Weather in Brest

Be prepared for any weather during your trip to Brest. In this section, you will find up-to-date weather reports, visual charts, and a detailed forecast for the near future.

The climate in Brest can be described as temperate oceanic, heavily influenced by the Atlantic Ocean. The weather here is notable for its enviable stability and lack of sharp temperature fluctuations: winters are very mild, with average temperatures around +8...+9°C, while summers are fresh and cool, without sweltering heat. Even in the warmest months, July and August, the air warms up to a comfortable average of +17°C.

A characteristic feature of the local climate is the high frequency of precipitation throughout the year. There is practically no "dry season" in Brest: rainy days occur regularly, ranging from 11 days in summer to 20 days in December. Travellers should take this feature into account and always carry an umbrella or raincoat, as changeable weather with frequent but often short-lived rains is a hallmark of this region of France.

The temperature regime in Brest is distinguished by its surprising mildness and absence of extreme fluctuations, which is typical for the Atlantic coast of France. The warmest months of the year are July and August, when the average air temperature holds at 17.1°C, and during the day, the thermometer rises to a comfortable 19.6°C. The coolest period is traditionally considered to be January with average readings of around 8.2°C, although even at this time of year, severe frosts are practically non-existent here.

Summer in the city can be characterized as moderately warm and refreshing, without exhausting heat. Thanks to the oceanic influence, even at the height of the season, maximums rarely exceed 20°C, making walks around the city pleasant. Winter here is mild and humid: temperatures in December and February fluctuate in the range of 6.9°C at night to 10.9°C during the day. This is an ideal destination for those who want to avoid harsh winter cold but prefer coolness to tropical heat.

A characteristic trait of the local climate is the small difference between day and night temperatures throughout the year. The amplitude of fluctuations is usually about 3–5 degrees, creating a sense of stability. For example, in May, nighttime 10.5°C smoothly transitions to daytime 15.6°C. Such steady weather allows tourists to feel comfortable in the same clothes from morning until late evening.

The climate in Brest is characterized by high humidity and frequent precipitation, which is typical for the Atlantic coast of France. There is no pronounced dry period here: it can rain at any time of the year, although the frequency varies noticeably from season to season. Tourists are recommended to always have an umbrella or waterproof windbreaker with them, as the weather can change quite rapidly.

The greatest amount of precipitation falls during the autumn-winter period and early spring. The wettest month of the year is December, when an average of about 20 rainy days is recorded. November, January, and March are also distinguished by high humidity — it rains approximately 17–18 days a month. During this time, overcast weather prevails, and precipitation often takes the form of lingering drizzle.

A relatively dry and comfortable season begins in April and continues until the end of summer. In the period from April to August, as well as in September, the number of rainy days decreases to 11–12 per month. In summer, precipitation is generally shorter in duration and is more quickly replaced by sunshine, making this the most favourable time for getting to know the city and walking along the coast.

The weather in Brest is under the strong influence of the Atlantic Ocean, so it can be changeable and windy at any time of the year. The main principle when packing your suitcase is layering. Even in summer, it is rarely intensely hot here (average temperature in July and August is about 17°C), so light jumpers, hoodies, and long-sleeved shirts will be useful even in the warmest season. This approach will allow you to quickly adapt to changes: take off extra layers if the sun comes out, or bundle up if a fresh sea breeze blows.

Given the high humidity and frequent precipitation (rain is possible here from 11 to 20 days a month depending on the season), be sure to take care of water protection. An ordinary umbrella may prove useless due to the gusty wind characteristic of the Brittany coast, so it is better to prefer a quality waterproof raincoat or a windbreaker with a hood. Comfortable, preferably waterproof flat shoes are also critically important for long walks along the city streets and embankments.

If you are planning a trip in winter or late autumn, when the temperature drops to 8-9°C, be sure to take a warm scarf, hat, and gloves — high humidity intensifies the feeling of cold. In summer, despite the coolness, the sun can be active, so do not forget sunglasses and sunscreen. Regardless of the season, choose practical clothing that will allow you to comfortably explore France and its picturesque Atlantic coast without being distracted by the whims of the weather.