periods, the principle of layering is especially relevant: t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and a mid-season jacket that can be easily removed or put on. Waterproof outerwear and shoes will also be very appropriate given the regular precipitation. Regardless of the time of year, having several layers of clothing will allow you to feel comfortable amidst any whims of the weather in this charming Austrian city.