Hanover, the capital of Lower Saxony, experiences a temperate maritime-continental transitional climate (Koppen Cfb). Winters are cool and damp with occasional snow, while summers are mild to warm with moderate rainfall spread evenly throughout the year. The city sits at 55 metres (180 feet) above sea level on the River Leine, with no significant geographical features moderating its weather, meaning conditions can change rapidly as Atlantic fronts move across the North German Plain.
Hanover Weather by Month: Temperature Overview
Hanover’s average annual temperature sits at 9.2 degrees Celsius (48.6 degrees Fahrenheit). January is the coldest month with average lows of minus 1 degree Celsius (30 degrees Fahrenheit) and highs of 4 degrees Celsius (39 degrees Fahrenheit). July and August are the warmest months, with average highs reaching 24 degrees Celsius (75 degrees Fahrenheit) and lows around 13 degrees Celsius (55 degrees Fahrenheit). The city sees approximately 1,600 sunshine hours per year, with May through August offering the most daylight and sun. Frost occurs on roughly 70 days per year, mostly between November and March. See where to stay in Hanover for recommended hotels in every area and budget tier. For airport transfers, tram tickets, and practical advice, read our Hanover travel tips guide.
Hanover Weather by Month: Rainfall and Precipitation
Hanover receives roughly 660mm (26 inches) of precipitation annually, distributed fairly evenly across all months. July and August average 70 to 75mm (2.8 to 3.0 inches) each, typically as brief afternoon thundershowers rather than all-day rain. December averages 65mm (2.6 inches), the wettest winter month. February is the driest at around 40mm (1.6 inches). Snowfall occurs between December and March, averaging 15 to 20 snow days per year, though significant accumulation over 5cm (2 inches) happens only 5 to 8 days annually. The city is not particularly windy, with average wind speeds around 14 km/h (9 mph). See our events and festivals in Hanover calendar for festival dates and trade fair schedules. See our Hanover neighborhoods guide for detailed area descriptions and hotel price ranges.
Hanover Weather by Month: Monthly Breakdown Table
| Month | Avg High (C/F) | Avg Low (C/F) | Rain (mm) | Sun (hours) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 4 / 39 | -1 / 30 | 55 | 45 |
| February | 5 / 41 | -1 / 30 | 40 | 70 |
| March | 9 / 48 | 2 / 36 | 50 | 110 |
| April | 14 / 57 | 4 / 39 | 45 | 160 |
| May | 19 / 66 | 8 / 46 | 60 | 210 |
| June | 22 / 72 | 11 / 52 | 70 | 215 |
| July | 24 / 75 | 13 / 55 | 75 | 220 |
| August | 24 / 75 | 13 / 55 | 70 | 205 |
| September | 19 / 66 | 10 / 50 | 55 | 145 |
| October | 14 / 57 | 7 / 45 | 50 | 105 |
| November | 8 / 46 | 3 / 37 | 55 | 55 |
| December | 5 / 41 | 0 / 32 | 65 | 40 |
Hanover Weather by Month: Seasonal Guide and Travel Tips
Winter (December to February) brings temperatures hovering around freezing, with gray skies and occasional snowfall. Daylight is limited to roughly 8 hours in December. Pack a heavy coat, gloves, and waterproof boots if visiting during these months. Spring (March to May) sees temperatures climbing from 9 degrees Celsius (48 degrees Fahrenheit) in March to 19 degrees Celsius (66 degrees Fahrenheit) in May, with cherry blossoms and the Herrenhausen Gardens coming alive. Layers work best in spring, as mornings can still be chilly even when afternoons are warm. Summer (June to August) is pleasant rather than hot, with long days stretching to 17 hours of daylight in June. Occasional heat waves can push temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) for a few days, but air conditioning is rare in most buildings and hotels. Autumn (September to November) brings crisp air and fall colors in the Eilenriede city forest, with temperatures dropping steadily through November. The trade fair season kicks off in September, so book accommodation well in advance for those months. Read our guide on the best time to visit Hanover for month-by-month event and price advice. Check our full list of things to do in Hanover for attractions, gardens, and museums.
