Weather in Budapest

Planning a walk around Budapest or simply want to stay informed about the whims of the weather? In this section, you will find the most up-to-date information: current weather conditions, a detailed forecast, and visual charts to help you plan your day in the best possible way.

The climate of Budapest can be described as temperate continental, with four clearly defined seasons. This means that throughout the year, you can experience the full spectrum of weather conditions – from cool winters to warm summers, making the city attractive to visit at any time, depending on your preferences.

Winters in Budapest (December-February) are usually cool, with the average temperature hovering around 1-4°C, occasionally dropping below freezing. Spring (March-May) brings gradual warming: from fresh March weather with an average temperature of about 6°C to a pleasant 16°C in May. Summer (June-August) is the warmest time of the year, with average temperatures of 21-23°C and maximum values reaching 28°C and higher, creating ideal conditions for long walks and enjoying the city. Autumn (September-November) begins with mild weather, gradually transitioning to cooler days as the temperature drops from an average of 17°C in September to 6°C in November.

Regarding precipitation, the provided data indicates a very low level throughout the year – only 1-2 mm per month. Nevertheless, the number of days with precipitation varies from 7 (in March) to 13 (in May) per month. This suggests that frequent but very insignificant precipitation is likely in Budapest, such as drizzle or brief light rain, which is unlikely to seriously affect your plans.

In Budapest, a distinct change in temperature regimes is observed throughout the year, which is characteristic of its temperate continental climate. The coldest month is traditionally January, when the average temperature holds at 1.4°C. During this period, night-time temperatures often drop below freezing, reaching an average of -1.4°C, while daytime highs rarely exceed 4.3°C. Conversely, the peak heat occurs in August, which is the warmest month with an average temperature of 23.0°C. During the day, the air can warm up to 28.4°C, and nights remain warm, with a minimum temperature of around 17.5°C. Thus, the annual temperature range in the city is quite significant.

The summer months in Budapest – June, July, and August – gift the city with truly warm, and at times hot weather. Average daytime temperatures during this period confidently exceed 26°C, with maximums in July (28.0°C) and August (28.4°C). Nights bring pleasant coolness but remain comfortable for walks, as the temperature rarely drops below 15.9°C in June and 17.5°C in August. Daily temperature fluctuations in summer are quite noticeable, amounting to about 10-11°C, allowing you to enjoy the evening freshness after a sultry day. Already in May, the approach of summer is felt: the average temperature reaches 15.8°C, and the maximum is 20.7°C.

The winter period in Budapest, from December to February, is characterized by cool, and sometimes frosty weather. Average monthly temperatures range from 1.4°C in January to 3.9°C in February. At night, the thermometer regularly drops to negative values, especially in January (averaging -1.4°C) and December (-0.4°C), which can lead to icy conditions. Daytime temperatures in the winter months are usually low, varying from 4.3°C in January to 7.8°C in February. The difference between day and night temperatures in winter is smaller than in summer, but still perceptible, amounting to approximately 5-8°C.

Although the total amount of precipitation in Budapest remains consistently low throughout the year (1-2 mm per month), which excludes the presence of a clearly defined rainy season or arid period in terms of volume, the character and frequency of precipitation demonstrate certain seasonal dynamics. This means that, despite the small amount, the probability of encountering precipitation changes from month to month.

Regarding frequency, the highest number of days with precipitation in Budapest usually falls in May, when there are on average about 13 such days. The "driest" month in this regard is March, where precipitation is recorded on approximately 7 days. In other months, the number of days with precipitation ranges between 8 and 11, implying the possibility of light precipitation on average every 3-4 days, though it is rarely intense or prolonged.

The character of precipitation in Budapest changes depending on the season. In the warm season, from spring to autumn, it is predominantly rain, most often in the form of light drizzle or short showers. In winter, especially in December (average temperature 2.2°C, 11 days with precipitation) and January (average temperature 1.4°C, 9 days with precipitation), when temperatures approach zero and night-time temperatures can drop lower, precipitation may fall as light snow or sleet. Given the extremely low total amount of precipitation, one should not expect heavy snowfalls or the formation of a lasting snow cover; rather, it will be a short-lived phenomenon.

When planning a trip to Budapest, it is important to consider its temperate continental climate with distinct seasons. Regardless of the time of year, comfortable walking shoes will be your best friend, as the city invites long walks. Considering that precipitation, although not abundant in volume (1-2 mm per month), happens quite often (from 7 to 13 days per month), a small folding umbrella or a light waterproof jacket will be very useful. In spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), the weather can be changeable: from pleasant warmth to noticeable coolness. Therefore, the principle of layering in clothing is your key to comfort. Bring t-shirts, long-sleeved tops, a sweater or fleece jacket, as well as a windbreaker or demi-season jacket to easily adapt to temperature changes throughout the day.

Summer months (June-August) in Budapest are usually warm, and sometimes hot, with average temperatures above 20°C and maximums reaching 28°C. For this period, light breathable clothing is ideal: t-shirts, shorts, skirts, sundresses. Do not forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection. Even in summer, evenings can be a bit cooler, especially by the Danube, so a light sweater or cardigan wouldn't go amiss. In winter (December-February), Budapest is cool, with average temperatures hovering around zero, and night-time temperatures potentially dropping lower. You will need a warm sweater, winter jacket or coat, hat, scarf, and gloves. Warm waterproof shoes will also be important, as light precipitation in the form of wet snow is possible.