Weather in Copenhagen

Planning your day in Copenhagen? Check out the latest weather data and detailed forecasts in this section to make your stay in the Danish capital as comfortable as possible.

Copenhagen is characterised by a temperate maritime climate, which means an absence of sharp temperature fluctuations and relatively mild weather throughout the year. You will clearly feel the change of four seasons, each giving the city a special charm and offering its own opportunities for relaxation and exploration.

Winters in Copenhagen are generally cool, with average temperatures slightly above freezing, occasionally with light frosts and snowfall creating a fairytale atmosphere. Spring brings gradual warming and the blossoming of nature. Summer is the warmest time of year, with comfortable temperatures averaging around 17-18°C, perfect for walking around the city and relaxing in the fresh air. Autumn paints the parks in golden tones and brings cooler, yet often sunny weather.

A characteristic feature of the weather in Copenhagen is the fairly even distribution of precipitation throughout the year. Although the amount of rainfall in millimetres is not large, the number of days with rain or drizzle can be significant (from 8 to 15 days per month). Therefore, when planning a trip, it is worth bringing an umbrella or raincoat, regardless of the season, to be prepared for the changeable Danish weather and enjoy every moment of your journey.

In Copenhagen, there is a noticeable shift in temperature regimes throughout the year, but without sharp extremes. The coldest months are traditionally January (average temperature 2.4°C, minimum 0.6°C) and February (average temperature 2.7°C, minimum 0.4°C). During this time, the thermometer often hovers around zero, and night temperatures can drop slightly lower. The warmest period is considered to be August, when the average temperature reaches 17.7°C, and maximum daily values can rise to 21.3°C; July is also very warm with an average temperature of 17.4°C and a maximum of up to 21.1°C.

The summer months in Copenhagen, from June to August, are characterised by pleasantly warm weather. Average daytime temperatures range from 16.7°C in June to 17.7°C in August, with maximum values rarely exceeding 21-22°C. This creates comfortable conditions for long walks and active leisure. Winter, spanning December, January, and February, brings coolness. Average temperatures during these months are in the range of 2.4°C to 3.3°C. At night, the temperature may drop to 0.4°C - 1.8°C, but severe frosts are not typical for the city.

Temperature variations between day and night in Copenhagen are moderate. The greatest difference between daily minimum and maximum temperatures is observed in the spring and early summer months, for example, in April (about 8.4°C) and May (about 8.6°C). In other seasons, daily fluctuations are less pronounced, which is typical for a maritime climate. For instance, in December the difference is only about 3.1°C, and in July – about 7.3°C. This means that even if it is warm during the day, a light jacket or sweater may be required in the evening, especially during the transitional seasons.

When planning a trip to Copenhagen, it is worth noting that precipitation here is a fairly frequent occurrence throughout the year. Although the city is not characterised by a season of torrential rains, the number of days with precipitation remains significant in almost any month. In general, the total monthly rainfall is low, which most often means light rain, drizzle, or, in the winter months, snow.

Regarding specific months, the highest amount of precipitation, around 3 mm, falls in July and August; these summer months also account for 14 and 13 days with precipitation respectively. The lowest amount of precipitation (only 1 mm) and the fewest number of days with it (8 days) is characteristic of April, making it relatively the driest period. In winter, especially in January (with 15 days of precipitation) and February (12 days), with temperatures hovering around zero, precipitation often takes the form of snow or wet snow, although heavy snowfalls are not typical for Copenhagen.

Thus, in Copenhagen, there is no clearly defined wet or dry season in the usual sense. Rather, one should expect frequent, but not too intense precipitation all year round. For example, autumn months such as October, and winter ones like December, also demonstrate a high frequency of precipitation, counting 14 rainy or snowy days each. This highlights the city's changeable maritime climate, for which it is best to be prepared by bringing an umbrella or waterproof clothing.

When packing your suitcase for a trip to Copenhagen, it is important to consider the changeable weather and the principle of layering clothes. Regardless of the time of year, you will almost certainly need comfortable waterproof shoes for long walks around the city, as well as an umbrella or light raincoat, since precipitation, although not heavy, is frequent (from 8 to 15 days with precipitation per month). The maritime climate of Denmark also implies the presence of wind, so a windproof jacket will be a good addition to your wardrobe.

In the summer months (June-August), when the average temperature hovers around 17-18°C and the maximum reaches 21°C, you will need light items: t-shirts, shorts, dresses. However, evenings can be cool, so do not forget a sweater or a light jacket. Sunscreen and sunglasses will also be relevant. In spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), the weather is cooler, with average temperatures from 7°C to 15°C. Jeans or thick trousers, sweaters, cardigans, and a mid-season jacket are ideal for this period. The principle of layering is especially important here, as the weather can change during the day.

In winter (December-February), it is cool in Copenhagen, with average temperatures staying around 2-3°C, dropping to zero and slightly below at night. Be sure to take a warm winter jacket (preferably waterproof and windproof), a hat, a scarf, gloves, and warm socks. Thermal underwear or warm jumpers that can be worn under outerwear will not be amiss. Waterproof and non-slip shoes are also important at this time of year, as wet snow and icy conditions are possible.