Montpellier has a classic Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, relatively wet winters. The city averages 2,700 hours of sunshine per year, making it one of the sunniest cities in France. Located just 10 km from the Mediterranean coast in the Occitanie region, Montpellier benefits from sea breezes that moderate the worst of the summer heat, though July and August afternoons can still reach 35°C (95°F) during heatwaves. Annual rainfall averages 660 mm, concentrated between September and December, with October typically the wettest month at 110 mm. The driest period runs from June through August, when you can expect only 4 to 6 rainy days per month.
Montpellier Weather by Month: Monthly Averages
| Month | Avg High (°C/°F) | Avg Low (°C/°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rain Days | Sunshine (hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 12 / 54 | 4 / 39 | 73 | 7 | 145 |
| February | 13 / 55 | 5 / 41 | 50 | 6 | 170 |
| March | 16 / 61 | 7 / 45 | 45 | 6 | 220 |
| April | 19 / 66 | 10 / 50 | 55 | 7 | 230 |
| May | 23 / 73 | 13 / 55 | 45 | 6 | 270 |
| June | 27 / 81 | 17 / 63 | 30 | 4 | 310 |
| July | 30 / 86 | 20 / 68 | 20 | 3 | 340 |
| August | 29 / 84 | 19 / 66 | 35 | 4 | 300 |
| September | 26 / 79 | 16 / 61 | 65 | 6 | 240 |
| October | 21 / 70 | 13 / 55 | 110 | 8 | 180 |
| November | 16 / 61 | 8 / 46 | 70 | 7 | 150 |
| December | 13 / 55 | 5 / 41 | 65 | 7 | 140 |
Montpellier Weather: Winter (December to February)
Winter in Montpellier is mild by European standards. December and January daytime highs reach 12°C to 13°C (54°F to 55°F), while nighttime lows drop to around 4°C to 5°C (39°F to 41°F). Frost is rare in the city center but can occur in outlying areas on clear nights. Rainfall is moderate, with January being the wettest winter month at 73 mm over roughly 7 rainy days. Snow is extremely unusual , the city last saw measurable snowfall in 2010 , but the nearby Cévennes mountains do get snow and offer skiing about 90 minutes away. The Tramontane wind can make winter days feel 4°C to 5°C colder than the actual temperature, so pack a windproof layer even when the forecast looks reasonable. See our Montpellier hub guide for more details. Also see our neighborhoods.
Montpellier Weather: Spring (March to May)
Spring brings rapidly warming temperatures and increasingly long, sunny days. March starts at 16°C (61°F) highs and by May you’ll see 23°C (73°F). April can be unpredictable with occasional showers , it averages 55 mm across 7 rainy days , but these typically pass quickly. May is one of the best months to visit, with 270 hours of sunshine, comfortable daytime temperatures, and relatively few tourists. The sea temperature is still cold (around 15°C / 59°F in April) so swimming isn’t practical yet, but beach restaurants and coastal paths are fully open. See our best time to visit for more details.
Montpellier Weather: Summer (June to August)
Summers are hot and extremely dry. July is the hottest month with average highs of 30°C (86°F) and 340 hours of sunshine. July rainfall averages just 20 mm over only 3 rainy days , you can go weeks without seeing a drop. Heatwaves push temperatures above 35°C (95°F), particularly in late July and early August. The sea breeze (called the Marin) usually picks up by mid-afternoon and provides some relief. Humidity stays moderate at 55% to 60%. August is nearly as hot as July at 29°C (84°F) but sees slightly more rain at 35 mm. The Mediterranean reaches 22°C to 24°C (72°F to 75°F) by August , perfect for swimming. Pack high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and light cotton clothing. Most restaurants and shops close for at least two weeks in August for the annual French vacation period. See our things to do for more details.
Montpellier Weather: Autumn (September to November)
September remains warm and pleasant at 26°C (79°F) with sea temperatures still around 21°C (70°F). This is arguably the best month for visitors who want summer weather without peak crowds. The weather turns sharply in October , rainfall jumps to 110 mm, the highest of any month, spread across 8 rainy days. These autumn rains often arrive as intense Mediterranean downpours (épisodes cévenols) that can dump 50 mm to 100 mm in a few hours, causing localised flooding. November cools further to 16°C (61°F) highs with 70 mm of rain. The sea temperature drops to around 16°C (61°F) by November, ending the beach season. See our events and festivals for more details. See our where to stay guide for more details. See our travel tips guide for more details.
